The answer to whether do you give a gift for a destination wedding or not is up to the guest. We will discuss the considerations for giving gifts to a destination wedding in more details below.
You’ll also learn about the sample amount to give to the destination wedding and gift ideas if you can’t attend the destination wedding. And for the gift-giving do’s and don’ts, you can read what is proper etiquette for wedding gift.
Do You Give A Gift For A Destination Wedding?
It’s up to you
If you’re attending a destination wedding, it’s up to you to send or bring a destination wedding gift or not. If you do, sending the gift to the couple’s home is more convenient than bringing it when you travel.
It’s acceptable not to give a destination wedding gift
But if you don’t have extra funds to buy a wedding gift, do not feel bad, as it’s also acceptable and expected for destination wedding guests not to have a gift. Most couples having destination weddings may even emphasize that their guests’ presence is enough.
Other considerations
If you’re undecided, you can ask other destination wedding guests if they’ll give a wedding gift. You can even gauge how much you spend on travel and accommodations to decide whether to give a gift or know how much to give.
And finally, some other factors to consider include the couple’s financial status, your closeness to them, and if they shoulder your plane tickets or hotel rooms, for example. For the latter, anywhere from $25 to as generous as $100 will surely be appreciated.
Are You Obligated To Give A Gift For A Destination Wedding?
You are not obligated to give a wedding present, but it’s always a nice gesture. If you’re very close to the couple, then it’s expected for their immediate family members and best friends to give destination wedding gifts.
It’s also suitable to send a gift for a destination wedding if the couple shouldered your accommodations and travel expenses as a treat. They might’ve even arranged various events and itineraries for their guests to make the most of the destination wedding location.
Wedding gifts should be voluntary, and you’re not obliged to buy or give a certain amount, especially if it puts you in financial trouble. But any newlyweds will surely appreciate gifts, especially from their closest guests.
How Much Money Should You Give For A Destination Wedding?
Destination cash gifts are also welcome if you can’t decide on a wedding present from the couple’s wedding registry. On average, the amount to give for a destination wedding is $100, but guests can also give $25 to $50 if they’re limited financially or not that close to the couple.
Another rule to help you decide how much to give is the amount your plate costs or how much the couple spends on you as a guest. But regardless, guests shouldn’t feel guilty about the amount they can give for the destination wedding gift, as traveling to the wedding venue is enough for the couple.
You shouldn’t stretch your budget too thin since you also need pocket money to go to a faraway wedding. If you can’t give a wedding gift, you can always send the couple a congratulations card to show your support and love to them.
Best Destination Wedding Gifts
Giving gifts to a destination wedding follows the same etiquette as when you would provide a gift to a typical hometown wedding. You can always check the couple’s wedding registry for their needed items.
Alternatively, why not make a personalized wedding gift tailored to your budget? Custom homemade gifts cost less than purchasing something.
And finally, nowadays, wedding gifts can be experiences, like treating the couple to a spa treatment or date for two. If they request no gifts, they might recommend a charity where you can donate.
Wedding Gift For Destination Wedding Not Attending
If you can’t attend the destination wedding, consider practical gifts for newlyweds. For example, they can be household items like decors, appliances, dinnerware, or bedroom necessities like blankets that you can customize.
Luggage and custom robes will also be helpful for newlyweds. And, of course, check the couple’s wedding registry for the items they want.
Do Guests Pay For Destination Weddings?
Destination wedding guests are expected to pay for their travel and accommodation expenses. They’ll also be responsible for what they wear to the wedding and pocket money for the faraway venue.
Usually, the couple has arranged a hotel block to help guests cut accommodation costs. And for the travel expenses like plane tickets, make sure to book on time to avoid issues.
Read who pays for a destination wedding for the etiquette.
How Long Do Guests Stay At A Destination Wedding?
Wedding guests typically stay three days for a destination wedding. Their day of arrival and rest plus the welcome party at night, the wedding day and reception night, and a day to rest or final brunch before traveling home.
Some destination weddings may also be weeklong, so check the invitation suite for the inserts and itinerary with activities.
Conclusion
And that’s it! You just learned do you give a gift for a destination wedding, which depends on you.
It’s not expected, but it’s thoughtful, especially if the couple spends on your travel and accommodations. Giving a gift is only fitting if you’re close to the couple.