24 Wedding Welcome Bags and Favors Your Guests Will Love

Destination wedding welcome bags and favors are a great way to show your appreciation to guests who have traveled the distance and spent a lot money to attend your big day. But all too often, wedding gifts for guests just get dumped in the trash or left behind because they’re impractical.  That’s why I asked hundreds of former destination brides & grooms to tell me about the wedding welcome bags and destination wedding favors their guests loved, as well as the misses.

We rounded up their answers below in our list of the 24 best wedding welcome bag ideas. But before we get to that, let’s answer some basic questions you may have about destination wedding gift bags.

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So . . . what are destination wedding welcome bags?

These are essentially wedding gifts for guests who are traveling for your big day.  At a traditional hometown wedding, couples usually provide their guests with wedding favors when they leave the reception. Destination wedding welcome bags deliver the same special impact, just sooner!

Welcome bags, out of town bags, and favors are used interchangeably throughout this post because essentially “destination wedding favors” are placed inside a “welcome bag” and given to out of town guests.

Sounds fun! But why wedding welcome bags over an after-wedding favor?

It’s important to remember that guests are not only attending your wedding, but they’re also on vacation.  You’re their host and travel advisor, of sorts.  A wedding welcome bag will not only show them how grateful you are for their attendance, but that you’re ready to provide them with a wonderful experience from the moment they step off the plane.

Do I have to give destination wedding welcome bags to guests?

Do you have to?  No.  Would it be a really nice gesture and token of your appreciation?  Absolutely!  This is your big day and you make the rules.  I know you’re putting a lot of time and money into your dream day, and that can be overwhelming. But remember: So are your loved ones. They’re taking off work and spending their own money on travel to celebrate your love.  All things considered, a welcome bag is just a small gesture to show your gratitude and set the tone for a memorable week or weekend.

But at the end of the day, it’s your call. Your guests won’t expect welcome bags so they’ll be pleasantly surprised to receive them. On the other hand, if you skip them, they won’t miss them since they weren’t expecting them in the first place.

What to Put in Your Wedding Welcome Bags

Below is a list of the 24 best destination wedding welcome bag contents and favors according to real destination brides we polled.  The biggest welcome bag hits are items that your guests wouldn’t think to bring for themselves, items they could easily forget to bring, or gifts that will make their trip easier and more comfortable.

Here are the top wedding welcome bag ideas for hotel guests in no particular order.

1.  Wedding Welcome Bags

Wedding bags are probably the most popular destination wedding gifts for guests, and with good reason.  Not only are beach bags a practical gift that your guests will put to good use during the trip (and future travel), but you can also fill them up with some fun destination wedding favors.  The beautiful welcome bags pictured below can be easily personalized with your wedding destination, your names and wedding date all for a very affordable price.

Personalized Burlap Wedding Welcome Bag

Personalized Crochet Beach Tote Bag

Burlap Welcome Bag

Boho Destination Wedding Welcome Bag

Paper wedding welcome bag

2.  Welcome Letter & Itinerary

A welcome letter is a simple but very impactful item that should be a part of every welcome bag.  When we’re caught up in the wedding planning journey, it can be easy to forget just what a big sacrifice our guests are making. They are taking time off work/school, spending thousands of dollars and using up their own vacation time just to attend your wedding.  A welcome letter is a really personal touch that you can add to your gift bags to express your appreciation.

Although it may seem small, my guests loved their welcome letters and many took them home as a keepsake.  There are some really gorgeous high-quality cards with a thoughtful welcome letter on one side and a full itinerary on the reverse side.  You can personalize them with any wording you’d like and there are tons of gorgeous designs to choose from.

3.  Flip Flops

Flip flops are one of those destination wedding favour ideas that guests absolutely love, and handing them out at the reception means nobody has an excuse for not hitting the dance floor! They’re lightweight, practical, fun, and genuinely one of the most appreciated gifts you can give. Plus, your guests can use them by the pool or on the beach- bonus!

We love white wedding flip flops, which come in a range of sizes and can be bought in bulk!

 4. Shawls

Shawls are a perfect destination wedding favor, especially if you’re tying the knot on the beach or in a tropical location that gets cool when the ocean breeze ramps up. A Pashmina in your wedding colors is a beautiful wedding gift for guests that they’ll use again and again.  Etsy has gorgeous pashmina shawls in almost every color under the sun.

5.  Liquor

Mini liquor bottles are a really cheap and fun destination wedding favor to throw in your wedding welcome bags.  But to make it even more special, try to find liquor produced in your wedding destination.  For example, mini tequila bottles are great Mexican wedding favors.  And mini Barcelo or Brugal bottles would be a hit for a destination wedding in the Dominican Republic.

Keep in mind that you can’t travel with liquor or mail them, so your best bet is to buy these when you arrive at your destination.   And you can even personalize the bottles with some labels or cute favor tags like these pictured here.

6.  First Aid Kits for Wedding Welcome Bags

Wedding First-aid or “hangover recovery kits” have to be one of the most fun and practical items to put in your destination wedding welcome bags. You can buy really cheap travel-sized items like Tylenol or Advil, vitamin c, band-aids, and ear-plugs and just put them all in a super cute personalized bag like the one pictured here which comes in tons of other gorgeous designs and colors!

7.  Deck of Cards

Another great favor to put in your wedding welcome bags is a personalized deck of playing cards like the ones pictured below sold on Etsy.  Not only will guests enjoy them on the trip, but also back home.

8.  Waterproof Key Card Holder

One of the best hotel wedding welcome bag ideas is room key holders!  How many times have you been on vacation trying to figure out what to do with your money, credit cards, and hotel key card while you lounge poolside?  This is something your guests will never think of bringing themselves, but they’ll be super grateful you did!

Not only are these key card holders practical, but they’re also a lovely personalized gift! You can download and print a digital key card insert, like the one pictured here with a fun poem on one side and your wedding itinerary on the reverse so your guests will know where to be at all times.

Then head over to Amazon to order the plastic pouch and wrist coils, assemble them yourself, and pop them into your guests’ welcome bags!

9.  Cigars

Cuban cigars are a popular destination wedding favor, particularly for weddings in Mexico and the Caribbean where cigar culture is very much part of the experience. Many couples choose to hire a cigar roller for the reception, or display cigars in a humidor which doubles as a beautiful wedding keepsake. A set of personalized matches makes a great finishing touch too!

10.  Candy, Sweets, & Chocolates

Edible favors are always a hit at both traditional hometown weddings and destination weddings.  But what we especially love about this idea is that you can put your treats in some fun packaging that will really make an impression. There are many cute travel and beach themed candy packages like the one pictured here from Amazon.

11. Door Hangers

Cheeky, no? These affordable and personalized door hangers are such a cute gift.  Everyone will know that you had the most amazing wedding ever when they see these hanging all over the resort.  And they’ll help your guests get some much-needed rest (or alone time ????) after your epic reception.

12.  Coasters

Another hit? Beach or Travel themed coasters because it’s something guests can take home and put to good use for years to come.

13.  Lip Balm

Lip balm is one of those things that somehow never makes it into the suitcase, and yet everyone needs it! Sun, sea air, air conditioning, and a few hours on the dance floor can all take their toll, so a lip balm with SPF is a destination wedding favor that genuinely gets used from day one. It works for everyone, regardless of age or gender; it’s lightweight and easy to pack in bulk, and its SPF makes it especially practical for beach weddings and sunny destinations. A small touch, but a really thoughtful one.

14.  Shot Glasses

Is there a more universally loved souvenir than a shot glass? We don’t think so! They’re fun, affordable, and one of those destination wedding favors that guests are genuinely happy to collect and take home. Plus, if they are real glass, they can also double as a votive candle holder!

In addition to placing one in your wedding welcome bag, you can also place one at each place setting and invite guests to use it during the toast. Or, if you want to get creative, you could personalize them with your names, wedding date, and the guest’s table number at the base of the glass, and use them to direct guests to their tables with a little sign that reads “Take a shot and find your seat!”

We love these bulk buy ‘Take a shot we tied the knot’ glasses from Amazon- they’re acrylic, so lightweight and easy to pack!

15.  Luggage Tags

A luggage tag is probably the most practical of all destination wedding favors and is one of those gifts that every single guest will use! Whether they’re seasoned travelers or occasional flyers, everyone needs a luggage tag. And for a destination wedding where guests have already packed their bags to be there, it feels especially fitting. They can also double as table seating cards on the day, which makes them one of the most clever and cost effective favour ideas on this list!

16.  Bottle Opener

A bottle opener is one of those destination wedding favors that is so simple it’s genius. Whether guests are cracking open a cold beer by the pool or a soda on the beach, it’s something they’ll reach for again and again long after the wedding is over. We love these bamboo heart-shaped engravable magnetic bottle openers from Amazon; they’re cute, lightweight, and beautiful enough to display on the fridge at home as a lasting reminder of your special day.

17.  Champagne, Prosecco, & Wine Stopper

If you have wine lovers on your guest list, a wine bottle stopper is a destination wedding favor they will absolutely love finding in their welcome bag. Practical, affordable, and elegant, it’s the kind of gift that feels more considered than your average favor. Simple but really lovely!

18.  Fans

If you’re tying the knot in a tropical location, fans are a very inexpensive and really useful addition to your wedding welcome bags.   I’m kind of obsessed with fans as a destination wedding favor, so I was like a kid in a candy store when I was researching different fans for this post. 

Personally, I adore these program fans that guests can also use too cool down during your nuptials. You know they’ll  end up folding your beautiful programs to fan themselves anyway–why not do it for them with much more style!

Handheld travel fan by Amazon

19.  Can Sleeves

Can sleeves are one of those destination wedding favors that just make sense, especially in warmer climates. Whether guests are grabbing a cold one by the pool or on the beach, nobody wants a warm drink! They come in a huge range of colors and styles to match pretty much any wedding theme, and they’re affordable enough to buy in bulk. They’re the kind of practical gift that will actually get used throughout the trip.

20.  Water cups

In keeping with the hydration theme, personalized cups are another popular destination wedding favor. They’re practical from the moment guests arrive, whether that’s refilling their favorite drink at an all-inclusive resort or grabbing some water before heading out on a day excursion. Durable, reusable, and something guests will genuinely continue using long after they get home, this is one favor that really does earn its place in the welcome bag.

Sold by XO Party via Etsy

21.  Travel Guides

As a destination wedding couple, you are essentially your guests’ host and travel guide for the whole trip, so why not lean into that? A personalized city guide or pocket travel book tucked into the welcome bag is one of the most thoughtful favors you can give to your guests. That way they have all the must-see sights and information at their fingertips should they choose to play tourist at any point during their trip!

22.  Treats from Local Vendors & Suppliers

Celebrate your destination even more by highlighting the best finds from local vendors. You could include handmade sweets, honey, alcohol, soap, candles, and other local treasures to give your guests a warm welcome to the region.

23.  Kid-Friendly Wedding Welcome Bag Goodies

If your destination celebration is kid-friendly, make sure your wedding welcome bags include some goodies that children would like too! Something as simple as a beach toy, coloring book, or travel game will make them feel special and keep them busy. How cute are these ring lollipops?!

24.  Mini Aloe Vera Gel

Aloe vera gel is one of those things most guests won’t think to pack, but will be very happy to find in their welcome bag. Known for its cooling and soothing properties, it’s an ideal addition for beach weddings and sunny destinations where it’s easy to catch a little too much sun. Check out this multi-pack of Aloe Vera sachets from Amazon.

Wedding Welcome Bags & Favors: What not to include

Not every favor idea is worth spending money on. For instance, anything your guests would naturally pack themselves or get in their hotel room is likely to go unused. And, it’s also worth keeping in mind that people can be particular (and brand loyal) about certain products, especially anything that goes on their hair or skin. With that in mind, here are a few items that are probably better left off the welcome bag list.

• Shampoo/Conditioner

• Toothpaste

• Towels

• Beach Balls

• Floaties

• Keychains

• Anything too heavy, breakable, bulky, or that will just be hard for guests to pack and travel with

Let’s Talk MONEY!

Who pays for the wedding welcome bags?

In most cases, the couple or their families cover the cost of the welcome bags, since they double as destination wedding favors for guests. If the added expense feels daunting, don’t worry. There are plenty of ways to put together something really lovely without spending a fortune, and we cover exactly that a little further down!

What is the average cost of welcome bags?

The cost of destination wedding welcome bags can vary quite a bit depending on how simple or elaborate you want to go. As a general guide, most couples spend between $10 and $100 per bag, including contents, with the sweet spot around $15 to $25 per bag. Ultimately it comes down to your budget and how much you want to include, and there are plenty of ways to keep costs down without compromising on the overall feel. Keep reading for money saving tips below!

How much should I spend on my destination wedding welcome bags?

The honest answer is that it entirely depends on your budget and the size of your guest list. So there’s no right or wrong answer. Ultimately, weddings can be expensive, so don’t feel pressured into overspending on welcome bags or favors. Remember, it’s the thought that counts, and a well curated selection of practical goodies will always feel more meaningful than an expensive bag filled with things nobody needs!

If you have a smaller guest list or a little more flexibility in the budget, you may wish to spend anywhere between $20 and $40 per bag, which should be enough to put together something really special.

If you’re working with a tighter budget or a longer guest list, a few fun and practical items at $2 to $3 each can work just as well.

A hangover recovery kit or personalized resort key card holders are great examples of affordable additions that feel genuinely thoughtful.

And if you’re still worried about the cost, it helps to remember that welcome bags are doing more than one job. They’re a practical gift, a keepsake favor, and a way to share your wedding itinerary with guests all at the same time. Three things for the price of one is never a bad deal!

Are wedding welcome bags per person, per couple, per family, or per room?

The good news – welcome bags are per room, not per person – which is ideal for your budget! That said, it’s worth thinking about who is actually staying in each room when you’re putting them together. If two guests are sharing and you’re including something they’ll each need, like flip flops or lip balm, pop two in the bag rather than one. And if any rooms include a family, or kids, a small toy or activity to keep them entertained is a really sweet touch that their parents will absolutely appreciate too!

Any money-saving tips?

Absolutely! Start by making a list of everything you’d like to include and then prioritize from there. Which items are non-negotiable? And which ones are just nice-to-haves? Then set your budget and work outwards from that.
Remember to make the most of discounts and promotions. Wedding suppliers run deals throughout the year, so it’s always worth signing up to vendor newsletters to grab 10% or more off your order. Following wedding social media accounts is another great way to stay in the loop about deals, flash sales, and exclusive promo codes as they come up. And buying in bulk can also be a great way to save money!

Time to pack! How do you travel with destination wedding welcome bags?

Packing for a destination wedding is, well, interesting to say the least!  Your packing list will be long, and that’s before you even add all these extra goodies for your guests! To make things easier, here are our TOP TIPS to remember before you get ready to jet off:

TIP 1. Research your destination’s duty-free allowance.

Before you start filling your welcome bags, it’s worth doing a little research into the import rules for your destination. Every country has different regulations around what you can bring in and how much it can be worth before taxes apply, and the rules can vary depending on whether you are traveling by air, sea, or land, and where you are traveling from.
If you are unsure, a quick search on your destination country’s official customs or government website will give you the most accurate and up-to-date information before you travel.

TIP 2. Keep the receipts for all of your welcome bag contents.

It’s always a good idea to keep receipts for anything you’re bringing in your welcome bags. If you are questioned at customs, having proof of what you paid makes the whole process much smoother and ensures you are only charged what you actually owe (if applicable).

TIP 3. Welcome bag dos and don’ts: How to pack efficiently and make every item count.

• Do your best to keep the wedding bag contents as small as possible. For instance, pack travel size gifts, foldable items, etc.
• Don’t assemble the welcome bags until you arrive. Grab that first cocktail (of many) and have a gift-packing party after you check in to your hotel!
• If you’re feeling anxious or think your merchandise may surpass the duty-free allowance, simply split up the items between your luggage and that of family members or close friends.
• Another tip is to pack all gifts into a cheap checked bag. Once your nuptials are done, you can leave the bag behind or pack it with souvenirs on the way home!

TIP 4. Explain the purpose of your wedding favor bags

Even if you have receipts for all items, it would help to write a letter in English and in your destination’s local language explaining the purpose of the merchandise in your bag.  Also make sure you attach the receipts to make this backup plan both effective and personalized.

Check out these posts for more packing tips:

• 15 Things You Need To Know Before Packing For Your Destination Wedding
• The Ultimate Destination Wedding Packing Checklist

Can you mail destination wedding welcome bags to your resort?

Mailing your welcome bags to the destination ahead of time might seem like a clever way to save luggage space, but there are a few things worth considering before you go down that route.

Packages can and do get lost in the mail, which makes this one of the riskier options. Your items will still need to clear customs regardless of how they travel, and not all resorts are willing to receive and store guest packages on your behalf. So, it’s always worth checking with your venue first before making any plans.

How do you hand out destination wedding welcome bags to guests?

You’ve planned, packed, and made it to your destination! Now it’s time to get those welcome bags into your guests’ hands! Here are a few ways to make it happen:

• Hand them out personally. Your guests have likely traveled hundreds, if not thousands, of miles to celebrate with you, and greeting them in the lobby or at their door with a welcome bag and a big smile is one of the most heartfelt ways to show them how much it means to you. It takes a little coordination with the venue and timings, but it’s worth every bit of effort.
• Host a wedding welcome party. If personal delivery isn’t your style, a welcome drinks reception or gathering is a great opportunity to hand out all the bags at once in a fun, relaxed setting.
• Let the resort do it. Many resorts will offer to put welcome bags in guests’ rooms or hand them out at check-in, either as a courtesy or for a small fee. If you like this idea, just remember to ask in advance of your arrival.
• Give them out before you leave for your destination. Handing bags to guests before they travel is a lovely way to build excitement early, and it has the added bonus of avoiding potential customs complications altogether!

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And there it is…everything you need to plan, pack, and put together the ultimate destination wedding welcome bag. Your guests have gone above and beyond to be there for your special day, and a thoughtful welcome bag is a beautiful way to show them how much that means to you. Happy wedding planning!