Destination Wedding vs. Traditional Wedding: What’s More Affordable?

Planning your big day? One of the first—and biggest—decisions is choosing between a destination wedding or a traditional wedding close to home. While both options have their charm, your budget may be the deciding factor.

So destination wedding vs. traditional wedding, which is more affordable? Let’s break it down.

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Traditional Wedding Venue

💰 Average Cost of a Traditional Wedding

According to recent reports, the average cost of a traditional wedding in Canada or the U.S. ranges from $30,000 to $45,000, depending on the city and guest count.

Major expenses include:

• Venue rental ($5,000–$15,000)

• Catering ($75–$150 per guest)

• Bar service

• Photography and videography

• Entertainment

• Flowers and decor

• Transportation

• Hotel blocks for out-of-town guests

It adds up fast—especially when planning for 100+ guests.

Beach wedding reception

🏝️ Average Cost of a Destination Wedding

A destination wedding can cost as little as $5,000 to $15,000 depending on the location, guest count, and resort inclusions.

At Destination Weddings with Globetrot, we often work with couples whose entire wedding package (ceremony, reception, and even some guest perks) is included in a resort stay.

Typical inclusions:

• Ceremony setup and decor

• Wedding coordinator

• Photography package

• Private dinner reception

• Wedding cake

• DJ or live music

• Group perks (like free nights or upgrades)

And with group travel credits, many couples get bride & groom travel covered when they book a group!

📊 Cost Comparison: Destination Wedding vs. Traditional Wedding

Expense	Traditional Wedding	Destination Wedding
Venue	$10,000+	Often included
Catering	$10,000+	Included at all-inclusive resorts
Decor	$3,000+	Simplified & often included
Guest Travel	Covered by you	Covered by guests
Total	$30K–$45K	$5K–$15K

💡 Destination weddings often cost 50–70% less than traditional weddings, especially with fewer guests and all-inclusive packages.

Intimate destination wedding

✈️ Why Destination Weddings Can Be More Affordable?

1. Smaller guest list – Most destination weddings have 20–40 guests, reducing catering and accommodation expenses.

2. Built-in honeymoon – Your wedding and honeymoon are in one location.

3. Resort perks – Book with a wedding specialist and unlock group credits and upgrades.

4. Less stress – On-site wedding planners handle logistics, often at no additional cost.

5. All-inclusive – Food, drinks, and entertainment are included.

Wedding Catamaran Excursion

🧠 But What About Guest Expenses?

Guests usually pay for their own travel and stay—but they get a vacation and wedding experience in one. With group booking discounts, their cost is often less than a domestic long-weekend trip.

Plus, we offer:

• Flexible payment plans

• Room block discounts

• Group excursions and private events

👰 Why More Couples Are Choosing Destination Weddings?

Destination weddings are no longer a niche option. They’ve become the go-to choice for couples who want:

• A more intimate celebration

• Tropical backdrops without spending a fortune

• A stress-free experience

• Unforgettable memories for them and their guests

🌴 Final Thoughts: What’s Right for You?

If your dream is a custom, cost-conscious wedding in paradise—without breaking the bank—a destination wedding may be the perfect fit.

At Destination Weddings with Globetrot, we help couples turn their dream day into reality, from beach vows to sunset dinners.

📅 Let’s Talk Numbers and Packages

Still wondering which is more affordable for your wedding vision?👉 Schedule a free consultation with our wedding experts.

Let’s build your perfect destination wedding—with perks, savings, and zero stress.