Choose two things you will splurge on and agree to save on everything else. The worksheet below helps the two of you reach that list calmly, without one person feeling overruled.
This guide sits under our budget topic, where we look at how a limited budget can still feel like a special trip.
How does the worksheet work?
Each of you fills it in alone, then you compare. Do not look at each other’s answers until both are done.
For every item below, write a score from one to five. Five means “I would pay extra for this”. One means “I would rather save the money”.
- The room, such as a better view, a bathtub or more space.
- A private pool or villa.
- The flight, such as a better seat or timing.
- Food, such as one special dinner.
- Activities or tours.
- A photographer or photo session.
- Spa or massage.
- More nights in total.
- A nicer location or area.
- Extras such as flowers or decoration.
How do you read the results?
Put both lists side by side. Circle the items where both of you scored four or five. These are your natural splurges.
Then look at the items where both scored one or two. These are the easiest places to save, because neither of you will miss them.
What if the lists do not match?
Most couples do not agree on everything, and that is fine. Use this simple rule.
- Save on every item either of you scored one.
- Take one splurge from each list, starting with the highest score.
- If both lists point to the same item, that becomes splurge number one, and you each pick a second.
This keeps the result fair. Each of you gets one thing that matters, and the shared savings pay for it.
Which splurges tend to be worth it?
There is no single answer, but a few questions help. A splurge works best when you will notice it every day or at one memorable moment.
A room with a view you use every morning is felt daily. A single dinner is felt once but remembered. A long list of small extras is felt by neither of you. Our guide on upgrading the room or spending on activities compares the two directions.
What about nights versus quality?
Sometimes the choice is between one more night and a better room. Neither is wrong.
If you are tired after the wedding, an extra night of rest may matter more. If you have limited leave, a better room for fewer nights may feel more special. We cover this in fewer nights, better room, or more nights.
What should you do next?
- Print or copy the ten items, and each fill them in alone.
- Compare, circle the shared fours and fives, and agree your two splurges.
- Write down what you will save on, so you both remember.
- Use the couple priorities chooser if you want a second view.
- Send us both lists with your nights and rough budget, and we compare options for two.