Holiday expert reveals 7 ways to save money when booking a hen do abroad
Anyone who has been on a hen do at home or away will know they can be pretty pricey affairs.
From booze and outfits to presents and activities - even the simplest of hen do's can end up costing a pretty penny.
So, to help ease the strain of your next abroad hen do, one holiday expert has come to the rescue sharing their seven nifty little tricks to save money when it comes to the booking process.
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Now, there's a bit of a trend going round to bring on the momentous occasion with a bang - with many brides-to-be opting to somewhere slightly sunnier than the UK.
Holiday company First Choice says: "The trend to have a hen do overseas is continuing to grow in popularity.
"We are seeing lots of groups flocking to popular European destinations for their pre-nuptial celebrations, with Ibiza, Marbella and Barcelona topping the list of 'hen holiday' hotspot locations."
Divide and conquer
A great way to avoid costly luggage fees is by asking each member of the hen party to bring an item for the trip.
"One hen can bring the decorations, another the flower crowns, and another the surprise fancy dress outfit for the lucky bride," First Choice explains.
By 'splitting the load' of party accessories across the group, it means it isn't just one person’s sole responsibility to lug all the gear in a heavy suitcase and have to fork out a small fortune for weighty luggage charges.
Swap the plane for a ferry and train
Now, not much beats a crisp glass of vino at the airport once you've got through the chaos of security and baggage check but catching a flight isn’t the only way to get to popular destinations like Ibiza.
First Choice reveals: "Increasingly, consumers are looking for more carbon-conscious ways to travel."
"Travel by train and ferry for a leisurely journey," the holiday company adds. "It is a great way to cut carbon emissions, enjoy picturesque views, and stay in stunning hotels along the way."
Get creative
Don't be afraid to think outside the box when it comes to planning what to do on the special day.
"There are a host of cheap and cheerful activities that can be enjoyed as a group at the accommodation, minimising expensive restaurant or venue hire fees," First Choice suggests.
Why not try your hand at 'Paint and Prosecco' - which sees hens showcase their artwork skills whilst sipping on bubbly - or even throw a 'Disco Divas' themed evening with the ladies' donning sequins and glitter.
Such activities 'don’t have to cost the earth' and can be a right laugh for the whole group to enjoy.
"Just make sure you notify the group what outfits (and art kits) to pack in advance," First Choice warns.
Consider all-inclusive
It may be a shout to browse around for all-inclusive options when booking for hen do getaway with the holiday company recommending: "Avoid touristy restaurants which can often present inflated prices and consider booking all-inclusive.
"As well as extensive dining options, many hotels have perks such as a minibar and Starbucks coffees included as part of the room cost.
"This can add all up, and saves money on purchasing coffees and drinks in the local area."
Be flexible with your flights and travel dates
This is a pretty important one as flights can end up being one of the most expensive elements when it comes to the cost breakdown of a hen do.
First Choice warns that airline prices can 'fluctuate daily' so it may be a shout to set up price alerts and be flexible with your travel dates to find the best deals.
"We recommend booking far in advance and organising for hen party attendees to book time off work as this will make the cost of flights and accommodation drastically less expensive than during a public holiday," they explain.
On top of this, you may want to avoid jetting away on peak travel days such as a Friday before a Bank Holiday weekend, or the first week of the school holidays in July.
"Mid-week flights will always work out cheaper - as will travelling outside of school holidays," First Choice notes.
Agree a budget
This is unfortunately a 'dull but necessary' part of planning a hen do which simply cannot be ignored.
"Crunching the numbers in advance and agreeing a firm budget that everyone sticks to is pretty crucial for avoiding disagreements over money during the trip," the holiday company informs.
Stick to just one!
And, last but by no means least, is the fairly obvious advice to stick by the whole 'one and done' rule when it comes to the pre-wedding bashes.
Instead of splashing the cash on numerous events in multiple areas - it may be a shout to go all-in on one fabulous location.
In short, go big then go home...
Topics: Travel, Wedding, Sex and Relationships, Money, Hacks, Life Hacks, Advice
Rhiannon Ingle