Ultimate Stag Party Planning Checklist: 10 Steps to Planning the Perfect Stag Party

Alright lads, it’s time to gear up for one of the most important events in your mate’s life—the stag party. This isn’t just any weekend; it’s the last hurrah before the groom ties the knot, and you’ve got to make it epic. If you’re tasked with planning, don’t sweat it. Here’s your ultimate stag party planning checklist with StagFree to help you smash it, from picking the location to keeping the budget in check.

1. Set the Date Early

Before any wild plans are made, lock in the date. Chat with the groom and the key guys to pick a date that suits everyone. Avoid weekends too close to the wedding, so the groom has time to recover from the madness. Check work schedules and any major events that could get in the way.

Pro Tip: Use a group poll to get everyone’s availability at once—makes life so much easier.

2. Choose the Destination

The right location will set the vibe. Are you thinking of a weekend blowout in the city, a countryside adventure, or maybe even a sunny trip abroad? Whether it’s pub crawls in Dublin, cruising on the river in Carrick-on-Shannon, or beach-side parties in Albufeira, make sure it’s somewhere that fits the groom’s style.

Top Stag Spots:

• Dublin: For an epic pub crawl.
• Carrick-on-Shannon: River cruises and wild nights.
• Albufeira: Sun, sand, and water sports.
• Galway: Pints with a side of stunning views.

Make sure the budget and travel plans suit the whole squad.

3. Build the Guest List

This is where things can get tricky. Too few people, and it could feel flat; too many, and it might get chaotic. Work with the groom to figure out who absolutely needs to be there—his closest mates, a few family members, and maybe some work lads. Once you’ve got the list, set up a group chat to keep everyone in the loop.

Pro Tip: Keep it drama-free by inviting people who will get along and keep the party vibes going.

4. Sort the Budget

Money talks, boys. Sort out the budget early to avoid any awkward convos later on. Figure out what everyone’s comfortable spending and break it down:

• Accommodation: Hotel, Airbnb, or hostel?
• Transport: Flights, buses, or taxis—get all the travel stuff covered.
• Activities: Paintball, go-karting, quad biking—it adds up fast.
• Food & Drinks: Pub nights and meals will likely be the biggest expense.

Use apps like Splitwise to keep track of who owes what.

5. Pick the Epic Activities

No stag party is complete without some solid activities. Whether you’re adrenaline junkies or more into chilled vibes, make sure there’s something for everyone.

Activity Ideas:

• For the Thrill-Seeker: Paintball, quad biking, or go-karting.
• For the Party Animal: Pub crawls, brewery tours, and whiskey tasting.
• For the Laid-Back Lad: Poker nights, river cruises, or just kicking back at a bar.

Tailor it to what the groom would love most.

6. Book Accommodation Early

Whether it’s a luxury hotel or a budget-friendly hostel, sort your digs early. Stag hot spots fill up fast, so book ASAP to lock in the best place. Make sure it’s central so you’re not stuck traveling miles between activities.

Pro Tip: If you’re renting a house or multiple rooms, assign them beforehand to avoid awkward moments when you get there.

7. Plan the Transport

Getting there and getting around is key. If you’re going abroad, sort out flights, trains, or whatever transportation early for the best deals. For local stags, maybe hire a mini-bus or arrange taxis to shuttle the lads around.

Pro Tip: If there’s a pub crawl or a big night out planned, make sure there’s a sober driver—or just hire one.

8. Build a Loose Itinerary

You don’t need to plan out every single second, but having a rough schedule helps keep everyone on track. Know when you’re doing activities, when you’re hitting the pubs, and most importantly, when you’re eating. Leave room for flexibility and spontaneous adventures.

Pro Tip: Factor in recovery time for those hangover mornings—trust us, you’ll need it.

9. Pack the Essentials

Don’t leave anyone hanging without the must-haves. Whether it’s gear for outdoor activities or something smarter for the night out, make sure everyone knows what to bring. And don’t forget the classic stag party props—just make sure they’re all in good fun.

Essentials to pack:

• The Groom’s survival kit: Sunglasses, water, and painkillers.
• Chargers: Someone always forgets.
• Costumes or props: If you plan to embarrass the groom, do it in style.

10. The Big Day

The stag weekend is finally here, and your job isn’t over yet. Keep things rolling smoothly by sticking loosely to the itinerary but don’t stress if plans change. The most important thing is to make sure everyone’s having a great time, especially the groom.

Pro Tip: Take plenty of photos and videos—just keep some off social media (you know why).

Conclusion:

By following this ultimate stag party checklist, you’re guaranteed to create a legendary send-off for the groom. From sorting the destination to nailing the activities and keeping the budget in check, you’ve got the tools to pull off an unforgettable event. Cheers to making this stag party one for the history books! If you know the hen planner why not send them HenFree’s Ultimate Hen Party Planning Checklist at where the can plan stress free also!