Stag Do Planning Guide- StagFree

Step 1: Get the Groom’s Input

The first and most important step when planning a stag do is to consider the groom’s preferences. This celebration is all about him, so be sure to get an idea of what type of experience he’d enjoy most. Some grooms prefer a low-key weekend with a few close friends, while others might want an extravagant party with tons of adrenaline-pumping activities.

How to Do It:
Start by having a conversation with the groom about his ideal stag do. Does he envision a wild party in Albufeira or a laid-back weekend in the countryside? Does he want activities packed into every moment or is he happy with a chilled-out bar crawl? Once you have a clearer idea of what he enjoys, you’ll be able to make decisions that reflect his personality and preferences.

Step 2: Set a Budget

Budgeting for the stag do is essential, as it will help you plan and make realistic decisions regarding the activities, destination, and accommodation. Establishing a clear budget prevents you from overcommitting to expensive options and ensures everyone is comfortable with their financial contribution.

How to Do It:
Start by discussing a rough estimate of what everyone is willing to spend. This will help narrow down the options for destinations, accommodation, and activities. Be upfront about costs for the entire group, but also make sure to account for any individual spending. Factor in travel, meals, drinks, and any extras like VIP access to clubs or specialised activities.

Tip: Be sure to collect money upfront so you don’t face last-minute payment issues, ensuring everyone is on the same page financially.

Step 3: Choose the Right Destination

Choosing the right destination is crucial for setting the tone of the stag do. Whether you’re planning a local stag do or an international getaway, the destination plays a major role in shaping the overall experience. You’ll need to consider factors like accessibility, nightlife, activities, and, of course, the groom's preferences.

How to Do It:
You can either pick a popular destination known for stag parties, such as Prague, Budapest, or Amsterdam, or opt for a more laid-back location depending on the groom’s style. If you’re staying local, look into nearby cities or towns that offer a vibrant nightlife scene, such as Dublin, Galway, or Cork.

Another thing to think about is how accessible the destination is for everyone attending. If your group is traveling internationally, choose a destination with affordable flights and easy accommodation options. Also, make sure to consider the season: destinations like Benidorm and Salou can be much busier during peak tourist months, so plan accordingly.

Step 4: Book Accommodation Early

Accommodation is one of the most important parts of the stag do. You want to make sure the group stays together in a place that is close to the action but also comfortable for everyone. Whether you opt for a luxurious hotel, a private villa, or a spacious apartment, early booking is key to securing the best deals and availability.

How to Do It:
Decide on the type of accommodation that works best for your group. A hotel offers convenience and easy access to nightlife, while a villa or rented house provides a more private, relaxed atmosphere and more space for group activities. If you're opting for a city destination, check out central locations to stay close to bars and restaurants.

Booking early ensures you get the best rates and availability, especially if you're planning a stag do during busy seasons like summer or around holidays. It's also essential to check the venue’s cancellation policies and make sure there are no hidden fees.

Step 5: Plan the Activities

No stag do is complete without some fun activities, and this is where you can get creative! The key is to strike a balance between action-packed adventures and relaxed downtime. You want to create memorable moments, so consider what will make the experience exciting for the groom and his group of friends.

How to Do It:
Start by discussing a list of activities that suit everyone’s interests. Traditional stag do activities include go-karting, clay pigeon shooting, and paintballing. If you’re in a city like Amsterdam or Barcelona, you might opt for a private pub crawl or even a strip club tour. For something a little different, why not book a boat trip, wine-tasting session, or a casino night?

For more unique experiences, consider booking a VIP experience, like exclusive club access, or something truly unforgettable like a helicopter ride or private dinner. Remember, the groom’s tastes should always come first, so plan accordingly.

Step 6: Organise Food and Drinks

Food and drinks are a big part of any stag do, especially when it comes to maintaining energy levels and keeping the party going. Whether you’re going for casual dining or a more upscale experience, be sure to pre-plan meals and drinks to avoid last-minute scrambles.

How to Do It:
Research local restaurants and bars near your accommodation and make reservations, especially if you’re in a popular tourist area. If you’re planning a big group dinner, consider booking a private function room or setting up a special meal at your villa.

A popular option is to arrange a barbecue or catered meal if you're staying in a more private location. Remember to include a variety of options to cater to any dietary restrictions. Don’t forget about drinks—organising a drinks package, including cocktails or beer, can save you money and make the party flow smoothly.

Step 7: Plan the Night Out

One of the most anticipated aspects of a stag do is the night out. Whether you’re planning a wild night of partying in a nightclub or a more relaxed evening at a pub, make sure it’s a memorable event. Booking ahead for VIP access can elevate the experience and ensure you get the best table, drinks, and entertainment.

How to Do It:
Research the best clubs, bars, and pubs in your chosen destination. If you’re staying in a major city, look for areas with multiple nightlife options. You can also book a private room or VIP booth at a club, ensuring the group has an exclusive experience. Arrange for a private transport service like a minibus or limousine to get the group from one location to another safely and comfortably.

Consider including fun activities like a stag do-themed pub crawl, karaoke, or even a dance-off to keep the energy high. Don’t forget to research local customs and drinking laws, especially if you’re abroad.

Step 8: Finalise the Details and Communicate with the Group

In the final stages of planning, it’s essential to finalise the details and communicate everything to the group. From the itinerary and activities to accommodation and transport, make sure everyone is well-prepared and knows exactly what to expect.

How to Do It:
Create an itinerary for the weekend and share it with everyone attending, detailing the accommodation address, times for activities, and where the group needs to be. Keep everyone informed about what they need to bring, like swimwear for pool activities, comfortable shoes for outdoor adventures, or a nice outfit for a fancy dinner or clubbing.

Consider using an app or group chat to stay connected and keep everyone updated on any last-minute changes. The more organised you are, the smoother the weekend will go, ensuring everyone enjoys the event without stress.

Stag Do Planning Q&A's - Don't Hesitate to Ask

Answering Your FAQs about Stag Do Planning

When should I start planning a stag do?

It's best to start planning a stag do at least three to six months in advance. This gives you enough time to book activities, accommodation, and travel at the best rates. Early planning also ensures that the groom’s friends can clear their schedules and make the necessary arrangements to attend.

How do I choose the best destination for a stag do?

The best destination depends on the groom's preferences and your group’s budget. For wild nightlife, cities like Dublin, Prague, or Newcastle are popular choices. If the groom prefers outdoor adventures, destinations like Kilkenny or Carlingford offer great activities. Consider accessibility, group interests, and whether the vibe of the destination aligns with the groom’s personality.

How can I budget for the stag do?

Start by estimating the total costs, including travel, accommodation, activities, food, and drinks. Communicate with the group to agree on a per-person contribution, ensuring everyone is comfortable with the amount. Collect money upfront to avoid last-minute financial issues and share a breakdown of the costs for transparency.

Should I involve the groom in the planning process?

Yes, it’s a good idea to get input from the groom on his preferences. While the details can remain a surprise, knowing what he enjoys—such as specific activities or destinations—ensures the stag do is tailored to him. However, if he prefers a complete surprise, consult his close friends for insights.

What activities should I include in a stag do?

Activities should suit the groom’s interests and your group’s dynamic. Popular choices include go-karting, paintballing, brewery tours, golf, escape rooms, or pub crawls. For something unique, consider a whiskey-tasting experience or adrenaline-fueled activities like zip-lining or skydiving. HenFree StagFree