Most stag weekends that go wrong do so for the same reasons: nobody was in charge, the budget was vague or the group disagreed about what to do. This timeline keeps the organiser sane and the group informed.
The timeline
- Three months out: agree a date with the groom, count the guests and decide a rough budget per person.
- Ten weeks out: pick a city. Think about flight times, weather, the group's tastes and what the groom would enjoy.
- Eight weeks out: book flights, accommodation and one or two main activities. Ask each guest for a deposit.
- Six weeks out: build the schedule and book restaurants, transfers and anything with limited places.
- Four weeks out: collect the rest of the money, check dietary needs and share the plan in a group chat.
- Two weeks out: plan the pranks, order costumes and props, and assign small jobs, such as photos and the speech.
- One week out: send the final briefing with times, addresses, a packing list and the contact numbers.
- On the weekend: keep a copy of the plan, and delegate. You are there to have fun too.
Choosing the city
Pick the city for the group, not just for the groom. A budget crew may prefer cheap flights and low prices. A group that wants activities needs places with plenty to do. A group that loves sunshine needs a beach. Our city guides explain which pranks fit each place, from the beer halls of Prague to the seafront in Brighton.
Money without arguments
- Set a capAgree a maximum per person before booking anything.
- Collect earlyTake deposits for flights and accommodation, and send reminders.
- Split fairlyCover the groom's costs from the group pot, and be clear about it from the start.
- Keep a recordTrack who has paid in one place, and share it with the group.
Keeping the group happy
- Ask earlyFind out about budgets, dietary needs and things people would rather avoid before you book.
- Mix the activitiesOffer a mix of active, social and relaxed options, so everyone can join in.
- Plan downtimeLeave gaps for naps, showers and quiet drinks. It keeps the evenings lively.
- Have a plan BBad weather or a closed venue should not ruin the day. Keep one alternative ready.
Props that help
- Groom sash
- Matching T-shirts
- Dare cards
- Forfeit dice