PLANNING ·

Hen Do Abroad: How to Plan a Hen Party Abroad

Sun, sangria and the whole squad together: a hen do abroad is the dream for plenty of brides. It also takes more planning than a weekend in the UK. Here's how to plan a hen party abroad, from choosing where to go to what to pack.

Is a hen do abroad right for your group?

Before you fall in love with a villa, check it works for everyone. A hen abroad costs more, and needs more time off, than a UK weekend. Ask the bride who she really wants there, then ask those guests about budget and dates before you plan anything. If a few can't make it, you could hold a smaller celebration at home too, so nobody misses out.

1. Choose a destination

Short flights from the UK keep costs and travel time down. Popular choices include:

  • Spain: Marbella, Ibiza and Barcelona for beach clubs, nightlife and sunshine.
  • Portugal: Lisbon for a city break, or the Algarve for villas and beaches.
  • Amsterdam, Prague or Budapest: great city breaks, with spas, bars and boat trips.
  • The Greek islands: perfect for a Mamma Mia hen.

Think about what the bride loves: a pool and a lazy weekend, a city to explore, or a big night out.

2. Pick a date and get commitment

Share two or three date options and see which works for the bride's must-have guests, like close family and bridesmaids. Then set a deadline for everyone to confirm and pay a deposit. Only start booking once you know your numbers.

3. Set a budget

Work out a rough cost per person before you book: flights, accommodation, activities, meals, transfers and a kitty. Remember guests may also be paying for the wedding, so keep it realistic. Our free hen party budget planner tracks every cost and who's paid, and our guide on how to plan a hen party has more budgeting tips.

4. Book flights and accommodation

  • Book early. Flights and big villas get more expensive closer to the date, especially in summer.
  • Consider a villa or apartment. For bigger groups, it's often better value than a hotel, and having a kitchen helps the budget.
  • Check the house rules on parties, noise and decorations before you book.
  • Sort transfers from the airport, especially if you're arriving late.

5. Check travel documents

Make sure everyone checks their passport well before you go, as entry rules for UK travellers vary by country. The GOV.UK foreign travel advice pages have the latest entry requirements for every destination. Ask everyone to get travel insurance, and to carry a GHIC card for healthcare in the EU.

Collect everyone's flight details, passport names and emergency contacts in one shared document.

6. Plan the itinerary

Don't overfill the days. One big activity a day, a group dinner and plenty of pool time is usually the sweet spot. See our sample hen do itineraries and hen party activities for ideas, from boat trips to cocktail classes.

7. What to pack for a hen do abroad

Share our free hen weekend packing list with the group. Don't forget:

For the flight itself, see what to wear to the airport.

8. Get everyone together before you go

The bride's friends may come from school, uni, work and family, and not everyone will have met. A drink or a video call before you fly breaks the ice, so you're all friends by the time you land.

Hen do abroad tips

  • Sit together on the plane by booking seats at the same time.
  • Set up a kitty for shared costs like food shopping and taxis.
  • Stay hydrated and wear sun cream. Nobody wants a sunburnt bride.
  • Agree a meeting point in case anyone gets lost on a night out.
  • Order your hen bits in good time. Orders placed by 2pm, Monday to Friday, are usually dispatched the same day, but leave at least a week before you fly.

Hen do abroad FAQs

How much does a hen do abroad cost?

It depends on the destination, time of year and how long you go for. Flights, accommodation and activities add up quickly, so price everything up first and share a realistic total before anyone commits.

How far in advance should you book a hen do abroad?

Aim for six months or more, especially for a summer hen or a big villa. That gives everyone time to save and request time off.

Where should we go for a hen do abroad?

Spain and Portugal are UK favourites for sunshine and short flights. Amsterdam, Prague and Budapest are popular city breaks. Choose based on the bride's style and the group's budget.

For the full planning timeline, read our guide on how to plan a hen party.

Team Hen x

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