Splitting stag and hen party costs fairly
Published on Sun, 18 October
The bride or groom pays nothing, everyone else shares – how to settle a stag or hen party, with a worked example and the group kitty calculator.
At a stag or hen party the bill adds up quickly: one person books the accommodation, one the activity, one pays for dinner – and the guest of honour pays nothing. A clear settlement makes sure nobody ends up out of pocket.
The guest of honour
The bride or groom is invited. The simplest way is to count them as a guest of honour for every expense: they're there, but their share is zero. Their share is split automatically among everyone else.
In the calculator, enter only those who pay – simply leave out the guest of honour:
What keeps the mood good
- Name a budget beforehand. Not everyone can or wants to spend the same. A rough figure per person avoids frustration.
- Extras are extra. Whoever wants the champagne upgrade pays for it.
- Not there, not paying. Whoever only comes on Saturday doesn't pay for Friday's activity.
- Settle soon. Within a week of the party – while everybody still remembers.
How Tripkitty does it
In Tripkitty you mark the guest of honour, record each expense with those who were there and get the fewest transfers at the end – with the IBAN to copy or a PayPal link. Friends join through a guest link, without an account.
Frequently asked questions
Does the bride or groom pay at a stag or hen party?
Usually the guest of honour is invited and pays nothing. Their share is split among everyone else. Some groups make an exception for drinks or personal extras.
What if not everyone joins everything?
Then split that expense only among those who were there. Whoever leaves on Saturday doesn't pay for Saturday night's dinner.
Should we collect money beforehand?
A deposit per person helps with big bookings. Settle at the end anyway – then it's right to the cent.