Bachin' on a Budget
Our short + sweet tips for your best weekend ever… without spending your life’s savings. Plus, a few general tips, because we are very helpful.
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So you’re heading on a trip with 6-14 of your closest friends? Yes, it’s going to be so fun, but it might feel a little overwhelming, especially when you’re going to have to talk about money with like, everyone you’ve ever met. Ahead, some of our super simple tips for making it just a little more manageable.
Determine the Budget Ahead of Time + tell your crew about your plans
Make sure you give yourself + the rest of the group plenty of heads up when it comes to the cost of a bachelorette trip! We suggest planning a bachelorette at least 6+ months in advance. The more time people have, the more likely they can make it!
Send a group text with estimated costs before asking people to RSVP. Get with the bride or a few key players (not the whole group!) and figure out what your top priorities are for lodging, activities, + food. If you can give attendees a ballpark budget, they’ll be able to give you a solid yes or no… rather than being surprised by the cost + bailing at the last minute!
Here’s the text I sent for my sister’s bachelorette in Cabo, which I sent 8 months in advance. Feel free to copy + edit to make it your own!
Hi gals! This is Randi, Kelsey’s older sister. I am working on details for Kelsey’s bachelorette, which is officially going to be in city from dates. I know this is a long time away but we wanted to get it on everyone’s calendar well in advance!
We have chosen a house, which we’re booking this week. I wanted to share a few additional details with you so you know what to plan for!
cost of the house per person for three nights: $price — house link:
I don’t have a cost for other activities yet but tentatively:
— a chef at the house one night, tentative price
— groceries/alcohol for the weekend, tentative price
— day club, tentative price
— boat day, tentative price (+ say whether the price includes alcohol, etc for an activity like this!)
Next steps:
1. If you’re officially a yes, venmo deposit to @yourvenmo by next Friday so we can pay the house deposit! The next payment will be due in the fall.
2. Join our planning app (or whatever you’re choosing to use to keep everyone organized — we’re using The Bach App).
3. Start tracking flights + make sure you have your passport!
Thanks! If you have any specific questions, feel free to text me directly! 💕
Side note to this text: I highly recommend making people pay a deposit if they’re really committed. If you just ask them if they’re going, they’re going to say yes, then potentially back out when faced with actual costs. If you make them pay a deposit up front, even something small, it gets those booties in gear to make sure they’re serious! We made our deposit $120 so that it wasn’t too daunting, but also a big enough amount that people would care.
book an airbnb rather than a hotel
We love booking an Airbnb over a hotel for any group trips: it’s almost always less per person, and it gives you a common space like a living room or dining room for everyone to congregate. Plus, you’ll have a kitchen — so you can stock up on groceries + alcohol for even more savings!
Pro-tip: get your groceries delivered with Instacart to your Airbnb. Nobody (and I mean nobody) wants to go to the grocery store right after they got off a plane. Take $30 off your first Instacart order.
look for low-cost activities + stay organized with reimbursements
Not every activity has to be crazy! Consider something low-key, like a day at the beach or by the pool. In Charleston, a lot of our groups spend the afternoon sight-seeing, which is totally free! We always recommend that groups choose one to two major activities (one for each day), then structure the rest of the weekend around that. Use our free planning spreadsheet to map out your itinerary + make sure all your details are covered!
A night in can help cut down the costs on eating out. Create a playlist, download some games, + relax. Remember: ultimately, you’re here to spend time with your crew! We hear from so many groups that their night in ended up being their favorite!
Skip the Party Favors
If you’re having to choose between decor or party favors, we lean towards decor. The decor will make the bride feel extra special when she walks in the door, which is what the weekend is all about!
If you’re still planning to do some favors, remember that you don’t have to go overboard! Most girls are just happy to get something, especially if they can use it again after the weekend is over. Check out our Amazon storefront for inexpensive favor options + hangover kit supplies!
Travel During the Off Season
If you can swing it, travel during the off-season! Avoid spring break, holiday weekends, + peak weekends to save a lot… bonus points if you can get the whole group to travel on a Monday or Tuesday, rather than a Thursday or Friday!
Most cities still have a ton to do, even during the off season, and you’ll enjoy less crowds, potentially cooler weather, and an easier time getting reservations. It’s a win-win!
Ready to get the party started? We’re here to help! If you’re traveling to Charleston, we can decorate for you — check out our Signature Decor Packages!
Not partying in one of our cities but still need some inspiration? Our planning freebie is a great way to get started — it will help you get all your details in one place + stay organized!
And of course, our blog is packed with lots of ideas to get you on your way to the best weekend ever!
We can’t wait to see how you celebrate!
xo,
Randi + the Kay & Co team