Outdated and overpriced: Brits say goodbye to the traditional stag and hen do

The traditional stag and hen do is fast losing its sparkle. New research from Novuna Personal Finance shows that over half (58%) of Brits who’ve attended one now see the classic format as outdated – that’s equivalent to 11.4 million people turning away from boozy weekends and sky-high expenses.

Younger generations are leading the charge for change. Nearly three-quarters (70%) of Gen Z respondents said the classic stag or hen do feels out of touch, followed closely by 57% of millennials. And it’s not just a generational divide – even 59% of over-55s are questioning the need for expensive, over-the-top pre-wedding parties.

As costs soar – with the average spend now £271 per person – many are simply opting out. In Belfast, that figure climbs to a whopping £331. It's no surprise that 85% of people in the city say they've felt pressured to overspend on these events.

Enter the ‘STEN’ – the rise of joint, wallet-friendly celebrations

The research also reveals a clear trend: more than half (57%) of respondents said they’d be happy to attend a combined stag and hen do – a ‘STEN’ – to help share the costs and dial down the extravagance. The idea is particularly popular among Gen Z (67%) and millennials (66%), and more women (59%) than men (54%) are open to this new way of celebrating.

Budget-conscious Brits want simpler send-offs

Novuna’s findings also show a clear shift in priorities:

•    40% would prefer a local day or night out
•    27% would opt for an overnight UK stay
•    Only 19% would choose a big blowout abroad

As the cost-of-living crisis continues to bite, budget-friendly bash ideas are winning out over wild weekends in Ibiza or Prague.

Theresa Lindsay, Director at Novuna Personal Finance, said:

“Stag and hen dos aren’t what they used to be – people are rethinking how they celebrate. Couples want inclusive, memorable experiences that don’t cost the earth, and the rise of the ‘STEN’ shows how attitudes are shifting. It’s a smarter, more social way to bring everyone together without the financial hangover.”