The Ultimate Hen Do Checklist: What You Need for a Stress-Free Weekend

So, the time has finally arrived – the hen weekend you’ve been planning for over a year! Excited messages have been exchanged, outfits carefully selected, and an itinerary packed full of fun activities has been finalised. But before you jet off for a weekend of unforgettable memories, have you gone through your hen do checklist to ensure a smooth, stress-free trip?

Whether you’re heading to Ibiza for sun-soaked boat parties, Prague for budget-friendly fun, or Dublin for an action-packed city break, this checklist will ensure nothing is forgotten – especially your travel insurance!

hen do checklist


The Hen Do Checklist

Before you start sipping cocktails at the airport, run through this essential checklist to ensure you’re fully prepared:

1. Passport & Boarding Pass ✈️

  • Double-check your passport expiry date—many countries require at least six months’ validity.
  • Have a printed and digital copy of your boarding pass (some airlines charge if you don’t!).
  • If you’re flying within Europe, ensure you have a valid EHIC or GHIC card. Get yours here: NHS GHIC Application

2. Outfits for Every Occasion 👗🎉

Hen weekends can involve multiple outfit changes – so make sure you’re covered for every activity!

  • Fancy dress – Many hen parties have a theme, so pack accordingly!
  • Casual daywear – For sightseeing, shopping, and brunching.
  • Night-out attire – Whether it’s cocktail dresses or sparkly heels, you’ll want to look your best.
  • Activewear – Essential for hiking, yoga retreats, or adventure sports like abseiling.
  • Swimwear – For spa days, hot tubs, or boat trips. Don’t forget a cover-up!
  • Comfortable shoes – You don’t want sore feet ruining your night!

💡 Pro Tip: Check your airline’s luggage weight allowance before packing – especially if you’re sticking to hand luggage only. Remember, liquids must be under 100ml in your carry-on!


3. Beauty & Toiletries 💄🧴

  • Makeup & skincare – Pack minis if travelling hand luggage only.
  • Hair tools – Travel-sized straighteners or curlers.
  • Suncream – A must if you’re heading somewhere sunny!
  • Painkillers & Plasters – For unexpected headaches (or the inevitable blister from dancing in heels!).

4. Gadgets & Accessories 📱📷

  • Phone & charger – Consider a portable power bank for long party nights!
  • Travel adapter – Europe, USA, and Asia all have different plug types. Check before you go!
  • Camera or GoPro – Capture all the best moments.
  • Wireless speaker – Essential for getting ready tunes in your accommodation!

💡 Check Your Insurance: If you’re bringing expensive gadgets, make sure your travel insurance policy covers them!


5. Travel Insurance – The One Thing Everyone Forgets! 🛡️

Let’s be honest – the last thing on your mind when planning a hen do abroad is travel insurance. But accidents can happen, and the last thing you want is an unexpected bill ruining the weekend.

A recent hen trip to Dublin revealed that over half the hens on the flight hadn’t taken out any travel insurance!

Why You Need Travel Insurance:

  • Medical emergencies – Accidents (or overindulging in the cocktails!) can happen.
  • Lost luggage & delays – Essential for protecting your hen do outfits and accessories.
  • Cancellations – In case flights or hotels change unexpectedly.

🎟️ Get Covered: Don’t leave it to chance – get a quick quote today: Compare Travel Insurance


Best Destinations for a Hen Weekend Abroad 🌍

Looking for hen do inspiration? Here are some of the most popular destinations for 2025:

1. Marbella, Spain 🇪🇸

A glamorous choice for beach clubs, boat parties, and luxury vibes. Check out Ocean Club Marbella for VIP treatment.

🌴 More info: Visit Marbella

2. Prague, Czech Republic 🇨🇿

Affordable and packed with bars, beer bikes, and nightclubs—a top pick for budget-conscious hens.

🍻 Explore Prague’s nightlife: Prague Pub Crawl

3. Ibiza, Spain 🏝️

For the ultimate party island experience, head to Ibiza’s legendary beach clubs and superclubs.

🎧 Event calendar: Ibiza Clubbing Guide

4. Budapest, Hungary 🇭🇺

Perfect for ruin bars, thermal spas, and affordable drinks—check out the famous Szechenyi Baths!

💦 Book spa tickets: Szechenyi Baths Official

5. Dublin, Ireland 🇮🇪

Ideal for a wild weekend of Ir  ish pubs, live music, and Guinness tasting at the Guinness Storehouse.

🍀 Plan your visit: Dublin Travel Guide

hen do checklist


Final Tips for an Unforgettable Hen Weekend

💃 Book activities in advance – Whether it’s cocktail-making classes, spa days, or adventure sports, secure your spot early!

🚕 Arrange transport beforehand – Pre-book airport transfers and taxis to avoid stress.

🕶️ Stay hydrated! – With all the partying, don’t forget to drink water and pace yourself!

🎊 Most importantly… HAVE FUN! – This is a once-in-a-lifetime weekend, so make the most of every moment with your fellow hens!

hen do checklist


Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance!

Before you head off on your ultimate hen do adventure, make sure you’re fully covered.

🔗 Get a travel insurance quote online.

Now, with everything sorted – bring on the prosecco and let the celebrations begin! 🥂