Somewhere between group chats, custom tanks, and 3 a.m. dance floors, the question always comes up: who’s actually paying for all this? From flights to matching robes to that oddly expensive dinner no one remembers ordering, bachelorette parties can add up quickly—and awkwardly—if expectations aren’t clear.
Here’s a straightforward breakdown of what’s typical, what’s optional, and how to avoid post-party resentment.
The Bride: What She Usually Covers
Her Own Travel and Accommodations (Sometimes)
Traditionally, the bride doesn’t pay for her own bachelorette party. Friends usually chip in to treat her as a gift. But in modern times, especially if the party involves flights or multi-night stays, it’s become more common for the bride to at least cover her airfare or chip in for part of the lodging.
Every group handles it differently, so a little clarity early on goes a long way.
Activities She Wants That Are Outside the Budget
If the bride requests something extra—say, a fancy yacht day or private chef experience that’s outside the group’s financial comfort zone—it’s fair for her to cover the cost for herself or even the whole group if she insists on including it.
The Guests: What They Typically Pay For
Their Own Travel, Stay, and Food
Guests usually pay their way when it comes to flights, hotel/Airbnb costs, Ubers, meals, and drinks. Unless the host has a “treat everyone” kind of budget, each person is expected to cover their own share of the essentials.
Group Gifts and Decorations
It’s common for the bridesmaids or close friends to pool money for things like sashes, decorations, games, or goodie bags. If someone’s got crafting skills or a Cricut machine, even better.
A Share of the Bride’s Expenses
Often, the group will split the bride’s portion of certain expenses—like a dinner bill or activity ticket. It’s a nice gesture and helps keep the party in the “celebration” zone. Just make sure everyone agrees ahead of time.
Optional Extras: Who Pays for What?
Matching Outfits or Swag
If the group wants matching tees, hats, or swimsuits, the cost is usually optional. No one should be forced to buy a $40 tank top they’ll never wear again. Often the MOH will suggest items, and people can opt in or skip it.
Beauty Services
Hair, makeup, manicures—if these are part of the bachelorette itinerary, each person usually pays for their own, including the bride. If someone wants to gift the bride a glam session, that’s a sweet extra, not an expectation.
Setting Expectations Early
Money talks can feel awkward, but they’re essential for a smooth weekend. Whoever’s organizing should lay out an estimated budget up front, or at least start the conversation. Group polls (hello, Google Forms) or planning apps like BACH or Splitwise make it easy to get everyone on the same page.
Transparency keeps things fun and avoids the dreaded group chat tension later.
Bottom Line
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but communication is everything. Some brides want low-key hangouts at home, others dream of jet-setting weekends. Some guests can splurge, others are scraping to make it happen.
The best parties balance fun with respect—for budgets, boundaries, and each other’s lives outside the bachelorette bubble.
Because the real goal? Celebrating someone you love without the awkward Venmo requests three weeks later.