A stag do (also known as a bachelor party) can be a great time for the groom-to-be and his friends to celebrate before the wedding. However, it’s important to be aware of potential risks and take precautions to avoid them. Here are ten examples of what could go wrong during a stag do and how to prevent them:
- Lack of planning: Not having a solid plan in place can lead to chaos and disorganization, which can result in missed activities, wasted time, and arguments among the group. Make sure to have a clear itinerary in place, including transportation, accommodations, and activities, and communicate it to everyone involved well in advance. Also, it’s always a reasonable idea to use a professional stag do organiser to arrange the weekend for you, especially if you’re travelling to a foreign country.
- Overconsumption of alcohol: Drinking too much can lead to reckless behaviour, fights, and accidents. To avoid this, try not to mix different alcohols during a night out, or if you do, make sure to at least follow the rule “from weaker booze to stronger” and not the other way around ( beer🡪 wine🡪vodka). Also make sure everyone eats food and drinks water regularly throughout the day and night. Otherwise you may end up in a drunk tank and not only miss your return flight home, but also get a ticket for an unwanted “hotel” overnight stay. Not to mention that if you fall asleep drunk in a park somewhere on the bench, you’re an easy prey to pickpockets
- Getting lost or separated from the group: Make sure everyone has a way to stay in touch with the group, such as a group chat or walkie-talkies. Set up designated meeting points and times throughout the day and night.
- Legal troubles: Illegal activities such as drug use or disorderly conduct can result in arrests and legal consequences. Make sure everyone is aware of local laws and regulations and follows them.
- Injuries: Activities such as extreme sports or heavy drinking can result in injuries. Make sure everyone knows the risks involved in any activities and takes appropriate safety measures. If going to a foreign country, outside of EU or you’re a non EU citizen, then make sure to add some extra insurance with a reliable insurer. This can save you a lot of money should you need to go to a doctor !
- Accidents: Traveling to a new city or country can pose risks such as traffic accidents or falls. Make sure everyone takes precautions such as wearing seat belts, using designated walking areas, and avoiding dangerous areas.
- Excessive spending: It’s easy to get caught up in the moment and overspend on activities or drinks. Set a budget for the stag do and make sure everyone is aware of it. Also watch out for strip clubs, as some of them, even in well-developed countries are still shady, rip off agents. Here is a good article with useful advice on the matter: https://partykrakow.co.uk/partypedia/safety-tips-to-keep-in-mind-when-visiting-strip-clubs
- Personal conflicts: Spending a lot of time with the same people can lead to tensions and conflicts. Encourage open communication and set up opportunities for everyone to do their own thing for a while.
- Cultural misunderstandings: Traveling to a new country can lead to cultural misunderstandings and offensive behaviour., which can not only ruin the experience for the group but can also lead to legal and social consequences. It’s important to do some research ahead of time and educate yourself and the group about local customs, etiquette, and laws. This can include things such as appropriate dress codes, behaviours to avoid, and understanding local customs and traditions.
For example, in some countries, it may be considered rude to take off your shoes before entering someone’s home or place of worship, while in other countries, it may be a sign of respect. In some countries, public displays of affection may be frowned upon, while in others, it may be more acceptable.
It’s also important to be aware of any legal differences, as laws can vary significantly from country to country. For example, in some countries, drinking alcohol in public places may be illegal, while in others, it may be allowed. It’s important to make sure everyone in the group is aware of these laws and follows them to avoid any legal consequences.
By being aware of cultural differences and respecting local customs and laws, you can help ensure that the stag do is a fun and enjoyable experience for everyone involved, while also showing respect for the local culture and avoiding any potential problems.
- Communication breakdowns: Miscommunications can lead to missed activities or misunderstandings. Make sure everyone has access to the itinerary and knows the plan for the day and night.
Overall, the key to avoiding problems during a stag do is to plan ahead, communicate openly, and be aware of potential risks. By taking these precautions, you can help ensure that the groom-to-be and his friends have a fun and safe celebration.
