Aussies are ditching the stag do for the group trip

The era of the separate, chaotic stag and hen party is quietly fading out. Engaged couples across Australia are increasingly choosing to skip the traditional boys-only and girls-only events in favor of a single, combined getaway with their entire social circle. This shift is not just a social preference but a financial calculation driven by rising living costs and a desire for more meaningful experiences.

According to the 2027 Skyscanner travel report, this trend of "together trips" is gaining significant traction. The data shows that 39 per cent of travellers now prefer a shared pre-wedding event with their partner, friends, and family. This move reflects a broader change in how Australians approach their social lives and spending habits.

The Economics of the Combined Getaway

The primary driver behind this change is financial. As people marry later in life, the pressure to fund two separate large-scale events becomes a significant burden. By combining the stag and hen parties into one trip, couples can split costs more effectively and reduce the administrative hassle of organizing two distinct events.

Skyscanner travel expert Jarrod Kris notes that as friend groups overlap, asking guests to attend two separate trips drains too much time and money. This practical reality is pushing couples toward a more efficient model of celebration. The result is a trend that is both economically sensible and socially cohesive.

This approach also allows for a more curated experience. Instead of two separate itineraries, the group can plan a single, unified itinerary that caters to the interests of everyone involved. This eliminates the logistical nightmare of coordinating two different groups and ensures that no one is left out.

Quality Over Quantity

Beyond the financial benefits, the combined trip offers a superior social experience. Travellers view these getaways as being more fun, less hassle, and better for shared friendship groups. The focus shifts from the raucous excess of traditional stag and hen parties to a more relaxed and inclusive atmosphere.

Kris emphasizes that Australians are entering a new age of travel discernment, where every trip is expected to deliver something meaningful. This mindset is reshaping how people plan their holidays, with a greater emphasis on quality time and genuine connection. The combined trip fits perfectly into this new paradigm of intentional travel.

The data also reveals that when groups do go overseas together, they tend to travel in packs of seven. This suggests that the combined trip is not just about saving money but also about creating a specific type of social dynamic that is difficult to replicate in a separate stag or hen party.

The Broader Travel Trend

This shift in pre-wedding travel is part of a larger trend in Australian tourism. While two-thirds of Australians said that cost-of-living pressures were affecting their holiday choices, 78 per cent said they still planned to travel as much or more in 2027. This indicates that Australians are not cutting back on travel but are becoming more selective about how and where they spend their budget.

The same trend report highlights that holidaymakers across the board are prioritizing healthier habits while away. Three in five Australian travellers said they would book accommodation because it serves a nutritious breakfast. This focus on well-being is another sign of a more intentional approach to travel.

The combined trip trend is a perfect example of how Australians are adapting to economic pressures without sacrificing their love for travel. By pooling resources and planning together, they are able to maintain their travel habits while also enjoying a more meaningful and affordable experience.

What This Means for the Industry

For the travel industry, this trend represents a significant opportunity. Tour operators and airlines are already adapting to meet the needs of these larger, combined groups. Packages that offer group discounts, flexible itineraries, and inclusive experiences are becoming more popular.

The shift also highlights the importance of social connectivity in travel marketing. By emphasizing the social benefits of combined trips, travel companies can appeal to a broader audience and drive more bookings. This is a win-win situation for both travelers and the industry.

As the trend continues to grow, we can expect to see more travel products and services designed specifically for combined pre-wedding trips. This will further solidify the combined trip as a standard option for engaged couples looking to celebrate in a meaningful and affordable way.