What to Pack for an Overnight Hen Do
What are you planning for your hen do? I have asked my sister-in-law to organise mine when the time comes, as I know she will be brilliant at it. After the decision of where to go, if it is overnight (or longer), the next thoughts are activity ideas, and the dates. Perhaps there’s a city break on the cards, or a wild Ibiza partying getaway, or simply a serene spa weekend. Next, there’s one outstanding task: deciding what to pack.
A successful hen do requires proper planning, and that can all be undone if you forget to pack essentials!
The Must-Have Essentials
Packing overnight or holiday luggage always comes with some essentials. A hen do requires all the basics that you’d expect to pack for a trip; think clothing, toiletries, chargers, and entertainment. Keep this checklist handy:
- Comfortable pyjamas for sleeping in
- Daytime outfits that feel cute and keep you confident
- A “fancy” outfit per event (for instance, three outfits at minimum for three nights out)
- Accessories, whether that’s your favourite necklace, some second-hand jewellery or brand-new sunnies
- Chargers, including a portable charger or powerbank and adaptors, if travelling abroad
- Toiletries, including SPF sunscreen, toothpaste and toothbrush, skincare, and feminine health products
- Payment cards and ID (whether that’s a driving licence or passport)
- Ample underwear, tights if needed and socks
- Multiple options for shoes; think sandals, trainers, and heels
- Hair products and make-up, along with any tools such as straighteners
Where possible, restrict your luggage size by mixing and matching outfits. Packing smart will keep that already-bulging bag a little lighter and mean you have space for duty-free on the way home!
The Fun & Themed Extras
That’s the basics covered. So, what takes your hen-do from zero to hero? What are the small details that you must absolutely pack to help the trip ‘pop’? That’s where the special outfits and personalised accessories come in.
Save space for the fun stuff, like sashes, props, and games. Consider organising a theme in advance, whether that’s ‘90s or plain old glam (we all know the importance of agreeing on a “vibe” beforehand). And, above all, prioritise the bride-to-be and her tastes, would she love cheeky props? Or is she dreaming of an elegant affair with princess-like touches, like tiaras and veils? Figure it out, and pack these “cherry on top” items.
Emergency Items to Save the Day
Even the best plans can go pear-shaped. In the event of an emergency, you need to be prepared, especially if you are one of the planners for the hen do!
Health and safety items don’t need to be bulky. Think mini first aid kits, with plasters for drunken stumbles, blister pads for worn-out heels, and stain wipes for the red wine spillages. A handful of safety pins and a few tried-and-tested hangover remedies never go amiss, either.
Pack for “smaller emergencies,” too. For instance, remembering spare sunglasses for that forgetful friend, or packing extra SPF in case one gets lost at the beach. Even a small tote bag becomes a lifesaver mid-trip!
A hen do is all about connection and celebration for all your female friends before the big wedding day. Pack smart, and you’ll be ready for whatever the trip throws your way.
Where would you like to go for a hen party? Are you a bottomless brunch girl, or perhaps more of a fun day at Disney World, or would you prefer a city break? I am undecided on what I would like for mine, but I have a while yet, as we don’t get married until June 2027, so I can still decide! Perhaps my sister-in-law has ideas already!
