· New research from Experian reveals the average cost of attending a wedding abroad is now up to £1,956
· Over 37%1 of Brits have been invited to at least one in the past year, with travel and accommodation costs cited as one of the biggest barriers to attending
· Over 30% of guests surveyed rely on credit cards to cover the cost, while others turn to Buy Now, Pay Later or even loans
UK, 21 May 2025 – New research from Experian, the money platform, reveals that the average cost of attending a wedding abroad is now up to £1,956 2 - a figure prompting many people to think twice before ticking ‘yes’ on the RSVP.
According to the research, destination weddings are growing in popularity with over 1 in 5 (23%)3 saying they have been invited to two or more in the past year. This growing trend is placing increasing financial pressure on attendees, particularly those juggling multiple celebrations abroad.
Nearly 3 in 10 (29%) Brits have declined an invite to a wedding outside the country in the past year for a variety of reasons. Around 1 in 6 (16%) said they couldn’t afford to take the time off, while the same percentage said the destination was simply too far, and 14% were unable to afford the transport or accommodation. 14% didn’t know the couple well enough to justify the cost, and over 12% had already attended too many weddings abroad recently.
For those who opt to attend the biggest costs for them include travel (£506), accommodation (£434), outfits (£299), and gifts (£293). With many looking for ways to manage the financial burden over 30% of Brits who have been to a destination wedding say they use a credit card to cover the cost, while others turn to rewards or loyalty programs (23%), Buy Now, Pay Later (16%), or even loans (9%). Some Brits have chosen creative ways to cut costs as 13% DIY their outfits or gifts, while others borrow or rent items (11%).
John Webb, Consumer Expert at Experian said: “Attending a wedding abroad can be a magical experience and a great opportunity to explore somewhere new. But it’s important to be mindful, as costs can add up quickly. Our research shows that some people are turning to credit cards or loans to help cover the bill, which can be handy for spreading the cost or getting extra protection.
However, before using any form of credit, it’s essential to have a clear plan for how you’ll repay it to avoid building up debt. Which could also lower your credit score.
If you’re worried about the financial side of attending, don’t be afraid to talk to the couple. They’ll want you there, but not at the expense of your financial wellbeing. So, it’s always worth having an honest conversation.”
–ENDS–
Note to editors:
The research was conducted by Censuswide, among a sample of 2000 UK nationally representative respondents (18+). The data was collected between 02.05.2025 - 06.05.2025. Censuswide abides by and employs members of the Market Research Society and follows the MRS code of conduct and ESOMAR principles. Censuswide is also a member of the British Polling Council.
[1] Combines ‘1’, ‘2’, ‘3’, ‘4’, ‘5’, ‘More than 5, please specify’
[2] Combines mean reported costs for ‘Travel’, ‘Accommodation’, ‘Outfit’, ‘Beauty treatments e.g. spray tan, nails, hair etc.’, ‘Gifts’, ‘Other e.g. babysitter for children not attending the wedding’ for respondents who have attended a destination wedding before.
[3] Combines ‘2’, ‘3’, ‘4’, ‘5’, ‘More than 5, please specify’
Media contact:
Eliza Odire-Boadi, Consumer PR Manager, Experian UK&I
Tel: 07816192572 / Email: eliza.odire-boadi@experian.com