For richer or poorer: The cost of being a wedding guest
Australians are forking out a staggering amount of money on their loved ones' nuptials, according to new research by Finder.
A Finder survey of 1,014 respondents revealed 26% of Aussies have spent money on attending a wedding in the last 5 years.
For those who attend, stay, dress for the event, buy gifts and participate in pre-wedding festivities, the average cost is a whopping $2,593.
Finder's research shows travel is the biggest expense, costing guests $1,038 on average. The cost of accommodation came in second, at $665.
Rebecca Pike, money expert at Finder, said celebrating a loved one's big day can leave a dent in your wallet.
"Once you factor in the gift, outfit, travel and accommodation, it really adds up.
"Destination weddings in particular can take a serious toll – especially if they're held overseas."
Wedding gifts cost attendees a staggering $295 on average.
And that's not counting pre-wedding activities like hens and bucks parties, that cost Aussies $198 on average.
Pike said it's the thought that counts when it comes to giving a gift.
"Stick to what's comfortable within your budget.
"If you're short on funds, consider thoughtful alternatives – like offering to help with something they need or cooking them a nice dinner once they're back from the honeymoon."
Finder's research shows putting on a fancy dress or suit is setting back guests $397 on average.
Pike reminded Aussies that the point of a wedding is to support the couple emotionally, not just financially.
"No one's tracking your wardrobe but you – you don't need a new outfit for every event. Re-wearing a favourite outfit or borrowing from a friend can save you hundreds."
For those with a busy wedding season coming up, Pike suggested planning ahead.
"Much like saving for Christmas, setting aside a bit of money now can go a long way."
How much did you spend on each of the following categories at the most recent wedding you attended as a guest?
| Category | % who spent | Amount spent |
|---|---|---|
| Travel | 17% | $1,038 |
| Accommodation | 14% | $665 |
| Clothing (e.g. dresses, suits, tuxedos) | 18% | $397 |
| Gifts | 22% | $295 |
| Pre-wedding activities (e.g. bridal shower, hens/bucks party) | 12% | $198 |
| TOTAL | $2,593 | |
| Source: Finder survey of 1,014 respondents, July 2025 |  |
Methodology
- Finder's Consumer Sentiment Tracker is a monthly recurring nationally representative survey of more than 60,000 respondents.
- Figures in this release are based on 1,014 respondents from July 2025.
- The Consumer Sentiment Tracker is owned by Finder and operated by Qualtrics.
- The survey has been running monthly since May 2019.
Sources
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Great article! Dont forget that some people have kids and have to find babysitters or grandparents to look after the kids while they attend the wedding. And many weddings are now heading overseas, which is nice, but very expensive for the guests!