Planning a holiday with your friends sounds like fun, until it is time actually to plan it. Between figuring out who is bringing what, choosing where to stay, and settling on a destination that fits everyone's budget, group trips can go from vibes only to say "I'm not doing this again" in a flash.

But when done right? A friend's holiday can be the memory you'll still talk about years later, inside jokes, shared playlists, late-night food runs, and all.

That's where a little planning magic (and some help from CribsFinder) comes in. This is a guide to walk you through how to plan the ultimate group getaway in Nigeria, without the stress.

Pick a Destination Everyone Will Love

The first rule of group travel? Not everyone likes the same thing, and that's okay.

Start by asking your group what type of getaway they're craving:

• Beach and parties? Lagos is your best bet, think Lekki, Victoria Island, and Tarkwa Bay.
• Chill and scenic? You'll love Obudu, Olumo Rock, or the quiet charm of Abeokuta.
• Luxury vibes and fine dining? Abuja is your go-to for that premium relaxation energy.
• Adventure and culture? Try Calabar or Jos for something different.

Once you have a vibe check from everyone, shortlist 2 to 3 destinations that fit the group's budget and travel distance. If everyone's in Lagos, maybe start with a nearby getaway like Epe or Ibeju-Lekki before planning something bigger.

Pro tip: Create a quick poll in your group chat to vote for the final destination. It saves time and drama.

Lock in the Perfect Stay (This Is Where CribsFinder Shines)

Let's be real, where you stay can make or break your trip. You want somewhere comfortable, spacious, and aesthetic enough for those "trip dump" Instagram posts.

That's exactly what CribsFinder was built for. Instead of scrolling endlessly through random listings, you can browse curated shortlets across Nigeria that fit your group's needs. Is it:

• A 3-bedroom apartment with a pool in Lekki
• A villa with a private chef in Abuja
• Or a cosy Airbnb-style cabin near Obudu

When choosing accommodation for a group:

• Prioritise space. Everyone needs their corner to unwind.
• Check amenities. Wi-Fi, AC, kitchen, and parking, especially for longer stays.
• Consider proximity. If you're doing group activities, pick a central location.
• Book early. Holiday homes and shortlets go fast, especially during December and Easter periods.

CribsFinder simplifies this by letting you filter by location, price range, and features. That means less group chat chaos and more time to plan your adventures.

Split the Costs Smartly

Money can get awkward among friends, but it doesn't have to. The key is transparency from day one.

Start by breaking down all potential expenses:

• Accommodation
• Transportation
• Food & groceries
• Group activities
• Miscellaneous (think fuel, entry fees, tips, or souvenirs)

Once you've got the total, split evenly or by who's using what. 

Pro tip: Create a shared budget doc and add links to your accommodation (like your CribsFinder listing) and activities for everyone to see and approve.

Plan a Loose Itinerary (But Keep It Fun)

A successful group trip balances spontaneity with a little structure. You don't need to plan every minute, but it helps to have a vibe map, something that gives everyone an idea of what's happening and when.

Here's a sample 3-day Lagos group getaway itinerary to get you inspired:

Day 1 - Arrival & Chill Vibes

• Check into your CribsFinder apartment
• Group lunch at The Good Beach or Circa Lagos
• Evening games night or pool hangout

Day 2 - Adventure & Memories

• Morning: Visit Tarkwa Bay or Nike Art Gallery
• Afternoon: Food crawl at the new Lagos restaurants
• Night: Beach party or rooftop bar

Day 3 -Wind Down & Capture Moments

• Lazy brunch at Mykonos on the Roof
• Quick shopping at Lekki Arts & Crafts Market
• Pack up and head home with shared playlists and camera rolls full of memories

Pro tip: Assign one planner per activity so the whole load doesn't fall on one person.

Assign Roles (Because Someone Has to Be in Charge of Snacks)

Group trips go smoother when everyone contributes. Here's how to make sure responsibilities are shared:

• The Planner: Handles accommodation bookings (thank you, CribsFinder!) and logistics.
• The Treasurer: Tracks shared expenses.
• The Chef: Handles grocery shopping or meal plans if you're cooking.
• The DJ: In charge of playlists, vibes, and speakers.
• The Content Creator: Ensures everyone gets those content-worthy pictures.

You can rotate roles next trip, but this system keeps things organised and avoids the who's doing what? confusion.

Pack Smart (And for the Location)

Packing for a group trip in Nigeria means thinking about weather, comfort, and style. If you're heading to Lagos or Calabar, pack lightweight clothes, sunscreen, and swimwear. For Abuja or Jos, bring comfy layers; it can get chilly at night. And always pack:

• Power banks
• Snacks for the road
• Portable Bluetooth speaker
• Card games
• Basic first-aid kit (because someone will get a paper cut from UNO)

Pro tip: Make a shared checklist on Google Docs so no one forgets essentials like tissue paper or cutlery when staying in a shortlet.

Eat Together, Bond Together

One of the best parts of travelling with friends is sharing food. Whether it's cooking jollof in your CribsFinder kitchen or trying out a new restaurant, food moments create lasting memories.

If your accommodation has a full kitchen, plan a cook together night; it's cheaper, fun, and always full of laughter. Otherwise, explore local spots together. Lagos and Abuja, for example, are bursting with amazing food options for every budget and taste.

CribsFinder tip: Many shortlets on the platform come with private chefs or caterers on request. So you can enjoy home-cooked meals without lifting a finger.

Capture the Moments (You'll Thank Yourself Later)

Don't let those good vibes go undocumented! Take group photos, shoot mini vlogs, or create a shared album where everyone uploads their best shots.

If you're staying at a stunning CribsFinder property, make the most of it. Those stylish living rooms, pools, and rooftop views make the perfect backdrop for your group content.

Content idea: Create a Getaway Recap reel, show clips of your arrival, meals, laughs, and sunset moments. Tag your location and CribsFinder; you never know, you might get featured!

Respect Each Other's Space

Even the best of friends need breathing room. If someone wants a quiet morning or a solo walk, let them have it. Group travel works best when everyone's comfortable enough to be themselves.

A spacious accommodation helps a lot here; having multiple bedrooms, balconies, or a lounge means people can recharge without feeling left out. That's another reason to choose your stay wisely through platforms like CribsFinder, where you can find homes that fit your group's dynamics.

End on a High Note

When the trip wraps up, take a few minutes to reflect and appreciate each other. Maybe plan a post-trip dinner back home or start brainstorming the next destination. It's not just about the getaway, it's about building memories, strengthening friendships, and enjoying life together.

And the best part? Once you've found a reliable place to book group stays (hello, CribsFinder!), every future trip becomes easier to plan.

Make It Effortless with CribsFinder

Group holidays don't have to be stressful. With the right tools, teamwork, and a trusted accommodation platform, you can focus on what really matters: having fun and creating memories. 

CribsFinder takes the headache out of finding the perfect stay for your group. You can browse shortlets across Nigeria, compare amenities, and book instantly, all in one place. So gather your friends, start that group chat, and say yes to your next adventure.