New research shows some 70% of young people now prefer to travel abroad for stag and hen parties - but nearly a quarter get themselves in a scrape with some even getting arrested.

Many of the problems have been blamed on binge drinking.

Of the 24% who had problems, half lost or had money, credit cards or
tickets stolen, over a third became ill or were injured and a quarter were arrested.

The research, commissioned by the Foreign & Commonwealth Office, revealed that 57% of partygoers rely on the organiser of the event to make all the travel arrangements and to research the destination.

Many are unaware of the local geography, laws and customs or where to turn if things go wrong.

Steve Jewitt-Fleet from the Consular Communications Team at the Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO), said: "Thousands of stag and hen parties are held abroad each year and most return having had a great time.

"However by their very nature, with guests out to 'let their hair down' they are at high risk of getting into problems.

"Many of these situations can be avoided if every individual in the group makes a few simple preparations before they travel."

FCO advice to those travelling abroad for stag and hen parties is:

• Don’t rely on one person to make all the arrangements

• Know your alcohol limit - it can impair judgment, lead to accidents and can increase the risk of you becoming a victim of crime

• Read up on your destination so you have an idea of the geography - your hotel in relation to the main tourist area etc

• Know the local laws and customs e.g. acceptable behaviour and alcohol laws

• You may be going away for just a couple of days to Europe, but you will still need adequate medical and travel insurance before travelling

• Remember to check your passport is valid, in good condition and the ‘Next of Kin’ details are filled in. Take a photocopy and keep it with you

• Keep the contact details of the nearest British Consulate with you; they could prove invaluable in times of trouble

• Safer travel advice for your destination is available from the FCO website www.fco.gov.uk/travel or by phone from the FCO’s Travel Advice Unit on 0870 6060 290