It’s no secret that bikini prep isn’t exactly a cheap hobby. Between coaching, travel, suits, and all the sparkly extras, things can add up fast. If you’ve ever found yourself deep-diving into prep costs and wondering, “Is this actually worth it?” — I get that.

The short answer? It can be. But the key is prepping smart. Whether you’re ballin’ on a budget or just want to avoid unnecessary expenses, this guide will walk you through what to expect, how to save, and where it really makes sense to spend.

What Costs to Expect in a Bikini Prep Journey

Before we talk budgeting hacks, let’s break down what you’re actually paying for when you decide to step on stage.

1. Coaching
   

   This is the backbone of your prep and can make or break your success on stage. Your coach is basically your fitness fairy godmother (minus the wand, plus the years of education and experience). Most reputable competition coaching ranges anywhere from $300 to $600+ per month. That may sound steep, but keep reading — I’ll explain why this is the place to invest.

Curious what this looks like with a team that’s successfully been prepping bikini competitors for over a decade? You can check out Team Fitbliss coaching packages here.

2. The Suit, the Heels, the Glam
   

   That sparkly bikini? Yes, it IS gorgeous AND…  it can run you anywhere from $200 to $800+. Heels are usually $50–$100, and if you’re hiring someone for hair and makeup, plan on dropping another $150–350. Don’t forget spray tans ($100–150) and stage jewelry ($30–100).

Pro tip: A lot of these things can be rented, borrowed, or bought secondhand (more on that soon).

3. Supplements
   

   You don’t have to buy every influencer-approved product out there, in fact many of them we’d recommend skipping, but you’ll probably want the basics: creatine, protein powder, pre-workout, maybe a good multivitamin or digestive support. Budget $25–100/month depending on what your coach recommends for you to use.

4. Travel & Show Fees
   Registration fees for shows are usually $100–200 per class (yes, per class), plus membership fees for organizations like NPC. Then you’ve got travel, hotel, food, etc. If your show is out of town, that’s a weekend getaway’s worth of expenses right there.

Budgeting Tips for Bikini Competitors

Okay, take a deep breath. That was a lot… but I pinky promise there are ways to compete without draining your savings.

Start saving NOW

Even if you aren’t sure when or if you even will compete, it’s a good idea to start tucking away some money. This way you will have a healthy fund to use for all bikini competition prep expenses. This keeps you from swiping your card impulsively every time a cute suit pops up on Instagram or feeling buyers remorse for dropping some serious coin at once. Nobody should be going into debt to compete!

Buy secondhand or borrow

Facebook groups and community forums are goldmines for gently used suits, heels, and jewelry. Many competitors are happy to sell or rent items.Your coach or contest prep team might have stage suits you can rent as well. 

DIY what you can

If you’ve got a steady hand and a good mirror, DIYing your makeup or hair can save you hundreds. That said, stage makeup is a whole different beast even compared to special event makeup. We recommend using a makeup artist experienced with bodybuilding stage makeup, but DIYing it is an option. Just make sure to practice before show day — nerves and liquid eyeliner don’t mix well.

Coaching sponsorship options

Some coaches offer sponsorships for women who are passionate, hardworking, and ready to commit to a bikini prep, but might need a little financial support to get there. These typically include some kind of social media posting/tagging (or similar) expectations/responsibilities in exchange for a discounted monthly coaching rate.

Apply now to see if you would be a good candidate for Fitbliss coaching sponsorship!

Why Coaching Is the Best Investment

If you’re going to splurge on one thing — make it your coach. Period. No contest. 

Why? Because a good coach doesn’t just write you a workout plan, dish out a boring meal plan and send you on your way.. They guide your nutrition safely and for what your body needs, they provide personalized protocols, and help you avoid some of the biggest (and most expensive) prep pitfalls while keeping you healthy and happy.

Avoiding metabolic damage and burnout

Yes, those are real. And yes, they can take months (or years) to fix. A good bikini prep coach helps you prep in a healthy, sustainable way so you’re not wrecking your hormones OR relationship with food.

Accountability = better results

When someone’s checking in on your progress each week, it’s a lot harder to ghost your cardio. That consistency is what separates people who prep from people who place.

A knowledgeable coach understands your division

They’ll know the exact judging criteria for your division and have the experience and education to help you meet those expectations — from physique details to stage presence.

 

You can make your bikini prep dreams happen without maxing out your credit card. With the right planning — and the right coach — the investment is totally worth it!

 

— Katie Crawford (@katiekeepsitreal)