Are you worried about forgetting important items for your next sleepover? Packing for a sleepover can be stressful when you’re not sure what to bring. Many people forget basic items like toothbrushes or phone chargers, which can make the fun night uncomfortable.
This article provides a complete list of everything you need to pack, from basic toiletries to entertainment options. We’ll help you prepare properly so you can focus on having a good time with your friends instead of worrying about what you left at home.
31 Things to pack for a sleepover in 2025
1. Spare clothes
Always pack extra clothes for your sleepover. Accidents like spills, weather changes, or extended stays can leave you needing fresh options. An extra shirt, pants, and underwear take little space but provide peace of mind if something happens to what you’re wearing. This simple addition to your packing list ensures you’ll stay comfortable throughout your stay, regardless of unexpected situations.
2. Money
Bringing some cash or a payment card to a sleepover is always a smart idea. You might decide to order food delivery, chip in for pizza, or make a quick trip to a nearby store for snacks or forgotten items. Having money gives you flexibility if plans change or if unexpected expenses come up. Even a small amount tucked into your bag can be helpful for last-minute group activities or emergencies that might arise during your stay.
3. Underwear
Personal comfort starts with the basics, which is why packing extra underwear is essential for any sleepover. Even for a single-night stay, having a fresh pair for the next morning helps you feel clean and ready for the day. If your sleepover unexpectedly extends or you encounter any accidents, you’ll be glad to have this private but crucial item available without having to ask to borrow from your host.
4. Pajamas
Comfortable pajamas are essential for any sleepover. Choose something you feel good wearing around others that’s appropriate for the season and sleeping conditions. Soft, breathable fabrics work best for a good night’s sleep in an unfamiliar environment. Consider the temperature of your friend’s house when selecting your sleepwear – you might need warmer options for cold rooms or lighter ones for homes that keep the heat high overnight.
5. Hairbrush
Don’t forget to pack a hairbrush or comb for your sleepover. Bedhead is real, and you’ll want to look presentable the next morning without borrowing someone else’s brush. A compact brush takes up little space in your bag but saves you from awkward morning hair situations. This simple tool helps you maintain your appearance and feel put-together, especially if you’ll be taking photos or heading somewhere directly from the sleepover.
6. Charger
Bringing your phone charger is crucial for any sleepover. When considering what to pack for a sleepover, remember your device will likely be used heavily for taking photos, playing music, or looking up information throughout the night, draining the battery faster than usual. Nothing is worse than having your phone die in the middle of a fun moment or not having an alarm for the morning. A charger ensures you stay connected and ready for whatever the sleepover brings without borrowing from your host.
7. Hair Ties
Hair ties are small but important items to pack for your sleepover. They keep your hair out of your face while washing up or sleeping and help you stay comfortable during activities. If you have long hair, having extras is smart as they often break or get lost. Even those with shorter hair might want to pull it back during face washing or midnight snacking. These tiny accessories take up almost no space but can be frequently needed.
8. Serum
Don’t skip your skincare routine just because you’re away from home. Packing your face serum helps maintain your skin’s health during your sleepover. Environmental changes, different pillowcases, and staying up late can stress your skin. Your trusted serum provides essential nutrients and hydration to prevent breakouts or dryness. This small bottle takes minimal space but helps you wake up looking refreshed despite the late night with friends.
9. Moisturizer
After applying your serum, moisturizer is the next essential skincare item for your sleepover bag. Different heating systems and air quality in someone else’s home can dry out your skin overnight. A travel-sized moisturizer helps lock in hydration and protect your skin barrier while you sleep. This simple step takes just seconds but prevents you from waking up with tight, uncomfortable skin that might make you feel self-conscious the next morning.
10. Undereye Cream
Include your undereye cream for sleepovers, especially since late nights with friends often mean less sleep than usual. This specialized product helps reduce puffiness and dark circles that commonly appear after staying up talking or watching movies. The delicate skin around your eyes needs extra attention when your sleep schedule changes. A small amount of your favorite undereye cream helps you look more awake and refreshed the morning after, regardless of how much sleep you actually got.
11. Satin Bonnet
A satin bonnet is worth packing if you want to protect your hairstyle or prevent frizz and breakage overnight. This fabric creates less friction than cotton pillowcases, helping maintain hair moisture and reducing tangles by morning. For those with curly, natural, or processed hair, a bonnet can be particularly important during sleepovers where you may not have your usual pillowcase. This simple hair protection tool ensures you’ll spend less time fixing your hair the next day.
12. Gums
Pack a pack of gum for your sleepover to keep your breath fresh throughout your stay. After snacking or before close conversations, having gum handy lets you quickly freshen up without needing to brush your teeth each time. It also serves as a thoughtful item to share with friends during downtime. Some people find chewing gum helps them stay awake during late-night activities when energy starts to fade.
13. Card Games or Board Games
Bringing a card game or small board game contributes entertainment options to your sleepover. These games create fun group activities when energy for talking dwindles or if electronic entertainment isn’t available. Simple games that don’t require much setup work best for sleepover environments. This thoughtful addition can rescue a gathering from boredom and provide memorable moments that continue as inside jokes long after the sleepover ends.
14. Toothpaste
Don’t rely on borrowing toothpaste at your sleepover. Bring a travel-sized tube of your preferred brand to maintain your dental hygiene routine. Some people have sensitivity to different formulas, and using your own ensures comfort. Fresh breath helps you feel confident during close-quarter conversations that happen during late-night talks. This small item takes minimal space but provides significant personal comfort throughout your stay.
15. Stuffie
Consider bringing a stuffed animal or comfort item if it helps you sleep in unfamiliar places. Many people rest better with their favorite stuffie, especially in a new environment with different sounds and beds. There’s no age limit for having comfort items, and good friends won’t judge. This familiar object can make falling asleep easier and reduce any anxiety about being away from home.
16. Water Bottle
Pack a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated during your sleepover. When considering things to pack for a sleepover, remember that late-night talking, salty snacks, and heated rooms can leave you thirsty. Having your own bottle means you won’t need to make multiple trips to the kitchen or use disposable cups. This practical item keeps water accessible throughout the night and helps prevent morning headaches caused by mild dehydration after a fun evening with friends.
17. Deodorant
Deodorant is a must-have item for any overnight stay. Physical activities, nervousness, or warm sleeping environments can cause sweating. A quick application in the morning or after activities keeps you feeling fresh and confident around your friends. This small personal care product helps prevent body odor that might make you self-conscious during close-quarter social time.
18. Toothbrush
Always pack your toothbrush for sleepovers. Oral hygiene shouldn’t be skipped just because you’re away from home. Morning breath can make social interactions uncomfortable, and forgetting this basic item might mean borrowing or skipping brushing altogether. A clean toothbrush in a protective case or bag takes minimal space but maintains your dental health and fresh breath during your stay.
19. Hand Sanitizer
Consider upgrading your hand hygiene with a hand sanitizer for your sleepover kit. These stylish, refillable spray sanitizers are more moisturizing than typical alcohol gels and won’t leave your hands feeling sticky or dry. The fine mist formula absorbs quickly, making it perfect for use before shared snacks or after handling communal items. With their compact size and pleasant scents, these premium sanitizers combine practicality with a touch of luxury that friends might even ask to borrow.
20. Face Masks
Consider bringing a few face masks to share during your sleepover. A thoughtful addition to what to pack for a sleepover, these skincare treatments create a fun group activity while also helping everyone’s skin recover from late-night snacking and less sleep. Sheet masks or quick-dry formulas work best in social settings and create perfect photo opportunities. This thoughtful addition transforms a regular hangout into a mini spa night that everyone can enjoy together.
21. Blanket
Bringing your own blanket ensures your comfort regardless of your host’s available bedding. Some homes run cooler at night, and having your own layer prevents shivering or discomfort. A medium-weight throw is ideal as it doesn’t take much space but provides warmth if needed. Your personal blanket also gives you a defined space during movie watching or floor sleeping arrangements.
22. Instant Food
Pack some instant food options for late-night hunger or breakfast needs. Among important things to pack for a sleepover, easy-to-prepare items like oatmeal cups, ramen, or microwaveable mac and cheese require minimal effort but satisfy cravings. This preparation prevents awkwardness around requesting food from your host, especially during odd hours. Having your own snacks also accommodates any dietary preferences without burdening your friend’s family.
23. Funky Socks
Colorful or themed socks add fun to your sleepover outfit while keeping your feet warm on cold floors. These conversation starters can become part of games or photos during your stay. Thick, comfortable socks also provide cushioning if you’re sleeping on the floor and help prevent your feet from getting dirty while walking around without shoes. This simple item combines practicality with personality.
24. Lip Balm
Don’t forget lip balm for your overnight stay. Talking more than usual, different air conditions, and shared snacks can leave lips dry and uncomfortable. Having your own lip protection prevents cracking or soreness that might distract from your fun. This small tube takes up almost no space but provides significant comfort throughout your visit, especially during winter months when indoor heating dries out the skin.
25. Mini Powerbank
A compact power bank is essential for sleepovers where access to outlets may be limited. These pocket-sized chargers provide emergency power when your phone battery drains from taking photos, playing music, or using social media throughout the night. Unlike larger models, mini powerbanks slip easily into small spaces in your bag without adding significant weight. Having this backup power source ensures you stay connected for important calls or can set morning alarms without worrying about your device dying overnight.
26. Electronics Pouch
Protect your valuable devices by packing a dedicated electronics pouch for your sleepover. This specialized case keeps your chargers, earbuds, portable chargers, and other small gadgets organized and damage-free throughout your stay. Tangled cords or misplaced adapters can be frustrating when you need them most. A padded pouch with compartments prevents headphones from knotting and keeps track of smaller items that might otherwise get lost in the bottom of your overnight bag during the excitement of your get-together. Similar to travel laundry bags, these organizational pouches help keep your belongings sorted and protected.
27. Small Pouch
Don’t underestimate the value of bringing a small pouch or toiletry bag to your sleepover. When planning what to pack for a sleepover, this organizational tool keeps your personal care items contained and easily accessible rather than scattered throughout your overnight bag. A zippered pouch prevents leaking products from damaging your clothes or other belongings. It also makes bathroom trips more efficient as you can grab everything you need in one go, respecting everyone’s time when sharing facilities during morning routines.
28. Earplugs
Pack a pair of earplugs if you’re a light sleeper or sensitive to noises. Unfamiliar environments often have unexpected sounds that might keep you awake, from household noises to friends who snore. These small items help you get quality sleep even when others are still chatting or watching movies. Earplugs provide a simple solution for different sleep schedules, allowing you to rest while not limiting others’ activities.
29. Pillow
Consider bringing your own pillow for optimal comfort during your sleepover. Everyone has different firmness preferences, and using your regular pillow helps you fall asleep faster in a new environment. This familiar item can significantly improve your sleep quality, preventing neck pain or headaches the next morning. While bulkier than other items, the comfort benefit often outweighs the inconvenience of carrying it.
30. Facewash
Pack your regular facewash to maintain your skincare routine away from home. Sleeping in makeup or with the day’s oil and dirt can cause breakouts or irritation. A travel-sized bottle enables proper cleansing before bed and in the morning. This essential step takes just minutes but prevents skin problems that might develop after skipping your usual care routine during your overnight stay.
31. Makeup Remover Wipes
Include makeup remover wipes for quick and effective cleansing at your sleepover. These convenient sheets remove makeup, oil, and dirt when a full face-washing routine isn’t possible due to bathroom sharing or late nights. Pre-moistened wipes require no water, making them perfect for removing makeup before bed without disrupting others. This gentle option ensures you don’t wake up with smudged makeup or clogged pores after your stay.
Conclusion
With these 31 essential items packed for your sleepover, you’ll be prepared for comfort, cleanliness, and fun during your stay. Taking time to organize these basics ensures you won’t be caught without necessities or forced to borrow from your host.
Knowing what to pack for a sleepover allows you to focus on creating memories rather than managing discomfort. Many of these same principles apply when planning things to pack for a weekend trip. Remember that the best sleepovers happen when you feel comfortable and confident, which comes from being properly prepared for an enjoyable overnight experience.
