There comes a day when a parent like you hears these exciting words from your child: “I’m sleeping over at my friend’s!” 🎉 After this, your mind might wonder: “Do they need pajamas? Snacks? Their entire bedroom?” Take a deep breath. Figuring out what to pack for a sleepover isn’t Olympic-level difficult, but it needs careful thought.
Before you get stressed out, we’ve created the ultimate sleepover packing list. It’s your checklist and survival kit, guaranteed to save your sanity as a parent.
Sleepover Essentials & Must-Haves ✨🍿
Packing for a sleepover can feel like prepping for a tiny expedition—except with more glitter and snacks. To avoid last-minute drama, let’s cover the basics first.
1. Pajamas, Clothes, and Backup Outfits 👕🧦
Sleep might be optional at a sleepover, but comfort is not. Therefore, you should consider the following:
- Comfy pajamas – Choose soft, breathable ones they can sleep in.
- Backup outfit – Accidents happen (think spills or surprise outdoor play).
- Weather-appropriate layers – A hoodie or light jacket helps for backyard fun or cooler rooms.
- Extra socks and underwear – Always pack one extra of each, just in case.
2. Toiletries That Are Easy to Forget 🪥🧼
Meanwhile, these little items can make a big difference to your children the next morning.
- Toothbrush and toothpaste – It’s the classic combo that somehow always gets forgotten.
- Hairbrush or comb – Especially useful for tangles in the morning rush.
- Deodorant (if needed) – Great for tweens and teens to stay fresh.
- Face wipes or travel-size face wash are easy to use and keep faces clean after snack time.
- Lip balm or lotion is especially helpful in colder weather or dry homes.
3. Bedding and Comfort Items 🛏️🧸
Sleeping in a new place is easier with a few familiar touches.
- Sleeping bag or blanket – Even if the host provides bedding, kids love having their own.
- Pillow from home – Smells like home and offers better comfort than decorative ones.
- Stuffed animal or sleep buddy – A must-have for younger kids or anxious sleepers.
- Nightlight or soft sleep item – Helps make unfamiliar bedrooms feel safer and cozier.
4. Entertainment and Extras 🎧📚
After the movie ends, having quiet, personal activities is a game-changer.
- Favorite book or comic – Gives them something relaxing to do before bed.
- Coloring pad or simple activity – Keeps their hands busy and minds calm.
- Card game or puzzle – Small, packable fun they can share with friends.
- Headphones – Essential for music, audiobooks, or just zoning out.
- Snacks (check with host) – A small, mess-free treat adds comfort, but avoid overpacking sweets 🍪
The Ultimate Sleepover Checklist 📝
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s move on to the sleepover packing list that will help your child be fully prepared for the adventure ahead.
By using a packing list for sleepover plans ahead of time, you can make sure your kid has everything they need for an awesome night away from home. Prepping in advance (and double-checking that sleepover checklist) means less last-minute scrambling—so you can both feel relaxed.
So, the next time your kid gets an invite, no need to panic! Just grab that handy checklist, pack up, and enjoy a fun (and stress-free) sleepover experience.
Sleepover Checklist for Different Ages 🛍️
The best packing list for a sleepover depends on your child’s age and how much they still rely on routines, comfort items, or reminders. Many parents wonder, “What should I bring to a sleepover for my child?” Here’s how to tailor their overnight bag by age.
Sleepover Packing List for Younger Kids (Ages 5–9) 🧸
Younger kids need consistency and comfort when sleeping away from home.
- Pajamas and a change of clothes – Familiar sleepwear keeps bedtime routines intact.
- Toothbrush and basic toiletries – Help reinforce their independence while keeping habits in place.
- Favorite stuffed animal or sleep buddy – This item can make all the difference during lights out.
- Small nightlight or comfort object – Eases anxiety in unfamiliar rooms.
- A bedtime storybook – Keeps the nighttime routine familiar and soothing.
Sleepover Packing List for Tweens (Ages 10–12) 🎒
Tweens are more independent but still need structure (and a few reminders).
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, and deodorant – A growing body needs a growing hygiene routine.
- Face wash or cleansing wipes – Great for after pizza, ice cream, or anything sticky.
- Hairbrush or comb – Keeps them neat in the morning, especially before pickup.
- Extra underwear and socks – Still worth packing a spare—you never know.
- Book or earbuds – Personal downtime helps balance the busy evening.
- Phone charger (if they bring a device) – Dead battery = no goodnight call or morning text.
Teen Sleepover Essentials (Ages 13+) 💃
Teens are usually pros at packing but still benefit from a quick checklist.
- Skincare products or daily essentials – Keeps their routine intact, especially if they wear makeup.
- Comfy clothes or loungewear – Let them relax in what feels like home.
- Phone charger – Still the #1 forgotten item (even by grown-ups).
- Personal comfort item – A hoodie, cozy socks, or journal can offer grounding if they feel off.
- Makeup or hair items – If part of their usual routine, it helps them feel more like themselves.
- Optional creative item – Something like a journal, sketchpad, or game to share with friends.
What Not to Bring to a Sleepover
Your kids might love to pack like they’re heading on a world tour. However, understanding what you need for a sleepover versus what to leave at home can improve the experience. Thus, as a parent, you should leave these items behind:
- Expensive electronics or valuables can be misplaced, damaged, or forgotten during group activities.
- Tablets without headphones can be distracting to others and may disrupt the host’s rules for screen time.
- Messy or oversized art supplies, such as glitter, glue, and giant canvases, do not go well with carpeted living rooms.
- Toys with many small parts are easily lost or become trip hazards in shared spaces.
- Loud or disruptive gadgets – Battery-powered toys that beep, bark, or sing? Leave those out of the overnight bag.
- Too many extras – Overpacking can overwhelm kids and leave them digging through clutter for what they really need.
- Items restricted by the host – Always ask ahead if anything is off-limits, like sugary snacks or certain tech.
Things to Do at a Sleepover: Keep the Fun Going
Packing the right gear is only part of the sleepover equation—the rest is how the night unfolds. A few well-planned activities can make the experience memorable without overcomplicating things.
- Board and classic card games are always a hit and work for almost any age group.
- DIY crafts using simple supplies like beads, stickers, or washable markers are great for winding down and encouraging creativity.
- Storytelling circles, scavenger hunts, or pillow fort building add that spontaneous spark without needing much prep.
- Suggest a build-your-own sundae station or a movie night setup, depending on the host’s plans.
For more ideas, check out these fun things to do at a sleepover. For younger guests, these sleepover games for kids are perfect for keeping the laughter going. The goal is to create an easygoing rhythm that mixes excitement with opportunities to wind down naturally.
Hosting a Sleepover? Picnic Makers Can Help
Between coordinating activities, prepping snacks, and keeping the vibe fun (but not chaotic), it helps to have a little backup. At Picnic Makers, we specialize in creating dreamy sleepover setups—think cozy indoor tents, twinkle lights, plush pillows, and themed decor that make your living room feel like a sleepover wonderland. Whatever you want to make the night feel extra special, we handle the setup so you can focus on the fun stuff (like trying not to burn the popcorn).
Ready to Make Sleepovers Stress-Free?
Use this packing list as your go-to guide. When it is your turn to host, let us help transform your space into something magical. Our thoughtful setups take the pressure off planning so everyone can enjoy the night.
Check out our sleepover party services and bring some extra sparkle to your next overnight bash.
