Sleepovers are fun. Until someone forgets their toothbrush. Or pyjamas. Or undies. Suddenly, it’s not so fun anymore.
Knowing what to bring to a sleepover sounds simple, but it’s easy to miss the basics in the rush to get out the door.
Key Takeaways
- Cover the basics first: sleepwear, toiletries, bedding, and medications should always go in the bag before anything else.
- Entertainment matters. From games and books to devices and instruments, think about what your child enjoys and what they’ll share with others.
- Snacks and small gestures count. Include treats, something savoury, and a little something for the host when planning what to bring to a sleepover.
We’ve got you. From must-haves to little lifesavers, this guide will help you pack smart, skip the stress, and actually enjoy the overnight chaos.
Jump to a section:
The Sleepover Checklist
| Basics & Essentials | |||
| Comfy pyjamas | Mini shampoo/body wash | ||
| Change of clothes (next day) | Sleeping bag | ||
| Light jumper or hoodie | Fitted sheet or blanket (optional) | ||
| Spare underwear and extra top | Lightweight blanket or throw | ||
| Slippers or slip-ons | Plushie or comfort item (optional) | ||
| Seasonal extras (beanie or spare tee) | Daily medications (labelled) | ||
| Toothbrush and toothpaste | Allergy tablets or relievers | ||
| Hairbrush or comb | Pain relief pills/ointments | ||
| Deodorant | Phone or tablet | ||
| Face wipes or cleanser | Charger or power bank | ||
| Fun Stuff to Pack | |||
| Puzzle books | Compact board game | ||
| Deck of cards | Tablet with downloaded shows | ||
| Rubik’s cube or fidget toy | Chapter book or comic | ||
| Ukulele or small instrument | Mini jigsaw puzzle | ||
| Snack Stash | |||
| Gummy or chewy lollies | Crackers or rice wheels | ||
| Marshmallows | Mini pretzels | ||
| Popcorn | Mixed nuts or roasted chickpeas | ||
| Cheese sticks or slices | Veggie chips or seaweed snacks | ||
| Box of biscuits or shortbread | Tea bags or hot choc sachets | ||
| Trail mix | Fruit basket or grapes | ||
Basics & Essentials
Let’s start with the stuff that’ll keep your kid comfy, clean, and covered. No frills. Just the sleepover staples they’ll actually use.
These are the first things to pack. And the ones most likely to be forgotten in the last-minute rush.
Sleepwear & Extra Clothes
One outfit won’t cut it. Sleepovers come with spills, snack crumbs, and the occasional mystery stain. Pack soft, breathable pyjamas that won’t bunch or itch. If your child tends to run hot or cold, go for layers. Think a short sleeve top with a hoodie or light jumper.
Include a clean set of clothes for the next day, plus a spare in case of surprises. And yes, undies count too. Pack at least one extra pair. Always. Even if they promise they won’t need them.
Pack:
- Comfy pyjamas (nothing scratchy or too tight)
- Change of clothes for the next day, including socks
- Light jumper or hoodie for chilly mornings
- Spare underwear and an extra top
- Slippers or easy slip-on shoes for indoors
Seasonal tip:
- For winter: Add a beanie, thicker socks, or thermals
- For summer: Throw in a spare T-shirt and a small fan or cooling cloth if they run hot
Toiletries
Toothbrush? Non-negotiable. Deodorant? Yes, even if they insist they “don’t sweat.”
A little hygiene kit goes a long way in helping your kid feel fresh, confident, and ready for the group selfie the next morning.
Keep it simple and pack only what they’ll actually use. Travel-sized items are your friend here. Bonus points if they can zip everything into a small toiletry bag without help.
Pack:
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Hairbrush or comb
- Deodorant
- Face wipes or cleanser
- Lip balm
- Mini shampoo and body wash (if they’ll be showering)
- Toiletry bag to keep it all together
Sleeping Bag
Even if the host says they’ve “got bedding sorted,” bringing a sleeping bag is still smart. It guarantees your child has something warm, clean, and familiar to snuggle into. Especially if they’re not used to sleeping in someone else’s space.
Look for one that rolls up easily and isn’t too bulky. Bonus if it comes with its own carry strap or drawstring bag.
Pack:
- Lightweight sleeping bag (season appropriate)
- Drawstring bag or straps for easy carry
- Optional: fitted sheet or blanket if they’re picky about texture
Pillow & Blanket
There’s no shame in bringing your own pillow. In fact, it can make all the difference between a decent night’s sleep and a cranky morning-after. Plus, your child is more likely to drift off easily with something that smells like home.
As for blankets, check in with the host first. If they’ve got extras, great. If not, pack a light one that folds small but still adds comfort.
Pack:
- Favourite pillow & pillowcase
- Lightweight blanket or throw
- Optional: plushie or comfort item if they still sleep with one
Medications
If your child takes regular medication, pack it clearly labelled with instructions. Even if they’re old enough to self-manage, it’s best to give the host a heads-up. And always pack a little more than needed, just in case the sleepover turns into a full weekend stay.
It’s also worth tossing in a couple of “just in case” items like allergy relief or pain relief, depending on your child’s needs.
Pack:
- Any daily medications (clearly labelled)
- Instructions for the host, if needed
- Allergy tablets or relievers
- Pain relief suitable for your child’s age
- Small pouch or container to keep everything together
Devices & Chargers for Devices
We’re not saying your kid needs a screen, but let’s be honest. Someone’s bringing one. Whether it’s for a late-night movie, a group game, or just checking in with you, having their device charged and ready is smarter than hearing “my phone’s dead” at midnight.
Just remind them it’s a sleepover, not a solo scrolling session.
Pack:
- Phone or tablet (if allowed)
- Charger or power bank
- Headphones or earbuds for quiet time
- Any group game apps they want to use (pre-downloaded)
Fun Stuff to Pack
Once the basics are sorted, it’s time to think about what to pack for a fun sleepover. Whether they’re into games, movies, or quiet downtime, a little entertainment prep can go a long way.
After all, it’s not just about the essentials.
Board and Card Games
You can’t go wrong with the classics. A small game box can turn a quiet evening into a full-on laugh fest. Think quick rounds, simple rules, and games that work with two or more players.
Avoid anything too complicated or long. Go for games that are easy to learn and don’t need too much explaining.
Pack:
- Uno, Snap, or Go Fish
- Dobble or Spot It
- A compact board game like Connect 4 or Guess Who
- A deck of cards (endless possibilities)
Tip: If it fits in a ziplock bag, it’s the right size.
Movies and Shows
After the snacks are demolished and the games wind down, screen time usually takes the spotlight. If the host has a TV set-up, help your child plan a movie or show everyone will enjoy. Bonus if it’s something they’ve all been talking about at school.
Streaming is handy, but not every house has the same subscriptions. Download a couple of options in advance to avoid that awkward “buffering” moment mid-scene.
Pack:
- Tablet or device with pre-downloaded movies or episodes
- Headphones (if screen time needs to be quiet)
- Charging cable
Books
Not every moment will be loud and chaotic. Some kids love a quiet wind-down, especially after the sugar rush fades. A book can be a great way to ease into sleep, especially if the host’s house takes a while to feel cosy.
Stick with something light and familiar. Now’s not the time to start a new fantasy epic or bring homework reading.
Pack:
- A favourite chapter book or comic
- Something short and easy to dip into
- A magazine or puzzle book for quiet moments
Puzzles
Sometimes, the best sleepover moments are the quiet ones. Puzzles are great for downtime between bigger activities or for kids who prefer a bit of calm in the chaos.
Keep it small and doable. Think travel-sized puzzles or brain teasers that don’t need a whole table or hours of focus.
Pack:
- Mini jigsaw puzzles (100 pieces or less)
- Puzzle books (crosswords, word searches, sudoku)
- Rubik’s cube or fidget puzzles
Instruments
If your kid plays an instrument and loves to perform, this could be their moment. A ukulele, keyboard, or even a kazoo (if the host’s cool with it) can turn the living room into an instant jam session.
Just make sure it’s small, portable, and not likely to spark a noise complaint.
Pack:
- Ukulele or small acoustic instrument
- Keyboard (if it’s compact and battery-powered)
- Sheet music or a playlist of songs they know
- Earphones for anything electric or loud
Remember to check with the host beforehand.
Snack Stash
No sleepover is complete without snacks.
A little planning can keep things fun and mess-free. Skip anything that needs cutlery, plates, or a fridge. Think grab-and-go, not dinner party.
Favourite Candies
Sleepovers and sweets go hand in hand. A small stash of their favourite lollies can turn them into the most popular kid in the room. At least until someone spills sherbet on a sleeping bag.
Avoid anything too sticky or melty. Chocolate can be risky if the house is warm or the lights are off. Go for mess-free treats that are easy to share.
Pack:
- Gummy bears, snakes, or sour worms
- Wrapped lollies like Minties or Chupa Chups
- Marshmallows (bonus if there’s a firepit)
- Chewy sweets or jelly beans
Savoury Bites
Sugar’s fun, but salty snacks always hold their own. A good mix keeps everyone happy, especially when the sugar rush wears off and the real hunger kicks in.
Skip anything that needs heating or leaves orange dust on everything. Think clean fingers, easy crunch, and no strong smells.
Pack:
- Popcorn (pre-popped and plain or lightly salted)
- Crackers or rice wheels
- Mini pretzels
- Mixed nuts or roasted chickpeas (check for allergies first)
- Cheese sticks or slices (if there’s a fridge handy)
- Veggie chips or seaweed snacks
Food for the Host
A little gesture goes a long way. Sending your child with something to share, especially for the adults in the house, is always a nice touch. It doesn’t have to be fancy. Just something thoughtful and easy to enjoy.
This isn’t about impressing anyone. It’s about showing appreciation with a snack that says, “Thanks for having me.”
Pack:
- A small box of biscuits or shortbread
- Herbal tea bags or hot chocolate sachets
- A packet of trail mix or mixed nuts
- A mini fruit basket or container of grapes
- A handwritten note or small thank-you card (optional but lovely)
Sleepovers don’t have to be chaotic. With a bit of planning and a solid sleepover checklist, your kid will be packed, prepped, and ready for a night of fun (and maybe even some sleep).
And if you’re after cosy sleepwear or the perfect pillow to help them drift off anywhere, we’ve got you covered. Ecosa sleep essentials are made for comfort, whether they’re in their own bed or on a mate’s lounge room floor.