Whether reminiscing about childhood slumber parties or planning a grown-up girls’ night in, there’s something truly special about these nostalgic overnighters. It’s one of the best ways to spend time with your fave people and create tons of those “you had to be there” moments.
But, when it’s time to pack for a sleepover as an adult? That’s a tough one. We all used to roll-up to our bestie’s house with nothing but our Caboodle, a digital camera, an energy drink, and the clothes on our backs. But, let’s be real. Rawdowhergging a slumber party like that as an adult doesn’t sound fun anymore. But . . . what do you bring? You don’t want to under-pack or over-pack, but the essentials for an adult sleepover aren’t super clear.
To save you from some intense last-minute panic, we’ve rounded up a list of must-haves to include in your overnight bag so you can slay the night away with no regrets about what you did or didn’t bring. Plus, in the spirit of sleepovers, we’ll keep it “all in the family,” and by that, we mean all of our recs are going to be high-quality, made-in-the-USA finds.
If that wasn’t enough, we’ll also share some ways to make your adult sleepover super memorable. Gone are the days of prank calls and frozen bras. We can mature our sleepover vibes and still have a lot of fun! Let’s dive in!
What to Bring to a Sleepover as an Adult and How to Make it Memorable
Comfy Pajamas
First things first: what’s a slumber party without some chic, comfy PJs? You’ll probably spend your entire night in them and take plenty of Insta-worthy pics, so choose wisely, babe.
There are tons of PJs to choose from, so you’ve got options. You can never go wrong with a stylish sweat set. These butterfly sweats with this oversized crewneck are both polished and cozy the best of both worlds! If your night calls for more dancing and less binge-watching, maybe opt for a classic ribbed tank and a matching pair of drawstring shorts.
Ooooh, or a cozy, sleek thermal?!? We can’t get enough of all these American-made PJs.
Cozy Blankets
If you want to feel all the best sleepover vibes, bring your own blankets. Sure, your host probably has some, but everyone has their favorite texture and weight for blankets, right? And, you definitely don’t want to run out of blankets and end up shivering all night, wishing you were in your own bed.
Don’t have a fave blanket? We got you. This cotton astrology blanket is here to bring style and warmth your girlfriends will beg to know where you snagged this bad boy. Plus, it makes for the perfect chill-out zone when you’re on the living room floor for card games and gossip sessions.
If that one’s not your vibe, there are lots of other made in the USA options to choose from. For a wool blanket lover, try this super soft, lounge-ready wool blanket from ibex. For something more lightweight, grab this cotton blanket from Cuddletown. Or maybe you want to share the love and coziness with everyone with this massively oversized blanket from the American Blanket Company?
And if the arrangements call for it, you can also totally pack a sleeping bag. It’s a fun way to take it back to your childhood sleepover mems’ while ensuring you have a comfortable place to sleep in your friend’s house.
Pillows
Not every house is going to have enough pillows to accommodate more than the members of their household, so it’s a good idea to bring your own! And, on that note, you’re just going to be more comfortable with your own pillow.
Of course, you can just grab the one off your bed. But, don’t you kind of want to upgrade? An upgrade in your sleep world is an investment into your long-term health, guys! You can find tons of made in the USA pillows HERE, but a couple of our favorites are this hotel-quality down alternative pillow and bamboo body pillow!
A Sleep Mask
Beauty sleep is real; a good sleep mask is a testament to that. This is just another way to add a touch of luxury to your whole sleepover aesthetic.
If you want a relaxing aroma to help you wind down after a night of activities, this lavender aromatherapy sleep mask is calling your name. Plus, with its silky fabric and satin backing, say goodbye to the early morning sun or bright late-night overhead lights.
Your Favorite Skincare
Sleepovers are the perfect opportunity for some much-deserved R&R, and you can’t get the whole experience without a little skincare sesh with the girls! Bring your moisturizing sheet masks, hydrating under-eye patches, and refreshing moisturizers; it’s time to get serious about your beauty goals.
Skincare sessions create super special bonding time, a great way to feel refreshed and revitalized. If you want more American-made skincare inspo, check out our list!
Phone Chargers
Bringing your own phone charger isn’t even debatable; it’s necessary. At a slumber party where everyone will use their phones for TikTok-ing, Snapchatting, and picture-taking, you don’t want to be the one whose phone dies mid-sleepover.
Honestly, it’s always a good idea to bring two, just in case! And, may we suggest one with a super long cord?
Games and Cards
A sleepover without games is like a party without music they just don’t hit the same! Games bring everyone together, keep the laughs going, and sometimes spark a little friendly competition. It’s great for setting that slumber party mood.
An interactive murder mystery game is hands-down one of the best group-setting activities. If you want something a littleeee less intricate, you can always opt for a classic board game.
Pull out your affirmation card deck when the night starts to wind down or you’re getting into those deeper convos. It’s a unique way to bond with your friends in a light and uplifting way.
A Good Playlist
Preparing a good playlist is everything; it’s like creating a soundtrack to your night! You’ll prob play it during everything from game time to gossip talk, so a good playlist can really set the vibe for the sleepover.
For a fun twist, create a playlist while you’re there! Each friend can handpick their fave songs, so it’s a personal blend of everyone at the sleepover. Trust us, you’ll associate these songs with this night for years to come.
Nightly Essentials
Things like a toothbrush, toothpaste, a hairbrush, and a few hair ties are no-brainers to pack up in your overnight bag but you might forget them when you’re rushing to grab all your other essentials.
Also ensure you bring your mediations, contact lens solution, glasses case, retainer, and anything else you need before bed. We’re adults now, there’s no shame in a grown-up night time routine.
Don’t forget to pack some dry shampoo for a quick morning refresh!
All the Snacks
The food is half the fun, so don’t hold back on bringing all the snacks your heart desires. We’re talkin’ chips, candy, popcorn, cookies . . . sleepovers are like the ultimate “cheat day.” Now’s a great time to introduce your girls to some of your fave USA-made candy that skips out on all those artificial colors, too. This is a guilt-free treat yourself moment, gf!
If you’re feeling fancy, bring a fun snack platter full of yummy treats to share! Crudité or Charcuterie board, anyone?
How To Make Sleepovers Fun
Set up a cozy, aesthetic hangout zone.
A hangout zone is where the magic happens, so we need to make it magical. Grab all your fuzzy blankets, chic throw pillows, and maybe even a few fairy lights to create a chill spot for lounging, snacking, and chit-chatting.
Make sure there’s room for everyone to spread out comfortably and lounge while still feeling close and intimate.
Create a DIY spa area.
It’s time to break out those spa kit essentials and dedicate an area to a full self-care retreat. You don’t have to be a skincare expert to make it fun you just have to grab some girlfriends and go all out!
Break out the hair oils, foot scrubs, and nail polishes, and get ready to feel pampered and glowing.
Get all into the themed snacks.
Sleepovers are about indulgence as much as the company; now’s not the time to count calories and do intermittent fasting.
To really make snack time fun, create an exciting theme and come up with names for each snack. Make a themed candy bowl, set up a popcorn bar with unique seasoning options, and create your personalized pizzas your possibilities are endless here.
Themed drinks, anyone?
Not only are we all about creating a friendly-themed snack competition, we loveeee the idea of everyone bringing their unique selection of drinks. Think of it as a drink charcuterie board, except each drink differs entirely from the last.
See where we’re going here? Bonus points if you bring them in stylish, decorative glasses!
If the vibe isn’t leaning towards a night for alcohol, you don’t have to miss out! Use some of these coffee mugs made in the USA to make a fleet of flavored hot chocolates. Yuuummm!
Watch a movie that everyone loves.
A good movie marathon is a sleepover STAPLE, so you gotta agree on the right one. We aren’t talkin’ about the first movie you see on Netflix; you have to pick a theme and let everyone agree on the lineup.
Are we doing horror? Rom-com? Maybe we’re getting nostalgic with the BCU (Barbie Cinematic Universe)? To add some flair to your binge-watching adventures, make a drinking game out of it! Everyone takes a sip whenever a specific line or a certain word is said. We’re binge-watching #sleepoverstyle.
Take pics to make lifelong memories.
Capturing allll of those special moments is part of the sleepover handbook; you can’t skip it! While we’re a huge candid-shot fan, creating a little DIY photobooth moment is also super fun.
With a glamorous night full of glamorous people, do a flashy 50s Hollywood-inspired shoot! The feather boas, a tinsel chandelier, and maybe even a stylish backdrop are the perfect props to include. TBH, we’re super jealous. Where’s our invite?!?
Create a sleepover “time capsule.”
This tip may feel a little extra, but it’s a key way to make your sleepover one for the books. Have everyone list their favorite things movies, songs, hobbies, etc. and seal them in a box or envelope. Don’t forget one of those iconic group pics you took, either.
Date the time capsule for a few years from when you made it, and plan to have another sleepover when it’s ready to open! It’s a super unique way to create a night you’ll never forget.
What are you bringing to the sleepover to make it an unforgettable night?
Sleepovers as adults can be intimidating, but they really don’t have to be. Just kick back, have some laughs, drink a few drinks, and prepare for a night full of love, fun, and friends.
Sleepovers with the girls are fun, and we’ve got tons of tips and tricks to make it one of the best nights of your life. But if you’re planning for a spicy sleepover with, say… a crush? Just shop this lingerie made in USA post need we say more? OKAY, we’ve said enough.
For all the American-made inspo that you may need, we’ve got it all and more on our blog. And if you wanna shop til’ ya drop, that’s exactly what our shop is there for. Have fun with your sleepovers, baddies!
