If you’re using something like a backpack, take out any items you don’t need first. You do not want to risk losing school supplies, and they also take up unnecessary space. If you don’t have a sleeping bag, you can bring extra blankets to lay down the floor instead. You can also text a friend who’s going to the party and ask if they have an extra sleeping bag.

You can text or call your friend to ask about sleeping arrangements. Your friend’s parents may be providing things like blankets and pillows, in which case don’t bother packing them. You want to leave as much space in your bag as possible for fun things like snacks and games.

If you want to bring a pair of pajamas that are dirty, see if you or your parents have time to quickly wash them before you leave for the sleepover.

Make sure to fold clothes carefully so they don’t wrinkle, and bring a travel-sized bottle of wrinkle spray just in case. Store clothes away from anything messy, like snacks or drinks. It may be a good idea to place your clothes in a separate plastic bag before placing them in your suitcase.

It can help to have a pen and paper on hand to jot down what items you’ll need so you won’t forget anything.

If you have any travel-sized containers of things like shampoo and conditioner, these may be easier to bring than small containers.

As contacts sometimes fall out and get lost, it’s always a good idea to bring a spare pair of contacts.

Check with your friend ahead of time, however. Some parents may not allow cellphones at slumber parties and it’s important to respect your host’s rules.

It’s a good idea to check with the host. See if they need anything extra in terms of food and volunteer to bring that.

If you don’t have room for board games, a simple pack of cards can also work great. A lot of card games involve multiple players.