How to Pack for a Trip When You Know You’ll Be Stealing Your Friend’s Stuff

Every friend group has one: the “accidental” borrower. You know you’re going to steal their hoodie, use their shampoo, and maybe even snag an extra pair of socks. Instead of getting called out for raiding their suitcase, why not pack smart and make your “borrowing” look effortless? Here’s how to prepare for a trip when you know you’ll be strategically sharing your friend’s stuff.

1. Bring Just Enough to Justify “Borrowing”

You don’t want to look like you’re completely unprepared, so pack the essentials. However, leave a few key gaps that you know your friend has covered:

• Pack one hoodie, but “accidentally” leave it behind for their oversized one.
• Bring basic toiletries, but “forget” the fancy hair products they swear by.
• Pack an outfit for every day, but “realize” you need an extra cute top (from their suitcase, of course).

The goal? Look prepared while still having plenty of reasons to borrow.

2. Choose a Friend With the Best “Borrowable” Stuff

Not all friends are created equal when it comes to borrowing. Choose wisely:

• The Stylish One: Always overpacks trendy outfits you can “sample.”
• The Overprepared One: Brings a mini drugstore, complete with extra skincare and hair products.
• The Cozy One: Has the best sweatshirts, fluffy socks, and spare blankets.

Traveling with the right friend increases your chances of “borrowing” successfully.

3. Master the Art of the Innocent Borrow

If you’re going to take their stuff, do it smoothly. Here’s how:

• The “I’m Freezing” Move: Casually grab their hoodie because you’re so cold.
• The “Just Trying It On” Trick: Try on their outfit for fun, then just… keep it on.
• The “Oh, You Have That?” Line: Express shock that they packed exactly what you forgot—so weird!

These methods reduce suspicion and increase your chances of getting away with it.

4. Pack Items They’ll Want to Borrow Back

Borrowing works best when it’s mutual. Bring something they’ll want to use so it feels like a fair trade:

• The good sunscreen (so they let you use their face wash).
• Charger with multiple ports (so you can steal their portable battery).
• Gum, Advil, or emergency snacks (so they won’t complain when you borrow their jacket).

Making it a give-and-take situation means less guilt—and fewer side-eyes.

5. Be Subtle, But Not Too Sneaky

You don’t want to get caught stuffing their clothes into your bag, but also don’t act suspicious. Tips:

• Leave their stuff in visible places (so it looks like you’re borrowing, not stealing).
• Casually mention you’re using something (“Oh, your moisturizer is amazing!”).
• Make them feel good about it (“Your hoodie is SO comfy, I totally get why you wear it all the time.”).

A little flattery makes them more likely to let it slide.

6. Know When to Give It Back (Or When to Make It Yours)

At some point, you have to decide: return or claim? The rules:

• If they ask for it back, return it immediately.
• If they don’t notice, enjoy it for a little longer (but don’t push it).
• If they say “You can just keep it,” congratulations—you win.

Knowing when to stop keeps you from crossing into full-on thief territory.

7. Bring a Backup Plan (Just in Case)

In case your friend locks their suitcase or starts guarding their stuff, have a Plan B:

• Pack emergency extras (like one extra hoodie).
• Befriend another overpacker (backup borrowing option!).
• Offer trades, so you’re still getting what you need.

Even if your main “source” dries up, you’ll still find a way.

The Verdict: Pack Light, Borrow Smart

If you’re going to “borrow” your friend’s stuff while traveling, do it with style and strategy. Pack just enough to seem prepared, make it a fair exchange, and return things (most of the time). Done right, you’ll stay warm, stylish, and fully stocked—without carrying an overstuffed suitcase.