So you’re heading to the Poconos for prom weekend. Cue the group chat chaos, last-minute Amazon orders, and a mental checklist that keeps you up at 2AM like: Did I pack socks?
Whether you’re the type who packs five days in advance with color-coded cubes, or the kind who throws random things into a duffel bag five minutes before leaving—this list is for you.
Because prom houses in the Poconos isn’t just about one night of slow dancing and fancy outfits. It’s a full-on weekend adventure: late-night karaoke, lakeside photo shoots, pancake brunches in pajamas, and possibly a heated debate over who gets the top bunk.
So before you zip that suitcase and forget half your life at home, here’s your ultimate, no-nonsense, slightly hilarious packing checklist for a weekend that’s glam, chill, and chaos-free.
The Main Event: Prom Night Essentials
Let’s not bury the lede. You’re going to prom. The big night. The reason you’ve been Pinterest-ing dresses and suit inspo for the past six months.
What you absolutely need:
- Your prom outfit (dress, tux, suit, jumpsuit — whatever makes you feel like royalty)
- Shoes (and blister-proof socks or heel pads — beauty is pain, but also avoidable)
- Accessories: jewelry, cufflinks, belt, clutch, bowtie, tie — don’t wing it
- Undergarments that match your outfit and don’t peek out like uninvited guests
- A backup outfit for emergencies: zipper fails, unexpected stains, or why did I think this looked good? moments
- Stain remover pen (you will drop something, probably salsa)
- Lint roller because pet hair travels
- Prom ticket or invite confirmation if applicable (don’t be that person)
Pro tip: Do a full dress rehearsal the night before you leave. You’ll thank yourself when you realize your dress is impossible to zip solo.
Glam Kit: Get-Ready Supplies
Unless you have magical skin and hair that styles itself (congrats, unicorn), you’ll need some backup.
Pack these glam squad essentials:
- Makeup (foundation to setting spray — don’t skip steps now)
- Hair tools (straightener, curler, hair dryer if your Airbnb isn’t fancy)
- Hair products (gel, mousse, hairspray, dry shampoo = lifesavers)
- Bobby pins, clips, elastics (bring extras because they vanish like socks in a dryer)
- Makeup remover wipes
- Nail kit or polish for emergency touch-ups
- Tweezers (for brows, stray threads, and opening stubborn snack bags)
For the guys: Yes, pack face wash, deodorant, cologne (not half the bottle), and maybe try a hair product that isn’t just “whatever was in the bathroom.”
The Chill Stuff: Clothes for the Rest of the Weekend
Prom night is the main event — but the rest of the weekend is all about comfort, snacks, and oversized sweatshirts.
Don’t forget:
- Comfy PJs (bonus points if they match the group for Instagram)
- Casual clothes (hoodies, joggers, leggings — think “cozy but camera-ready”)
- Daywear for exploring or group outings (T-shirt + jeans = classic)
- Swimsuit (for hot tubs, lakes, or spontaneous pool pics)
- Flip flops or slides
- Extra socks and underwear (more than you think you need — always)
- One “I didn’t plan to go out, but I look cute” outfit — just in case
Optional but fun:
Matching robes for the glam squad
Fluffy socks
Fuzzy blanket that smells like home (or your dog)
Toiletries You Will Absolutely Forget If Not Reminded
We’re not saying you’re forgetful, but we are saying half of prom weekend is asking, “Does anyone have toothpaste?”
So pack:
- Toothbrush & toothpaste
- Deodorant (yes, again — it’s that important)
- Shampoo, conditioner, body wash
- Razor + shaving cream
- Face wash + moisturizer
- Contact lenses + solution (if you wear ‘em)
- Hairbrush or comb
- Any medications or prescriptions
- Period supplies (just in case — better to pack it and not need it)
Optional but wise:
Mini first-aid kit (band-aids, painkillers, allergy meds — just in case)
Eye drops (crying during prom speeches? we don’t judge)
Snacks and Food: Because You’re Not Surviving on Glitter Alone
Let’s be real: prom = dancing = hunger.
And while pizza delivery exists, nothing beats a well-stocked snack table at 1AM.
Pack or prep:
- Chips, pretzels, popcorn
- Candy stash (chocolate and sour — balance is key)
- Instant noodles or cup noodles (don’t knock it ‘til you’ve had it at midnight)
- Bottled water and juice
- Cereal + milk
- Pancake mix or frozen waffles for brunch
- Microwave popcorn (non-negotiable)
If you’re feeling fancy:
Fruit trays
Mocktail mixers
DIY s’mores kit
Don’t forget paper plates, cups, napkins, and garbage bags — be the hero who thinks ahead.
Tech + Entertainment
Prom weekend memories don’t just make themselves — you need a little tech support.
Bring:
- Phone charger (and a backup one for that friend who always forgets)
- Portable power bank
- Bluetooth speaker
- Playlist downloaded (because signal gets weird in the woods)
- Tripod or selfie stick (yep, it’s time)
- Games (Uno, cards, Jenga, group trivia apps)
Bonus:
LED string lights to level up the vibe
Projector for a backyard movie night
Don’t Forget the Vibe
A few extras that’ll take your prom weekend from “cool” to “legendary”:
- Disposable cameras or Polaroids for retro photo ops
- Decor for your prom house (balloons, banners, themed tableware)
- A guestbook or memory wall (bring sharpies, post-its, and instant printouts)
- Goodie bags (if you’re organizing for a group — think scrunchies, sleep masks, or prom survival kits)
And please — bring good vibes only. Leave drama at the door. This is your weekend to celebrate, unwind, and create core memories.
Final Reminders Before You Head Out
Just a few final checklist items that can make or break the trip:
- House address and check-in details
- Emergency contact info (send it to parents, just in case)
- Cash or Venmo for food, emergencies, or souvenir hoodies
- ID if needed (some rentals ask for age verification)
- A grateful attitude (your parents or chaperones helped make this happen!)
Final Thoughts: Pack Like the Prom Royalty You Are
Prom weekend isn’t just a dance — it’s a full-on experience. It’s dressing up, staying up, bonding with your favorite people, and soaking up every minute of this once-in-a-lifetime moment.
So pack with intention. Plan for the glam, the giggles, the late-night snack runs, and the morning-after “I can’t believe that happened” conversations.
Because this isn’t just a trip — it’s a memory in the making.
Still need a prom-perfect house in the Poconos?
Check out prom house rentals — spacious, stylish, and selfie-ready for the prom weekend of your dreams.
