25 Cheap, Fun Sleepover Ideas (Maximum Fun Without the Cost)
Sleepovers for kids are basically a rite of passage, right up there with bad haircuts and questionable fashion choices.
But planning one? That’s where things can get dicey. Between snacks, activities, and damage control, you could end up spending a small fortune.
But guess what? You don’t need to go broke to host an epic night. You can pull off a sleepover that’s fun, memorable, and easy on the wallet.
Check out these 25 budget-friendly sleepover ideas that’ll keep everyone entertained—and leave your bank account intact.
1. DIY Pizza Night
Let’s kick things off with a guaranteed crowd-pleaser: DIY pizzas.
Grab some pre-made dough (pssst…biscuit dough works just as well and is usually cheaper), sauce, cheese, and whatever random toppings you have in the fridge.
Set up a mini “pizza bar” and let the kids act like they’re auditioning for MasterChef Junior.
And the best part is that they’ll argue over the “perfect” amount of pepperoni like professional critics.
Enjoy the chaos—it’s part of the charm.
Here’s the thing: If pizza-making doesn’t turn into an accidental food fight, are you even doing it right?
2. Make Your Own Sundaes (And Maybe an Impromptu Ice Cream Eating Contest)
Ice cream solves everything.
Seriously, it’s science.
Set up a sundae bar with a couple of basic flavors and DIY toppings.
When we do our “girl’s night” sleepovers, my 13-year-old niece Rylan turns everything into a competition – especially who can build the tallest ice cream creation.
But, don’t overthink it—sprinkles, chocolate chips, and whipped cream are the holy trifecta here.
Let them pile on the toppings to their sugar-loving hearts’ content. And the kids’ll LOVE it. Actually even adults love it.
Honestly, though, bowls are less messy than cones, and if you’ve hosted a sleepover before, you know that matters.
Wait! You Need These 5 Addictive Dice Games in Your Life!
Want to have fun on the go (or even a game night) WITHOUT 3 hours of prep and a minor emotional breakdown? Grab some dice and SNAG the No-Fuss Fun Dice Game cheatsheet to play easy-to-learn, FUN dice games whenever boredom strikes. Your sanity (and your hair) will thank you!
3. Movie Marathon
Nothing screams “sleepover classic” like a good old-fashioned movie night.
Pick a theme—superheroes, rom-coms, or maybe something retro like the ‘90s (just don’t tell them that’s “retro” now). Add cozy blankets, popcorn, and voila: full entertainment with minimal effort.
Here’s the thing: Disney+ basically pays for itself during sleepovers.
4. Minute to Win It Games
Fast-paced, hilarious, and full of energy, Minute to Win It games are perfect for a sleepover.
Use household items to create quick challenges like stacking cups, balancing cookies on foreheads, or carrying cotton balls with a spoon.
Each game lasts just 60 seconds, so they’re quick, exciting, and ridiculously fun.
And if you really want to be frugal, choose some great ideas from my no supplies minute to win it post.
Plus, the timer adds that perfect level of “chaotic pressure” to keep everyone on their toes.
5. Backyard Camping
For the adventurous crowd, take the sleepover outside. Pop up some tents, throw sleeping bags on the grass, and boom: instant mini-campout.
Don’t forget the fairy lights and marshmallows for s’mores.
Kids love pretending they’re roughing it…even if they spend the whole night sneaking back inside to use Wi-Fi.
Evenmy daughter Athena, who has introvert-tendencies-comes alive around a good fire pit with a smore in her hand
Honestly speaking, pretending to sleep under the stars is 90% of the fun—and 0% of the bugs.
Sure, it’s boring admin stuff, but having emergency contacts on hand is your safety net for those “just in case” moments. Having a parent’s number ready makes things a whole lot smoother. Trust me, knowing you’re prepared for any minor hiccup will give you peace of mind (so you can focus on more important things…like the popcorn supply).
| Activity | Materials Needed | Estimated Cost | Quick Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| DIY Pizza Night | Pizza dough, sauce, cheese, toppings | ~$15–$20 | Use pita bread for quick/cheap mini pizzas. |
| Sundae Bar | Ice cream, toppings (sprinkles, chocolate chips) | ~$10–$15 | Limit toppings to keep cleanup easy. |
| Movie Marathon | Streaming subscription, popcorn, blankets | ~$5–$10 | Pick short movies to avoid dragging it out. |
| Minute to Win It Games | Nothing if you pull games from my No Supplies Minute to Win It Games blog post | Free – $5 | Set down newspaper to catch craft messes. |
| Backyard Camping | Tents, sleeping bags, fairy lights, marshmallows | Free–$25 | Have an indoor Plan B for bad weather. |
6. Pillow and Blanket Forts
If you’ve got an army of blankets and pillows, you’ve basically got a fort just waiting to happen.
Let the kids design their dream hideout, complete with secret entrances and rooftop access (a.k.a. an extra blanket clipped to a chair).
If you can, add some string lights to take the vibe from “messy chaos” to “cozy chaos.”
Let’s be real, though: It’s probably going to collapse at least twice, but that’s part of the fun.
7. Scavenger Hunt
Time for a little friendly competition. And scavenger hunts are one of my favorite activities to play with my family – or even my students.
Make a list of random items they can find around the house—bonus points for goofy things like “a purple sock” or “something shaped like a triangle.”
Split the into teams and race to see who can collect everything first.
Just between us, watching kids sprint to find a random kitchen tool is comedy gold.
Collect all phones and tablets into a basket and challenge the kids to go tech-free for an hour. They’ll grumble at first, but soon their imaginations take over. They might surprise you with what they come up with.
8. Karaoke Night
Pull up some YouTube karaoke tracks (let the kids choose), hand out hairbrushes as pretend mics, and watch as the performances get more “creative” (read: loud) as the night goes on.
It’s not about singing abilities—it’s about maxing out the ridiculousness factor.
Here’s the thing: You might want earplugs, but you’ll secretly love it.
9. Spa Night
Transform your living room into a discount spa.
Mix up DIY face masks (hello yogurt and honey…ummm, with parental permission, of course), set up a nail-painting station, and let them soak their feet in bowls with warm water (fancy, right?).
It’s cheap but somehow feels luxurious enough for Instagram.
To tell you the truth, cucumbers on your eyes make everything feel more legit—even if no one actually eats them.
Let the crew vote on a few snack options beforehand. This keeps everyone happy while avoiding last-minute complaints over chips vs. cookies.
10. Shadow Puppet Theater
Sometimes, the simplest ideas are the best, like Shadow Puppet Theater. Dim the lights, shine a flashlight on a wall, and let the kids use their hands—or simple paper puppets—to create fun shapes.
Add goofy voices, sound effects, or spin dramatic stories for creativity overload.
It’s calming but engaging, and it’s a perfect activity for winding the night down or keeping things chill.
Here’s the thing: Even the basic “bunny shadow” will blow everyone’s minds. Trust me—it’s a hit.
Check out this video on shadow puppets for an idea for how to get started.
| Activity | Materials Needed | Estimated Cost | Quick Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pillow Forts | Blankets, pillows, clips | Free | Use binder clips for added structure. |
| Scavenger Hunt | List of random items | Free | Add “mystery bonus items” for extra points. |
| Karaoke Night | YouTube Karaoke, “mics” (hairbrushes) | Free | Stick to well-known songs everyone loves. |
| Spa Night | Face masks, nail polish, bowls for feet | ~$10–$20 | Keep wipes handy for nail polish clean-ups. |
| Board Games | Monopoly, Uno, Clue (or any favorites) | Free if you own them | Go for lighthearted games to keep it fun. |
12. DIY Photo Booth
Who doesn’t love a good photo booth? Grab a plain wall, hang up a colorful sheet, and create a fun backdrop.
Add some dollar-store props like sunglasses, feather boas, and wacky hats. Set your phone on a tripod (or just hold it) and watch them strike hilarious poses.
Bonus points if you borrow an instant camera for quick prints—they’ll turn those goofy photos into hilarious souvenirs.
Pre-Schedule “Quiet Time” activties. Towards the tail end of the night, have low-key options prepped like coloring books, puzzles, or story reading. It naturally helps them wind down.
12. Glow Stick Dance Party
Turn off the lights, hand out glow sticks (easily found at the dollar store), and crank up the music.
Suddenly your living room transforms into a mini dance club—but with fewer cover charges and way more chaos.
Glow stick bracelets, necklaces, or even glasses turn the kids into glowing little dance machines. Go ahead, initiate a dance-off or let them bust out TikTok trends.
Here’s the thing: Kids dancing in the dark wearing glow sticks is equally hilarious and mesmerizing—it’s like a lava lamp that won’t stop moving.
Ever had a game night where the only thing organized was the chaos? Same.
This Facebook group is like that one drawer full of random stuff in your kitchen; it’s a bit of everything and somehow EXACTLY what you need. Dive into the treasure trove of laughs, printable games and tips for moms who wish “winging it with style” was a recognized party planning strategy.
13. Cooking or Baking Competition
Unleash your inner Gordon Ramsay (minus the yelling) and host a kid-friendly baking competition.
Provide simple recipes like cookies or cupcakes and toss in decorations like sprinkles, icing, and edible glitter.
Let them go wild creating their edible masterpieces.
Afterward, have everyone channel their inner judge to crown “Most Creative” or “Most Delicious.”
To tell you the truth, you’ll probably want to devour their “failures.” Winner or not, cookies are cookies.
Sugar crashes at 3 a.m.? Hard pass. Serve sugary treats early so they can burn off the energy with activities. Skip the late-night sugar fest unless you’re cool with a breakdancing crew in your living room. Mix in savory or healthy snacks to keep the chaos balanced.
14. Truth or Dare (PG Style)
Keep it classic, but make it clean.
Write up truths like “What’s your favorite snack in the world?” or “What was your most embarrassing moment in school?”
Make the dares silly and harmless—think “Sing a song in a chicken voice” or “Do your best robot dance.”
Cue the giggling fits as they spill the funniest truths and complete ridiculous dares.
Honestly speaking, the laughter from silly dares is worth double the effort it takes to plan the game.
Use a decorated jar to draw truths and dares to make the activity feel extra official.
15. Balloon Pop Game
Balloons are cheap, loud, and endlessly entertaining.
Before the party, write challenges or mini-prizes on slips of paper, then stuff them inside balloons and blow them up.
Have the kids sit in a circle and then blast some music.
As the music plays, kids pass the balloon around the circle.
Whoever’s holding the balloon when the music stops, has to pop the balloon to reveal their challenge or reward. It’s chaotic, engaging, and surprisingly addictive (to the kids—not the balloons).
Here’s my take: Kids + balloons = a guaranteed good time. Just don’t underestimate how loud “balloon warfare” can get.
Add a couple of balloons with slips inside of them that say “Freestyle!” to let the player make up their own challenge.
| Activity | Materials Needed | Estimated Cost | Quick Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| DIY Photo Booth | Backdrop, props, camera (smartphone works!) | ~$5–$15 | Instant cameras are a major party upgrade. |
| Glow Stick Dance Party | Glow sticks, music | ~$10–$15 | Assign a “DJ” to switch up the playlist. |
| Cooking/Baking Competition | Baking ingredients, decorations (sprinkles) | ~$10–$20 | Pre-measure ingredients to minimize hassle. |
| Truth or Dare | Slips of paper, jar | Free or ~$5 | Use a fun jar or bowl for a polished touch. |
| Balloon Pop Game | Balloons, challenges or prizes on slips of paper | ~$5-$10 | Avoid overfilling balloons—they still pop! |
16. Blind Makeup Artist
Bust out the makeup bag (or pick up some cheap supplies), and let the kids unleash their inner makeup artists – blindfolded for this game.
You’ll probably end up with more glitter than you can handle, but that’s part of the fun.
Let’s be real, getting eyeliner to look remotely even is impossible at any age.
Have plenty of makeup wipes handy, and encourage them to do goofy “before” and “after” selfies.
17. Storytime or Ghost Stories
Dim the lights, grab a flashlight, and let the drama begin.
You can keep it spooky with classic ghost stories, or let everyone take turns adding twists to something silly and made up.
Either way, the “flashlight under the chin” trick never fails to set the mood. Just don’t be surprised if they end up scaring themselves silly.
Here’s the thing: The “mysterious outside noises” will absolutely turn into part of the story. Every single time.
18. Obstacle Course
Make your living room a jungle gym!
Use chairs for hurdles, pillows for stepping stones, or string for a “laser field.” Make it a race or let them tackle it solo—it’s great for burning off all that sugar-fueled energy.
If we’re being honest here, watching kids crawl like army recruits under a dining table is peak entertainment.
Chocolate bar marzipan jujubes jelly-o carrot cake caramels. Tootsie roll cookie jujubes powder icing lemon drops. Pastry brownie topping oat cake chocolate cake jelly candy gingerbread tart.
Pro Tip: Use a stopwatch to time them and let them race to beat their own (or their buddies’) times.
19. DIY Science Experiments
Messy and magical, DIY science keeps kids busy and wowed. Think slime, baking soda volcanos, or vinegar rockets.
It’s shockingly simple to set up with household ingredients, and the kids will get a kick out of feeling like mini mad scientists.
To tell you the truth, the excitement of making a “volcano” never gets old, no matter your age. And kids just LOVE slime.
Lay down plastic sheets or garbage bags to protect floors from the inevitable mess.
20. Crazy Chairs
Crazy Chairs is a hilarious mix of musical chairs and chaotic fun, perfect for sleepovers.
Players sit on randomly placed chairs, and a designated caller shouts out commands like, “Move two seats left if you’re wearing socks!”
Players shift around, trying to follow quirky instructions while avoiding elimination.
| Activity | Materials Needed | Estimated Cost | Quick Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blind Makeup Artist | Basic makeup, glitter, mirrors | ~$10–$15 | Stick to kid-safe, washable makeup. |
| Story/Ghost Time | Flashlight, dimmed lights | Free (if you plan well) | Keep the story light for younger kids. |
| Obstacle Course | Household items like chairs, pillows, string | Free | Create different “levels” for replayability. |
| DIY Science Experiments | Baking soda, vinegar, containers | ~$5–$10 | Plan 2-3 small experiments to keep it fresh. |
| Crazy Chairs | Enough chairs for everyone | Free (if you already have chairs) | Make sure you have plenty of room before you play this game. |
21. Breakfast for Dinner
Why wait until morning to serve everyone’s favorite meal? Breakfast for dinner is both easy and a guaranteed hit.
Whip up pancakes, scrambled eggs, and some crispy bacon (or sausages, if you’re fancy), and let them load up their plates.
Better yet, create a DIY pancake bar and let them customize with toppings like whipped cream, fruit, and chocolate chips.
It’s simple, cheap, and can be way more exciting than late-night pizza.
Here’s the thing: Breakfast food hits different at night, and pancakes taste better when you don’t have to wake up early to eat them.
Use a griddle or nonstick pan for faster cooking—because hangry kids are impatient ones.
22. Card Games Throwdown
Grab a deck of cards and let the competition begin. Whether it’s classics like Go Fish, War, or the forever-heated Uno, card games bring just the right mix of strategy and fun.
Older kids might enjoy learning poker (yes, fake bets only!) or trying their hand at Spoons.
Bonus? It’s a portable activity, so you can take it to any room without setup stress.
To tell you the truth, kids become shockingly competitive when there’s even a small chance of winning, even if the prize is just bragging rights.
Wait! You Need These 5 Addictive Dice Games in Your Life!
Want to have fun on the go (or even a game night) WITHOUT 3 hours of prep and a minor emotional breakdown? Grab some dice and SNAG the No-Fuss Fun Dice Game cheatsheet to play easy-to-learn, FUN dice games whenever boredom strikes. Your sanity (and your hair) will thank you!
23. Charades
Nothing gets the kids giggling faster than playing charades.
I mean, charades always goes off the rails, right? But, somehow that just makes it even more fun – at least in my world.
Split into teams and pull random phrases, animals, or characters out of a hat for the ultimate acting showdown.
Watching someone try to act out “giraffe dancing” or “angry broccoli” will provide more laughs than you can count.
It’s simple, endlessly funny, and zero cost. Actually, I have some charades prompts, you can use.
24. TikTok Challenges
Since they’ll probably be glued to their phones anyway, embrace it with some TikTok challenges.
Choose safe and silly ones, like popular dance trends, funny skits, or trick-shot attempts.
Bonus points if you convince them to take a retro challenge like the Mannequin Challenge.
Don’t be surprised if they spend half the night trying to “perfect” a 15-second video.
Here’s the thing: It’s weirdly entertaining to watch them take this so seriously—like they’re auditioning for fame.
25. Memory Jars
End the night on a sweet and sentimental note by creating memory jars.
Hand each kid a mason jar (or just a regular cup) and some colorful slips of paper.
Let them write down their favorite memories or funniest moments from the night.
You can even pass out stickers, markers, and ribbons so they can personalize their jars. It’s a low-energy activity that doubles as a thoughtful keepsake.
Honestly speaking, it’s heartwarming to see kids cherish the little moments—and it gives you major “winning at this parenting thing” vibes.
| Activity | Materials Needed | Estimated Cost | Quick Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Breakfast for Dinner | Pancake mix, eggs, bacon/sausage, toppings | ~$10–$15 | Offer both savory and sweet topping options. |
| Card Games | Deck of cards, Uno, Spoons | Free (if you own it) | Teach a new game to keep it fresh. |
| Charades | Paper slips for words or phrases | Free | Use an online charades generator for ideas. |
| TikTok Challenges | Phones/cameras, simple backdrops | Free | Encourage silly challenges—no pressure! |
| Memory Jars | Mason jars, paper, markers, stickers | ~$10–$15 | Provide pre-cut paper slips to save time. |
Sleepovers on a Budget: Fun AND Frugal Tips
So, you’ve got a list of fun, frugal activities to keep the kids entertained (hello scavenger hunts and Crazy Chairs), but what about keeping the rest of the night budget-friendly?
Hosting doesn’t have to cost a fortune—here’s how to save money without sacrificing the fun:
1. Ditch Fancy Decorations
Forget expensive themed décor. Use what you have around the house! String lights, blankets, and pillows can create a cozy (and free!) party vibe.
2. Rearrange Your Space
No need to buy extras—turn your living room into a pillow fort wonderland or campout zone. Borrow tents, sleeping bags, or air mattresses from friends, family, or neighbors.
3. Shop Snacks Smarter
Snacks don’t have to cost a fortune. Buy in bulk from discount stores or, better yet, go homemade.
DIY popcorn is cheaper (and tastier) than overpriced snack packs. My mom used make some for me and my friends whenever I had a sleepover.
4. Get Parents Involved
Don’t hesitate to ask attendees’ parents to bring a snack or drink to share. It lightens your load and gives kids more variety.
5. Cut Unnecessary Extras
Keep activities simple and free where possible (think scavenger hunts or karaoke). The best memories don’t cost a thing.
Frugal Pro Tip: Focus on fun, not flash. Experiences matter more than shiny décor or fancy snacks. Winning at hosting doesn’t have to mean overspending!
Wrapping It All Up (and Surviving the Next Morning)
Okay, so the kids had a blast, ate way too much sugar, and probably didn’t sleep much.
Congrats, you’ve just hosted an unforgettable sleepover—and survived.
The final pro tip?
Plan a one-hour quiet activity for the morning (like coloring, puzzles, or a lowkey movie) so you can sip that much-needed coffee while they ease back into reality.