Clothes for sleeping at someone else's home
Short answer: When you sleep at someone else's home, your nightwear should be comfortable, discreet enough for a trip to the bathroom and easy to pack. Choose a set that takes up little room and feels reassuring in unfamiliar surroundings.
Pack nightwear that works in a strange house
When you stay overnight with others, you often share a bathroom and may walk through a hallway or a living room at night. Choose a set with both a top and trousers so you feel covered. A soft, plain set takes up little room in your bag and looks like ordinary clothes if you need to step out of the room. See bamboo night pants for women if you want trousers that are easy to pack and comfortable to sleep in.
Tops that can handle a morning coffee in the kitchen
Many guests end up in the kitchen in the morning before they have dressed. A pyjama shirt with buttons feels more put together than a thin top and is easy to wear over a cup of coffee. It covers well and can be worn open over a T-shirt if it is cold. See women's bamboo pajama shirt. Choose a length that does not ride up when you reach for a glass.
You do not know the temperature in advance
In someone else's home the bedroom is rarely set to your taste. It may be warm, or there may be a draught from a window. Bring an extra thin layer, such as a cardigan, and a pair of socks. That way you can adjust without having to ask for the heating to be turned up or down. See pajamas for women for sets that can be combined with layers. A light bag for the nightwear keeps it apart from your other clothes.
Cosiness without taking up space
When you pack for an overnight stay, you often have room only for the essentials. Nightwear in thin fabric takes up little space, and clothes in viscose from bamboo have an even drape, so they do not crease as much in the bag. Bring a bag for used clothes so they do not touch the clean ones. Pack a pair of soft socks rather than an extra set. That way you can sleep well without the bag becoming heavy.
Think of the host's things and your own needs
Even if you feel at ease, remember that you are a guest. Ask where you can hang your clothes and respect the host's habits. Bring your own toothbrush and, if you need it, your own pillow. Do not ask for too much, but say so if something is cold or uncomfortable. Most hosts are happy to help. A small ritual, such as putting on your own nightwear, can give a feeling of security in unfamiliar surroundings.
Care after the trip
When you get home, the nightwear should be aired and washed. Wash viscose from bamboo at 30 to 40 degrees with a mild detergent and skip fabric softener, which can make the fabric less breathable. Let it dry flat or on a hanger and avoid high heat in the tumble dryer. Keep one set just for travel so it is always ready to pack. That makes it easy to set off at short notice.
Frequently asked questions
What nightwear should I bring when I stay with others
A set with a top and trousers in soft fabric and an extra thin layer. That way you are covered in the bathroom and in the kitchen in the morning.
How do I stay warm in an unfamiliar bedroom
Bring a cardigan and socks. Then you can adjust without having to ask for a different temperature.
How do I pack nightwear so it does not crease
Roll it up and put it in a bag. Fabric with an even drape often creases less.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
