I used to feel so much pressure to bring the perfect dish to Friendsgiving. I worried my casserole wouldn’t be as good as everyone else’s or that my dessert would just get lost on the buffet table.
I always wondered, “How can I be a truly helpful guest and stand out without just adding more food to an already-full table?” It felt like a real roadblock to being the thoughtful friend I wanted to be.
Then I discovered the secret: bring something the host really needs! I mastered this list of simple, brilliant ideas that solve problems and make the party better for everyone. Now, you can be the most thoughtful guest at the party, guaranteed! 🦃🍂
Our Top 3 Favorite Ideas
- Easiest to Make: The All-Important Bag of Ice
- Most Unique Twist: The “Morning After” Coffee Kit for the Host
- Biggest ‘Wow’ Factor: The “Leftover Station” Kit
10 Thoughtful Things to Bring to Friendsgiving (That Aren’t Food)
1. The “Leftover Station” Kit 🦃
I can tell you from experience, every single host will be eternally grateful for this. It’s the one thing everyone forgets, and it saves them from losing their precious Tupperware! You instantly become the hero of the after-party.
⏰ Details: Difficulty: Easy | Prep: ~5 mins | Cost: ~$15-20
🎯 Best For: Making sure everyone gets to take home their favorite leftovers without any hassle.
Image-1: A neat stack of various-sized takeout containers next to a Sharpie and a roll of labels on a kitchen counter.
2. The All-Important Bag of Ice 🦃
This might seem a little boring, but I promise you, the host will breathe a massive sigh of relief when you walk in with it. It’s the single most overlooked item at any party, and it ensures all the drinks stay perfectly chilled.
⏰ Details: Difficulty: Easy | Prep: ~2 mins | Cost: ~$5
🎯 Best For: A super simple, low-cost way to be genuinely helpful.
Image-2: A person walking through a doorway holding a large, frosty bag of ice, with a festive party scene blurred in the background.
3. The Dishwashing “Rescue Kit” 🦃
The party is over, and a mountain of dishes is waiting. Bringing a small rescue kit is such a kind gesture. And if you really want to be the best guest ever, you’ll offer to stay for a few minutes and help use these items, too!
⏰ Details: Difficulty: Easy | Prep: ~2 mins | Cost: ~$10
🎯 Best For: Showing the host you appreciate their hard work and are thinking about them even after the party ends.
Image-3: A small basket containing a bottle of Mrs. Meyer’s dish soap, a colorful sponge, and a roll of paper towels.
4. A Curated Playlist & Portable Speaker 🦃
Music completely sets the mood for the whole gathering! This simple act saves the host from the dreaded “Oh no, I forgot to make a playlist!” moment. A good playlist keeps the energy up and the conversation flowing.
⏰ Details: Difficulty: Easy | Prep: ~30 mins (to make the playlist) | Cost: $0 (if you own a speaker)
🎯 Best For: Creating a festive, warm, and fun atmosphere from the moment guests arrive.
Image-4: A smartphone displaying a Spotify playlist next to a sleek portable speaker on a side table with autumn decor.
5. An Easy, Interactive Group Game 🦃
There’s nothing better for breaking the ice and preventing that after-dinner lull. This is the perfect way to bring different friend groups together, share some laughs, and create some hilarious new memories.
⏰ Details: Difficulty: Easy | Prep: ~2 mins | Cost: ~$10-25
🎯 Best For: Sparking fun and laughter between guests who may not know each other well.
Image-5: A group of friends laughing around a coffee table, with cards from a game like “What Do You Meme?” spread out.
💬 Quick Question!
Of the recipes we’ve covered so far, which one is making you hungriest? Let me know in the comments below!
6. A Polaroid Camera & Film 🦃
I absolutely love this idea because it gives everyone the gift of instant memories. The host even gets to keep any extra photos, making it a wonderful keepsake from a day filled with friendship and gratitude.
⏰ Details: Difficulty: Easy | Prep: ~1 min | Cost: ~$60+ (camera), ~$15 (film)
🎯 Best For: Capturing candid, fun moments that everyone can enjoy right away.
Image-6: A close-up of a few Polaroid photos scattered on a wooden table, showing smiling friends and plates of food.
7. A Big-Batch Signature Cocktail 🦃
Instead of another side dish, you can become the group’s official bartender! Making a delicious cocktail ahead of time in a big dispenser means you don’t have to play bartender all night long. Just set it up and let everyone help themselves.
⏰ Details: Difficulty: Easy | Prep: ~15 mins | Cook: 0 mins
🎯 Best For: Bringing a festive, impressive drink that requires zero effort from the host.
Image-7: A large glass beverage dispenser filled with a golden-colored cocktail, garnished with apple slices and cinnamon sticks, with glasses nearby.
8. A Festive Non-Alcoholic Beverage 🦃
This is such an incredibly inclusive and thoughtful gesture. Designated drivers or friends who don’t drink will deeply appreciate having a special, delicious option made just for them. It shows you were thinking of everyone.
⏰ Details: Difficulty: Easy | Prep: ~10 mins | Cook: 0 mins
🎯 Best For: Making every single guest feel welcome and included in the celebration.
Image-8: A pitcher filled with a vibrant red, bubbly drink, garnished with fresh rosemary sprigs and orange wheels.
9. The “Morning After” Coffee Kit for the Host 🦃
This is a next-level thoughtful gift that I adore. After all the cooking, hosting, and cleaning, a simple, delicious cup of coffee the next morning feels like pure luxury. It’s a sweet and personal thank-you just for them.
⏰ Details: Difficulty: Easy | Prep: ~2 mins | Cost: ~$20-30
🎯 Best For: A personal gift that shows the host how much you appreciate them.
Image-9: A beautifully designed bag of artisan coffee beans next to a stylish ceramic mug on a kitchen counter.
10. A Curated Selection of Craft Beer or Wine 🦃
This is a classic for a reason! To make it extra special, do a little research on wines that pair well with turkey—it shows you put in that extra bit of thought to bring something that truly complements the meal.
⏰ Details: Difficulty: Easy | Prep: ~5 mins | Cost: ~$15-30
🎯 Best For: A simple, sophisticated, and always-welcome contribution to the party.
Image-10: A rustic wooden crate holding a variety of craft beer bottles with interesting labels.
Top Tips for Being the Best Friendsgiving Guest
Being the guest everyone loves having over is easy! It’s all about being thoughtful and considerate of your amazing host. Here are a few of my go-to tips:
- Communicate Clearly: RSVP as soon as you can and use the group chat to let everyone know what you’re bringing. This helps the host plan and avoids having three giant bags of ice show up!
- Be Punctual, Not Early: Try to arrive on time. The 15 minutes before a party starts are often the most chaotic for a host, so give them that space to get everything just right.
- Read the Room: Offer to help with small tasks, like opening wine or clearing plates. But remember not to take over their kitchen unless they specifically ask for your help.
- Leave It Better Than You Found It: Before you head out, do a quick scan for your things and take any empty bottles or trash you brought with you. A quick offer to help with a few dishes always goes a long way.
Your ‘Perfect Guest’ Prep Timeline
Don’t overthink it! Being a great Friendsgiving guest is simple with a little bit of planning.
🍂 My Top Thanksgiving Tips
- One Week Out: Confirm your attendance and ask the host, “What’s the one thing you’d love for someone else to handle?”
- 2-3 Days Out: Purchase your non-perishable contribution (game, drinks, to-go containers).
- Day Of: Pack your items, chill any beverages, charge your portable speaker, and get ready to have a great time!
Friendsgiving is all about celebrating the family we choose. By being a thoughtful guest, you add to the warmth and gratitude of the day, making it easier for everyone—especially the host—to relax and enjoy the precious time together. It’s these small acts of kindness that truly make the holiday special.
Which of these thoughtful ideas will you be trying for your Friendsgiving this year? Let me know in the comments below
