A book retreat is a great place to be still. It’s a cozy place where time slows down and all you have to do is “rest, reset, and read.” *What you pack sets the tone* for your trip, whether you’re going away for the whole weekend or just making a reading retreat at home.
Planning your first retreat? Start here with How to Plan the Ultimate Book Retreat for Rest and Reset — the complete step-by-step.
If you’re ready to relax and unplug from the world, here is the best packing list for you. It has everything you need for a serene retreat, including relaxing comforts and feminine touches.
Why It’s Important to Pack with Purpose
A book retreat is not like a vacation full of plans; it’s about *slowing down*. Soft textures, peaceful scents, feel-good literature, and gentle cosmetic care are all things you should bring with you to help you relax. The appropriate things will help you:
- Set the scene for purposeful quiet
- Feel cost and pampered
- Stay disconnected and present
- Stay away from too much stimulation or distractions
It’s not just about things; it’s about making a space that hugs you gently.
Must-Have Cozy Clothes
Start with the clothes that make you feel good, since you deserve to feel “soft, feminine, and free.
- Plush robe or wrap cardigan something that feels good and lets air in.
- Silk or cotton pyjamas—soft pastels or neutrals look great
- Fuzzy socks or indoor slippers to keep you warm and relaxed
- Loungewear set – for writing in your journal, drinking tea or going outside
- Oversized knit sweater—to wear over other clothes and snuggle into your chair
Tip: Use soft colors like blush, cream, oatmeal, and sage to make everything look calm.
Favorite Ways to Relax and Take Care of Yourself
A book retreat is a great time to nourish your senses and give your nervous system a break. These soft girl must-haves make the experience better:
- Herbal tea – chamomile, rose, lavender, or peppermint blends
- A pretty ceramic mug or teacup—it just hits different
- Essential oil roller – calming blends like lavender, ylang-ylang, or frankincense *
- Sheet mask or under-eye patches – for self-care breaks between chapters
- Body butter or skin oil – scented lightly (vanilla, coconut, rose)
- Silk sleep mask – for daytime naps or evening wind-down
- Candle or diffuser – choose soft, cozy scents like sandalwood, honey, or cashmere
These small comforts tell your body, “You’re safe now; you can slow down.”
Books and Tools for Reflection
Of course, the most important part of a book retreat is your reading list and anything else that feeds your mind or spirit.
2–3 books; try to get a mix:
- One for getting away from it all (like a novel or romance)
- One for mild self-improvement (like “Big Magic” by Elizabeth Gilbert)
- One that is poetic or reflective (like “The Comfort Book” by Matt Haig)
Journal to jot down your ideas in the morning, about a book, or to say thank you
Soft-tip pens or markers for writing in a soft way or underlining pretty lines Bookmarks or pressed flowers if you’re in a dreamy mood
Tip: Stay away from things that are overly weighty or emotionally exhausting unless you’re really ready for them. Need help choosing the perfect books? Check out our upcoming guide on The Best Books to Take on Your Book Retreat (coming soon).
Fun Without Technology
To really disengage, bring along non-digital comforts that keep your hands and heart busy between chapters:
- An adult coloring book or sketchpad
- Crossword puzzles or soft girl affirmation cards
- A pressed flower kit or a simple craft like embroidery
- Nature hikes or meditation printouts (for outdoor retreat areas)
Without bringing you back into the digital world, these small rituals keep you in the moment.
Want to stay fully unplugged? Don’t miss our Digital Detox Tips for Book Lovers to help you disconnect mindfully.
Optional Extras for a Luxe Feel
These things will make your spa vacation fantasy come true if you want to go “extra soft”:
- Weighted blanket to help you relax while you read or nap
- Portable speaker for lo-fi playlists, rain sounds, or piano music
- Fluffy throw pillows for your reading corner or travel bed
- Mini charcuterie board or pretty snacks: berries, chocolates, nuts
- Pretty tote or weekender bag to bundle it all up with soft girl style
And if you’re going to a cabin or Airbnb, don’t forget to bring your favourite bath soak, whether it’s bubbles or salts or something else that helps you relax.
A flat lay of 3 beautifully styled books with bookmarks, pens, and dried petals
A Quick Review of the Final Checklist
Take a look at your soft girl book retreat packing list:
Comfortable Clothes
- Robe, pyjamas, knitwear and fuzzy socks
Taking Care of Yourself
- Essential oil, tea, candle, body lotion, and eye mask
Reading
- 2–3 novels, a journal, pens, and a bookmark
Fun Without Screens
Deck of affirmations, creative supplies, and a sketchpad
Other things
- Blanket, speaker, food, and spa things
Bonus: Don’t Pack These Things (Leave Them Behind)
The things you leave behind are just as significant as the things you bring. A book retreat is not a good place to get stressed out or excited.
Don’t pack:
- Laptops (no emails or work permitted)
- Workbooks or tools that help you get things done
- Books that feel like emotional homework
- Anything that “buzzes,” beeps, or tempts you to get distracted
- The pressure to get things done
This time is special. Rest without feeling bad about it. Stop overthinking and overdoing things and just be
Final Thoughts: Pack with Presence
When you pack for a book retreat, it’s not so much about “getting everything right” as it is about finding what makes you feel comfortable, slow, and seen Make it a habit. While you pack, light a candle. Gently fold your robe. Pick books that make you feel like you’re with old friends or new dreams. And don’t forget that you don’t need a lot to feel whole. Just time, quiet, and the strength to relax.
So take a deep breath, close your bag, and get ready to fall into softness, one chapter at a time.
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