What to pack if you might stay the night

Pack for the night you have both named. A toothbrush, a change of clothes, the charger, and anything you need in the morning. Leave a spare key, a week of outfits, and the feeling that you are moving in. Those belong at your place until you both want them somewhere else.

Agree the shape of the night before you are on the doorstep. Some people want dinner and a taxi. Some are happy to share a bed and still want you gone before work, with no hard feeling. Say which of those you are, and listen to their version. A packed bag means you might stay. It still leaves either of you free to want only dinner and a taxi.

Tell a friend where you are going. Keep your own way home. If this is the kind of evening you want, join free and say so before anyone travels.

What belongs in the bag?

Pack for the night you have both named. A toothbrush, a change of clothes, the charger, and anything you need in the morning. Leave a spare key, a week of outfits, and the feeling that you are moving in. Those stay at your place until you both want them somewhere else. A packed bag means you might stay. It still leaves either of you free to want only dinner and a taxi.

Agree the shape of the night before you are on the doorstep. Some people want to share a bed and still want you gone before work, with no hard feeling. Say which you are, and listen to their version. Tell a friend where you are going. Sending the message that sets this out is free. A plan opens their answer.