Murder Mystery Party Survival Kit: Essentials to Bring

So, you've been invited to a murder mystery party! Whether you’re playing a character or attending as an audience detective, coming prepared will enhance your experience and give you an edge in solving the case. To make sure you’re ready for a night of intrigue, deception, and deduction, we’ve put together the ultimate Murder Mystery Survival Kit with everything you need to thrive at the event.

For All Guests: The Basics

Whether you're an audience detective or an assigned character, these essentials will help you make the most of your murder mystery experience:

1. A Notebook & Pen

You’ll need a place to jot down clues, suspect statements, and personal theories. A small notebook makes it easy to track information, helping you piece together the puzzle before the culprit gets away. Skill Sister Amy's favorite notebook is a dot grid from Leuchtturm 1917!

2. A Magnifying Glass (Optional, but Fun!)

While not necessary, bringing a small magnifying glass adds to the detective aesthetic and makes you look the part. Who doesn’t want to channel their inner Sherlock Holmes?

3. A Keen Eye & Sharp Ears

Okay, you can’t pack these in a bag, but observation and listening skills are your most important tools. Pay attention to details, watch for suspicious behavior, and don’t overlook anything—small clues often lead to big revelations!

For Audience Detectives: The Investigative Must-Haves

As an audience detective, your job is to gather evidence, observe interactions, and piece together the mystery without playing a specific role in the storyline. Here’s what will help you crack the case:

4. A Clue Checklist or Case File

Some murder mystery events provide an official case file with details about the crime, suspects, and key clues. If one is available, study it carefully and use it as a reference throughout the night.

5. A Detective Costume

You don’t have to dress up, but if the event welcomes costumes, embrace the theme! A trench coat, fedora, or even a simple notepad and badge can put you in the investigative mindset.

6. A Camera

If you love taking photos, as an audience guest you can document the night, “gather evidence,” or even serve as the party’s unofficial paparazzi or crime scene photographer. Sure, we all have a phone camera, but an instant camera can add some fun to the night!

For Characters: Essential Role-Playing Gear

If you’ve been assigned a character, you have a specific role to play in the mystery. Your job is to act in character, reveal information when appropriate, and, if you're the murderer, cover your tracks!

7. Your Character Packet & Notes

Make sure you review any materials provided before the event. Your character background, relationships, and potential secrets will shape how you interact with others.

8. A Costume to Match Your Role

Dressing the part makes the experience more immersive! If you’re playing a 1920s gangster, a flapper, a detective, or a mysterious aristocrat, a few costume elements (hats, accessories, or a themed outfit) will help bring your character to life.

9. A Poker Face & Quick Thinking

If you have secrets to hide, practice keeping a neutral expression and be ready to improvise. If someone accuses you, a convincing alibi or logical reasoning could throw them off your trail.

Bonus Items for Extra Fun

10. A Flashlight

Some murder mysteries take place in dark, atmospheric settings. A small flashlight can help you examine clues without breaking the ambiance.

11. A Themed Prop

Props like a fake pipe, pocket watch, or detective badge can make the experience more immersive. Just be sure to follow the event rules—no real weapons or anything disruptive!

12. A Sense of Humor & a Willingness to Play Along

Above all, a murder mystery is about having fun! Whether you’re solving the case or just enjoying the drama, embracing the experience will make it unforgettable.

Bringing the right essentials to a murder mystery event ensures you’ll stay organized, play your role effectively, and maximize your chances of solving the mystery. Whether you’re attending as a Character or an Audience Detective, packing this Murder Mystery Survival Kit will make you a force to be reckoned with! Now that you’re prepared, the only question left is: Can you solve the crime before the killer strikes again?

Join Skills Murder Mysteries for an unforgettable night of suspense, deception, and detective work!