How to manage packages in Replit

On Replit, you manage packages either through the built‑in Package Manager panel or by editing your project’s real dependency file (such as package.json for Node, requirements.txt for Python, or pyproject.toml if your Repl uses Poetry). The important thing is: Replit installs packages automatically when those files change, and the UI is simply a convenient wrapper over those files. When in doubt, treat your Repl like a normal project and control dependencies through the actual package files.

 

How package management really works in Replit

 

Replit is basically running your code inside a container that has its own isolated environment. That means:

• Replit reads your dependency file to install packages.
• If you install something from the Package Manager UI, Replit writes it into the dependency file for you.
• When the project restarts or you open it in a new workspace, Replit automatically reinstalls anything missing.
• You don’t need to run pip/npm manually — but you still can if you prefer.

 

Managing packages in Node.js Repls

 

Node Repls use the normal package.json and npm system. Replit automatically runs npm install when package.json changes.

Typical workflow:

• Open the Packages panel → search → install. Replit updates package.json and node\_modules.
• Or edit package.json manually, then Replit auto-installs.
• Or run npm from the shell if you're comfortable:

npm install express          // Installs express and updates package.json
npm uninstall express        // Removes it

For usage inside your Node code:

const express = require("express");   // Works normally!
// or in ESM projects:
import express from "express";

 

Managing packages in Python Repls

 

Most Python Repls now use Poetry behind the scenes, even though Replit lets you interact using either the UI or requirements.txt.

You have two reliable paths:

• Use the Packages panel. This is simplest and updates the project for you.
• Use requirements.txt manually. Replit watches this file and installs packages automatically.

Installing via terminal also works:

pip install requests      // Installs into the repl environment

And to freeze the current environment:

pip freeze > requirements.txt

Then Replit uses that file for future installs.

Usage inside your Python code:

import requests   # Works after installation!

 

Common pitfalls and how to avoid them

 

• Don't try to edit node\_modules or site-packages manually. Replit overwrites them on reinstall.
• Don’t delete your dependency file (package.json or requirements.txt). Replit won’t know what to install.
• Don’t mix too many tools (for example, Poetry + pip modifications) unless you understand the environment. Stick to one method.
• Large installs (like heavy ML libraries) often fail because Replit machines are lightweight. Try smaller alternatives or install via a hosted API instead.

 

Practical workflow that always works

 

• Use the Packages panel for quick installation or testing.
• Commit dependency changes to Git so teammates get the same environment.
• If something breaks, delete the venv (Python) or node\_modules folder, then trigger Replit’s auto-install by touching your dependency file.

rm -rf node_modules      // Node reset
rm -rf venv              // Python reset

Then update the dependency file (even adding a comment works) and Replit reinstalls everything automatically.

 

That’s the reliable and practical way to manage packages in Replit: treat the dependency file as the source of truth, use the UI when convenient, and let Replit’s auto-installer do the heavy lifting.