It’s no secret that you’ve got a lot of packing to do when you move to a new place. However, when you arrive at your new home, the last thing you’ll want is to dig through dozens of boxes to find the things you need for those first couple of days. Fortunately, you can avoid this headache by simply packing a first-day move-in kit that stays with you from your current house to your new one.
What should you include in your move-in essentials kit? Generally, you should pack enough supplies for at least 24 hours. There will likely be a supermarket or convenience store near your new home, but it’s a good idea to come prepared with some food for your first night there. When you arrive, it might be late, and you’ll be worn out and ready for a quick meal and a restful night’s sleep.
Here are some things to remember.
Clothes
You’ll want a couple of changes of clothes to get you through the first day or two—especially if you anticipate sweating while unpacking and moving boxes around. Don’t forget also to pack some comfortable sleepwear, too!
Toiletries
You’ll also want to be able to do some basic things before you unpack entirely at your new place, such as shower and brush your teeth. However, your bathroom will still be without a shower curtain, and you might need toilet paper stocked.
Pack these essentials to help you settle in, along with travel bottles of your favorite shampoo, conditioner, and body wash. Some other things to bring with you include:
- Razor
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Lotion
- A towel and washcloth
- Toilet Paper
- Shower curtain
- Soap
Meanwhile, if you take any daily medications, bring these with you as well. You don’t want to dig through your moving boxes to locate your prescription when you need it, and you don’t want to miss a dose.
Chargers
If you’re like most people, you rely on your phone for a lot. Remember to pack chargers for your phone and other devices (such as tablets) to keep them juiced up during those first couple days. Pick up a small, portable charger for added convenience.
Convenience Dishware
You spent a lot of time carefully packing away your dishes—and you probably don’t want to deal with the hassle of painstakingly unpacking them before you enjoy your first meal in your new home. By packing a small number of plastic or disposable dishware (including plates, napkins, and silverware), you can dine without having to dig out those bubble-wrapped dishes.
Cleaning Supplies
Hopefully, the previous tenants took care of the cleaning before you moved in. But no matter how clean your new home may seem, you will want to have some critical cleaning supplies on hand. Here are some to tide you over until your other boxes arrive.
- Dish soap
- Paper towels
- Rubber gloves
- All-purpose cleaner
- Toilet brush
- Trash and recycling bags
Tools
Include a small tool kit appropriate for necessary jobs that will pop up during your relocation. Here are some standard tools you might need:
- Scissors
- Flat-head screwdriver
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Hammer
- Wrench
- Box cutter
- Tape
Important Documents
Pack important documents and keep them with you during your move. This may include your passport, Social Security card, and birth certificate. Keeping these critical papers in your essentials box is safer than putting them on the moving truck.
Many people also carry cash and credit cards with them during a move. This way, you can quickly pay for any services (such as a locksmith or moving company) when you arrive.
Relocation Satisfaction
There’s a lot to remember when preparing for a move, but having a first-day essential kit packed can save you a lot of stress and hassle. Looking for more help with your next move? Contact us to start your quote today!