18 Moving Essentials You Need to Pack

It’s no secret that moving can be exciting and stressful at the same time. There’s always a long list of moving essentials to buy, organize, and pack, which can feel overwhelming. A moving supplies checklist is a great resource to use to relieve some of the stress, but there are other moving-day items you don’t want to forget. Luckily, we’ve compiled a list of items to keep on hand in a separate suitcase or box that travels with you the day of the move. 

Bedroom Essentials

The bedroom is a place where you look forward to decompressing after a long moving day. Here are a few things to prepare for moving day and the first few nights in your new home.

1. Bedding: Be sure to set a set of clean sheets, pillowcases, pillows, and blankets aside or in one of your “open first” boxes so you have immediate access to them. 

2. Air mattress: Some of your furniture, like a bed, may not arrive immediately or you may not have the time or resources to build it right away. Having an air mattress to sleep on until your bed is ready will be a huge help. 

3. First week of clothes: With all of your other moving priorities, unpacking your clothes may not happen right away. Set aside a small suitcase with one week's worth of clothes so you will have outfits to pull from.

Bathroom Essentials

Your move will probably take longer than you expect so in order to feel more settled we suggest you have these items handy right away. 

1. Toilet paper: Make sure to put this must-have bathroom item on your shopping list when for your first trip to the store. 

2. Shower curtain: Don’t forget to pack either a temporary or permanent shower curtain in your first-day bag to ensure you’re prepared for your first shower in your new home.

3. Towels: Purchase a set or two of towels to get you through your first few days in your new space. 

4. Basic toiletries: A travel-size version of your toothpaste, lotion, deodorant, and other personal care items will come in handy until you finish unpacking.

5. Medications: While packing, set your medications aside in a marked box so you have easy access to them, and they don’t get lost.

Kitchen Essentials 

You likely won’t cook meals during the first few nights in your new home, but you will still need to eat. Here are a few things to add to your shopping list to pack like a pro.

1. Disposable products: Paper cups, plates, and plastic utensils are nice to have, so you won’t have to worry about dishes piling up while packing and unpacking.

2. All-purpose pan and knife: If you start to crave a home-cooked meal, it is helpful to have a few supplies readily available to make that possible, like versatile pans and knives. 

3. Coffee pot and mug: You’ll need plenty of energy to complete the moving process, so be sure to unpack your coffee or tea essentials on the first day.

4. Candles or air freshener: A good way to feel instantly at home in your new space is by adding your favorite scent. Pack your favorite candle or air freshener to start fresh in your new space.

5. Pet food: If you have a pet, set aside a few days worth of their food to make the transition easier for you and your pet.

Packing and Unpacking Essentials

By this point in your move, it’s time to get out the unpacking essentials. This list of items will help you decrease clutter and stay organized. 

1.  Trash bags: During your unpacking process, you will need to stock up on trash bags to get rid of unwanted packing materials and debris. 

2.  Dish soap: Although we recommend using disposable plates, cups, and utensils, you should still pack dish soap to clean any dishes. 

3.  Scissors or box cutter: You will definitely need some tools to help you open the moving boxes, so be sure to have strong scissors or a box cutter handy.

4.  All-purpose cleaner: Although you may not have time to stock up on all of your cleaning supplies, starting with an all-purpose cleaner will be helpful for your move-in and move-out clean. 

5. Broom and dustpan: Pack a broom and dustpan to quickly remove messes made during the move.

Last but not least, don’t forget to take a deep breath and remember how good it will feel when your new space feels like your home. If you need help with any part of the packing or unpacking process, consider hiring local movers in your area to get the job done efficiently and safely.