If you’re prepping for an upcoming move, one task you don’t want to forget accidentally is to pack your first-night “essentials box.” Unfortunately, it’s challenging for people relocating when they don’t pack a first-night box and then arrive at their new home, and the essential items aren’t at their fingertips.
Planning early and setting aside your most-used items into an essentials box will help reduce your stress and facilitate a smooth move. So, add packing an essentials box to your household move checklist.
Here are some must-have items for your first-night essentials box.
Clothing
A change of fresh clothing is always necessary, especially for spills, accidents, or another soiling. Also, having a clean set will help you feel better during the process. Ideally, plan for 1-2 sets of clothing for each family member (prepare an extra set for young children!) so this way everyone has what they need. Other essential items for everyone should include pajamas, extra underwear, undergarments, and comfortable shoes.
Toiletries and Medications
It’s bad enough if you end up sleeping in yesterday’s clothes if fresh sets are lost in a jungle gym of boxes, but you don’t want to be without toiletries and medications. So make it a priority to list any prescription and OTC medicines every household member needs and pack those ASAP, so they are easily accessible. Then toss in brushes/combs, toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant, shaving essentials, hand soap, bar soap, shampoo, and conditioner, so everyone has what they need to freshen up.
Linens
After a busy moving day, you’ll probably be ready to fall into bed and get a good night’s sleep, but if you don’t have a few linen essentials, you won’t get that perfect first night in your bed. Essential items to remember include sheets, pillow/pillowcases, blankets, pillows, and any special blankets the kids might need. Other linen items to remember include towels, washcloths, a bathmat, and a shower curtain and hooks!
Food Items
The first night, you might defer to an easy take-out meal. Next, however, you’ll want to have some easy-to-grab foods to satisfy hunger pangs while unpacking and moving furniture items around to your liking. You’ll probably also want to have an easy-to-prepare breakfast and perhaps other meals for your first few days. Finally, complete your food kit with water bottles and other preferred drinks.
Miscellaneous
Once you’ve gathered the above essentials, check off the following other miscellaneous items you’ll probably need:
- Electronics, including laptops, phones, tablets, handheld games, etc.
- Chargers for all devices
- Sleep machines/white noise machines
- First aid kit
- Toilet paper
- Paper towels
- Cleaning supplies
- Paper plates, utensils, and cups
- Games or cards (great for unwinding!)
- Tools, scissors, and box cutters
- Trash bags
- Extension cords (just in case)
Also, include any miscellaneous items that apply to your household, such as toys and games for the kids, diapers, wipes, pet supplies, and, if needed, a can opener.
Ready? Set? Move!
Assembling your first-night box can go a long way towards alleviating the stresses associated with moving. In addition, by having a plan, you can make sure everyone in your household is comfortable in your new home. Have an upcoming move? We’re happy to answer questions and provide tips to help ensure your forthcoming move goes smoothly. Contact us today for a free quote.