Moving Day Essentials: What to Pack in Your Essentials Box

Moving out soon? Moving day is one of the most hectic and stressful days you could probably experience. It requires a lot of planning in advance to ensure it goes as planned and without any bad surprises. Something you should prepare before your move is an essentials box – a box that contains everything you need for the moving day and your first night at the new home. You pack this last before you move out and unpack first once you arrive. Packing this box will save you from having to dig through all your boxes to find your toothbrush! Read our blog to explore what you should pack in your essentials box. 

1. Important documents  

You should never forget your identity documents and important paperwork!  

  • Passport and ID 
  • Tenancy agreement / contract (if not digital) 
  • Medical records and prescriptions – if you have any 
  • Financial documents like bank statements and checks 
  • If you are using a moving or removals company, documents that confirm your booking (if not digital) 

2. Toiletries 

Essential toiletries that you will need to get you through the first night. 

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste 
  • Shampoo, body wash, skincare 
  • Deodorant 
  • Hairbrush 
  • Towels 
  • Toilet paper 
  • First aid kit (band aids, antiseptic, pain killers) 

3. Electronics 

If you are addicted to social media and have a high screen time, this is a must for you! 

  • Phone  
  • Laptop 
  • Chargers 
  • Portable charger 
  • Earphones or headphones 
  • Watch  

4. Clothes 

Prepare a set of clothes that can be versatile to all weather and temperatures.  

  • Underwear and socks 
  • Change of clothes 
  • Pyjamas 
  • Trainers 
  • A jacket or raincoat 

5. Kitchenware 

Carrying boxes and unpacking requires a lot of energy – make sure to fuel yourself with water and food throughout the day! Pack some kitchen essentials so that you have everything you need to prepare a meal.  

  • A set of cutleries and plates 
  • Cup or water bottle 
  • Washing up liquid and sponge 
  • Knife and cutting board 
  • Bin bags 
  • Snacks – crisps and protein bars 

6. Cleaning supplies 

These are necessary to clean up any mess before you start unpacking!  

  • All-purpose cleaner 
  • Paper towels 
  • Gloves 
  • Bin bags 
  • Broom and dustpan 

7. Bedding 

To ensure you get some quality sleep on your first night.  

  • Sheets 
  • Pillow and pillowcase 
  • Blanket or duvet 
  • Air mattress or sleeping bag (if you don’t have your bed yet) 

8. Tools to reassemble furniture  

If you have large furniture that have been disassembled to fit in your moving truck, you will need some tools to help you rebuild them again!  

  • Screwdriver set 
  • Hammer 
  • Pliers 
  • Scissors or box cutter 
  • Tape measure 

9. Baby and pet supplies 

If you have infants or pets, make sure to have everything with you to take care of them (obviously)! 

  • Diapers and wipes 
  • Baby food and bottles 
  • Pet food and bowls 
  • Leash and waste bags 
  • Toys and comfort items  

10. Other items to help you stay organised!  

  • Markers - to re label any boxes  
  • Notebook and pen – for when your phone dies and you need to take notes 
  • Emergency cash – in case if you lose your card in the moving van!  

By following this guide and packing an essentials box that contain the above items, you will be more than ready for your moving day. Label your essentials box clearly so it doesn’t get mixed up with other items and load it as the last item onto your car or moving van. If you are planning to pack your important documents inside, it might be best to keep the box with you throughout the journey to your new home. You will be able to move with the peace of mind that you have everything you need in your box to get you through the first day comfortably.  

If you are looking for some help with packing and moving – check out our removals service!