Pack for yourself before you finish packing the house

You get to the new place, your phone is nearly dead, and your charger is somewhere in a box marked bedroom. You know you packed a towel, too. You just have no idea where.

An essentials bag saves you that search. Set aside the things you use every day before you tape up the last boxes. Keep the bag with you so you can get to it during the trip and when you arrive.

Start with the things you cannot comfortably go without

  • Your wallet, keys, identification and important moving paperwork.
  • Medications and the personal items you need every day.
  • Your phone charger and a charged power bank if you use one.
  • Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant and other basic toiletries.
  • A change of clothes, pajamas and a towel.
  • Water and a few easy snacks.

Think about the whole household

Give everyone a quick chance to name what they will need that evening. Someone’s glasses, a child’s favorite stuffed animal or the dog’s leash can be easy to overlook when you are focused on furniture.

For babies and young children, keep feeding supplies, diapers and spare clothes accessible. For pets, set aside food, bowls, medication if needed, and whatever you use for walks or bathroom breaks. Pack those things where you can reach them without unloading the car.

Set aside a few things for the new place

Your overnight bag covers you. A small household box covers the basics: toilet paper, hand soap, trash bags and bedding. A roll of paper towels can also come in handy before everything is unpacked.

Label it clearly and decide how it will travel. Writing ‘open first’ on a box helps you find it after unloading, but it will not help during the trip if it is inside the moving truck.

Make sure it actually stays with you

Before loading starts, put your essentials somewhere separate from the boxes going on the truck. Tell the crew which bags are staying with you.

Do one last check before leaving: keys, wallet, phone, charger, medication and paperwork. Then check that each person has their bag. You do not have to unpack the whole house on the first night. Being able to wash up, change clothes and get some sleep is a good start.