The Importance of Having a Moving Essentials Box for Your Move in San Diego
When moving to a new home, it’s easy to become focused on all the moving tasks like packing and transportation. Starving Students believes that one of the most critical steps for an easy move is preparing a moving essentials box—also known as an open-first box. This special box contains all the essentials you’ll need for the first day or two in your new home, making your first days easier and more organized.
Creating an essentials box can save you from rummaging through stacks of packed boxes looking for basic necessities like chargers, clean clothes, kitchen items, and toiletries. Whether you’re moving with children, animals, or seniors, tailoring your essentials box can ensure your first night goes smoothly.
What is a Moving Essentials Box?
A moving essentials box is a box (or boxes) for immediate-need items after your move. Instead of unpacking everything at once, you’ll have your high-priority things together for quick use.
You can set up your essentials box for each household member or for specific uses, depending on your household’s needs. The size and number of boxes will vary depending on the scale of your move, but the goal is to keep things neat and stress-free.
What Should Go in Your Moving Essentials Box
Personal Items
Your essentials box should include personal care items that you use daily. This will make sure that even if everything else is still packed, you have your must-haves close by.
- Prescription medications
- Glasses or contact lenses with solution
- A few changes of clothes
- Phone and laptop chargers
- Important documents (passports, birth certificates, IDs, leases, medical records)
- Wallet, keys, and checkbook
- Work materials (if you need to resume work immediately)
Household Must-Haves for Moving Day
To stay comfortable from day one, include everyday basics that you use regularly.
- Toilet paper and paper towels
- Hand soap, dish soap, and cleaning wipes
- Garbage bags
- Scissors or a box cutter
- Flashlights and batteries
- Emergency cash
- Multi-tool or small tool kit (hammer, screwdriver, pliers)
Bedroom Essentials
After a long moving day, you’ll want a comfortable night’s sleep. Having these items ready will make your first night smooth.
- Pillows, blankets, and sheets
- Pajamas and an extra set of clothes
- Curtains (if your new home doesn’t have blinds or drapes)
- Alarm clock or nightlight
Bathroom Essentials
No one wants to start their first morning in a new home without bathroom basics. Make sure to include:
- Toilet paper
- Shampoo and conditioner
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Deodorant
- Hairbrush or comb
- Towels and washcloths
- Shower curtain (if needed)
Kitchen Must-Haves for Your First Meals
Getting the kitchen unpacked can take a while, but you’ll need some essential items to eat and drink during the first few days.
- Disposable plates, cups, and utensils
- Coffee maker or kettle with coffee and tea supplies
- Non-perishable snacks and bottled water
- Can opener
- Small pot or pan for simple meals
- Dish sponge and dish soap
- Pet food and bowls (if applicable)
Be Prepared for the Unexpected
Unexpected situations can happen during a move. Have these essentials ready just in case:
- First aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, allergy medication)
- Emergency contact list (local emergency numbers, doctor, vet, close family members)
- Fire extinguisher
- Power strip and extra batteries
Specialty Moving Essentials for Families, Pets, and Seniors
Every move will have special requirements, and preparing the right essentials keeps everyone happy during the move.
For Families with Kids
If you’re moving with children, making the move easier for little ones is a priority.
- Favorite toys, books, and stuffed animals
- Snacks and juice boxes
- Extra diapers, wipes, and baby formula
- Nightlight and extra set of pajamas
For Seniors
If an elderly family member is moving with you, be sure you have:
- Personal medications and medical supplies
- Mobility aids like a walker or cane
- Warm blankets or clothing for comfort
For Pets
Moving can be stressful for pets, so have their necessities ready.
- Food and treats
- Water bowls
- Leash and pet waste bags
- A comfortable blanket or bed
Tips for Preparing Your Essentials Box
To make sure your essentials box serves its purpose, follow these tips when packing:
- Make Labels Bold and Easy to Spot
Mark your essentials box with bold labels such as "Open First" or "Moving Essentials." When loading your moving truck, make sure it’s packed last and unloaded first. - Divide Items by Category Into Multiple Boxes When Needed
For large families, have multiple essentials boxes for each person or type of item rather than stuffing all your items into a single large box. - Prioritize the Most Important Items
Don’t overpack—keep it limited to items you’ll absolutely need within the first 24-48 hours. - Protect Key Documents During the Move
Bring sensitive documents with you instead of putting them in the truck. - Plan for Unpacking Gradually
Having your essentials box ready means there’s no pressure to open every box right away, allowing you to get comfortable as you go.