Imagine this: You survived moving day. You accomplished it. Stacks of boxes are piled up, your legs hurt, and all around you is the mess of the move. The worst part at this stage is rummaging through a dozen boxes, trying to find your phone charger or toothbrush.

This is where your first night moving essentials box will come in handy. Think of it as your new home survival kit. That is the one box that you do not want to throw in the back of the truck. You want to ride with it around, or get it off the first.

That said, here are the things you should pack to make your first night more of a soft landing than a scavenger hunt.

Toiletries/personal care items

The relief of a hot shower and attending to the simpler hygiene rituals can turn a grueling relocation day around.

Pack:

• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Body wash or soap
• Conditioner and shampoo
• Deodorant
• Wipes or face wash
• Toilet paper
• Towel
• Medications you take on a regular basis.

You will be grateful later when you do not have to dig through your boxes to find a toothbrush.

A change of clothes

You may not be able to completely unpack that night. So, packing clean, comfortable clothes in your essentials box can make the first night a little more normal.

Include:

• Loungewear or pajamas
• Clean underclothing and socks
• A fresh set of clothes to wear the following day
• Weather extras (jacket, slippers, etc.).

Valuables and documents

Your documents should always be with you, such as IDs, lease papers, and keys. Ensure you pack:

• ID and wallet
• Lease papers
• Keys to the new house
• Cash or cards
• Jewellery and small valuables

Rodi Moving & Storage professionals recommend keeping these valuables with you, not on the moving truck. That way, you’ll have everything you need right at your fingertips.

Bed & sleep accessories

Your bed frame may be in pieces, but you need to have the option of crashing comfortably. You can add the following to your essentials box:

• Sheets or a sleeping bag
• A pillow
• Blanket
• Earplugs or a sleep mask
• An air mattress or pad (in case you have one).

Simple kitchen supplies and snacks

You will definitely not want to attempt any serious cooking on the first night after a move. Nevertheless, you will want a few items to help you through that first night and possibly the following morning. Include:

• Paper cups and plates
• A can opener
• Bottled water
• Snacks (grain bars, chips, fruit)
• Coffee or tea
• Pet food if you have furry pets.

Electronics and chargers

Your phone is your savior in a move, so make sure it does not go dead on you. Pack the following:

• Phone charger
• Power strip
• Laptop and a charger
• Portable light source/ flashlight

Summing up

Moving can be stressful, and so is the initial night. Your moving essentials box should be practical to give you comfort and convenience on your first night. A small amount of preparation can get you into your new place feeling clean, cozy, and significantly less overwhelmed.