10 must-have items that should be in your essential box
Moving day can be full of stresses and strains, from waiting to get the keys to the final packing and sorting. Being organised can be a lifesaver, the last thing you want to happen when you arrive at your new property is to not know where things are, especially if it’s something that you need urgently, which is why we always recommend you put together an ‘essentials box’.
An essentials box is a box that travels with you and contains those things that you’re going to need for your first night. So, what should be in it?
- Snacks
Whether you’re moving on your own or with your family, make sure you have some snacks to hand to grab on the go. You need to keep your energy levels up as it’s going to be a long day; it will also keep any children appeased and your sanity intact when they tell you they’re starving at the most awkward of moments.
- Drinks
Emergency food is taken care of, and don’t forget to drink. If you’re using a removal company you may wish to offer them a brew while they’re moving in your heavy items. You’ll also likely be desperate for a cuppa when the movers are gone and you’re left with a sea of boxes to unpack and organise. So don’t forget your kettle, tea, coffee, and milk, everything you’ll need
- Tools
You’ll probably have some furniture that you need to put together, so make sure you have a small tool kit that includes all the tools that you might need. This way you can make sure you get your new home into shape as soon as you arrive.
- Essentials
As this is your essential box you will need the more obvious essentials: toilet rolls, towels, and don’t forget light bulbs. You don’t want to be caught short or left in the dark on your first night!
- Bedding
Bedding? Yes, the first task you need to tick off when you move in is to ensure that you make your bed – why? There is no doubt you will be exhausted after a day of moving, but eager to get started again the following day. Instead of an uncomfortable night, sleep soundly in a bed made up of fresh, clean bedding, the perfect recipe for a great night’s sleep.
- Cleaning products
We hope that the vendor of your new home will have cleaned the property before they left, but we tend to find that new homeowners just like to give the property a quick once-over themselves.
- Notebook
One of the first things you’ll need to do when you move in is to take note of the meter readings. Put a notebook in your essentials box to record these, as well as the contact details you may need. You could also add a list of companies and organisations you need to inform of your change of address.
- Entertainment
It may be a couple of days until your broadband is installed, so it could be worth downloading some content onto devices. You may also wish to pack a couple of DVDs that you enjoy as a family.
- Chargers
It may sound obvious, but make sure you put your chargers in the box, whether it’s for your mobiles or the kids’ devices, we can assure you it will be a relief knowing exactly where they are when needed.
- First meal
Think in advance about how you’re going to eat on your first night. Traditionally, many turn to takeaways, or you may have something prepared. Whatever route you take, make sure you have everything you need in your essentials box.
For more advice on getting ready to move home, contact a member of our Hunters team.
