The Importance of Having a Moving Essentials Box for Your Move in San Bernardino
When moving into a new home, it’s easy to get wrapped up in coordinating all the packing and transportation details. Starving Students believes that one of the most important aspects of a stress-free move is preparing a moving essentials box—also known as an open-first box. This special box will contain the essential items you’ll need for the first 24-48 hours in your new home, ensuring comfort, convenience, and organization while you unpack.
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 bringing the whole family—including pets and seniors, tailoring your essentials box can make settling in much easier.
What is a Moving Essentials Box?
A moving essentials box is a box (or boxes) for immediate-need items after your move. Instead of opening every box as soon as you arrive, you’ll have your essential belongings ready to grab.
You can set up your essentials box for each household member or for specific uses, depending on your household’s needs. The total boxes or bags you use depends on your household size and distance, but the goal is to keep things neat and stress-free.
What to Pack in Your Moving Essentials Box
Personal Items
Your essentials box should include everyday items you rely on. This will ensure that even if everything else is packed in boxes, you have your basics within reach.
- 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 keep your first day and night comfortable, include essential household goods 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 Must-Haves
After a busy day of moving, 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 Essentials
Unpacking the kitchen can take a while, but you will need some basic supplies 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)
Emergency and Safety Items
Emergencies can happen during a move. Be prepared with these must-haves:
- 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 having what each person or pet needs makes move-in easier.
For Families with Kids
If you’re moving with children, helping kids feel secure is key.
- 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
How to Pack and Arrange Your Essentials Box
To make sure your essentials box serves its purpose, use these best practices:
- Label Clearly and Keep It Accessible
Use clear labels for quick identification, like "Open-First” or “Essentials Box." When loading your moving truck, make sure it’s packed last and unloaded first. - Use Multiple Boxes If Necessary
For large families, it’s better to use separate boxes for different categories rather than stuffing all your items into a single large box. - Limit to Absolute Necessities
Don’t overpack—keep it limited to items you’ll absolutely need within the first 24-48 hours. - Protect Key Documents During the Move
Important paperwork should be carried with you rather than packed in a moving truck. - Unpack Your Home at Your Own Pace
Having your essentials box ready means you won’t need to rush to unpack everything immediately, allowing you to get comfortable as you go.