A good move means reaching your new home without losing peace of mind. Still, that first day in a new place is often stressful. Adjusting to a new house and neighborhood usually takes time. These often-forgotten moving essentials can ease the process and help make your move smoother and more comfortable.

Checklist

Moving can feel overwhelming but a checklist makes it easier. Create one as soon as you know you’re moving. Include everything in it—like when to hire movers, buy boxes, set up utilities, change your address and pack each room.

Overnight Bag

If you’re moving long distance, you might get to your new home before your stuff does. Even if everything arrives on time, you’ll probably be too tired to unpack right away. That’s why having an overnight bag is so important. It keeps the essentials within reach so you can get by until your bedroom and bathroom are ready. Pack it with things like:

  • Spare Clothes: Pack pants, shirts, socks, underwear and pajamas. If you need to go to work, include at least one business outfit with shoes.
  • Basic Toiletries: Bring your toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, comb, deodorant, razor, shaving cream and nail clippers.
  • Medications: Keep any daily medicines, prescriptions or vitamins with you.

Kid’s Bag

Moving can be tough for everyone but it’s often hardest on kids. They depend on familiar things, so a new place can feel overwhelming. To help them stay calm, give them their own bag filled with comforting and fun items, like:

  • Toys: You can’t bring all their toys but packing a few favorites will keep them busy on the trip.
  • Music Player: Helps kids relax and fall asleep more easily in their new room.
  • Booster Seat: If your child still needs one, a foldable booster seat makes mealtimes simpler.
  • Security Blanket: This could be a blanket, stuffed toy or even clothing—anything that brings comfort and eases stress.

Shower Supplies

Once you’ve finished moving boxes and furniture, you’ll probably want a shower right away. That can be tricky without basics like towels, a bathmat and a shower curtain. Don’t forget soap and shampoo too—just pack them in a plastic bag to prevent spills. Some people even double-bag them for extra safety.

Sleeping Supplies

Your bedroom should be one of the first areas you set up in your new home. But if you’re too tired or short on time that first night, keep some simple sleep items with you. An air mattress, sleeping bags and pillows can save you from spending the night on a hard, cold floor.

Cleaning Supplies

You can’t always be sure if the previous owners cleaned before moving out, so it’s smart to bring cleaning supplies with you. You’ll likely notice areas you want to tidy before the furniture arrives and it’s much easier to clean an empty house. Things like wipes, sponges, scrub brush, toilet brush, laundry detergent, hand soap, paper towels, cleaning spray, a small broom and a dustpan should be enough to handle any mess.

Tool Kit

Most homes—unless brand new—aren’t in perfect shape. You’ll probably run into small fixes like loose screws or nails sticking out. With a few simple tools like a hammer, screwdriver, utility knife, adjustable wrench, tape measure and pliers, you can take care of these minor repairs yourself.

Chargers

Phones and tablets are essential for communication, entertainment and even paying bills. To keep them powered during the move, pack a few charging cables in your overnight bag. Bring at least two, so others can use one if needed. A charged phone also makes it easy to stay in touch with your movers and handle any issues that come up.

Plastic Bags

Plastic bags are often forgotten but very handy during a move. They’re inexpensive, durable and useful for more than just trash. You can also use them to carry last-minute items you forgot to pack.

Personal Documents

Always keep important papers with you, such as passports, birth certificates, marriage licenses, medical records, property titles and deeds. Also carry any moving-related paperwork like invoices, inventories or work orders. Having them on hand will help quickly resolve any issues if something comes up.

STI Moving Essentials

STI makes moving easier by offering packing supplies and packing services that keep your belongings safe during transport. Our movers provide the essential resources you need at every step, helping you settle into your new place quickly and smoothly. Get in touch today for a free quote!