Top Reasons to Use a Moving Essentials Box for Your Move in Riverside

When moving into 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 valuable parts of a low-stress 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 couple of days in your new home, ensuring comfort, convenience, and organization while you unpack.

Having 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 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 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 it manageable and well-organized.

What Should Go in Your Moving Essentials Box

Personal Items

Your essentials box should include everyday items you rely on. This will make sure that even if everything else is packed away, you have easy access to your necessities.

• 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 items 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)

First Night Bedroom Items

After a busy day of moving, you’ll want a comfortable night’s sleep. Having these items ready will let you rest easily.

• 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

Personal Hygiene Basics

No one wants to start their first morning in a new home without essential toiletries. Make sure to include:

• Toilet paper
• Shampoo and conditioner
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Deodorant
• Hairbrush or comb
• Towels and washcloths
• Shower curtain (if needed)

First-Night Kitchen Supplies

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)

Be Prepared for the Unexpected

Emergencies 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

Different households have unique needs, and having what each person or pet needs makes move-in easier.

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 make sure their comfort items are included.

• Food and treats
• Water bowls
• Leash and pet waste bags
• A comfortable blanket or bed

Packing and Organizing Your Essentials Box

To make sure your essentials box meets your needs, keep these strategies in mind:

1. Make Labels Bold and Easy to Spot
   Clearly label your box with phrases like "Open-First" or "Essentials Box." When loading your moving truck, load it last to guarantee it's easy to unload first.
2. 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.
3. Prioritize the Most Important Items
   Don’t overpack—only include what’s vital for your first 1-2 days.
4. Carry Important Papers With You
   Never load valuable paperwork into the moving truck.
5. Take Your Time Getting Settled
   Having your essentials box ready means there’s no pressure to open every box right away, allowing you to settle in at your own pace.

Next Steps: Getting Help with Packing and Moving in Riverside