The Importance of Having a Moving Essentials Box for Your Move in Salt Lake City

When moving to 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 has the essential items you’ll need for the first day or two in your new home, helping you stay comfortable and prepared as you settle in.

Preparing an essentials box can save you from rummaging through stacks of packed boxes looking for basic necessities like fresh clothes, toiletries, chargers, or kitchen essentials. Whether you’re moving with children, animals, or 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 bag with all your must-haves for your first day in your new place. Instead of opening every box as soon as you arrive, you’ll have your high-priority things together for quick use.

You can organize your essentials box by category or by family member, depending on your household’s needs. The amount and type of essentials boxes you need may change based on your move, but the goal is to keep it manageable and well-organized.

What to Pack in Your Moving Essentials Box

Personal Items

Your essentials box should include daily necessities. This will make sure that even if everything else is packed away, you have your must-haves close by.

• 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)

Everyday Household Items

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 Essentials

After a full 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 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)

First-Night Kitchen Supplies

Unpacking all your kitchen items can take a while, but you’ll still 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 unique needs, and having what each person or pet needs makes move-in easier.

For Families with Kids

If you’re moving with children, keeping them comfortable and entertained is essential.

• 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, make sure to include:

• 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

Tips for Preparing Your Essentials Box

To make sure your essentials box meets your needs, use these best practices:

1. Make Sure Essentials Box is Clearly Labeled
   Mark your essentials box with bold labels such as "Open First" or "Moving Essentials." When loading your moving truck, load it last to guarantee it's easy to unload first.
2. Use Multiple Boxes If Necessary
   For large families, have multiple essentials boxes for each person or type of item rather than putting too much in just one box.
3. Only Pack What You Need Right Away
   Don’t overpack—only include what’s vital for your first 1-2 days.
4. Carry Important Papers With You
   Important paperwork should be carried with you rather than packed in a moving truck.
5. Take Your Time Getting Settled
   Having your essentials box ready means you won’t need to rush to unpack everything immediately, allowing you to get comfortable as you go.

Next Steps: Getting Help with Packing and Moving in Salt Lake City