The moving truck has pulled away, the pizza boxes are empty, and you’re finally able to catch your breath. It’s been a long and exciting day, and you’re looking forward to settling down for the night in your new home. But then it hits you: you don’t know where anything is.
Suddenly you’re in a mad dash opening identical boxes looking for essentials like toothbrushes, bedding, pajamas, and a phone charger. This is the problem a first night box is designed to solve. Instead of hunting through a mountain of boxes, you have everything you need for your first 24 hours in your new home in a single box. Think of it as a personal moving day survival kit.
We’ll walk you through the essentials you should pack for ‘First Night Box.’
Daily Medications
This is important, so give it priority. Start by packing all prescription medications you take regularly, along with a few over-the-counter pain relievers, allergy medicine, or antacids. You’ll want to keep this pouch with you so it doesn’t get lost in the shuffle.
Bedroom and Sleep Necessities
Your first night box should make bedtime easy and comfortable after a long moving day. When you’re exhausted, you’ll want to set up your bed in minutes, not hours. Pack a sheet set (fitted and flat sheets), a blanket or comforter, and a pillow for each person. Include pajamas and a small nightlight or flashlight so you can find your way in the dark, if needed. You’ll appreciate being able to sleep in a bed at the end of the night.
Toiletries and Personal Care
Being able to take a quick shower after hours of hauling boxes makes a huge difference in how you feel. In a toiletry bag, pack the following:
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Shampoo, conditioner, and body wash
- Deodorant and daily skincare
- Daily grooming items (e.g., hairbrushes, combs, etc.)
- A bath and hand towel per person
- A roll of toilet paper for each bathroom
Kitchen Basics
Chances are you won’t feel like cooking on moving day. The goal of your moving day essentials box is to have simple items to keep hunger at bay so you don’t have to unpack the entire kitchen on day one. Pack a few grab-and-go snacks and easy meals that are easy to eat, bottled water, and your favorite coffee or tea, and your favorite mugs. You can round things out with paper plates, cups, napkins, and utensils, and a bottle and can openers. Clean up should be as easy as tossing everything into a trash bag.
Chargers and Electronics
A dead phone on your first night in a new home is an unwanted headache. Include charging cables and blocks for every device in the household, a portable power bank, and a power strip (or two).
A Fresh Set of Clothes
Pack an extra set of clothes for each person, including underwear and socks for the next day. You’ll feel like a completely new person after a shower and a change of clothes.
Important Documents
Keep important paperwork in a folder to keep with you, including your closing documents, insurance information, moving or utility paperwork, IDs, passports, and anything else you may need quick access to. Having these handy means you’re covered in case a question or hiccup occurs during the move.
A Few Comfort Items
Your new home may feel a little unfamiliar the first night so adding a few familiar things will help you settle in faster. Consider bringing whatever helps you relax and settle in, like a favorite cozy blanket or book, a favorite stuffed animal or toy for the kids, a small speaker for background music, and pet essentials like food, a bowl, leash, and pet bed or kennel.
Welcome Home
It only takes a few minutes to pack a first night box, but it can make your first evening in your new home feel much calmer.
Ready to find your new home? Explore SummerHill Homes’ new home communities throughout the Bay Area. Visit us online at SummerHillHomes.com to browse available homes, take virtual tours, and more.