Moving is a time-consuming process. Between the packing (that always feels rushed), the move itself, and the seemingly endless unpacking, it can feel like you’re living in a state of flux forever.
I just moved myself, and I can definitely say there are things I wish I had done differently. In particular, I wish I had packed a few things in “go bags” for each “zone” of my life to make the first week or so in my new space easier.
A go bag is pretty much what if sounds like: a bag full of necessities that you can just grab and go with. Really it’s from spy movies—that bag full of cash, passports with alternate identities, and whatever else one may need on the lam. With that in mind, I’ve created the ultimate guide to moving go bags so that you won’t suffer like me and spend four days wondering where your hairbrush is.
The Bedroom
The bedroom is always the room I set up first after a move. There’s nothing like being able to fall asleep in a freshly made bed after carrying all your shit around for a solid day. Comfort is key here and you should pack everything you need for a decent night’s rest post-move.
- Pajamas
- Slippers
- The book you’re in the middle of
- Lotions, essential oils, and any other skin/hair products you use at night
- Favorite pillow
- Phone charger
- Alarm clock
The Bathroom
Because the bathroom is key to both my morning and evening routines, this is the one zone that I planned well for in my last move. Take a few minutes to think about the products you use daily so you’re not running out and buying extra contact lens solution or hair mousse in between trips to your third story walk-up.
- All dental hygiene supplies
- Contact lens solution and cases
- Body, face, and hand soap
- Hair care for both work and bedtime
- Shaving supplies
- Tampons, pads, or cup
- Shampoo and conditioner
The Living Room
You’re going to want to relax and unwind a bit after the strenuous day(s) of a move. It’s important to make sure you have a few items to enjoy in your new space before you figure out where your friends left those four boxes of DVDs you know you packed. You should also remember you most likely won’t have wifi for a few days, so plan your entertainment accordingly if you don’t want to burn through your data plan watching “Archer” on your smartphone.
- Laptop and charger
- A few choice DVDs and/or records/CDs
- Spare portable speakers if you have them
The Kitchen
I was most unhappy after this move when I realized I didn’t know where my coffee grinder and French press were. It took me a few days to find them and during that time I was forced to buy my coffee out. It also meant that most of my dry and canned goods were also tucked in a box somewhere and I had to do a small round of grocery shopping even though I knew I had things packed away. Breakfast is a particularly important meal to plan for, especially if you’re like me and tend to have rushed mornings.
- Coffee, tea, or other morning beverage items
- Easy foods like oatmeal, pasta, rice, and snack foods
- Frying pan
- Medium saucepan
- Olive oil
- A few fresh ingredients to get you through a couple of days like broccoli, apples, and salad mix
- Pet food
What are your tips and tricks for making moving as easy as possible? Let us know in the comments or Tweet us @LitDarling!
