Why a Moving Essentials Bag is Important and What You Should Include in It

To minimize stress on a moving day, it’s important to pack a dedicated moving essentials bag with items you can’t afford to misplace during a flurry of boxes and supplies. By keeping all of your most essential things in one place, you can stay organized and reduce the likelihood of losing something important. But what exactly is a moving essentials bag, and why is it so crucial?

What is a moving essentials bag?

A moving essentials bag is a carefully curated selection of items you’ll need during the move and for the first few days in your new home. It is a portable survival kit that will help you transition from your old place to your new one. By packing a moving essentials bag, you can ensure that you have everything you need close at hand and don’t have to search through boxes to find an essential item frantically.

What are the essential items that should be packed in a moving essentials bag?

Although the items you should include in your moving essentials bag will vary based on your requirements, the following essentials should serve as a good starting point.

• Your wallet and keys – Misplacing your wallet and keys can be expected, especially during a move when a lot is going on. If you usually carry a purse to keep these items, keep it with your essentials bag to keep everything together. 
• Medications – It’s important to bring any medications that you regularly use, especially prescription medications that may be difficult to replace if lost. 
• Important documents – Don’t forget to include any documents related to your move in your essentials bag.
• Electronics – Include any electronics you regularly use in your moving essentials bag. Remember to pack the chargers for these items to ensure they stay powered up during the move.
• Make sure to have the contact information for people you need to reach on a moving day and immediately after – If the contact information for the people you need to call on a moving day and immediately after isn’t already saved in your phone, make sure to bring a piece of paper that includes their details. This should include contact information for your movers, old and new landlords, and old and new utility companies. 
• Pen and paper – Keep a pen and a small notepad handy during your move. They are easy to write down or sign an important document, so having them readily available is essential. Even if you don’t use them, you’ll be thankful to have them if needed.
• Basic toiletries – Pack basic toiletries such as toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, contacts, contact solution, soap or hand sanitizer, and more in a toiletries bag for easy access after a long day of moving.
• Pack a roll of toilet paper – Having it easily accessible during the move is crucial, so don’t take the chance of being without it.
• Pack a small tool kit – With the bare necessities, such as a screwdriver, wrench, and measuring tape, to ensure that you’re prepared for any minor repairs or measurements that may be needed during your move. 
• Scissors or tiny gliding knife – This essential item should be readily accessible during your move.
• Change of clothes – Therefore, pack the clothes that you will need during this period. Focus more on practicality rather than having many options. 
• Snacks and water – Pack a few snacks in your bag to keep you going when you need to bite. Include good options such as protein bars and individually packaged snacks, and pack a bottle or two of water. 

Moving Essentials Bag Tips

• Ensure to place your essentials bags in your car or another designated area to prevent the movers from seeing them.
• If you come across an item you know you’ll need access to immediately, put it in the bag. For longer moves, replace the bag with a suitcase or several, and include more clothes and toys.  
• Create a tools essentials box containing tools you’ll need for packing and unpacking, and label it as such. 
• Pack items that will keep your kids entertained and content, such as their favorite games and coloring books.

For your kids

• To ensure children’s comfort during a move, pack a separate bag for each child including toiletries, clothes, toys, formula, snacks, an iPad, and other necessary items for moving day and afterward.

For your pets

• If you are moving with pets, pack an essentials bag with all the necessary items for their needs.
• Include vaccine records, ID tags, food and water dishes, food, toys, and other necessities in the bag.

What is the reason for needing a moving essentials bag?

• So, why do you need a moving essentials bag? The answer is simple: it will make your life easier.
• To determine the appropriate bag size for your essentials, consider the distance of your move. For example, a gym bag may be sufficient if you only move a short distance. However, you will need a larger bag for longer moves that require at least a day of travel.
• Include essential items like documents, medication, toiletries, clothes, and anything you’ll need while moving in your essentials bag.
•  A moving bag should contain essential items for moving day and the immediate aftermath.
• Having a moving essentials bag will make the moving process more accessible, and you’ll always be grateful to have it!

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