The Importance of Having a Moving Essentials Box for Your Move in Las Vegas

When moving to a new home, it’s easy to get wrapped up in coordinating all the packing and transportation details. Starving Students believes that one of the most critical steps for an easy move is preparing a moving essentials box—also known as an open-first box. This special box will have everything you’ll need for the first 24-48 hours in your new home, ensuring comfort, convenience, and organization while you unpack.

Creating an essentials box can keep you from digging through moving boxes looking for basic necessities like toiletries, chargers, or kitchen items. Whether you’re bringing the whole family—including pets and seniors, tailoring your essentials box can make settling in much easier.

What is a Moving Essentials Box?

A moving essentials box is a box (or boxes) for immediate-need items after your move. Instead of digging through all your boxes right away, you’ll have your must-have items in one place for easy access.

You can organize your essentials box by category or by family member, depending on your household’s needs. The size and number of boxes will vary depending on the scale of 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 personal care items that you use daily. 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)

Day-One Home Essentials

To make your move-in experience easier, 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)

First Night Bedroom Items

After a long moving day, you’ll want a comfortable night’s sleep. Having these items ready will help you settle in quickly.

• 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

Bathroom Essentials

No one wants to start their first morning in a new home without basic hygiene items. 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’ll still need some kitchen necessities 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)

Move-In Safety Must-Haves

Surprises 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

Different households have individual 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, 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

Tips for Preparing 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, make sure it’s packed last and unloaded first.
2. Separate Essentials into Several Boxes
   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. Only Pack What You Need Right Away
   Don’t overpack—make sure you’re just packing urgent must-haves.
4. Carry Important Papers With You
   Never load valuable paperwork into the moving truck.
5. Unpack Your Home at Your Own Pace
   Having your essentials box ready means you can settle in slowly with less stress, allowing you to get comfortable as you go.

Next Steps: Getting Help with Packing and Moving in Las Vegas