What to Pack First When Moving?
Pack first: seasonal items, decorations, books, guest room contents, artwork, and collectibles. These are rarely used and can be boxed 2-4 weeks early. Save daily essentials for the final 1-2 days.
Key Takeaways
- Start with items you won't miss: holiday decorations, off-season clothes, books you've read, basement and attic storage, and spare bedroom contents.
- Label boxes by room AND priority—'unpack first' for essentials.
- Keep a suitcase of clothes and toiletries as if traveling, to be unpacked last.
Explanation
Start with items you won't miss: holiday decorations, off-season clothes, books you've read, basement and attic storage, and spare bedroom contents. These can sit in boxes for weeks without inconvenience.
Middle stage (1-2 weeks out): pack non-essential kitchen items, most clothes (keep one week's outfits out), bathroom extras, and garage items. Create a 'moving essentials' bin for daily-use items.
Last to pack (final 1-2 days): daily dishes, toiletries, phone chargers, clothes for moving day, cleaning supplies, important documents, and valuables you'll carry personally.
Things to Know
- Label boxes by room AND priority—'unpack first' for essentials.
- Keep a suitcase of clothes and toiletries as if traveling, to be unpacked last.
- Pack a 'first night' box with sheets, toilet paper, basic tools, and snacks.