Getting ready to move into your new home can be a hectic experience. From getting items out of storage to transferring items from your old home into your new space, it’s easy to lose track of things. That’s why it is important to keep track of essential items during the move.

While you’ll pack most of your belongings into a variety of boxes, you should plan to keep some items separated or clearly marked as a survival kit to make the first day or two in your home much easier. If you can, keep these items in your car with you during the move, and make sure to follow this checklist of must-have items on moving day.

Items to keep separate

These are some of the most important items for you to have, practically, emotionally, and financially.

Keys

This is the most important item to have handy while moving to avoid the headache of not being able to get into your new home.

Chargers

Keep your chargers somewhere easily accessible so you can ensure your devices are powered up throughout your busy day. Make sure to keep chargers for your phone, tablet, and laptop within arm’s reach. If your household has a few devices that need to be charged, you may want to pack a power strip.

A change of clothes

You’ll want to have an extra set of clothes and pajamas to easily change into and out of without tearing through all your packed boxes. A good way to pack this change of clothes is in an overnight you typically use for a long weekend trip.

Valuables

You may have some possessions that are valuable, are fragile, or have strong sentimental value. These can range from diamond jewelry to a gift a grandparent gave you. If there are any items that you would be very upset if they got damaged or lost, err on the side of caution and keep them with you.

Important documents

Instead of risking some of these items getting damaged or lost, keep them with you during your move. These important documents can include:

• Moving contract
• Ownership documents for your new home
• Health insurance cards
• Medical records
• Birth certificates
• Passports and visas
• Pet vaccination records

Tools

You’ll need several tools to help make moving easier and to help set up your new home. Remember, you’ll need to open numerous boxes, as well as put together some furniture and other items. Also, make sure to practice safety in your new home by bringing new batteries along to put in your smoke detectors, as well as a fire extinguisher if the home doesn’t already have one.

• Box cutter
• Scissors
• Hammer
• Flashlight
• Screwdriver
• Pliers
• Drill
• Tape measure
• Batteries
• Fire extinguisher

Health items

Keep any medication prescribed to you somewhere you can access it. Also, make sure to keep a first-aid kit stocked with bandages and antiseptic in case of an emergency. Finally, a long day of moving may leave you a little sore, so have pain relivers and heating pads ready to ease any aches and pains.

• Prescribed medication
• Pain relievers
• Heating pads or wraps
• Ankle wraps
• First-aid kit
• Vitamins

Bedding

After a day full of moving items into your new home, you’ll be ready to hit the hay that night. When that time comes, make sure you have easy access to these items so you can quickly make your bed and get some sleep.

• Pillows
• Sheets
• Blankets
• Sleeping mask
• Alarm clock

Toiletries

A shower will be an enjoyable end to your day, especially if you’re moving during the warmer times of the year. Keep any items you need to feel refreshed somewhere easily accessible, including a shower curtain so you don’t get water all over the bathroom. Also, avoid a trip to the grocery store by bringing along a couple rolls of toilet paper—your household will be thankful that you did.

• Toilet paper
• Toothbrush
• Toothpaste
• Deodorant
• Shower curtain
• Soap
• Hand sanitizer

Cleaning supplies

Even if the previous owners cleaned the home before leaving, you may still want to clean the house as you unpack. You’ll want a plethora of cleaning supplies at your disposal. The floors are bound to get a little dirty and a few surprise messes are sure to pop up.

• Trash bags
• Multipurpose cleaner
• Rubber gloves
• Paper towels
• Toilet brush
• Plunger
• Vacuum
• Broom and dustpan
• Mop

Cooking essentials

You’ll likely work up an appetite organizing your new home, so be ready with everything you need for a few simple meals. Even if you order out, you’ll likely want some disposable plates and utensils to eat without digging out your glassware, silverware, and dishes. Don’t forget snacks and drinks to help keep you nourished throughout the day!

• Pot
• Disposable dishes
• Can opener
• Bottle opener
• Snacks
• Drinks
• Kettle

Pet items

Don’t forget about your cat or dog during the move. If you haven’t boarded your pet, make sure they have everything to get comfortable in their new home. Remember that moving can be stressful for animals, so follow these tips to help make the transition as easy as possible.

• Pet Food
• Dishes
• Leashes
• Medications
• Bed
• Litter box

Moving into a new house is a lengthy process to get through. However, going in organized and prepared will have you settled in your new home in no time.