You’ve booked the movers, stocked up on boxes, and started sorting your stuff. You’re feeling on top of it… until you get to your new place and realize your phone charger didn’t make it. Or your toothbrush. Or your pet’s food bowl.

Even the most organized people forget key items when moving. And somehow, they’re always the things you need in the first 24 hours. That’s why we put together this practical checklist of what to pack when moving, especially if you want to avoid last-minute stress.

 

Why Do We Always Forget the Most Important Stuff?

The most important items are often the easiest to overlook.

Between wrapping glassware, taping boxes, and scheduling movers, it’s easy to forget the things you use daily. The ones so routine you don’t even think about them. The stress and pace of moving only make that more likely.

The result? You arrive at your new home, tired and ready to settle in, only to find your essentials are packed in the wrong box, or still sitting on your old kitchen counter.

Before you tape up your final box, make sure these basic items don’t slip through the cracks.

 

The Essentials Everyone Forgets to Pack (But Definitely Need)

These items are commonly left behind or packed too early — and they’re usually the first things you’ll need.

Daily Must-Haves

• Phone and laptop chargers
• Prescription medications
• Wallet, keys, ID, and parking fobs
  
• Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, contact lenses)

Comfort & Convenience Items

• Bed sheets and pillow
• Shower curtain and towel
• Coffee or tea supplies
• Toilet paper, paper towels, and soap
• Light snacks and water bottles

“Oops, Still at the Old Place” Items

• Wi-Fi router and modem
• Trash bags and cleaning supplies
• Tool kit or screwdriver
• Pet food, leash, or litter box
• Important documents (lease, insurance, passports)

 

Pack This First: Your Essentials Bag Checklist

To avoid day-one panic, set aside a clearly labeled “Essentials Bag” or open-first box. This is your survival kit for the first 24–48 hours in your new home. Keep it with you — in your car or backpack, not the moving truck.

Essentials Bag Checklist:

• Toiletries and personal care items
• Daily medications and basic first aid
• Chargers and a power strip
• A couple changes of clothes
• Snacks, instant coffee or tea, reusable water bottle
• Basic cleaning wipes and hand soap
• Bed linens and pillow
• Important documents and ID
• Small tool kit
• Pet food, leash, or toys

Customize based on your lifestyle: Have young kids? Add a bedtime book and a favorite toy. Moving during the rainy season? Toss in a rain jacket or umbrella.

 

Pro Tips to Avoid the “Wait… Where’s My…?” Moment

Once you’ve got your bag packed, here are a few more ways to stay ahead of the chaos:

• Label your essentials clearly.
  Write “DO NOT PACK” or “KEEP WITH ME” on the outside to avoid confusion.

• Use sticky notes to mark last-minute items.
  Place them on your Wi-Fi router, coffee grinder, or other things you’ll use up to moving day.

• Do a final room-by-room sweep.
  Check drawers, cabinets, under the bed — and especially those high closet shelves.

• Pack your essentials early.
  Give yourself 2–3 days of buffer so you’re not rushing the night before.

• Think like your future self.
  What will you need within the first hour at your new place? That’s what goes in the essentials bag.

 

Start Smart and Settle In Faster

Your first day in your new home should feel exciting — not stressful because you can’t find a toothbrush or your meds. Packing a thoughtful essentials bag gives you peace of mind, even when everything else is still in boxes.

Rain or shine, across town or across the hall, we’re here to help make it easier.

Contact Just Move Vancouver for a free quote, and let us help make moving day feel easy.