Moving day is a mix of excitement, stress, and the sudden realization that you own way more stuff than you thought.

No matter how prepared you feel, the chaos of packing, lifting, and unpacking can leave you exhausted. And let’s not forget about the joys of the movers running late. 

That’s why having a moving day survival kit can make all the difference.

Essentials for Keeping Your Energy Up

You’re going to need fuel and saintly patience to power through the day. Keep these essentials on hand:

• Snacks – Granola bars, trail mix, and fruit provide quick energy without a sugar crash.
  
• Water bottles – Staying hydrated is key, especially if you’re lifting boxes and running around.
  
• Coffee or energy drinks – If you’re an early riser or pulling a long day, caffeine is your best friend.
  
• Easy-to-eat meals – Pre-made sandwiches or wraps will save you from the desperation of eating a stale bagel you found in an old moving box.

Good food makes any stressful situation better. 

Tools to Make Moving Smoother

Having the right tools on hand can prevent last-minute scrambling.

• Box cutter or scissors – You don’t want to wrestle with packing tape all day. Be sure not to leave blades sticking out or else moving day may involve stitches.
  
• Packing tape and extra boxes – Because somehow, you’ll always need more.
  
• Trash bags – Perfect for last-minute cleanup and tossing out random junk.
  
• Basic toolkit – A screwdriver, wrench, and hammer will come in handy for furniture assembly and minor repairs.
  
• Measuring tape – Before moving that couch through the doorway, double-check that it fits. Or, make it the movers’ problem. 

Personal Care Items

You’ll be sweating, moving, and likely too busy to think about basic comforts. Pack a small bag with:

• Toiletries – Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, and face wipes for a quick refresh.
  
• Extra clothes – A change of clothes, especially if you’re moving in the summer.
  
• Hand sanitizer and wipes – Moving is messy, and you’ll want to keep your hands clean.
  
• First aid kit – Because paper cuts from packing tape are inevitable. 

Important Documents and Valuables

The last thing you want is to lose important documents in a sea of moving boxes. Keep these with you:

• ID, wallet, and keys – Sounds obvious, but they’re easy to misplace in the chaos.
  
• Lease or home documents – Essential for any last-minute paperwork or confirmations.
  
• Phone charger – Your phone is your lifeline for directions, contacts, and emergency takeout orders.
  
• Cash – For tipping movers or unexpected expenses.

A Sense of Humor and Patience

Moving day is unpredictable, and something will go wrong. Work emergencies, extended family drama, and crappy weather have a knack for rearing their ugly heads when you need them least. So, be okay with hiccups.

Soldiering on (and stashing chocolate) will help you get through the day without losing your mind.

📦 SHAMELESS PLUG ALERT 📦

One awesome way to help relieve the stress of someone who’s moving is by surprising them with a housewarming gift…and we got one! Make way for our Move In Day Essentials Kit designed for apartment dwellers. Each kit contains: 2 garbage bags; 2 laundry detergent pods; 

2 dishwasher pods; Toilet paper; Soft hand soap; Multi-surface cleaner; Sponge; and Single serve snack pack. 

Who won’t appreciate that?

About BasketWorks

BasketWorks is a woman-owned gift basket company located in the north suburbs of Chicago (specifically Northbrook, IL) since 1997. We are proud to offer a variety of gifts and gift baskets appropriate for all occasions. Each of our packages is built to order, allowing for customization at no additional cost to our clients. Contact us today!

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