A practical packing checklist
Pack in an order that lets you keep living in the home. A checklist is useful when it reflects your rooms and deadline, rather than an ideal timetable that no longer fits.
Read the guidePacking notes
Make the first night easier.
An open-first kit keeps the most useful everyday items separate from the rest of the move. Pack it for your household, then keep it accessible rather than buried with everything else.
Keep a practical copy beside your packing plan.
Start with everyday needs
- Toiletries, towels and a change of clothes.
- Bedding and the items needed for a usable sleeping space.
- Chargers, a light source and the things you use every morning.
Keep a simple kitchen set
- A cup, plate and utensils for each person who needs them.
- A simple meal plan and the appropriate food storage arrangements.
- Basic cleanup supplies packed safely and separately as appropriate.
Carry the important items yourself
- Medication, keys, documents and valuables stay under your control.
- Plan the specific needs of children and pets.
- Mark the kit Open first and agree how it will travel.
A useful detail
This is a planning prompt, not a universal packing list. Add the items your household would find difficult to replace on the first evening.
Want a hand with this part?
Use the guide to prepare your own plan, or ask for help with the rooms and tasks you would like to hand over.
Unpacking helpKeep planning.
Labels that make unpacking easier
A good label answers three questions quickly: where does this box go, what is inside and how soon will you need it? The same system should work for everyone helping.
Read the guideYour next chapter
A little help, right where you need it.
Tell us about your rooms, your timing and the work you would like help with.