Moving can be stressful. Really stressful. It’s up there with getting married or starting a new job.
So here’s one of our top tips for moving home: create a moving day survival kit. That’s a rucksack, duffle bag, or suitcase containing all the essentials you need to survive the first 24 hours in your new pad.
But what, exactly, should go in this handy, portable lifesaver? Read on and bag yourself some great ideas.
For your sanity
Your mobile phone, if you have one, can be a lifesaver on moving day. So, the first item in your survival kit should be a phone charger.
Imagine not being able to call your removals team, estate agent or solicitor if something goes wrong. Dead batteries can be a killer.
Another top tip is to pack a torch. You don’t want to be fumbling around in the dark at night, especially if something trips and you need to find the fuse box.
When it’s time to get some shuteye, you’ll need some bed linen and pillows. And don’t forget your PJs for cosiness and sweet dreams. A change of clothes for the morning is a great fit for your survival kit too.
Oh, and don’t forget to pack some cleaning supplies and bin liners.
For the bathroom
Picture the scene. You’ve just moved in, it’s 11pm, and all you want to do is head to bed.
But there’s a problem: you have no idea where your washbag is! The box with your bathroom stuff could be anywhere. And your toothbrush might as well be in Timbuktu.
So, here’s our next top tip for moving home: have some basic toiletries handy. Don’t forget your toothpaste, a towel, razor, some soap, and last but not least, some toilet roll.
You’ll need towels for everyone, too. And don’t forget painkillers — moving day can be a headache — plus any prescription medicines. You could even take some plasters.
Being prepared means potential bathroom stresses will wash over you.
For the kitchen
Get grumpy when you’re hungry? Imagine getting to dinnertime but there’s no food, nothing to eat off and nothing to eat with.
Because of this, some basic cutlery, a saucepan, a few plates, and a sharp knife are essential ingredients in any moving day survival day kit.
And don’t forget the kettle, some tea and coffee, a few mugs and a teaspoon either. The removals team will thank you for it.
When it comes to food and drink, either pack some bread, milk, and butter or pop down the local corner shop (if there’s one nearby).
You’ll also need some washing up liquid and a sponge. Leaving dirty dishes can lead to dirty looks from your other half.
For the kids
Did you know that 1 in 5 first-time buyers now has a least one dependant ? So, here are a few top tips for the growing number of movers with kids.
Pack a few toys, books and games in your survival kit. But not too many because they could get under your feet – a dangerous hazard if you’re lugging boxes around.
Tablets and portable games consoles can keep the little ‘uns occupied too. You could even relax their device time limits for the day (but only if you’re happy to).
It’s also worth packing snacks, drinks, wipes, and spare nappies if your kids are super young. Or, better still, ask family or friends to look after them for a while.
For a smoother move
A moving day survival kit won’t take all the stress out of moving — only a magic wand could do that — but it can certainly ease the pressure.
Having essentials within easy reach, so you don’t have to rummage around to find basic stuff, can stave off a moving meltdown.
There’ll be no relaxing bath if your towels have done a disappearing act. And no refreshing cuppa if your cups are buried at the bottom of a box.
So always be prepared. That’s the top tip for moving home that anyone can give.
This content was accurate when published on 16/06/2026.
Moving to pastures new? Then check out My Home Manager in our Mobile Banking app. You’ll find handy packing tips and can even arrange a free removals quote. Planning renovations after you’ve settled in? You could always think about a home improvement loan.