What is an Essentials Box?

An essentials box is a box (or bag or suitcase) of items you will need, either on your journey, in the car, or during your first few days at your new place. These are items you’ll need right away, so you won’t have to rummage through all your packed boxes. When moving interstate, there’s always a chance that you will be without your full truck load of belongings for a day or two, sometimes more, depending on how you have booked. 

Why an Essentials Box is Important

Having an essentials box means that you can still have all the comfort items you need without having to find the nearest Kmart and repurchase everything. It also makes the moving experience less stressful as you know that, if anything does go wrong, you’ve got the items you need right beside you. 

Here’s a breakdown of what to include, focusing on road trip essentials and first-night essentials.

Packing a Road Trip Essentials Box

If you’re moving long-distance, consider packing a separate box or bag for the journey. Here are key items to include. If you have kids, ask them to pack their own essentials box. 

Snacks and Drinks

Keep a stash of non-perishable snacks like nuts, granola bars, or dried fruit. Hydration is key, so pack plenty of water or travel-friendly drinks. To make it extra fun for the kids, consider using a tackle box to create little snack sections for the ride. Make sure you call them “Snackle Boxes” to ensure maximum eye rolls from the children. 

Comfort Items

Bring along pillows, blankets and ONE stuffed animal for comfort during the drive, especially if you have kids or pets. 

Devices and Activities 

Keep the kids entertained on the road by uploading movies onto their devices beforehand in case the internet service is bad on the road (which is tends to be). Have a look at our Free Moving Journal for Kids - it contains 20 pages of fun activities and sheets to fill in to keep them occupied along the way. 

Navigation Tools

Ensure you have a GPS device or a smartphone with a maps app. A physical map can also be handy in case of poor reception.

First Aid Kit

Pack a small first aid kit with band-aids, pain relievers, and any personal medications is essential for unexpected bumps along the way.

Pet Supplies

If you’re travelling with pets, include food, water bowls, leashes, and any medications they might need. Don’t forget a few toys to keep them occupied.

Emergency Supplies

Keep a flashlight, basic tools, and a multi-tool in case you need to address any unexpected situations during your travels.

First Night Essentials

Once you arrive at your new home, you'll want to have certain items readily accessible for a comfortable first night. Here’s what to include:

Bedding

Pack sheets, pillows, and blankets so you can make your bed right away and get a good night’s sleep.

Toiletries

Include basic toiletries like toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, toilet paper, and any personal care items you use daily.

Clothing

Pack a change of clothes for the first few days, including comfortable sleepwear. Consider the weather to ensure you have appropriate layers.

Kitchen Basics

Bring a few essential kitchen items like plates, cups, utensils, and a coffee maker or kettle. Include snacks and drinks for easy access.

Important Documents

Keep essential documents, like identification, moving contracts, and medical records, in a safe but accessible place.

Chargers and Electronics

Don’t forget your phone chargers, laptop, and any other electronics you’ll need immediately.

Cleaning Supplies

Include basic cleaning supplies like paper towels, multi-surface cleaner, and trash bags for quick clean-up as you settle in.

Basic Tools

A few essential tools (screwdriver, hammer, etc.) can come in handy for assembling furniture or making minor repairs upon arrival.

Book your Move with Best Rated Transport 

Moving is complicated enough without having to contact several companies for quotes. Best Rated Transport does the comparisons for you so you can make an informed decision and ensure a positive moving experience. Free, simple to use, open and transparent, our state-of- the-art online booking platform makes the most complex of moves easy for you. 

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