Tips for the First Night in Your New Home

You have just purchased your new home, and you are so excited to move in! While you are planning your move and dreaming of all the possibilities for your new space, do not forget to plan for your first night in your new home! With the excitement of moving, it can be easy to overlook the fact that everything will not be perfectly organized on day one. These tips will help you plan ahead to have a restful, stress-free first night in your new home.

Pack Essentials Boxes

Think of spending your first night in your new home like camping - you will need to bring everything you need for comfort and convenience! Pack these items in "essentials" boxes so that you don't have to rummage through dozens of boxes or run to the store for items you already have. In addition to a box for kitchen, bathroom, and cleaning supplies, pack a box (or suitcase) for every member of the family. The kids might want paper, crayons, board games, or their tablets nearby, and older family members will need to have any medications handy. Of course, each person will need a change of clothes, pajamas, and personal toiletries. 

Be sure to pack these first night moving boxes last on the truck, so that they are first to come off. Better yet, load them into your car so that you can reach them at any time.

Set up the Bedrooms and Bathrooms First

Bathrooms are a necessity, and a good night's sleep is important when you are moving. Set up these rooms first so that the basics are taken care of. They don't need to be fully decorated - just include the basics like soap, towels, toilet paper, and beds with sheets or covers. 

Arrange Meals

Moving and unpacking is tiring work, and the last thing you want to think about is where your meals are coming from. Be sure to pack non-perishable snacks and drinks to keep your energy up throughout the day, but for big meals like lunch and dinner, download an app like Uber Eats or Postmates to make ordering fast and hassle-free. 

If you would prefer to cook, plan meals ahead and prepare an ice chest with all the food and condiments you’ll need, and add a “kitchen pots and utensils” box to the essentials stack so that it is handy when you need it. 

Plan Entertainment and Activities

If you are able to set up cable and internet before moving day, that will give kids something to focus on if they get restless or bored while unpacking. The ability to use computers will also help adults feel connected to jobs or family members during the moving process. At night, the whole family can come together to walk movies and relax after a busy day of unpacking. 

If you are moving to a house with a yard, set up the kids' favorite games and sports outside. That will keep them out of the way and doing something fun while you organize the house.

There are few moments as exciting as walking through the front door of your brand new home! With a little planning, you can carry that unforgettable feeling throughout the entire first day and have a relaxing, happy first night in your new home.