Relocating can seem like a thrilling new adventure—new spaces, new environments, and new opportunities. However, before you can relax in your new place, you have to tackle one large task that can be stressful—packing everything from your kitchen to your closets. Having an organized packing checklist helps immensely! It tames the chaos, keeps you on track, and ensures nothing gets left behind.

General Packing Essentials

Item	Purpose	Tip
Sturdy Moving Boxes	Hold and protect items	Choose different sizes for efficiency
Packing Tape	Seal boxes securely	Reinforce box bottoms with double tape
Bubble Wrap / Packing Paper	Cushion fragile items	Use soft towels as an eco-friendly option
Permanent Markers	Label boxes	Mark “FRAGILE” clearly where needed
Scissors / Box Cutter	Cut tape and open boxes easily	Keep one handy in your essentials bag
Labels / Stickers	Identify room destinations	Color-code by room for faster unpacking

Bedroom

1. The bedroom might seem simple but it is where most personal items like clothes, bedding,and keepsakes.

2. Sort and donate clothes you no longer use.

3. Use wardrobe boxes to keep clothes wrinkle free.

4. Pack seasonal clothes separately for easy unpacking.

5. Keep your bedding in one labeled bag or box for your first night.

Pro Tip: Keep a small overnight bag with pajamas, toiletries, and a change of clothes — so you’re not digging through boxes after a long day of moving.

Kitchen

1. Packing up the kitchen can be quite the challenge mainly because of all those oddly shaped items that seem to multiply.

2. Start by wrapping each dish carefully in paper or bubble wrap to prevent damage.

3. When it comes to pots and pans, pack them together in a separate box and make sure the lids are secured.

4. For heavier items like canned goods, keep them in smaller boxes to make them easier to carry.

5. Don’t forget to label the cords of your appliances and pack them together for convenience.

6. Empty and defrost your refrigerator at least 24 hours before moving day.

Pro Tip: Create a “first-day” kitchen box filled with essentials like a kettle, mugs, snacks, and paper plates to make your first day in the new place a little smoother!

Living Room

1. Your living space often contains your most valuable things, so more packing takes place here.

2. Protect furniture with moving blankets or stretch wrap to prevent damage.

3. Label electronic cables and take photos before unplugging them.

4. Use corner protectors for framed art and mirrors.

5. Remove bulbs from lamps and wrap them separately to avoid breakage.

Pro Tip: Pack decorative items and electronics last so they are easier to unpack and set up quickly.

Bathroom

1. The bathroom could be compact but you need quick access to all your essentials. Pack toiletries in waterproof bags.

2. Create a smaller box of medications and label it for easy access.

3. Wrap any glass containers and perfumes in towels or socks for extra protection.

4. Don’t forget to pack some toilet paper, soap, and a couple of towels for the first night.

Packing Priorities by Room

Here’s a visual breakdown that shows where most people spend their packing time during a move: