What to Pack in your Essentials Bag + Car for a Cross Country or Local Move

Whether your move is local or across the country, one of the best things you can do to make moving day - especially moving days - easier is by packing an essentials bag. These are the items you can’t risk getting lost in the moving shuffle, valuables + items that will make your journey to your new home that much better. Keeping your most important - precious and practical - items in one place will be immensely helpful in staying organized and (less) stressed.

For a more visual take on these tips, be sure to check out our YouTube Video on this! Our most in-depth guide + resources continue below!

THE BAG

The type + size of bag you choose will be dependent on your move. If you’re going local, a duffle or even backpack may work. If you’re taking on a longer move like us across the country, a suitcase + backpack combo may be more helpful.

If you’re not sure on sizing, consider what items you will need + base it off what those items can fit into. Not sure on what you should include in your bag? Specific items depend on your specific needs but we hope these basics will be a helpful starting point. You can even print this free checklist to make creating your essentials bag that much easier!

KEYS, WALLET, PHONE, (MASK)

The stuff you need to get out the door every day is a must in your essentials bag. In many ways, it’s one big purse for all the essential things!

MEDICATIONS

Especially if you’re moving far away, having fully filled scripts is incredibly important. Even if you’re just moving local, knowing exactly where these are can be life saving.

IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS

From Passports to deeds and titles, social security docs to birth certificates you want to make sure you have all your important documents in your possession to ensure they get to your new home or are handy when needed. While this isn’t a complete list, a great start includes everything that can be found here.

ELECTRONICS

From phones to laptops or tablets, keeping your daily used electronics (or any that are valuable you want to keep an eye on), you’ll want to pack these and their chargers in your bag.

CONTACT INFO

You might have this information saved in your phone which is great, but be sure to write these down and keep them with your important docs in the case of your phone not working or being dead. Some important numbers + info to take down - movers, old and new landlord, old and new utility companies, emergency contacts.

PEN + PAPER

Even if you insist on technology, the simplest of items will save you in a pinch. Be sure you have these to make taking notes, jotting down directions or something else. If you need them, you’ll be happy you included them in your essentials bag.

TOILETRIES + CLOTHING

Especially if you’re moving across the country, be sure to include the essentials to wash off that "hours in a car” feel. As for clothing, consider the weather of where you’re going, layers to make the most of any situation and comfortable pieces that make sense for moving. TIP: Don’t forget a roll of toilet paper in case you’re in a tricky situation or you don’t have the time to run to the store on move in day.

SMALL TOOL KIT

When you get to your new home you won’t be getting started on major fixes right away any small or annoying bits will be able to be taken care of right away when you include this in your essentials bag.

CAR EMERGENCY KIT

While this isn’t technically part of your essentials bag, it is important to plan ahead with your vehicle to ensure you’ll get to your new home safe and sound no matter how far. A great list to get you started can be found here along with some car safety tips!

SNACKS + WATER

We all know we’re our best selves when we’re not hungry. Don’t forget the basics on an already stressful day by being sure to bring snacks and plenty of water + hydrating drinks. TIP: If you’re moving during hot weather consider grabbing Pedialite or something similar to help you quickly replenish electrolytes.

PET ITEMS

Beyond the essentials of food, treats, travel bowls and water it’s incredibly important to set your pet up with things they love + smell familiar to make the move just a little less stressful for your furry friends!

KIDS’ ITEMS

If you’re moving with children, you’ll want to pack them each their own essentials bag filled with the things they need + want for a more comfortable move including clothing, toiletries, entertainment for the car, snacks and more.