What should I buy when moving into a new apartment?

Moving into a new apartment is a big step, especially if it’s your first time living on your own. During this exciting transition, there’s probably a lot you’ll want to accomplish. But where do you start? We’ve compiled a new apartment checklist that will help you keep track of everything you need. Download it now and keep reading for other tips on moving into a new place.







Set a budget for your new apartment

Before buying anything, plan a realistic budget. Though it can be tempting to rush out and get everything right away, it’s important to make sure you’ve got plenty of money for rent and utilities first. Look for coupons and sales that can help stretch your budget, or go bargain hunting at consignment shops, resale shops, garage sales and online classified ads (just make sure you read over these 5 Craigslist scams to avoid before you buy online).





Things to buy for a new apartment

Once you know how much you can spend, it’s time to prioritize your shopping list. While it may be tempting to splurge and furnish the entire apartment at once, it’s important to be realistic. If this is your first apartment, it’s wise to start out with just the basics and add things as needed. Begin with essentials like a bed, window coverings and dishes. You may need to wait for things like a dining room table and chairs — instead eat dinner on the couch or make a picnic on the floor for a few weeks while you save. If you’re fortunate enough to be moving into a furnished apartment, focus your budget on the important things you use in your day-to-day routine, like cleaning supplies and cookware.





Here are 16 things you need when moving out:

• Mattress (pillow, sheets and bedding)
• Sofa
• Pots and pans
• Glasses and plates
• Silverware
• Cooking utensils
• Cleaning supplies (vacuum, mop, cleaning solutions, laundry detergent, dish soap)
• Trash can (trash bags)
• Lighting (flashlight)
• Hangers and clothes pins
• Blinds or curtains
• Ironing board or steamer
• Toiletries (plunger)
• Microwave
• First-aid kit
• Tools

This list is divided into categories that cover just about any activity: sleep, clean, eat, wash, relax, organize and decorate. Before you head to the store and buy supplies for your new apartment, there a couple of things to consider:


Are you moving long distance or across town? While some things are just fine to move across town, items like flammables, combustible liquids, explosives, compressed gases, perishable foods and cleaning supplies can be dangerous to move long distance. (Check out additional items on the do-not-ship list found at upack.com. If there are things on this list that you’ll need at your new apartment, wait until you get there to buy it.

Will you have a roommate? If you’re leaving a roommate behind, you may not be able to bring shared items with you. Add them to your list if you’ll need them in the new place. On the flip side, if you’re getting a new roommate, they may have already purchased some of the things on the apartment checklist. Ask them what they’re bringing so you don’t spend unnecessary money.