Moving out for the first time can be scary no matter the circumstance. You could be moving to college, moving out of your parent’s house, buying a new home, getting a new job, etc. Many lifestyle changes can cause you to want to or have to move. Although moving to a new place in life can be exciting, being alone or in a new place can be difficult. Chances are you’re gonna need some tips and checklists to properly prepare for moving out for the first time.
You’ll be thinking about many things when moving out for the first time. This guide will review some tips and tricks to help you successfully move out for the first time. After reading this you’ll find yourself free of uncertainty and looking forward to the exhilarating move!
Table of Contents
Checklist for Moving Out for the First Time
It is wise to make a checklist or “to-do” list when preparing to move out for the first time. There are many things you’ll need to get in order before you move. A checklist can help you set these items out clearly. You may even feel more accomplished when you get to physically check something off the list! Everyone’s checklist will look different, but here are some common checklist items for moving out for the first time. And keep reading down for a printable moving checklist!
Getting Finances in Order
This is number one on the checklist for a reason! Having your finances in order is vital to moving out for the first time successfully. This is one of the most important tips for moving out for the first time. Most of the time moving out for the first time entails being financially independent as well. Once you begin living independently you’ll be taking on new financial responsibilities.
You’ll want to start tracking your income, and spending, and set a budget. It might be difficult to do this at first as you may not have a job yet. You can still plan out investments you know you will have to make. Planning out what you’ll need to buy for your move will help you stay on budget and save money in the long run.
Finding a Job
For starters, you might want to hold off moving out until you’ve landed a steady job. At the very least, you should have a backup plan for how you’ll cover rent and other expenses. Finding a steady job doesn’t mean you need to become the CEO of a company. When moving out for the first time you’ll be looking for an entry-level job just to get you on your feet. From here you can work your way up!
Finding a Place to Live
Perhaps the most important part of moving out for the first time is finding a place to live! With today’s technology, finding a new home is easier than ever. Many online services can help you find homes on the market or help you find a realtor in the area. You might prefer the old-fashioned way of driving around neighborhoods, who doesn’t love a good house hunt?
Some things to think about when finding your new home include:
- Job location
- School location
- Safety concerns
- Affordability
- Transportation
- Entertainment
- Dining
Getting Insurance
Getting insurance coverage is vital when moving out for the first time. There are many different kinds of insurance but there are two that stand out from the rest.
Consider getting health insurance. Most U.S. health insurance plans cover dependents until they are 26. If you are 26 or under you may still be covered by your parent’s insurance! Regardless, you will have to get your insurance one day, so it is beneficial to find a plan early on.
You will also most likely need renters insurance. Renters insurance is important for protecting your belongings. If you have valuable things in your home and some natural disaster happens, renters insurance will cover the cost. There are many other things renters insurance covers for you too! For any kind of insurance, you should compare policies to find the best fit for you!
Hiring Professional Movers
Hiring movers can make your first move by yourself much easier. To begin the process, start by researching moving companies in your area and getting quotes from several of them. Look for companies with good reviews, proper insurance coverage, and experience moving people in situations similar to yours.
Once you’ve selected a company, be sure to communicate clearly with them about what you need to be moved, when you need it moved, and any other pertinent details. On moving day, be ready for the movers by having everything packed and labeled clearly, and be available to answer any questions they may have.
Finally, be sure to inspect your belongings carefully once they’ve been unloaded at your new place to ensure that everything arrived safely. Hiring movers may seem like an extra expense, but it can save you a lot of time and hassle, especially if you’re moving out for the first time.
Looking to move soon?
Check out UniMovers and save 30-50% on your move as compared with traditional moving!
Moving Out Supplies Checklist
Now that we’ve gone over what you’ll need to set up before you move, you may be wondering what’s next. Well, chances are you won’t be able to take everything from your childhood bedroom. Moving into a new place alone means you’re going to need all the essentials.
Here we are going to discuss just some basic items you’ll need for moving out. These tips on what to buy will help you have a more successful first time moving out.
- Bedding: You are definitely going to need a good night’s sleep after moving out for the first time. You will most likely need a mattress, mattress topper, bedspring, comforter, pillows, sheets, or a duvet cover.
- Kitchen Accessories: Kitchen appliances are a popular housewarming gift so you may move in with a few things. Some items you may still need include plates, silverware, mugs, pots, and pans.
- Bathroom Accessories: Hopefully you won’t have to do much plumbing when you move into your new home! Some things you should go ahead and buy for your bathroom are shower curtains, shower liners, toilet brush cleaners, storage, and of course toiletries.
- Electrics: Electrics are one of the most important purchases you will make when moving into a new home. You will need to make sure you have plenty of batteries, extension chords, charger ports, etc.
- Tool Kit: Chances are you’ll have to put some furniture together once you arrive. Be sure to bring a tool kit with at least the basics. This includes nails, screws, hammers, screwdrivers, drills, pliers, etc.
Other Considerations for Moving Out for the First Time
Now that we’ve covered all of the essentials, there are still a few small things to think about before you move. Similarly to the above checklists, these things will differ from person to person. The following list are additional tips, moving out for the first time should be your own experience! Feel free to create a checklist that is personal to you.
Roommates
Moving out for the first time and living alone can be scary. If you aren’t quite ready to be all by yourself, you could look for a roommate! You may have friends who are also moving out that you could room with. There are other ways to find roommates too though. You can post on social media and put out an ad to find a roommate. Or there are even specific apps you can use to find others looking for roommates in the area!
Meal Services
You may have to check your budget for this one, but adding a meal service can help you ease into cooking for yourself. There are lots of meal services available with plenty of diversity. You can sign up for meal services that send you ingredients with recipes to learn to cook for yourself. Others will send you prepackaged meals to warm up and enjoy!
Gym Memberships
Moving out for the first time and starting a new chapter of life is the perfect time to get in shape! Signing up for a gym membership is not only physically beneficial but also mentally beneficial. You may be feeling a lot of stress from moving, exercise can help you release this stress healthily. Having a gym membership is also a great way to make friends in a new area!
New Wardrobe
As we discussed earlier, when moving out for the first time you’ll need to look for a steady job. Having professional or interview-ready outfits is a must for any adult. What goes better with moving to a new place than a shopping spree? Elevating your wardrobe will not only help you in job interviews but will also make you feel more confident in your new life.
Conclusion
Moving out for the first time can be both exciting and daunting. It’s a big step towards independence and adulthood. Before you move out, it’s important to find a place that fits your budget and lifestyle. You’ll need to consider factors such as location, safety, and accessibility to public transportation. Additionally, you’ll need to create a budget that includes not only rent but also utilities, groceries, transportation, and other expenses. It’s also essential to make a list of household items you’ll need, such as furniture, kitchenware, and cleaning supplies. Finally, make sure to stay organized by keeping important documents, such as your lease agreement and bills, in a safe place.
While it may be scary at first, moving out for the first time can be a rewarding experience that teaches you valuable life skills. By following these tips and proper planning, moving out for the first time can be a smooth and satisfying experience.
If you are looking for a checklist that is a little more organized you can use the checklist below and get a jump start on planning!
Reese Ledford comes from Fort Mill, South Carolina, right outside Charlotte, North Carolina. She is currently studying English and Political Science at the University of South Carolina in Columbia, South Carolina. In her free time, she loves to travel, draw, write, exercise, and spend time with friends and family.
