Most Commonly Forgotten Things to Pack When Moving Across the Country

September 8, 2023Moving Tips
Kate Holland

A true grunge and rock music fan born in Seattle, Kate has moved across the country and started writing about her experience.

Moving across the country can be an exciting and transformative experience, offering new opportunities and adventures. However, amidst the chaos and flurry of preparations, it’s easy to overlook essential items. As you embark on this significant journey, it’s crucial to be mindful of the most commonly forgotten things to pack that tend to slip through the cracks.

When relocating, it’s crucial to be mindful of commonly forgotten items to ensure a smooth transition. Important documents, medications, and personal care items should be packed separately in an easily accessible “Essentials Box.” Additionally, remember to box up cooking utensils, pots, pans, and baking sheets, as well as plates, bowls, and silverware for daily living. Don’t overlook electronics and entertainment gadgets, such as chargers, speakers, and gaming consoles, for your comfort and enjoyment. Essential items like cleaning supplies, bedding, towels, and storage solutions should also be included.

Should You Make a List of Most Commonly Forgotten Things to Pack?

Do you want to avoid asking yourself “What did I forget to pack?” Creating a checklist of commonly forgotten items is an excellent strategy to ensure that you don’t overlook any essentials during your move to a new state. Moving can be a hectic and overwhelming process, and it’s easy to forget even the most obvious items in the midst of the chaos.

By making a list, you can stay organized and methodically check off each item as you box it up. It helps you visualize what needs to be done and gives you a sense of control over the moving process. The to-do list can serve as a helpful reference point to ensure that you don’t miss any crucial items.

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Essential Items Are Sometimes Forgotten

One of the crucial things not to forget when packing are essential items. However, they are unfortunately prone to being forgotten during the chaos of a move. It’s not uncommon for even the most organized individuals to overlook critical items amidst the flurry of packing and preparations. Often, these forgotten essentials can cause inconvenience, additional expenses, or even disrupt your daily routine in your new home.

By consciously considering essential items, double-checking your packing process, and referring to your checklist, you can minimize the chances of forgetting crucial items. Taking the time to plan and prepare will ultimately make your transition to a new home smoother and more comfortable.

Important Documents

Gathering and safeguarding important documents is crucial when relocating across the country. These may include passports, driver’s licenses, birth certificates, social security cards, marriage certificates, and any other legal or identification documents. Keep them in a secure folder or envelope and personally carry them during the move. Losing or misplacing these documents can cause significant delays and complications, so it’s essential to prioritize their safekeeping.

Medications and Prescriptions

Ensure that you have an ample supply of necessary medications and prescriptions in the box with essentials. Consider the duration of the move and have enough to last until you can transfer prescriptions or transfer health insurance. Keep them in their original packaging, clearly labeled, and store them in a secure and easily accessible place. Additionally, it’s advisable to have a list of medications, dosages, and any allergies handy in case of emergencies or when updating medical records.

A bottle of allergy medicine
Don't forget anything important to your health

First Aid Kit and Medical Supplies

Accidents can happen at any time, and having a well-stocked first aid kit and essential medical supplies is essential for your safety and well-being. Include items such as adhesive bandages, antiseptic solution, pain relievers, thermometer, tweezers, scissors, and any specific medications or medical supplies you or your family members may need. Keep the first aid kit in an easily identifiable box or bag and ensure it’s accessible during the move and upon arrival at a new home.

Basic Toiletries and Personal Hygiene Products

When preparing for a move, it’s easy to overlook everyday toiletries and personal hygiene products. Bring items such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, soap, deodorant, razors, and any other products you use on a daily basis. Consider placing them in a separate bag or box labeled “bathroom essentials” to easily locate and access them upon arrival. Having these items readily available will help you maintain a personal hygiene routine during the initial days of settling in.

Spare Keys for the New Residence

Before leaving a current home, make sure you have spare keys for a new residence. Duplicate keys for the main entrance, garage, mailbox, or any other necessary locks should be safely packed and easily accessible. It’s wise to keep them separate from other belongings to avoid misplacing them during the move. Spare keys provide peace of mind and prevent potential inconveniences when you arrive at a new home.

Cash and Credit Cards for Emergencies

While electronic payments are prevalent, it’s always prudent to have cash and credit cards on hand for emergencies or unexpected situations. Keep a small amount of cash for immediate needs, such as tolls, snacks, or any unforeseen circumstances where cards may not be accepted. Additionally, ensure your credit cards are easily accessible and inform the bank about the move to prevent any potential issues with card usage in a new location.

Woman holding money
It's important to have cash on hand for emergencies

Kitchen and Dining Knick Knacks Are Sometimes Left Behind

In the whirlwind of packing and preparing for a move, it’s not uncommon for kitchen and dining knick-knacks to be unintentionally left behind. These small but essential items play a significant role in our daily lives, making mealtimes easier, more enjoyable, and more organized. From utensils to cookware and everything in between, forgetting these items can disrupt your routine and require additional expenses to replace them.

Pots, Pans, and Baking Sheets

Pots, pans, and baking sheets are the workhorses of the kitchen, and yet they can easily be overlooked. These essential items are vital for cooking a variety of dishes, from stovetop meals to baked goods. Don’t forget to bring a selection of pots and pans in different sizes, ensuring you have options for various cooking needs. Additionally, include baking sheets for cookies, roasting pans for meats and vegetables, and any other specialty cookware you frequently use. These items will help you continue with culinary adventures seamlessly in a new kitchen.

Cooking Utensils, Plates, Bowls, and Silverware

Eating utensils are often taken for granted until they’re missing in a new home. Remember to bring an ample supply of plates, bowls, and silverware for daily meals. Whether it’s for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, having enough dishes and utensils is essential. Include a variety of sizes to accommodate different serving needs, and don’t forget serving spoons, forks, and knives as well. Keeping dining ware organized and accessible will make settling into a new home feel more comfortable and familiar.

Coffee Maker or Other Preferred Beverage Appliances

For many people, starting the day with a cup of coffee or their preferred beverage is a cherished routine. If you’re a coffee lover or have specific beverage preferences, don’t forget to bring a coffee maker or other beverage appliances.

Food Storage Containers and Plastic Bags

Having proper food storage containers and plastic bags is essential for keeping all ingredients fresh and organizing leftovers. Ensure that you have a variety of sizes of reusable food storage containers, as well as a roll of plastic wrap and zip-top plastic bags.

Dish Soap and Cleaning Supplies

Keeping the kitchen clean and organized is vital for a pleasant cooking and dining experience. Before you leave the old residence, make sure to box up dish soap, sponges, scrub brushes, and other cleaning supplies.

Put Cleaning and Maintenance Stuff on Your List

During the chaos of moving, cleaning and maintenance supplies are often overlooked but are crucial for keeping a new home tidy and well-maintained. So what not to forget when packing when it comes to tidiness? Before leaving the old home, make sure you have cleaning supplies readily available for final cleaning. Here are some commonly forgotten cleaning and maintenance items to add to the list:

  • Don’t forget to prepare essential cleaning supplies such as a broom, mop, dustpan, bucket, all-purpose cleaner, disinfecting wipes, and glass cleaner. These items will help you keep a new home clean and fresh.
  • Make sure to have enough laundry detergent and fabric softener for the laundry needs. Having these essentials readily available will help you keep the clothes clean and fresh as you settle.
  • Take stock of the light bulbs and ensure you have replacements for any that may burn out. Additionally, buy extra batteries for items like remote controls, clocks, and other battery-operated devices.
  • Moving often comes with the need for minor repairs and adjustments. Pack a basic toolset that includes a screwdriver set, hammer, pliers, wrench, and tape measure. These tools will come in handy for assembling furniture, hanging curtains, and handling other minor repairs.
  • Don’t forget to bring garbage bags and recycling bins to properly dispose of waste. Having these on hand will help you maintain a clean and organized living space.

By including these often overlooked cleaning and maintenance items on the list, you’ll be well-prepared to keep a new home tidy, address minor repairs, and ensure a comfortable living environment. Don’t underestimate the impact of having these essentials readily available as you settle into the new space.

Cleaning supplies
There are essential cleaning supplies that will be needed the moment you enter the new place

Electronics and Entertainment Gadgets Are Sometimes Overlooked

In the excitement of moving, it’s easy to forget about the electronics and entertainment gadgets that enhance our daily lives. These items contribute to creating a comfortable and enjoyable living space where you can unwind and make lasting memories.

Chargers and Cables for Various Devices

Gather all the chargers and cables you need for electronic devices, including smartphones, tablets, laptops, and other gadgets. Having these essential accessories ensures that devices stay powered up and ready for use during and after the move.

Extension Cords and Power Strips

Extension cords and power strips come in handy when you need to connect multiple devices or when electrical outlets are not conveniently located. Packing a few extension cords and power strips will allow you to set up electronics and manage their power needs efficiently.

Entertainment Essentials - Books, Board Games, DVDs

Don’t forget to bring along the favorite forms of entertainment. Whether it’s a collection of books, board games for family fun, or a selection of DVDs for movie nights, having these sources of entertainment will help you unwind and enjoy leisure time.

Speakers and Headphones

If you’re an audiophile or enjoy listening to music, remember to prepare speakers or headphones. Whether it’s a portable Bluetooth speaker or a set of high-quality headphones, having these gadgets will allow you to enjoy favorite tunes and podcasts.

Television, Gaming Consoles, and Related Accessories

If you’re a fan of movies or video games, don’t forget to include the television, gaming consoles, and associated accessories in the relocation plans. Remember to box up the necessary cables, controllers, and any other equipment required to set up the entertainment system.

You’ll Miss Clothing and Personal Items if You Don’t Pack Them

Amidst the chaos and logistics of relocation preparations, it’s important not to overlook the clothing and personal items that contribute to our comfort and well-being. These essential belongings often go unnoticed until they are sorely missed.

  • If you’re moving to a different climate, don’t forget to bring appropriate clothing and gear. Whether it’s warm weather essentials like sunscreen and hats or cold weather necessities like coats and boots, be mindful of the climate differences and pack accordingly.
  • Don’t forget to bring a selection of shoes suitable for different occasions and weather conditions. Consider including comfortable everyday shoes, formal footwear for special events, athletic shoes for physical activities, and weather-appropriate options like boots or sandals.
  • Often overlooked, extra hangers and storage solutions play a significant role in keeping living space organized and functional.
  • Don’t underestimate the importance of personal care items. Having them readily available will help you feel at home and maintain a sense of normalcy in a new environment.
  • A good night’s sleep and the comfort of fresh towels are often taken for granted until they’re missing. These items will provide the familiarity and comfort you desire as you settle into a new living space.

Make a moving checklist complete by including these essential items, and embark on a journey with confidence and peace of mind.

The following video offers advice on how to fold clothes to save space, by Marie Kondo.

YouTube video

Make a List of Items and Give It to the Movers, Ensuring They Won’t Forget Anything

To ensure that the relocation and car shipping company team won’t forget any important items during the relocation, it’s essential to provide them with a comprehensive inventory list. This list should include all the items that you want to be packed and moved, ensuring nothing is overlooked. Consider categorizing the list by room or type of item to make it easier for the movers to organize and box up accordingly. Be sure to include essential items like furniture, appliances, electronics, kitchenware, clothing, personal care items, bedding, and any other belongings you want to be transported.

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Follow Our Guide and You Won’t Forget Anything

By keeping all these pieces of advice in mind, you can minimize the risk of leaving behind essential belongings and make the transition to a new home smoother and more efficient. A thorough checklist should be used at all times during relocation preparations so you can have the confidence and peace of mind that comes with knowing that you’ve covered all the bases and won’t leave anything behind.

To make the move a breeze and ensure your belongings are safely transported, consider partnering with USA Auto Transport, a reliable moving and auto transport company. Whether you need assistance with shipping cars in the USA, door-to-door auto transport, terminal-to-terminal car shipping, or long-distance moving services, we have the knowledge and resources to handle it all. Contact USA Auto Transport today and let us help you make your move a success.

FAQ

What Should I Do if I Forget an Important Item?

If you realize you’ve forgotten an important item, assess its urgency and importance. Determine if it’s something you can easily replace or if it’s necessary to have it immediately. If feasible, consider purchasing a replacement or finding an alternative solution. In some cases, you may need to have the item shipped to you or make arrangements for someone to send it.

How Can I Ensure I Don’t Forget Anything When Packing?

To ensure you don’t forget anything, create a detailed checklist of all the items you need to pack. Categorize the list by room or type of item and refer to it as you pack. Take your time, be systematic, and double-check each area before moving on. Packing gradually and being mindful of commonly overlooked items will help minimize the chances of forgetting anything.

Is It Better to Pack Essential Items Separately or With the Rest of My Belongings?

It’s recommended to keep essential items separately in a designated “Essentials Box” or suitcase. This way, you’ll have easy access to crucial items upon arrival at a new home. Include essentials like toiletries, medications, important documents, a change of clothes, chargers, and any other items you’ll need immediately.

Should I Create a Checklist for Packing?

A checklist helps you stay organized, ensures you don’t forget essential items, and provides a clear visual reference of the progress. Make a comprehensive list of all the items you need to box up, categorize them, and check them off as you go.

How Far in Advance Should I Start Packing for a Cross-Country Move?

For a cross-country relocation, it’s advisable to start boxing up at least several weeks in advance. The exact timing depends on the size of your home and the amount of belongings you need to pack. Starting early allows you to pack systematically, declutter, and handle any unexpected challenges that may arise.

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