What to Pack in a First Night Box for Moving House: Essential Checklist

Moving into a new house is exciting, but it can also be overwhelming. After a long day of packing, travelling, and unpacking, the last thing you’ll want is to be searching through dozens of boxes for your toothbrush, pyjamas, or the kettle. That’s where a First Night Box comes in. If you’re still preparing your property for sale, our guide on how to sell your house quickly offers some useful tips to get you moving faster.

At Pinnacle Removals & Storage, we know how important those first few hours in your new home can be. This box is filled with the essentials you’ll need right away, helping you and your family settle in comfortably on your very first evening. In this guide, we’ll show you exactly what to pack so nothing important gets forgotten.

Clothes and Sleepwear for Comfort

Not only do you need to be dressed when you are moving things around your new home, but you also want to be as comfortable as possible. Make sure that you not only think about clothes for everyone, but also think about what they will sleep in, too. Comfort is going to be important to make sure that everyone has a settled night in their new home. 

Checklist:

• Comfortable clothes for moving day

• Sleepwear for each family member

• Spare change of clothes

• Slippers or socks

  
  

Bedding and Sleeping Essentials

Following on from the above, you are going to need to make sure that everyone has something to sleep under. The bedding that you bring will need to reflect the weather outside, but remember that it can be cold in a new house as you haven’t had the chance to warm it through yet. 

If you don’t think that beds will be set up ready for sleeping, then a sleeping bag might be a better option as this will give you a bit of a bed as well as keep everyone warm too. 

Checklist:

• Pillows

• Duvets or blankets

• Sheets and pillowcases

• Sleeping bags (if beds aren’t ready)

Toiletries and Personal Care Items

When you first arrive in your new home, one of the best ways to feel settled is by being able to freshen up. After a long journey, having the right toiletries and personal care items to hand will make everyone feel more comfortable, clean, and ready to take on the unpacking ahead.

These small comforts can make a big difference in helping you and your family feel at home right away, even before the rest of your belongings are unpacked.

Checklist:

• Toothbrushes and toothpaste

• Soap or shower gel

• Shampoo and conditioner

• Deodorant

• Towels and flannels

• Hairbrush or comb

• Toilet paper

Electronics and Chargers You’ll Need

It is all too easy to forget some of the electronics that people use on a day-to-day basis, but it is even easier to forget the chargers that keep them powered up. Make sure that these items are packed away in your box, so that you know that you are not going to run out of power and have children or even grown-ups who are frustrated that they don’t have anything to do in the evening once you are finally sitting down. 

Don’t forget to notify your utility providers ahead of your move so that your electricity, gas and water are ready to go when you arrive – you can find advice on moving house and utilities here.

Checklist:

• Mobile phones and tablets

• Laptops or e-readers

• Chargers for all devices

• Extension lead or multi-plug

• Portable power bank

  
  

Kitchen Basics, Snacks and Drinks

Even if you plan on ordering food in for the first few days, you’ll still need some basic kitchen essentials like cutlery and plates. It’s worth including a few of these items in your essentials box so you’re not left short when mealtimes come around.

You’ll also want quick access to your kettle, along with everything you need for tea, coffee, or other favourite drinks. Having a small supply of snacks and non-refrigerated drinks on hand is also a great idea, especially when you need a quick energy boost while unpacking.

Checklist:

• Plates, bowls and cutlery

• Mugs and glasses

• Kettle and tea/coffee supplies

• Bottled water and soft drinks

• Non-perishable snacks (biscuits, crisps, cereal bars)

• Takeaway menus or delivery app access

Cleaning Supplies for a Fresh Start

You will hope that your new home is going to be spotless from the very moment that you move in, but that isn’t always the case. To be on the safe side, it’s a good idea to pack a selection of essential cleaning supplies so you can give key areas a quick freshen-up before unpacking fully.

Checklist:

• Bin bags

• All-purpose cleaner or spray

• Antibacterial wipes

• Cleaning cloths or sponges

• Paper towels

• Rubber gloves

Other Essential Tips for Your First Night Box

Comfort Items for Kids, Pets and Relaxation

Moving into a new house can feel exciting but also unsettling, especially for children and pets. Having familiar items on hand can make the first night much easier for everyone. Pack a few things that provide comfort and help create a sense of home right away.

Checklist:

• Kids: bedtime toy, blanket, nightlight, bedtime storybook

• Pets: food, bowls, lead or litter tray, bedding/crate, favourite toy

• Adults: cosy blanket, book, small speaker for music

  
  

These small touches can make a big difference, helping the whole family (including furry friends) feel comfortable and settled in your new surroundings. Pets can find moving unsettling, too. Read up on some tips to help them adjust stress-free.

Packing and Labelling Your First Night Box

Even the most carefully packed box isn’t useful if you can’t find it when you arrive. Clearly label your first night box on all sides so it stands out from the rest. You might even use bright tape or a different coloured marker. For more tips on packing efficiently and making the process easier, take a look at our guide on how to pack for a local move.

If you’re using a removals company, let them know which box is your first night box. They can make sure it’s loaded last and unloaded first, so it’s waiting for you when you arrive at your new home.

Why a First Night Box Makes Moving House Easier

After a long day of moving, the last thing you want is to dig through boxes just to find pyjamas, a toothbrush, or the kettle. A well-prepared first night box keeps essentials at hand, reduces stress, and helps your family feel at home straight away. Packing key items like bedding, toiletries, and comfort touches for kids and pets makes the first evening in your new house much smoother.

At Pinnacle Removals & Storage, we understand how important it is for your move to be simple and stress-free. Our experienced team handles careful packing, secure shipping, and storage solutions if needed. With everything taken care of, you can focus on settling in while we manage the heavy lifting. If you’re moving overseas, our guide on how to quickly adapt to your new country shares practical tips to help you feel at home faster.

Contact Pinnacle today for a free moving quote. Whether you’re relocating locally, moving across the UK, or starting a new life overseas, our expert team is here to make your move simple and stress-free.