Congratulations! You just made the first step towards living a successful adult life. However, to ensure that you experience a smooth transition into adulthood, there are some things you need to consider when it comes to moving into your first apartment. Here is a checklist of things to get you started.
1) Cleaning Supplies
Regardless of how clean your apartment may seem at first glance, you need to conduct a good thorough cleaning before you move your belongings in. Ensure that you invest in a vacuum, mop and broom so that you can clean the floors, bathroom and kitchen thoroughly. In addition to that, don’t forget to bring disinfectant spray and wipes along with some soap and vacuum bags.
2) Budget
One of the most intimidating aspects of adulthood is budgeting. It may seem easy, but many people end up losing their first apartment simply because they didn’t budget themselves correctly. Your budget doesn’t need to consist of complicated spreadsheets filled with mathematical formulas; you just need to keep track of where you’re spending your money. Fortunately, in today’s world there’s an app for everything. Budget apps can help to track your spending so you know how much leeway you have in regards to your bills.
3) Toolbox
Whether or not you consider yourself a handyman, you should purchase a toolbox as an adult who is living on your own. Some of the things that should be in this toolbox include:
- Hammer
- Screw driver
- Nails and hooks
- Level
- Pliers
- Socket wrench
- Electric Drill
4) Health And Renter’s Insurance
The last thing you need is to catch the flu and end up with medical bills that can cause you to go over the limits of your budget. The same can be said when it comes to unexpected damage to essential items within your home that you need such as the refrigerator. As such, ensure that you invest in a good health insurance and renter’s insurance policy. They can help to maintain monthly expenses if an unforeseen situation causes you to get sick or leads to the destruction of your personal belongings.
5) First Aid Kit
Accidents happen when you least expect it. This especially true when you’re in the process of moving. Regardless if you get a nip on your finger from the box cutter or you end up with a splinter in your foot, you’ll be grateful that you decided to bring your own first aid kit. Here are some of the items this kit should include:
- Ice Pack
- Thermometer
- Ibuprofen
- Tweezers
- Bandages
- Antiseptic Ointment
- Hydrogen Peroxide.
6) Explore The Community
If you’re moving to a brand new location that you’ve never been to before, you need to establish some community connections. Don’t be shy about the possibility of going out and meeting new people. They can operate as an effective support system to help you as you adjust to your new environment.
7) Miscellaneous
Last but not least, there are several miscellaneous things you need to consider. These are relatively small items, but they are useful nonetheless. In the midst of moving large furniture pieces, you may overlook small yet essential items that can help to make your life easier. Some of those include:
- Lamp
- Hangers
- Iron and ironing board
- Fire alarm
- Carbon monoxide detector
- Extension cords
- Power strips
- Batteries
- Flashlight
- Candles
Conclusion
These are just a few essentials to get you started in your first apartment. As you settle in and get a good routine going, there will no doubt be a lot of extra needs that come up and extra boxes to check. If you take the time to get all of these items and tasks in order before you start your move, however, you won’t be caught off guard by anything your new independent life throws at you.
