{"id":104178,"date":"2026-08-08T00:00:00","date_gmt":"2026-08-08T00:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/first-apartment-must-haves\/"},"modified":"2026-08-08T00:00:00","modified_gmt":"2026-08-08T00:00:00","slug":"first-apartment-must-haves","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/first-apartment-must-haves\/","title":{"rendered":"First Apartment Must-Haves: The Essentials You\u2019ll Actually Use"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_38 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\">Jump Ahead To: <\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/first-apartment-must-haves\/#First_Apartment_Checklist_at_a_Glance\" title=\"First Apartment Checklist at a Glance\">First Apartment Checklist at a Glance<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/first-apartment-must-haves\/#Review_Your_Lease\" title=\"Review Your Lease\">Review Your Lease<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/first-apartment-must-haves\/#Calculate_Your_Move-In_Costs\" title=\"Calculate Your Move-In Costs\">Calculate Your Move-In Costs<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/first-apartment-must-haves\/#Cookware\" title=\"Cookware\">Cookware<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/first-apartment-must-haves\/#Kitchen_Tools\" title=\"Kitchen Tools\">Kitchen Tools<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/first-apartment-must-haves\/#Eating_and_Drinking\" title=\"Eating and Drinking\">Eating and Drinking<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3'><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/first-apartment-must-haves\/#Buying_Too_Much_Before_Moving\" title=\"Buying Too Much Before Moving\">Buying Too Much Before Moving<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/first-apartment-must-haves\/#Spending_Your_Entire_Savings\" title=\"Spending Your Entire Savings\">Spending Your Entire Savings<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/first-apartment-must-haves\/#Forgetting_Utility_Setup\" title=\"Forgetting Utility Setup\">Forgetting Utility Setup<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/first-apartment-must-haves\/#Ignoring_Your_Lease\" title=\"Ignoring Your Lease\">Ignoring Your Lease<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/first-apartment-must-haves\/#Buying_Furniture_Without_Measuring\" title=\"Buying Furniture Without Measuring\">Buying Furniture Without Measuring<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/first-apartment-must-haves\/#What_do_you_absolutely_need_for_your_first_apartment\" title=\"What do you absolutely need for your first apartment?\">What do you absolutely need for your first apartment?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/first-apartment-must-haves\/#How_much_money_should_I_save_before_moving_into_my_first_apartment\" title=\"How much money should I save before moving into my first apartment?\">How much money should I save before moving into my first apartment?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/first-apartment-must-haves\/#What_should_I_buy_first_for_a_new_apartment\" title=\"What should I buy first for a new apartment?\">What should I buy first for a new apartment?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/first-apartment-must-haves\/#What_do_people_forget_when_moving_into_their_first_apartment\" title=\"What do people forget when moving into their first apartment?\">What do people forget when moving into their first apartment?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/first-apartment-must-haves\/#Should_I_buy_everything_before_moving_in\" title=\"Should I buy everything before moving in?\">Should I buy everything before moving in?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Moving into your first apartment is a major milestone. You finally have a place to call your own, but between signing the lease, setting up utilities, buying furniture, packing, and figuring out everything your new home needs, it&rsquo;s easy to overlook something important.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The good news is that you don&rsquo;t need to buy everything at once.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A smart first apartment checklist focuses on three priorities: <\/span><strong>what you need before moving day, what you&rsquo;ll need during your first few nights, and what can wait until you&rsquo;re settled.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Use this complete checklist to prepare for your first apartment without overspending or arriving without the essentials.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"First_Apartment_Checklist_at_a_Glance\"><\/span><strong>First Apartment Checklist at a Glance<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Before moving in, make sure you&rsquo;ve handled these essentials:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sign and review your lease<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pay required move-in costs<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Get renters insurance if required<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Set up electricity and other utilities<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Schedule internet service<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Confirm your move-in date and key pickup<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Arrange movers or transportation<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Change your address<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pack your belongings<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Prepare a first-night essentials box<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Buy basic bathroom supplies<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Get essential kitchen items<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Prepare your bed and bedding<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Purchase basic cleaning supplies<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Take photos of the apartment before unpacking<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Learn where important building features are located<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Once these basics are covered, you can build out your apartment gradually.<\/span><\/p>\n<h1><strong>Before You Move Into Your First Apartment<\/strong><\/h1>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your checklist should begin before you buy furniture or start <a class=\"wpil_keyword_link\" href=\"\/moving-services\/packing-services\/\"   title=\"packing\" data-wpil-keyword-link=\"linked\">packing<\/a> boxes.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Review_Your_Lease\"><\/span><strong>Review Your Lease<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Don&rsquo;t just sign the lease and forget about it.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Make sure you understand:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Monthly rent<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rent due date<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Security deposit<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lease length<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Late-payment policies<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pet policies<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Parking rules<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Guest policies<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Maintenance procedures<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Move-out requirements<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Renewal terms<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/knoxville-moving-costs-by-home-size\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Keep a digital and physical copy of your lease<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> somewhere accessible.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Calculate_Your_Move-In_Costs\"><\/span><strong>Calculate Your Move-In Costs<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your first month in an apartment can be considerably more expensive than a normal month.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Depending on your lease and location, you may need money for:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">First month&rsquo;s rent<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Security deposit<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Application fees<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Administrative fees<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pet deposits or fees<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Parking<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Utility deposits<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Renters insurance<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Moving expenses<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Keep some savings available after paying these expenses rather than spending your entire budget on move-in day.<\/span><\/p>\n<h1><strong>Set Up Your Utilities<\/strong><\/h1>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You don&rsquo;t want to arrive at your first apartment and discover that you don&rsquo;t have electricity.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Before moving day, determine which utilities you&rsquo;re responsible for setting up.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These may include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Electricity<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Water<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Natural gas<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Internet<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cable or streaming services<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Trash service<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some utilities may already be included in your rent.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ask your landlord or property manager exactly which services you need to establish yourself.<\/span><\/p>\n<h1><strong>Schedule Internet Installation<\/strong><\/h1>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Internet installation is easy to forget until you&rsquo;re sitting in an apartment without Wi-Fi.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Research providers and schedule installation before your move whenever possible.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you work from home, internet access may be especially important during your first few days.<\/span><\/p>\n<h1><strong>Get Renters Insurance<\/strong><\/h1>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your landlord&rsquo;s insurance generally protects the building, not necessarily your personal belongings.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Renters insurance may provide protection for belongings against covered events and may also include liability coverage.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your landlord may require proof of coverage before you receive your keys.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Check your lease and compare coverage options before moving in.<\/span><\/p>\n<h1><strong>Plan How You&rsquo;re Going to Move<\/strong><\/h1>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Decide how you&rsquo;ll transport everything to your apartment.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your options may include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Professional movers<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Labor-only movers<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rental truck<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Moving container<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Personal vehicles<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Help from friends or family<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Consider more than price.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Think about:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How much furniture you own<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Stairs<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Elevators<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Parking<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Distance<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Heavy belongings<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How much physical work you&rsquo;re comfortable doing<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you&rsquo;re renting a truck yourself, professional moving labor can be a useful middle ground: you handle transportation while movers handle loading and unloading.<\/span><\/p>\n<h1><strong>Ask About Apartment Moving Rules<\/strong><\/h1>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Apartment buildings sometimes have specific moving requirements.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Before moving day, ask about:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Elevator reservations<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Loading docks<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Designated moving hours<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Parking restrictions<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Building access<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Certificates of insurance<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Move-in fees<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Loading zones<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Don&rsquo;t wait until the moving truck arrives to discover that you needed to reserve the freight elevator.<\/span><\/p>\n<h1><strong>First Apartment Bedroom Checklist<\/strong><\/h1>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You don&rsquo;t need a perfectly decorated bedroom immediately.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You do need somewhere comfortable to sleep.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Start with:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mattress<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bed frame or foundation<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pillows<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pillowcases<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sheets<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Comforter or blanket<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mattress protector<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hangers<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Laundry hamper<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Curtains or window coverings if needed<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bedside lamp<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Items such as nightstands, dressers, rugs, artwork, and decorative pillows can usually wait.<\/span><\/p>\n<h1><strong>First Apartment Bathroom Checklist<\/strong><\/h1>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The bathroom is one of the rooms you&rsquo;ll need immediately.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Make sure you have:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Toilet paper<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bath towels<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hand towels<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Shower curtain<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Shower curtain liner<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Shower hooks<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bath mat<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Soap<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Shampoo and conditioner<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Toothbrush and toothpaste<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Plunger<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Toilet brush<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Trash can<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Basic toiletries<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A shower curtain is one of those surprisingly easy things to forget, until you need to take your first shower.<\/span><\/p>\n<h1><strong>First Apartment Kitchen Checklist<\/strong><\/h1>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You don&rsquo;t need a fully equipped chef&rsquo;s kitchen on day one.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Start with enough to prepare and eat basic meals.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Cookware\"><\/span><strong>Cookware<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Consider starting with:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Frying pan<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Medium saucepan<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Large pot<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Baking sheet<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Oven-safe dish<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Kitchen_Tools\"><\/span><strong>Kitchen Tools<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Useful basics include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Chef&rsquo;s knife<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cutting board<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Spatula<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Large spoon<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Can opener<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bottle opener<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Measuring cups<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Measuring spoons<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Colander<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Eating_and_Drinking\"><\/span><strong>Eating and Drinking<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You&rsquo;ll need:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Plates<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bowls<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Drinking glasses<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Coffee mugs<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Forks<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Knives<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Spoons<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You don&rsquo;t need a 12-person dinner set when you&rsquo;re moving into your first apartment.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Buy enough for your normal household and add more later.<\/span><\/p>\n<h1><strong>Kitchen Supplies People Often Forget<\/strong><\/h1>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some inexpensive items become surprisingly important once you start cooking.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Don&rsquo;t forget:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dish soap<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sponges<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dish towels<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Paper towels<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Trash bags<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Food <a class=\"wpil_keyword_link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/moving-services\/storage\/\"   title=\"storage\" data-wpil-keyword-link=\"linked\">storage<\/a> containers<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Aluminum foil<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Plastic wrap<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Zip-top bags<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Oven mitts<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Trash can<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Basic seasonings<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You&rsquo;ll probably discover additional needs during your first grocery trip.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">That&rsquo;s normal.<\/span><\/p>\n<h1><strong>First Apartment Cleaning Supplies<\/strong><\/h1>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Even if your apartment looks clean when you arrive, you&rsquo;ll want basic supplies available.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Start with:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">All-purpose cleaner<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Disinfectant<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Glass cleaner<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sponges<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Microfiber cloths<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Paper towels<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Broom and dustpan<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mop<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Vacuum<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Trash bags<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rubber gloves<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can add specialized cleaning products later.<\/span><\/p>\n<h1><strong>First Apartment Living Room Checklist<\/strong><\/h1>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The living room is an area where it&rsquo;s especially easy to overspend.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your actual essentials are relatively simple:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Somewhere to sit<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lighting<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A place for frequently used belongings<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You might eventually want:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sofa<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Coffee table<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">TV<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">TV stand<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Side tables<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lamps<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rug<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bookshelf<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Curtains<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Decorative items<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">But most of these don&rsquo;t <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/what-impacts-the-price-of-a-move-in-knoxville\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">need to be purchased before moving in<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A half-empty apartment with money in your bank account is usually better than a beautifully furnished apartment purchased with debt.<\/span><\/p>\n<h1><strong>Basic Tools Every First Apartment Should Have<\/strong><\/h1>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You don&rsquo;t need an entire workshop.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A small toolkit can handle many everyday situations.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Consider:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Screwdrivers<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hammer<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pliers<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Adjustable wrench<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tape measure<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Flashlight<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Utility knife<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Scissors<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Level<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Batteries<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Check your lease before drilling holes, mounting televisions, painting, or making other modifications.<\/span><\/p>\n<h1><strong>Basic Safety Supplies<\/strong><\/h1>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Safety items deserve a place near the top of your checklist.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Consider having:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">First-aid kit<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Flashlight<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Replacement batteries<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fire extinguisher<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Emergency contact information<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Check whether your apartment has functioning smoke and carbon monoxide detectors where required.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If something appears missing or isn&rsquo;t functioning correctly, contact property management.<\/span><\/p>\n<h1><strong>Groceries for Your First Apartment<\/strong><\/h1>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your first grocery trip can become surprisingly expensive because you&rsquo;re starting from scratch.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Focus on foods you actually eat.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Common basics include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Water<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Milk<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Eggs<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bread<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rice<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pasta<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cereal<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Coffee or tea<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cooking oil<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Salt<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pepper<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Condiments<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fresh fruit<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Vegetables<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Easy meals<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Snacks<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You don&rsquo;t need to stock an entire pantry immediately.<\/span><\/p><div class=\"getbe-middle\" style=\"margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center; \" id=\"getbe-644390956\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/book\/service\/\" aria-label=\"The Better Way to Move\"><img loading=\"lazy\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" alt=\"The Better Way to Move\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" width=\"600\" height=\"160\" style=\" max-width: 100%; height: auto;\" class=\"lazyload\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.bellhopblog.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/600x160.png\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.bellhopblog.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/600x160.png 600w, https:\/\/www.bellhopblog.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/600x160-300x80.png 300w\"><\/a><\/div>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Build it over several grocery trips.<\/span><\/p>\n<h1><strong>What to Pack in Your First-Night Box<\/strong><\/h1>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your first-night box should travel with you rather than disappearing somewhere in the moving truck.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Change of clothes<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pajamas<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Toiletries<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Medications<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Phone charger<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Laptop charger<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Toilet paper<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Paper towels<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Basic cleaning supplies<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Snacks<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Water<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Towels<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bedding<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Important documents<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Think of it as everything you&rsquo;d need if you couldn&rsquo;t unpack anything else until tomorrow.<\/span><\/p>\n<h1><strong>Important Documents to Keep With You<\/strong><\/h1>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Don&rsquo;t place essential documents in a random moving box.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Keep important paperwork together, including:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Identification<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lease<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Insurance information<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Passport<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Financial documents<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Vehicle documents<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Medical information<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Moving paperwork<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Transport sensitive documents yourself whenever possible.<\/span><\/p>\n<h1><strong>What to Do Before Unpacking<\/strong><\/h1>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When you receive the keys, resist the temptation to immediately start bringing everything inside.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">First, inspect the apartment.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Take photos or videos of existing:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Scratches<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Stains<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Wall damage<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Flooring damage<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Broken fixtures<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Appliance damage<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cabinet damage<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Window problems<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Document the apartment&rsquo;s condition according to your landlord&rsquo;s move-in procedures.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This can help distinguish pre-existing damage from damage that occurs during your tenancy.<\/span><\/p>\n<h1><strong>Check That Everything Works<\/strong><\/h1>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Before getting completely settled, test:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Faucets<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Toilets<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Shower<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hot water<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lights<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Electrical outlets<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Heating<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Air conditioning<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Refrigerator<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Stove<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dishwasher<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Locks<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Windows<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Smoke detectors<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Report problems promptly through your landlord&rsquo;s designated maintenance process.<\/span><\/p>\n<h1><strong>Learn Your Apartment Building<\/strong><\/h1>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Spend a few minutes learning where important things are located.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Find:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mailboxes<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Trash and recycling<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Parking<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Laundry facilities<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Emergency exits<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Package delivery area<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Leasing office<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Maintenance contact information<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If your building has access codes, gates, or key fobs, make sure you understand how they work.<\/span><\/p>\n<h1><strong>Change Your Address<\/strong><\/h1>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Update your address with organizations that need it.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These may include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Postal service<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Employer<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bank<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Credit cards<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Insurance companies<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Driver&rsquo;s license agency<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Vehicle registration<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Healthcare providers<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Subscription services<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Schools<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Online retailers<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Creating a checklist can help prevent important mail from going to your previous address.<\/span><\/p>\n<h1><strong>What NOT to Buy Before Moving In<\/strong><\/h1>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One of the best first-apartment money-saving strategies is knowing what <\/span><strong>not<\/strong><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to buy.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Consider waiting on:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Expensive d&eacute;cor<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Large rugs<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Extra furniture<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Guest furniture<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Specialty kitchen appliances<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Large organizational systems<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Decorative storage<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Multiple sets of dishes<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Premium electronics<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Live in the apartment first.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">After a few weeks, you&rsquo;ll have a much better idea of what the space actually needs.<\/span><\/p>\n<h1><strong>New vs. Used: What Should You Buy?<\/strong><\/h1>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Buying secondhand can dramatically reduce the cost of furnishing your first apartment.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Items commonly purchased used include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tables<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Chairs<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dressers<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bookshelves<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Desks<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lamps<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For certain items, particularly mattresses and upholstered furniture, consider condition, cleanliness, pest risk, and your personal comfort level before purchasing used.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Family hand-me-downs can also be extremely useful when you&rsquo;re getting started.<\/span><\/p>\n<h1><strong>How Much Does It Cost to Furnish a First Apartment?<\/strong><\/h1>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There is no universal number.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your cost depends on:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Apartment size<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What you already own<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Whether you buy new or used<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your furniture preferences<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How quickly you furnish the apartment<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The easiest way to control costs is to divide purchases into three categories:<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>Need now<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Items required for sleeping, eating, bathing, cleaning, and basic safety.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>Need soon<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Items that make daily life significantly easier.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>Want later<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">D&eacute;cor, upgrades, additional furniture, and convenience items.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This prevents your first apartment from becoming one enormous shopping trip.<\/span><\/p>\n<h1><strong>Moving Into Your First Apartment on a Budget<\/strong><\/h1>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You don&rsquo;t need a huge budget to create a comfortable home.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Try these strategies:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bring furniture you already own.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Accept useful hand-me-downs.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Shop secondhand.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Compare prices before buying.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Avoid purchasing entire furniture sets.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Buy gradually.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sell belongings you no longer need.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Move during less expensive periods when possible.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Compare moving options.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Prioritize functionality first.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can make the apartment beautiful over time.<\/span><\/p>\n<h1><strong>Common First Apartment Mistakes<\/strong><\/h1>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Moving into your first apartment involves a learning curve.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Try to avoid these common mistakes:<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Buying_Too_Much_Before_Moving\"><\/span><strong>Buying Too Much Before Moving<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You don&rsquo;t yet know exactly how you&rsquo;ll use the space.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Spending_Your_Entire_Savings\"><\/span><strong>Spending Your Entire Savings<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Keep money available for unexpected expenses after the move.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Forgetting_Utility_Setup\"><\/span><strong>Forgetting Utility Setup<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Confirm service activation before moving day.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Ignoring_Your_Lease\"><\/span><strong>Ignoring Your Lease<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Know your responsibilities before making changes to the apartment.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Buying_Furniture_Without_Measuring\"><\/span><strong>Buying Furniture Without Measuring<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Measure:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rooms<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Doorways<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hallways<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Elevators<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Staircases<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">before purchasing large furniture.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A sofa isn&rsquo;t very useful if you can&rsquo;t get it through the front door.<\/span><\/p>\n<h1><strong>Your First 24 Hours<\/strong><\/h1>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">After the boxes arrive, don&rsquo;t try to finish everything immediately.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Prioritize:<\/span><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Inspecting the apartment<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Setting up your bed<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Unpacking bathroom essentials<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Getting basic food and water<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Connecting important electronics<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Making sure utilities work<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Securing doors and windows<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Unpacking your first-night box<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Everything else can wait.<\/span><\/p>\n<h1><strong>Your First Week<\/strong><\/h1>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">During your first week:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Finish unpacking essentials.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Learn your neighborhood.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Find your nearest grocery store.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Locate a pharmacy.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Understand trash collection.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Introduce yourself to neighbors if appropriate.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Organize your monthly bills.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Submit any maintenance requests.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Finish important address changes.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Most importantly, give yourself time to settle in.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your apartment doesn&rsquo;t have to feel completely finished after seven days.<\/span><\/p>\n<h1><strong>Frequently Asked Questions<\/strong><\/h1>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_do_you_absolutely_need_for_your_first_apartment\"><\/span><strong>What do you absolutely need for your first apartment?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">At minimum, prioritize a bed and bedding, bathroom necessities, basic cookware and dishes, cleaning supplies, toiletries, food, lighting, essential tools, and basic safety supplies.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_much_money_should_I_save_before_moving_into_my_first_apartment\"><\/span><strong>How much money should I save before moving into my first apartment?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your savings should account for upfront housing costs, moving expenses, utility setup, essential household purchases, and ideally an emergency cushion after you&rsquo;ve moved.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_should_I_buy_first_for_a_new_apartment\"><\/span><strong>What should I buy first for a new apartment?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Start with items required for sleeping, bathing, eating, cleaning, and safety. Furniture and d&eacute;cor that aren&rsquo;t immediately necessary can usually wait.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_do_people_forget_when_moving_into_their_first_apartment\"><\/span><strong>What do people forget when moving into their first apartment?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Frequently forgotten items include shower curtains, toilet paper, trash bags, plungers, can openers, extension cords, basic tools, cleaning supplies, and utility setup.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Should_I_buy_everything_before_moving_in\"><\/span><strong>Should I buy everything before moving in?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No. Buying gradually can save money and prevent you from purchasing furniture or household items that don&rsquo;t fit your space or lifestyle.<\/span><\/p>\n<h1><strong>The Bottom Line<\/strong><\/h1>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your first apartment doesn&rsquo;t need to be perfect on moving day.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Focus first on the essentials: <\/span><strong>housing paperwork, utilities, a safe move, somewhere to sleep, bathroom necessities, basic food preparation, cleaning supplies, and enough savings to handle unexpected expenses.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Everything else can be added gradually.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Planning ahead with a first apartment checklist can make the transition less <a class=\"wpil_keyword_link\" href=\"\/blog\/moving-stress\/\"   title=\"stressful\" data-wpil-keyword-link=\"linked\">stressful<\/a>, prevent unnecessary spending, and help you turn an empty apartment into a comfortable home at your own pace.<\/span><\/p>\n<h1><strong>Moving Into Your First Apartment?<\/strong><\/h1>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bellhop can help make your first move easier with professional moving and labor-only services.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Whether you need help moving everything across town or simply want experienced movers to load or unload your rental truck, Bellhop offers flexible moving options that can fit different needs and budgets.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>Get your free moving quote today.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Call <\/span><a href=\"tel:+1(855)-696-1007\"><strong>+1 (844) 375-5967<\/strong><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or click here to <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/v2\/book\/service\/\"><strong>get started<\/strong><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Discover first apartment must-haves you\u2019ll actually use, from kitchen and bathroom basics to cleaning supplies, bedroom essentials, tools, and safety items.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":37,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"inline_featured_image":false},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v19.5 (Yoast SEO v19.10) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>First Apartment Must-Haves: The Essentials You\u2019ll Actually Use - Bellhop<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/first-apartment-must-haves\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"First Apartment Must-Haves: The Essentials You\u2019ll Actually Use\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Bellhop allows you to choose from a variety of local, long-distance, and labor-only moving services that suit your needs and budget.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/first-apartment-must-haves\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Bellhop\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/BellhopMoving\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2026-08-08T00:00:00+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.bellhopblog.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/bellhop-logo-960.png\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"960\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"227\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/png\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Nick Valentino\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@BellhopMoving\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@BellhopMoving\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Nick Valentino\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"12 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/first-apartment-must-haves\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/first-apartment-must-haves\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"Nick Valentino\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/0d1c7f232d2f71fbf2cfa16235d2d2bc\"},\"headline\":\"First Apartment Must-Haves: The Essentials You\u2019ll Actually Use\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-08-08T00:00:00+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-08-08T00:00:00+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/first-apartment-must-haves\/\"},\"wordCount\":2437,\"commentCount\":0,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/#organization\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"CommentAction\",\"name\":\"Comment\",\"target\":[\"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/first-apartment-must-haves\/#respond\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/first-apartment-must-haves\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/first-apartment-must-haves\/\",\"name\":\"First Apartment Must-Haves: The Essentials You\u2019ll Actually Use - Bellhop\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/#website\"},\"datePublished\":\"2026-08-08T00:00:00+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-08-08T00:00:00+00:00\",\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/first-apartment-must-haves\/#breadcrumb\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/first-apartment-must-haves\/\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/first-apartment-must-haves\/#breadcrumb\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Home\",\"item\":\"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"Uncategorized\",\"item\":\"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/category\/uncategorized\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":3,\"name\":\"First Apartment Must-Haves: The Essentials You\u2019ll Actually Use\"}]},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/\",\"name\":\"Bellhop\",\"description\":\"Moving Tips &amp; Moving Resources\",\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/#organization\"},\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":\"required name=search_term_string\"}],\"inLanguage\":\"en\"},{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/#organization\",\"name\":\"Bellhop\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/\",\"logo\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.bellhopblog.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/logo.svg\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/www.bellhopblog.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/logo.svg\",\"width\":148,\"height\":35,\"caption\":\"Bellhop\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/\"},\"sameAs\":[\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/bellhopmoving\/\",\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/company\/bellhopmoving\/\",\"https:\/\/www.pinterest.com\/bellhopmoving\/\",\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/BellhopMoving\/\",\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/BellhopMoving\"]},{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/0d1c7f232d2f71fbf2cfa16235d2d2bc\",\"name\":\"Nick Valentino\",\"image\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/image\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/d972af744fec1ef673864921b6137b58?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/d972af744fec1ef673864921b6137b58?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"caption\":\"Nick Valentino\"},\"description\":\"Nick Valentino handles day-to-day operations at Bellhop, ensuring our customer's moves go smoothly. When not knee-deep in moving logistics, Nick enjoys The Bachelor, Georgia Football (Go Dawgs!) and traveling. He lives in Atlanta, GA.\",\"sameAs\":[\"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\"],\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/author\/nick-valentino\/\"}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO Premium plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"First Apartment Must-Haves: The Essentials You\u2019ll Actually Use - Bellhop","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/first-apartment-must-haves\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"First Apartment Must-Haves: The Essentials You\u2019ll Actually Use","og_description":"Bellhop allows you to choose from a variety of local, long-distance, and labor-only moving services that suit your needs and budget.","og_url":"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/first-apartment-must-haves\/","og_site_name":"Bellhop","article_publisher":"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/BellhopMoving\/","article_published_time":"2026-08-08T00:00:00+00:00","og_image":[{"width":960,"height":227,"url":"https:\/\/www.bellhopblog.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/bellhop-logo-960.png","type":"image\/png"}],"author":"Nick Valentino","twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_creator":"@BellhopMoving","twitter_site":"@BellhopMoving","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"Nick Valentino","Est. reading time":"12 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Article","@id":"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/first-apartment-must-haves\/#article","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/first-apartment-must-haves\/"},"author":{"name":"Nick Valentino","@id":"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/0d1c7f232d2f71fbf2cfa16235d2d2bc"},"headline":"First Apartment Must-Haves: The Essentials You\u2019ll Actually Use","datePublished":"2026-08-08T00:00:00+00:00","dateModified":"2026-08-08T00:00:00+00:00","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/first-apartment-must-haves\/"},"wordCount":2437,"commentCount":0,"publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/#organization"},"inLanguage":"en","potentialAction":[{"@type":"CommentAction","name":"Comment","target":["https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/first-apartment-must-haves\/#respond"]}]},{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/first-apartment-must-haves\/","url":"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/first-apartment-must-haves\/","name":"First Apartment Must-Haves: The Essentials You\u2019ll Actually Use - Bellhop","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/#website"},"datePublished":"2026-08-08T00:00:00+00:00","dateModified":"2026-08-08T00:00:00+00:00","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/first-apartment-must-haves\/#breadcrumb"},"inLanguage":"en","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/first-apartment-must-haves\/"]}]},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/first-apartment-must-haves\/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"Uncategorized","item":"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/category\/uncategorized\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":3,"name":"First Apartment Must-Haves: The Essentials You\u2019ll Actually Use"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/#website","url":"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/","name":"Bellhop","description":"Moving Tips &amp; Moving Resources","publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/#organization"},"potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":"required name=search_term_string"}],"inLanguage":"en"},{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/#organization","name":"Bellhop","url":"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en","@id":"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/","url":"https:\/\/www.bellhopblog.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/logo.svg","contentUrl":"https:\/\/www.bellhopblog.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/logo.svg","width":148,"height":35,"caption":"Bellhop"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/"},"sameAs":["https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/bellhopmoving\/","https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/company\/bellhopmoving\/","https:\/\/www.pinterest.com\/bellhopmoving\/","https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/BellhopMoving\/","https:\/\/twitter.com\/BellhopMoving"]},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/0d1c7f232d2f71fbf2cfa16235d2d2bc","name":"Nick Valentino","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en","@id":"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/image\/","url":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/d972af744fec1ef673864921b6137b58?s=96&d=mm&r=g","contentUrl":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/d972af744fec1ef673864921b6137b58?s=96&d=mm&r=g","caption":"Nick Valentino"},"description":"Nick Valentino handles day-to-day operations at Bellhop, ensuring our customer's moves go smoothly. When not knee-deep in moving logistics, Nick enjoys The Bachelor, Georgia Football (Go Dawgs!) and traveling. He lives in Atlanta, GA.","sameAs":["https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com"],"url":"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/author\/nick-valentino\/"}]}},"featured_image_src":false,"featured_image_src_square":false,"author_info":{"display_name":"Nick Valentino","author_link":"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/author\/nick-valentino\/"},"rbea_author_info":{"display_name":"Nick Valentino","author_link":"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/author\/nick-valentino\/"},"rbea_excerpt_info":"Discover first apartment must-haves you\u2019ll actually use, from kitchen and bathroom basics to cleaning supplies, bedroom essentials, tools, and safety items.","category_list":"<a href=\"https:\/\/www.getbellhops.com\/blog\/category\/uncategorized\/\" rel=\"category tag\">Uncategorized<\/a>","comments_num":"0 comments","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bellhopblog.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/104178"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bellhopblog.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bellhopblog.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bellhopblog.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/37"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bellhopblog.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=104178"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/www.bellhopblog.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/104178\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":104179,"href":"https:\/\/www.bellhopblog.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/104178\/revisions\/104179"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bellhopblog.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=104178"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bellhopblog.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=104178"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bellhopblog.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=104178"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}