List of Things to Buy When Moving into an Apartment

What do I need for a new apartment?

A new apartment can be a fresh start or a giant leap toward independence (especially if it’s your first place). Either way, you’ll need certain things to function and make the space feel cozy.

A packing or shopping list is a key part of an apartment moving guide — it's not a step you’ll want to skip. Follow along as we go room by room to stock the place and prepare for the exciting journey.

First apartment checklist: a room-by-room buying guide

Whether shopping before the move or packing belongings you already own, use this list to organize as you go. While you might not need or want everything mentioned, this is a good place to start getting ready for apartment living.

The guide is easy to use straight from your phone. If you’d rather have the satisfaction of checking off items on paper, try this printable list.

Have a roommate? Communicate before buying for shared spaces (or go shopping together) to avoid duplicates!

Apartment necessities for the bedroom

The bedroom should be a sanctuary for relaxation at the end of the day. Here are some items to make the space comfortable:

• Alarm clock or a phone dock: Don’t be late for appointments, school or work!
• Bed (mattress and box spring or foundation): Good sleep is important.
• Bedding (blankets, comforter, mattress pad or protector, pillows and pillowcases/protectors, sheets): Dress the bed for comfort.
• Dresser: Functionally store folded clothing.
• Fan/space heater/air conditioner: Keep the room at the perfect temperature.
• Full-length mirror: Don’t leave the new place before checking outfits from all angles!
• Nightstand: A surface to place a phone, lamp or favorite book.

Essentials to set up a kitchen

Setting up a kitchen from scratch takes some work and planning. Of course, you’ll want to stock your fridge and pantry with favorite foods, but you’ll need a way to cook and serve. Try these supplies to get started:

• Bakeware and accessories (baking sheets, cake pans, casserole dishes, measuring cups/spoons, and mixing bowls): Find bakeware starter sets online or in home goods stores.
• Cooking tools and utensils (can opener, colander, cooking spoons and turners, corkscrew, cutting board, ice cream scoop, kitchen timer): Many items are available at discount stores.
• Dishes (bowls, coffee mugs, cups or glasses, plates): Look for good deals at dollar stores, social media marketplaces or thrift stores.
• Fire extinguisher: It’s best to purchase safety supplies new.
• Flatware and knife set: Look for deals at mass retailers or purchase discontinued patterns for savings.
• Linens (dish towels, napkins, oven mitts, potholders, etc.): Look for sales or secondhand merchandise.
• Pots and pans (at least one large frying pan and a large pot for cooking pasta): Search thrift stores, look for deals on sets or purchase one pot and one frying pan at first.
• Salt and pepper shakers (and other spices): Look online or in stores for pretty racks that include spices or purchase favorites to create a starter set.
• Small appliances (air fryer, blender, coffee maker, crock pot, microwave, toaster or toaster oven): Some helpful devices can serve more than one purpose in the kitchen.
• Table and chairs or stools: Find something that fits the space, and look for foldable or expandable options if needed.
• Trash can: Invest in a good can with a lid and bags to fit inside.

Laundry and cleaning supplies

These items will help with keeping the apartment clean:

• Cleaning gear (broom and dustpan, bucket, dish soap, garbage bags, garbage can, mop, vacuum): Many suitable items are available at dollar stores and online retailers often have sales on vacuums.
• Laundry products (detergent, dryer sheets or fabric softener, drying rack, iron, ironing board, laundry basket, stain remover): Only purchase what you’ll use. If you don’t like ironing and have a wrinkle-free wardrobe, skip it!
• Step stool: Super helpful for reaching tall cabinet and closet shelves

Living room

Whether relaxing to binge-watch the latest hit show or hanging out with friends, the living room should be inviting. If you're on a budget, it’s easy to find great deals through online marketplaces and thrift stores. And don’t forget to ask family and friends if they have any gently used furniture; they might even give it away for free!

Depending on the apartment’s size, consider these accessories, devices and furniture pieces: 

• Bookshelf: display books and décor or use for extra storage.
• Chairs or recliner: Kick back in comfort.
• Coffee table/end table: A great place to set drinks or snacks.
• Computer or laptop: Stay in touch, shop online or work from home.
• Couch or love seat: A place to stretch out or for guests to crash.
• Desk and chair: Helpful if working remotely.
• Internet modem/router and streaming device (Apple TV, Fire TV, Roku): Stay informed and entertained.
• Television (and TV stand or wall mount): Find entertainment options to fit in the space.
• Throw blanket: Stay warm during movie nights or naps.

Bathroom

Don’t forget to coordinate with roommates for shared bathrooms. Stock it with these supplies:

Other must-haves for a first apartment

Keep a tidy, functional place and give it a touch of personality with these items:

Organization supplies

This stuff can make small spaces more functional:

• Drawer organizers
• Food storage containers
• Hangers (look for space-saving ones to help in small closets)
• Storage totes
• Under-bed storage

Apartment décor

Shop clearance racks, online marketplaces and thrift stores to score the best prices.

Miscellaneous

Keep the home running by having these necessities on hand:

• Batteries
• Extension cords
• Flashlight
• Light bulbs
• Surge protector
• Tool set

Still planning your apartment move?

U-Pack® has handled small long-distance moves since 1997. Get a free, no-obligation quote online or call 844-362-5303844-594-3077 to speak to a moving consultant.  

If you have any questions about what is needed for an apartment, let us know in the comments!