๐ŸŽ‰ First Apartment Starter Pack: What You Actually Need to Bring (Besides Hopes and Dreams)

June 27, 2025

๐ŸŽ‰ First Apartment Starter Pack: What You Actually Need to Bring (Besides Hopes and Dreams)

Moving into your first apartment? Welcome to the era of midnight snacking in your underwear and Googling “how to cook chicken” like a true adult. Whether you're flying solo or moving in with a roommate, here's your fun and functional checklist of essentials (and a few "just in case" items) to make your new place feel like home and not like a glorified storage unit.

๐Ÿ›๏ธ Bedroom Basics

Let’s start where you’ll probably spend the most time (no judgment):

  • Bed (yes, a real one air mattresses are temporary, not a lifestyle)
  • Sheets, pillows, and a comforter that doesn’t scream “college dorm”
  • Hangers (you’ll never have enough)
  • Hamper or laundry basket (because the floor is not a drawer)
  • Nightstand & lamp for cozy late-night reading or TikTok scrolling

๐Ÿงผ Bathroom Survival Kit

No one likes discovering the absence of toilet paper too late:

  • Shower curtain & rings (trust us, it’s a rookie mistake to forget)
  • Towels (bath, hand, washcloths bonus points for matching sets)
  • Toilet brush and plunger (awkward but necessary)
  • Bathmat (avoid a surprise slip 'n slide)
  • Toothbrush holder, soap, and whatever keeps your skin glowing

๐Ÿณ Kitchen Essentials for the “Chef in Progress”

You don’t need a Michelin star, just a few tools to feed yourself:

  • Pots, pans, and one decent sharp knife (RIP to your butter knives)
  • Dishes, glasses, and silverware for at least 4 people (for future guests or lazy dish days)
  • Can opener, spatula, and measuring cups
  • Coffee maker or electric kettle (critical for 7am or 2am existential crises)
  • Dish soap, sponge, and drying rack; no dishwasher? No problem.

๐Ÿ›‹๏ธ Living Room Level-Up

This is where comfort meets “look how grown-up I am” energy:

  • Comfy couch or futon (bonus: something that’s nap-approved)
  • Coffee table (or ottoman that doubles as storage)
  • TV or monitor setup (streaming subscriptions sold separately)
  • Lamps or lighting (avoid that one sad ceiling light)
  • Throw blanket & some fun décor that screams you

๐Ÿงฐ Tools, Safety & Odds & Ends

These are the silent heroes of adulting:

  • Basic toolkit (hammer, screwdrivers, measuring tape)
  • Extension cords & power strips (because outlets play hide-and-seek)
  • First aid kit (for that inevitable cooking mishap)
  • Trash cans (plural) + garbage bags
  • Cleaning supplies (multi-surface spray, broom, vacuum; yes, you’ll need them)

๐ŸŽ‰ Bonus: Fun Things That Make It Feel Like Home

  • Candles or diffuser (for cozy vibes)
  • Wall art or posters (use Command strips like a pro)
  • Indoor plants (real or fake, no judgment)
  • Bluetooth speaker (dance parties encouraged)
  • A “welcome mat” with a clever message or a comforting one like “hi, I’m home”

๐Ÿšš Final Pro Tip:

Before you move in, check with your leasing office about move-in procedures, parking details, and any apartment-specific needs (like washer/dryer hookups, pet policies, or Wi-Fi providers in the area).

Moving into your first apartment is a huge milestone, so celebrate it, own it, and make it your own little kingdom. ๐ŸŽˆ


Whether you're bringing in IKEA flat-packs or hand-me-down treasures, remember: it's not about perfection, it's about comfort, functionality, and a little personal flair.


Now go forth and adult like a legend. ๐Ÿกโœจ