Moving to a new living space is always exciting. However, it can also be very stressful and overwhelming. From finding a new home to packing to cleaning the old place, there are so many things to do. Here are some of my tips to maybe make it a little smoother of a transition.

1. Pack a bag with things you will need with an amount of things to last a couple days.

Moving itself is tiring. You probably won’t want to jump right into unpacking immediately after. Having a few clothes and essentials will give you some down time to recover.

2. Put all bathroom essentials, medication, or any other urgently needed products in a clear tote.

This was you’ll be able to see those things you need immediately without opening every box searching for them.

3. Wrap dishes, glasses and anything breakable in T-shirts.

Not only will this save money on bubble wrap, it’s just another way to pack your clothes and might downside a box or two.

4. Put all liquids in plastic bags.

Whether you’re moving across town or across the country, you never know what little bumps in the road will cause. This will help prevent ruining anything they might be placed next to. You also won’t lose anything because it spilled out.

5. Get a cooler for freezer food and try not to buy fresh food close to your move.

Pack the cooler the day of your move and unpack it once you’re in the new place. If you’re moving a far distance, consider donating any food left to a shelter or give it to some friends so nothing gets wasted!

6. Hang things on the wall? Don’t know how to fill holes?

Use toothpaste or a bar of soap. It all works the same.

7. Take pictures moving in and out.

This way you have proof of the condition of the home in the event there is a problem with a landlord or new tenant.

8. Ask for help from friends.

Moving is hard and it’s even more difficult when it’s just one or two of you doing it. Instead of paying strangers to do it for you, ask friends to help out. Reward them with food or alcohol. Most people can’t turn that down.

9. Make sure everything is packed before moving day.

This is an important one. Having everything ready to go once all the help shows up will get the ball rolling and most likely make things go quicker.

10. When moving day comes…

If everything is ready to go, it should be smooth sailing! It’s really too late to get stressed about anything now. Take these tips and the packing part should be taken care of. Also, don’t forget to change your address and let companies know you’re forwarding address.