Kitchen essentials
Must-haves (day one): Kettle, 2 mugs, 2 plates, 2 bowls, basic cutlery set, saucepan, frying pan, chopping board, sharp knife, tin opener, bottle opener, washing up liquid, sponge, bin bags, tea towels.
Week one adds: Baking tray, colander, measuring jug, food storage containers, spice rack basics (salt, pepper, oil), cling film, foil, oven gloves.
Can wait: Blender, toaster, slow cooker, fancy knife set. Buy these once you know what you actually cook.
Bedroom
Must-haves: Duvet (10.5 or 13.5 tog depending on season), pillows, fitted sheet, duvet cover, pillowcase set, hangers (at least 20), bedside lamp, alarm clock or phone charger.
Worth having: Mattress protector, extra pillow, blackout curtains or an eye mask, under-bed storage boxes.
Bathroom
Must-haves: Bath towels (x2), hand towel, toiletries, toilet roll (bring more than you think), bath mat, shower curtain (check if included), cleaning products.
Cleaning kit: All-purpose spray, toilet cleaner, sponges, a mop or Swiffer, hoover (or check if provided/shared), bin bags.
Living space and general
Tech: Extension leads (at least 2), Wi-Fi router (or check if broadband is included), laptop, phone charger, any streaming sticks.
Laundry: Washing basket, detergent, drying rack (if no tumble dryer), iron (optional — most people buy one when they need it).
Tools: Screwdriver set, hammer, picture hooks, measuring tape, duct tape. You'll need these sooner than you think.
Documents to have ready
Keep these accessible, not buried in a box:
• Tenancy agreement (signed copy)
• Landlord/estate agent contact details
• Utility account details (gas, electric, water, broadband)
• Council tax setup confirmation
• Bank account details
• GP registration forms
• TV licence (if applicable)
• Insurance details (contents insurance is strongly recommended)
How to track your packing
When you're packing your first flat, the last thing you want is to lose track of what's in each box. Use GotItBoxed to photograph items as you pack them, organised by room. On arrival, search the app to find anything instantly — no opening 15 boxes to find the extension lead.
The free plan gives you 5 boxes with 25 items each. Perfect for a first flat. QR labels let you scan boxes to see what's inside.
First night essentials box
Pack a separate box (or bag) with everything you need for the first night. Don't bury this in the removal van — keep it in your car or carry it yourself.
• Kettle + tea/coffee + milk + mug
• Phone charger
• Toilet roll
• Towel
• Bedding
• Toothbrush + toothpaste
• Change of clothes
• Snacks
• Medication
• Torch (in case the lights don't work)
Try GotItBoxed — It's Free
5 boxes, 25 items each, QR labels, full search. No credit card needed.
Start Free →Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to furnish a first flat?
Budget £800-£1,500 for essentials (kitchen, bedroom, bathroom, cleaning) if starting from scratch. Buy second-hand where possible — Facebook Marketplace and charity shops are goldmines.
What do first-time movers forget most?
Toilet roll, bin bags, cleaning products, extension leads, and a first-night essentials bag. Basically, the boring stuff you take for granted at home.
Should I buy everything before moving in?
No. Get the essentials (bedding, kettle, towels, toilet roll, cleaning products) and wait a week before buying more. You'll discover what you actually need once you're living there.