What to Pack First — and What to Leave Until the Last Minute

May 27, 2025

What to Pack First — and What to Leave Until the Last Minute

Avoid last-minute chaos by following this smart packing order.

Introduction

One of the most common packing mistakes is doing everything out of order — boxing up something too early (and needing it again), or leaving the most complicated rooms until the night before the move.

Here’s how to plan the right packing sequence so you stay organised and sane right through to moving day.

What to Pack First

Start with anything you won’t use in the final week before the move. This gets momentum going without affecting daily life.

Pack Early:

Seasonal clothing and shoes
Holiday decorations
Guest bedroom linen
Books and decorative items
Extra towels and bedding
Rarely used appliances (slow cookers, blenders)

Recommended Boxes:

What to Pack Closer to Moving Day

Once you're a few days out, start packing up rooms and items you use less frequently — or can do without temporarily.

Pack Mid-Stage:

Linen closets
Office supplies
Toys
Some kitchenware
Spare toiletries
Garage/shed items

What to Leave Until the Last Minute

These are the items you'll need right up to (and even on) moving day — keep them easily accessible and pack them in clearly labelled open-first boxes.

Pack Last:

Daily-use kitchen items (mugs, cutlery, kettle)
Toiletries and medications
Bedding for the final night
Chargers and tech gear
Cleaning supplies
Important documents
Pet food and essentials

Need help choosing the right items?
See our checklist: What to pack in your first-night essentials box

Bonus Tip: Use an Essentials Box

As you pack your final-day items, keep them together in a dedicated box labelled:
“Open First – Essentials”
That way you don’t spend your first night unpacking 10 boxes just to find a toothbrush.

Use something sturdy and easy to carry: