5 Tips to Follow When Moving Out for the First Time

Moving out for the first time is incredibly exciting. It can also be a bit overwhelming, especially if you haven’t had a lot of responsibility before in terms of living on your own. But in between the excitement over finally snagging your own place and the apprehension over having to leave your comfort zone is a list of things that need to get done in order to make moving out for the first time as seamless of a process as possible.

Here’s the good news: we’ve all been there before. Moving out on your own—even if that means moving in with roommates or a significant other—is an experience that everyone goes through eventually. And somehow, we do all figure out what kind of toilet paper to buy (hint: the more plies, the better) and how to pay our rent every month (on time and in full).

Now that it’s your turn, read on for five tips you should follow when moving out for the first time that will help you ditch the apprehension, embrace the excitement, and create a new comfort zone that’s all your own.

Figure Out Finances First

Figure Out if You Want to (and Can Afford to) Live Alone

Figure Out How to Do Basic Lifestyle Tasks

  • Basic cleaning chores
    • Dusting
    • Sweeping, mopping, vacuuming
    • Bathroom cleaning
    • Making a bed
    • Using a washer and dryer
    • Folding
    • Ironing
    • Grocery shopping
    • Cooking easy meals (or more ambitious ones, if that’s your thing)

    Figure Out Your Moving Plan

    • Figuring out whether you need to hire movers or rent a truck. Since you’re moving out for the first time, chances are you don’t have a ton of furniture to transport and may be okay moving on your own. But if you do need to hire movers, use our free online moving company directory to find reputable professionals in your area.
    • Getting moving boxes and supplies. Use our packing calculator to figure out exactly what you’ll need in terms of boxes and packing supplies.
    • Organizing and getting rid of stuff. You’ve lived in your home for years, so even if you’re just packing up the stuff in your bedroom there are definitely plenty of items that you can get rid of. Go through your closet and all of your drawers and pull out all of the items you no longer want or need. Then make a plan for donating, recycling, or tossing each item as appropriate.
    • Packing up your belongings. Packing always takes longer than you think, so give yourself more time for this than you anticipate needing. And don’t just throw everything into boxes and call it a day. Take the time to wrap up delicate items, label your boxes, and fill in the gaps so nothing moves around in transit. Read up on how to pack for a move for a full overview of what you’ll need to do.

    Figure Out Where You’ll Need to Update Your Address

    Keep in mind that amidst all the hubbub around moving tasks, budgeting, and roommate hunting, you’re also probably going to have quite a few emotions swirling around. Whatever you’re feeling though, it’s okay! Sadness, fear of change, and feeling of being overwhelmed are all normal when you’re moving out for the first time, and often exist right alongside feelings of elation and eager anticipation. Fortunately, it’s a process everyone goes through. Talk to friends and family members about what you’re feeling, and along with getting some reassurance (and someone to share your excitement with), you’ll probably also get some additional tips for easing the transition.