PACKING MEALS AND SNACKS

Now that sleeping arrangements have been organized for your first night at your new home, consider eating arrangements. Your freezer and refrigerator may not be up and running on your first night and unpacking your dishes and kitchen necessities will not be on the top of your to-do list that first night. Therefore, you may want to consider eating out or ordering in for your first few meals. Visiting your local eateries is an excellent way to get familiar with your neighborhood and helps eliminate the stress of not only unpacking your cookware but also cleaning up afterward.

If going out or delivery isn’t an option, packing a can opener along with these suggested non-perishable food items is the way to go. Keep in mind, foods that require a microwave for heating may not be usable if your appliances are not installed yet.

• Peanut butter.
• Canned or pouched tuna, salmon or chicken.
• Canned veggies.
• Canned fruit (low sugar).
• Canned legumes such as lentils and beans.
• Instant oatmeal.

For snack time, pack portable, high-protein food items and lots of water to keep everyone hydrated. Granola bars, beef jerky, trail mix, crackers and popcorn are the sort of things you and your family will appreciate having on hand.

You will definitely need some paper plates, disposable cups, napkins and utensils. If you prefer reducing waste over dishwashing, bring reusable camping utensils and dishes instead of disposable.

For your little ones, sippy cups, bottles, bibs and formula are essential. And for your pets, placing food and water in their “familiar” dishes helps to keep them calm during the transition.