Your move-in date is approaching, and you’re excited to begin a new chapter in the independent living community you’ve carefully chosen. Between all the anticipation, you might also be feeling a bit overwhelmed with your growing to-do list. Packing and planning for a move is stressful at any age, but as you begin to downsize, you might be wondering what to include in your moving boxes and what to leave out. Here are some helpful tips for what to bring when moving to your new independent living home, as well as what to leave behind.

Furniture to maximize your new space

Independent living apartments typically come unfurnished, which means you can bring your style with you by choosing furniture that matches your aesthetic. However, your new home may be smaller than what you’re used to, so thoughtful planning is key to maximizing your new space when moving to independent living. You might find that your current furniture will do or that you want to pick new items that better suit your new home. Just remember:

• Measure everything. Bring a copy of your new home’s floor plan, and measure existing furniture before moving.
• Think multifunctional. Opt for pieces that offer storage, like a bed with drawers or an ottoman that opens.
• The right shelving can make a small closet even more functional. Purchase easily installed shelving, or consider visiting a closet organization store. Remember to bring the dimensions of your new living space.
• Prioritize safety. Avoid unstable shelving, like over-the-toilet shelving, that could be a fall risk.
• Be creative. You might not need a kitchen table in your new home, which could open up that space for a crafting desk or art space instead.

Helpful tip: Before deciding what furniture to bring or buy, get a copy of your new home’s floor plan. Measure the furniture and sketch it into the layout to ensure everything fits comfortably. This helps you avoid overcrowding your space. Reach out to your independent living community to request the floor plan for your specific apartment.

Linens, towels, and rugs

Once your furniture is in place, cozy up your space with fresh, clean linens and soft textures. This can be especially important when you’re moving to independent living and want to bring a sense of home with you.

What to bring:

• Two to three sets of high-quality sheets for your bed (look for a higher thread count for extra comfort).
• A few sets of towels in your favorite colors.
• A favorite blanket or quilt that reminds you of home.
• Throw pillows to personalize your bedroom.
• Area rugs to define spaces.

Helpful tip: Rugs can enhance comfort and style but may pose a trip hazard. Use rug tape or nonslip backings, especially in bathrooms and hallways, to keep edges flat and secure.

Daily living essentials

It’s easy to overlook the small, everyday items that make daily life comfortable and familiar. Having these essentials on hand will help your first few days after moving to independent living feel settled and stress-free.

Don’t forget to pack:

• Chargers (for phone, tablet, hearing aids, etc.).
• Toiletries (toothbrush, lotion, shampoo, skin care items, etc.).
• Everyday comfort items (slippers, robe, a favorite mug).
• Snacks and drinks for moving day and your first week.
• A personal digital assistant, like Alexa or Google Home, if you use it regularly.

Helpful tip: Pack these items in a box labeled “OPEN FIRST.” Include everything you’d want for your first night and morning, like your coffee, medications, toothbrush, and pajamas, so you won’t have to search through boxes.

Personal comforts and hobbies

Some people may overlook this category in favor of the essentials. While it’s easy to focus on the basics, the personal touches make your new space feel like home, especially during the early days of moving to independent living.

Items to bring:

• Photos of loved ones (framed or in albums).
• Favorite books.
• Craft or hobby supplies (such as knitting materials, puzzles, or art kits).
• A small radio or speaker for music or audiobooks.
• Keepsakes that fit in small display spaces, such as a grandchild’s drawing or travel souvenir.

Helpful tip: Ask loved ones for something new to brighten your space, like a framed family photo collage to hang on move-in day.

Art and decorations

Update your new home even more by adding pieces of art and other decorations that express who you are without cluttering the space.

Here are some ideas for what to bring:

• A few favorite pieces of art, such as canvas prints, framed paintings, or handmade crafts.
• Small, meaningful decorative objects like figurines, vases, or items from your travels.
• A curated bin of holiday decorations that includes your favorite seasonal items or family heirlooms.
• Indoor plants to brighten up your living space throughout the year.

Helpful tip: Before hanging anything on the walls, check with your community about guidelines for nails, hooks, or adhesive strips. Many independent living apartments have specific rules to protect walls, and using the right hardware can help you decorate safely and stress-free.

Important documents and safety items

Organization and peace of mind go hand in hand when moving to independent living. Be sure to pack your essential paperwork and safeguard your valuables.

What to bring:

• Photo ID, insurance cards, and medical documents.
• Power of attorney and advance directive paperwork.
• A list of emergency contacts.
• A small, fireproof safe for your passport, legal documents, and small valuables.

Helpful tip: Make copies of important documents and share them with a trusted family member before your move.

Clothing that suits your lifestyle

Your daily routine may shift in independent living, with more casual social events and community activities close to home. Comfortable, versatile clothing will help you feel confident and prepared for whatever the day brings.

Pack a wardrobe including:

• Comfortable everyday clothes for lounging, walking, and dining.
• A few dressy outfits for community events or special occasions.
• Comfortable shoes with nonslip soles.
• Seasonal essentials, like a rain jacket, winter coats, sweaters, and scarves.

Helpful tip: Use under-bed storage bins or hanging organizers to maximize your closet space if it’s smaller than you’re used to.

Leave behind these nonessentials when moving to independent living

A move to independent living means you’ll soon have access to a variety of amenities and services designed to make life more convenient. This all-inclusive lifestyle means you can leave behind certain items. You might choose to donate them, give them to a family member, or sell them.

Here are a few things you can leave behind as you start to pack:

• Too many kitchen supplies. You’ll likely have access to meals in a dining room or restaurant-style setting. Bring only what you’ll use, such as a coffeemaker, a few plates and cups, one or two pots or small appliances (like a coffeemaker or microwave), and basic utensils. Leave behind items for larger meals and duplicates of everyday tools.
• Cleaning supplies. While you’ll want to tidy up, you won’t necessarily need all the cleaning supplies thanks to regular housekeeping visits to your apartment. Leave behind a large vacuum cleaner, and instead opt to bring a smaller version. Similarly, keep a small bin of cleaning supply essentials, but leave behind extras. Your housekeeping staff will be happy to take care of the serious cleaning now.
• Excess furniture. Moving into a smaller space means being selective. Avoid cluttering your new home with oversized or impractical items. Donate or sell larger items, like large china cabinets or hutches, big sectional sofas, and large dining tables.
• Your car (maybe). While most independent living communities have resident parking, you might find that you don’t want to bring along your car. If your new community has transportation services, you won’t need to worry about driving, parking, and traffic.

Helpful tip: Not sure if you should bring an item? Contact your new independent living community. They can provide a list of what’s included as well as guidance on what current residents typically bring.

Making your move to independent living a smooth transition

Moving to an independent living community is a significant transition that brings both change and opportunity. With thoughtful planning and support, the process of downsizing and packing can feel more manageable.

Focus on bringing the items that add comfort, function, and meaning to your new space. Leave behind what no longer serves you, and trust that your new home will offer the amenities and support to simplify daily life. If you find you need something you decided not to pack, you can always purchase it. Take your time, ask for help when needed, and allow yourself space to settle in at your own pace.

Senior care facility rules and requirements vary based on company-specific policies and state-level regulations. The content above represents common guidelines but may differ from a particular facility’s policies or requirements. To learn the regulations that apply in your state, contact your local Oasis Senior Advisor.