Moving out for the first time is kind of like ordering a salad at a new restaurant. You feel like an adult… but you also realize halfway through that you definitely didn’t think it all the way through. Sure, you planned the Pinterest board, found a cute place, maybe even bought a fake plant or two—but no one tells you the real stuff.
So here are five things I genuinely wish someone had sat me down and told me before I moved out. Learn from my semi-chaotic experience and save yourself a few breakdowns.
The “Starter Apartment” Shopping List is a Trap
Everyone tells you to “just grab the basics.” But what are the basics? I didn’t realize I needed a plunger until it was too late. Same goes for scissors, a laundry hamper, and lightbulbs.
The Fix:
Make a room-by-room checklist before moving out. Don’t just wing it. Here’s a head start:
- Kitchen: sponge, dish soap, trash bags, food containers, one good knife, can opener, basic seasonings
- Bathroom: plunger, toilet brush, shower curtain & rings, 2 towels, soap, basic meds
- Cleaning: all-purpose cleaner, broom, dustpan, vacuum (handheld works too), paper towels
- Other: scissors, tape, power strip, extension cord
Print the list or keep it on your phone. Shop over time so it doesn’t destroy your bank account in one go.
Rent Is Just the Beginning
Rent isn’t your only monthly bill. Utilities, Wi-Fi, heating, and random fees will sneak up fast if you don’t plan ahead.
The Fix:
Make a realistic monthly budget before signing a lease. Include:
- Rent
- Electricity & water (ask the landlord for average costs!)
- Wi-Fi (expect $30–$60/month)
- Groceries ($50–$75/week depending on lifestyle)
- Public transport or gas
- Emergency savings (even if it’s $20/month — start it now)
Use a free budget app like EveryDollar or Notion templates to stay on track. Seeing numbers visually helps you spend intentionally and avoid late fees.
Cooking Every Day is a Lie
No, you will not suddenly become a home chef overnight. And if you try to cook 7 nights a week from scratch, you’ll burn out (and possibly your dinner).
The Fix:
Learn 3 core meals you can rotate and remix. Example:
- One-Pan Pasta: noodles, garlic, olive oil, spinach, protein (chicken, tofu, tuna)
- Sheet Pan Roast: toss veggies + protein in seasoning and roast at 400°F
- Stir-Fry: rice, frozen veggies, soy sauce, and whatever else is in the fridge
Keep frozen meals and pantry staples (rice, pasta, canned beans) on hand for backup. Also, write out a weekly grocery list before you shop. No more “why did I buy only oat milk and tortilla chips?
Cleaning Is Easier When You Don’t Let It Pile Up
You will think your space is clean — until sunlight hits the dust in your room like a crime scene. A cluttered space kills your motivation and makes it feel like you live in a swamp.
The Fix:
Use the “10-minute rule”: Set a timer every day and clean one thing — wipe the counter, vacuum, clean the toilet, whatever. That’s it. Ten minutes.
Also, create a weekly reset routine:
- Sunday: change sheets, take out trash, do laundry
- Monday: wipe kitchen surfaces
- Thursday: vacuum + Swiffer
Make it part of your routine so it doesn’t get gross or overwhelming. Lazy cleaning > no cleaning.
Being Alone Can Suck (Unless You Plan for It)
Freedom is great… until your first lonely Sunday when you’re staring at the wall wondering if you accidentally moved into a void. You will feel weird at first, and that’s normal.
The Fix:
- Create rituals: morning music + coffee, evening tea + journaling, etc.
- Join stuff. Even online. Reddit communities, Discord servers, a gym, a local meetup — anything that adds interaction to your week.
- Schedule social time like a class. Call friends while cleaning. Invite someone over once a week, even if it’s just for frozen pizza and TV.
Also? Keep a “comfort corner” — blanket, candle, your favorite book or show — and go there when it gets overwhelming. You don’t need to be productive all the time. You just need space that feels like you.
Final Thoughts:
Moving out isn’t just about buying furniture and choosing paint swatches. It’s about building a whole system that supports your daily life. You’re going to forget things. You’ll have weird days. And some nights dinner will just be cereal.
But the more you prep, the less chaotic it feels. Think of this post as your starter manual — not for a perfect home, but for one that works, grows with you, and actually feels like yours.
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