"Are towels included? Do I bring my own sheets? Should I buy clothing hangers?" 

Sound familiar? When packing for a stay in corporate housing, you want to ensure the essentials will be there the moment you arrive at your new home away from home. This guide from our experts will help you decide what to bring, what to prepare for, and what you will have waiting for you on arrival in your furnished apartment.

Ready On Arrival

These items will already be in your apartment:

• Bed linens
• Towels
• Pillows
• Furniture
• Kitchenware: eating and cooking utensils, dishes, glasses, and pots and pans
• Laundry essentials: clothes basket, drying rack, hangers, iron, and ironing board
  
  

Pack and Plan Ahead:

These personal items should be some of the first things you pack and/or address as you prepare for your stay:

Medications: Talk with your doctor about coordinating prescriptions for any medications you may take. Some medications may be prescribed for longer-term needs, such as a 90-day supply, to give you time to find a neighborhood pharmacy in your new destination. 

Contact Lenses: If you wear contact lenses, order and pack enough pairs and cleaning solution for your stay. 

Toiletries: Have a favorite shampoo, moisturizer, etc.? You may want to bring them along with you versus visiting a local store and finding out they're not available or waiting for your online package.

Electronics & Chargers: Be sure to bring all the proper charging cords for your electronics - including a charging block and cable for your phone so you are covered no matter where you are! Also be sure to research the types of electrical outlets in your new place to see if you need to buy adapters, especially if you’re traveling out of the country.

Documents: Are there any important documents needed for your new assignment or in your new location? Check to see if originals are required, or if copies will be accepted, and pack accordingly.

Pets: If a furry friend will be accompanying you, verify that the temporary accommodation accepts pets and if there are any specific rules or policies to comply with. Check that you have the pet's up-to-date health records and bring them with you. If going out of the country, talk to your veterinarian about any country-specific preventative vaccinations or medications that should be administered.

Clothing: As a general travel rule, it is a good idea to pack enough clothes and toiletries in your carry-on to last a few days in the event your luggage gets delayed. Choose your favorite articles of clothing, including plenty of options for layering. Dressing for the office? Consider wrinkle-free fabrics. If you will be living in a climate that is different from what you are used to, study the weather to determine what you may need to buy.

In the Kitchen: Corporate Housing unit kitchens come stocked with the pots, pans, and measuring supplies you need to make your favorite comfort food and prepare new recipes. However, if you have a favorite mug or special cooking utensil you just cannot live without, feel free to wrap it well and tuck it in your luggage. Most units have some kitchen basics, like salt and pepper, a coffee maker, and a few days’ supply of coffee and dishwashing soap and scrubbers. You’ll want to do an inventory on arrival to plan your first trip to the grocery store.

Forgot to Pack Something? Travel Pro-Tip:

Shopping for clothing or toiletries is a great way to explore your new neighborhood. While you may have a special face lotion or razor you simply cannot live without, do not worry about loading your suitcase with everyday items. A trip to the store to buy toothpaste and laundry detergent will likely be one of the first things you do when you arrive. 

Finishing Touches

A simple way to make your serviced apartment or hotel feels like home is to bring a few photos of friends and family. Tucking these in spaces around your new place will add a personal touch. Welcome home!