When outfitting your first abode, you can leave the bean bag at home – but remember to bring along/buy these important items. This bit of extra planning will make your life wayyy easier later on as there are a few scrapes everyone finds themselves in. Actually, on second thought, keep the bean bag – too many chairs are never a bad thing (hey, house party!)

10) Strainer
First years out money can be tough. Pasta(and macaroni & cheese) is a great dinner option that you can flavor tons of different ways. But – wait – you need a…strainer first.

9) Extension cords, a bunch of ‘em
It doesn’t seeeem like your bedside lamp should need an extension cord, and yet, it and your plug-in alarm clock very much do.

8)Thick curtains for your bedroom
Not only will these shield you from creepy neighbors, but you’ll be thanking yourself come day break.

7)Trash cans for kitchen, bathroom, etc
Trash cans are not the prettiest or funniest apt accoutrement, but without them you’ll be living with tons of garbage bags on the floor. ‘nough said.

6)Spare set of keys
I know, you’re responsible. You won’t lose your keys. So, pretend it’s just for the future houseguests you’ll be having!

5)Flashlight
Sometimes circuits blow. When you need to climb down three flights of stairs to the basement to turn the electric back on, you’ll be glad you can see.

4)Emergency $20 bucks
Next time you’re sick and want to order in food caus you can’t get off the couch, you’ll be super /psyched that you have that extra dough under your pillow. Most places take cards these days, but not all.

3)Sickie Supplies
Speaking of when you get sick, make sure to keep the medicine cabinet stocked. Advil, Sudafed, Cough drops, Cough Syrup…you’ll be glad you’re so well prepared!

2) ICE (in case of emergency) contacts on the fridge for all roommates(and in your phones) AND landlord info
Especially if you met your roommate on Craigslist, be sure to swap info. Should you need to reach him/her outside the apt or reach their family, you’ll be totally set. Also, having the landlord’s info handy is always a good bet

1) A sense of adventure
Living on your own is a big deal. Whoa! Deep breath, chica/chico. Sometimes things are gonna break. Sometimes there will be natural disasters happening within your four walls. As long as you take it in stride, and have a sense of humor. . . you’ll look back on your first apt as one of the best times of your life – promise!

PS. For a more extensive lists of all the basic furniture and supplies you’ll need, check out our handy checklists page.

Tags: budgeting, furnishing