The Go-To New Home Grocery Shopping List
Moving into a new house usually means having a fresh start. Whether you’re moving to accommodate a little one on the way, taking a new job opportunity, or finally taking the step in getting your degree, moving between homes is an adventure many of us will experience in our lifetime. And with a new home, comes a whole new set of essentials. Ensuring your new home is equipped with all the necessary items is an essential step in making it your own. For a seamless transition, discover useful tips for moving to a new home.
New Home Shopping List: Bulk Buying Essentials
The following list covers a wide range of items necessary to fully furnish your new home. Before going on your shopping spree, consider building a bit of a strategy. Bulk purchasing is an efficient way to shop for your new home. It offers long-term financial savings, minimizes the frequency of shopping trips, and reduces driving time.
Planning Your Bulk Purchases
Now is the ideal moment to decide which items are best bought in bulk and which are not. Here are some factors to consider before making bulk purchases:
Assessing Cost-Effectiveness of Bulk Buys
Don’t assume that larger quantities always mean lower costs per unit. It’s wise to spend some time comparing the cost per unit of bulk items to ensure you’re making an economical choice.
Evaluating Storage Space for Bulk Items
Before buying in bulk, consider your storage capacity. Excess items can lead to clutter and frustration if there isn’t adequate space. Assess your storage limitations and allocate a specific area for these items.
Understanding Expiration Dates
Consider the shelf life of products. Non-perishables like pasta and paper goods are more suitable for bulk buying compared to perishables like dairy products. Make sure the items you purchase in bulk will remain usable throughout their consumption period.
Here are our top 10 categories you can delve into when preparing for your new home:
Grocery List for New Home Categories
1. Canned Foods
Every family has a list of staples and gems that they keep on hand when stocking up their kitchen. These canned and jarred goods are always essential to keep on hand when whipping up a meal for the family. Canned foods are also items that will last very long and will aid you in a night of ‘pantry cooking’ when you’ve run out of ideas.
Some of these items include:
- Canned vegetables
- Rice
- Pasta
- Tomato sauce
- Chicken, beef or vegetable broth
- Canned soup
2. Spices and Seasonings
If you’re anything like us, having a fully stocked spice drawer or rack can be a very satisfying addition to your kitchen. Having a few spices on hand can take any home-cooked meal to a whole new level. Spices are a mom’s best friend! Some of the most popular and essential spices to keep on hand are:
- Salt
- Pepper
- Dried herbs such as basil or oregano
- Garlic Powder
- Paprika
- Cumin
- Chilli flakes
- Cinnamon
- Nutmeg
- Italian seasoning
- And a classic South African spice: Braai Sout !
3. Snacks
Some people enjoy a midday snack to keep them going throughout the day. Even the kids enjoy being spoiled with a snack after playing in the yard or swimming in the pool. Snacks are essential when stocking up your new kitchen and are useful to keep your family and friends fed in between meals or when watching a move together. Some essential snack items include:
- Popcorn
- Nuts
- Pretzels
- Chips
- Dried fruit
4. Condiments
Condiments are an essential asset in your kitchen. Just like spices, they help to form the foundation of your family meals and can help to create delicious dinners. Condiments can be expensive, but in the end, having a big stockpile will all be worth it. Some essential condiments include:
- Ketchup
- Mustard
- Olive Oil
- Mayo
- Soy Sauce
- Relish
- Honey
- Hot Sauce
- Worcestershire sauce
5. Baking Staples
Everyone loves a good chocolate chip cookie or a cheesecake every now and then. And if you’re the baker of the house, having a pantry full of baking staples will make your baking adventures that much easier. And if you’re a mom, the kiddies will love you endlessly for having those nifty little goodies on hand. Some baking staples to always have on hand are:
- All purpose flour
- Yeast
- Baking powder
- Vanilla essence
- Sugar (white or brown)
- Muffin mix
- Brownie mix
- Chocolate chips
- Rainbow Sprinkles
6. Frozen Foods
Frozen food can be a lifesaver when time just doesn’t allow you to make fresh, home cooked meals, especially when all of your time is spent on unpacking your belongings in your new home. Make sure to add some frozen food essentials to your grocery list, and you’ll be ready to prepare a yummy quick dinner amid the chaos of unpacking. Some frozen essentials to keep on hand include:
- Vegetables
- Fruits
- French Fries
- Waffles
- Meat such as burgers or chicken
- Pizza
- Ice cream (but of course!)
7. Fresh Produce
If you love spending time in the kitchen preparing fresh, home cooked meals, then stocking up on fresh produce is essential when moving to a new home. When buying fresh produce, make sure to buy fruits and vegetables that are in season. You’ll have an array of delicious and fresh produce to choose from and they will be much cheaper than buying things that are out of season. Having fresh fruits and vegetables can make your family get the nutrients that they need to stay healthy! Some common produce to purchase:
- Potatoes
- Cucumbers
- Lettuce
- Tomatoes
- Carrots
- Onions
- Peppers
- Apples
- Bananas
- Grapes
- Oranges
- Berries
8. Meat, Fish and Other Proteins
Many households are dependent on meat, fish, poultry or other proteins to complete their meals. And if you’re a meat lover, then this category is for you! Having a source of protein in your house is essential for everyone’s diet and well-being. A smart tip to remember is always to plan ahead with regards to when you’ll use the protein you want to buy. Never stock up too much to ensure the meat you’re using in your meals is fresh, otherwise you’ll need to consider buying more frozen meat if you want them to last longer. Some common protein products to purchase include:
- Eggs
- Ground beef
- Steak
- Chicken
- Deli meat/cold cuts
- Fish fillets
- Pork chops
9. Cleaning supplies
Moving into a new home doesn’t just mean stocking up on food. To be prepared for your new home, stocking up on various cleaning supplies are essential in making your new house a home for you and your family. Whether you’re a neat freak or just love the feeling of walking on clean floors, having a stockpile of various cleaning supplies will get the job done. Some very essential items to stock up on include:
- Paper towels
- Toilet paper
- Napkins
- Tissues
- Garbage bags
- Ziplock bags
- All purpose cleaner
- Bleach
- Dishwashing liquid
- Window cleaner
- Sponges
- A mop
- Various cloths
- Laundry detergent
- Stain removers
10. Personal Items
Lastly, when moving into a new home, it is important to remember to buy all of the personal things you will need to make your home feel as comfortable as possible. These items depend on what your family uses on a daily basis, but some of the more common personal items needed in any home include:
- Shampoo
- Conditioner
- Soap
- Body wash
- Deodorant
- Lotions
- Toothpaste
- Toothbrush
- Various medical supplies such as pain relievers, cold medicine or antibiotic creams (these are a MUST in every household)
- Razors
- Feminine products
The categories we discussed are a great guideline to follow when deciding to stock up on your new home. These essential items will help you to adjust to your new settings a lot faster and will make the change in scenery a lot easier. So, get that pen and paper and go on that much-needed shopping spree!
Moving into Your New Home with Biggles
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Moving in Grocery FAQ:
What Should I Stock Up On When Moving?
When moving, it’s important to stock up on items that will ease your transition into the new home. This includes non-perishable food items, basic cooking ingredients, cleaning supplies, toiletries, and essential paper goods. Also, consider items like batteries, light bulbs, and basic tools for immediate home setup and maintenance.
What Food Do You Need When You Move Out?
Upon moving out, prioritize foods that are easy to prepare and consume. Think of items like pasta, rice, canned goods, cereal, bread, peanut butter, and snacks. Also include beverages like water, tea, or coffee. These will provide quick meals without needing elaborate cooking, which is especially helpful while you’re still setting up your new kitchen.
What Do You Put on Your Grocery List?
Your grocery list should include:
- Fresh fruits and vegetables for healthy snacking and easy meal additions.
- Dairy or dairy alternatives like milk, cheese, and yogurt.
- Protein sources such as meat, fish, eggs, or plant-based alternatives.
- Staple carbohydrates like bread, rice, pasta, and potatoes.
- Condiments, spices, and cooking oils for flavor.
- Beverages like water, juice, tea, and coffee.
- Snacks such as nuts, crackers, and granola bars.
What Food Do You Need for a New House?
For a new house, focus on stocking:
- Basic cooking ingredients like flour, sugar, oil, and spices.
- Breakfast essentials like cereal, oats, or bread.
- Easy-to-cook items: pasta, rice, canned soups, and frozen meals.
- Snack options: fruits, nuts, yogurt, and chips.
- Beverages including water, coffee, tea, and soft drinks.
- Fresh produce for cooking and snacking.
- Meat, fish, or plant-based proteins for main dishes.
