Moving to a new house and have no idea about what to do with food arrangements? Well, my friend, the first few days are really going to be rough. But that’s certainly no reason for you to stay hungry. In today’s era, you can order from outside, take help from special services and even DIY by meal prepping beforehand.
Here are some tips for your moving day food arrangement, that will make things as easy as a breeze!
1. Frozen Meals are Your Best Friend
Frozen meals are a universal favorite for meal planners everywhere. And they’re even better for moving day because most of the work is done beforehand. This leaves more time for packing and less time stressing out over what to eat.
You can stock up on simple frozen meals from your grocery store, or even prepare something yourself.
Marinated chicken, fajitas, sandwiches, casseroles, stuffed potatoes, and frozen pizza are pretty popular options. And they’re also very filling and delicious after a day of hard work.
All you need for this prep to work is access to a freezer or cooler where you move in. So, it might be a good idea to install the refrigerator and microwave before you start unpacking.
This sounds like a lot of work, but it will make mealtimes during the transition a lot easier.
2. Don’t Skip Breakfast
You may have been told on numerous occasions during childhood that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. And truly, this is no joke. Breakfast lets you start off the day with energy and motivation and is essential for maintaining good health.
So even if you might be tempted to skip because there’s just no time on moving day – don’t do it! Pack something portable and simple, that you can even eat in your car.
Some easy breakfast options you can prepare beforehand are overnight oats, peanut butter banana breakfast cookies, and egg muffins.
If making something is too much of a hassle, order from a drive-thru on the way. Even grabbing a yogurt on the go will make a difference. But definitely fill your tummy, or you won’t have a very productive day.
3. Pack Lots of Snacks
Unpacking is a lot of work – both emotionally and physically. So, it’s only normal to feel hungry. That’s why it’s important to make arrangements for snacks, along with the three main meals of the day. Munching on something light throughout the day will keep you energized and happy.
Keep packets of crisps, crackers, and nuts around. The salty goodness will definitely release the feel-good hormones and make moving a less unpleasant experience.
But if you’re health conscience, the best thing to do is pack some fruit, veggies and homemade energy bars beforehand.
The snacks should be small enough to fit in your carry-on bag because you don’t want to be lugging around a whole back of food. Now is the perfect time to make use of all those Ziploc bags and Tupperware you have stored away.
4. Drinks are Important Too
On busy moving days, people often forget about the drinks. Coffee addicts should definitely think this through and buy a heat-retaining flask to carry around the whole day.
Downing a few red bulls, energy drinks or juice packs can also be quite refreshing and give you the adrenaline rush you need to complete the job.
But in all honesty, the healthiest and most effective drink you can truly have is water. Staying hydrated keeps you more energized and prevents fatigue. And this is exactly what you need when moving into a new place
5. Plan Ahead
To make moving day as organized and hassle-free as possible, you need to plan ahead. This includes your meals, drinks, eating schedule and even what utensils to keep out.
It’s best to eat immediately after movers take out your stuff, or on the go. You won’t have time for a massive meal, so don’t waste hours away on lunch break.
Schedule your meal breaks and give yourself around 20 minutes for each. The key nutritious food in small bites.
6. Finish Your Leftovers
A week before you leave your old house, make an inventory of all the food in your kitchen and pantry. Take note of canned items, perishable items, and expiry dates.
Whip up your meal preps for moving day and the week before using these ingredients. Make sure to finish the perishable items first.
Your new house will be a new beginning. You really won’t feel like carrying, let alone looking, at leftover food once you’re trying to settle in.
7. Other Helpful Food Resources
If you’re really not into meal prepping and transporting food, takeaway is your best option. But even then, if there’s no food available, you can always sign up for a meal kit service.
These services will bring you fresh ingredients to your door, that too the exact amounts you need for your dish. So it allows you to eat fresh homemade food, without any waste.
As for your leftovers, you can always donate them to your local food bank. You could also try contacting Move for Hunger, which is a US-based company that helps families in need. It partners with relocation companies and collects non-perishable food, which it donates to these families.
Final Thoughts
No matter what you do, moving day is going to be hectic. There will be groaning, yelling and a lot of frustration in the air. But in the process of all that, don’t ignore your meals.
Having a full stomach will help you concentrate better, and give you energy boosts for lifting those heavy boxes. It will also put you in a much calmer and positive mood.
But just because you want to feel good and have convenience doesn’t mean you can get away with eating junk food all day. Make sure your meals are light and healthy, yet nutritious and filling.
And yes, do pack a few of your favorite treats in case you really need some extra motivation.