What to throw out:
- Leftovers
- Opened bags of frozen foods
- Opened bags of cookies, chips, etc.
- Opened jars of food and condiments (pickles, ketchup, mustard, sauces, etc.)
- Frozen meats and vegetables (if your trip is far)
- Defrosted meats
- Cold cuts
- Eggs
- Flour, sugar and other staples that are opened
- Opened beverage bottles or containers
What to take:
- Canned goods, sealed jarred goods
- Dry, boxed items like cereal, crackers, macaroni
- Sealed beverages, sealed condiments
- Sealed bags of chips, cookies, bread
- Flour, sugar in sealed bags
How to Pack Food for a Move
- Canned goods: Pack canned goods first in a sturdy box. Make sure the box is not too heavy.
- Dry, boxed items: You can pack these on top of cans and jars, or in their own box. If a package is open, place it in a large zipper storage bag to keep a spill contained.
- Unopened beverages, condiments: Pack heavier plastic bottles on the bottom.
- Sealed chips, cookies, cake: These are best in their own box or a plastic shopping bag, with heavier items like cakes and cookies on the bottom and chips and bread on top.
- Sealed flour, sugar: Use a plastic shopping bag, tied shut, for these items. Place each item in its own zipper storage bag and seal it shut with duct tape. You can then pack these safely in any box with kitchen items.
