Moving out generally has a fairly standard checklist: send out a rental application, pack things up, rent a truck. However, anyone leaving home for the first time should have certain life skills to navigate any potential hiccups once they’re settled and officially on their own. To help you get started, we’ve made a helpful list of things to know before moving out.
How to Budget
Living on your own is associated with several expenses, and you’ll have to know how to manage them so that you still have something left in your bank account at the end of the month. Make a list of everything you’ll need to put money toward every month; below is a list of expenses you may have to consider:
- Utilities—gas, water, and electricity
- Groceries
- Car and renter’s insurance
- Fuel for your car
- Wi-Fi
- Phone bills
How to File Taxes
You can hire someone to do your taxes for you, but depending on the amount of finances you’re managing, you may be able to file them yourself. Many websites will walk you through the process and file your taxes for free, so you’ll just have to familiarize yourself with your tax forms and verify that the site you’re using is legitimate.
How to Change a Tire
If you don’t have access to roadside assistance, you’ll want to know how to change a tire. This is a skill that slips under the radar for a lot of people, but it’s an essential one to have. To prepare yourself ahead of time, practice changing your tire at home to get the hang of it.
Time Management
Between work, grocery shopping, and household chores, you may become overwhelmed with the number of tasks on your plate—especially if you want to take time for personal and social activities. Invest in a planner or an app that helps you successfully manage your time with minimal stress.
Basic Maintenance
You should know how to perform certain tasks in your home to ensure your safety and wellbeing. These should include:
- Changing the filters in your air conditioner
- Testing your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
- Cleaning out your fridge
- Unclogging a drain
- Using tools for simple repairs