One of the most common questions new corporate housing guests ask is: what do I actually need to bring? The honest answer is less than you think. Home Street Serviced Apartments equips every unit with everything you need to live comfortably from the moment you arrive. This guide will help you pack smart — and avoid the mistake of overpacking things that are already waiting for you in the apartment.
What HSSA Provides — Leave These at Home
Before you start thinking about what to bring, it helps to know exactly what is already in the apartment:
- All furniture: Bed frame and mattress, bedroom dresser, nightstand, sofa, coffee table, dining table and chairs, desk and chair. You do not need to bring any furniture.
- Bedding: The bed is made up with clean sheets, pillows, a duvet or comforter, and an extra blanket. An extra set of sheets is provided as well.
- Towels: Bath towels, hand towels, and washcloths are in the bathroom — fresh and ready on arrival.
- Full kitchen equipment: Pots and pans, baking dishes, cutting boards, cooking utensils, plates, bowls, glasses, mugs, silverware, coffee maker, toaster. Do not bring your kitchen.
- Cleaning supplies: A starter cleaning kit is provided — vacuum, mop, dishwasher pods, dish soap, and trash bags. You will need to replenish these as they run out during your stay.
- Hangers: The closet has hangers ready for your clothing.
- TV and WiFi: Television is mounted and ready. WiFi is active — the password is waiting for you at the unit.
- Iron and ironing board
- Laundry facilities: In-unit or on-site washer and dryer is available.
What to Bring
Personal Care and Toiletries
HSSA provides the apartment — not a hotel turn-down kit. Bring:
- Shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and soap
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Deodorant, skincare products, and any personal grooming items
- Medications and supplements
- Feminine hygiene products
Clothing
Pack for the length of your stay with your lifestyle in mind. The in-unit or on-site laundry means you do not need to overpack clothing — you can do laundry as you normally would at home. If you are a frequent exerciser, bring your workout clothes and gear.
Food and Pantry Basics
The refrigerator and pantry will be empty on arrival. Your first grocery run after move-in will set you up with the food staples you prefer. You might bring a few non-perishable items (a favorite coffee, protein bars, or snacks) if you would like something on hand before you make that first grocery trip.
Work and Tech Gear
- Laptop and chargers
- Phone and chargers
- Any work peripherals you rely on (mouse, external monitor, headset)
- Your preferred personal devices (tablet, e-reader, gaming console if desired)
Pets and Pet Supplies
If your unit is pet-approved, bring everything your pet needs: food, bowls, bed, crate, leash, litter supplies (for cats), and any medications. The apartment will not have pet supplies waiting — those are yours to bring.
Optional Extras That Can Make a Long Stay More Personal
- A second set of sheets: If you prefer to always have a set in rotation, bring your own. HSSA provides one extra set, but some guests prefer their own linens for longer stays.
- A favorite kitchen item: If you have a specific coffee maker, a preferred knife, or a kitchen gadget you use daily, bring it. HSSA’s kitchen is complete, but there is room for the personal touches that matter to you.
- Personal décor: The apartment is furnished but it is not personalized. A few framed photos, a favorite throw blanket, or a small plant can make a longer stay feel more like home.
- Workout equipment: If you have a yoga mat, resistance bands, or other compact workout gear, bring it. Larger equipment is generally not practical for apartment living, but light fitness accessories are easy to pack and use.
What NOT to Stress About
First-time corporate housing guests often arrive with far more than they need — and leave half of it in the car. Do not stress about bringing furniture, bedding, kitchen equipment, cleaning supplies, towels, or hangers. They are there. Pack your suitcase like you are going on an extended trip, not moving to a new apartment from scratch. That is exactly the experience HSSA is designed to create.