Moving to a new apartment in America can feel overwhelming — especially when you’re starting from scratch and realizing US apartments often come completely unfurnished. These are the affordable Amazon essentials that helped make my apartment feel comfortable, cozy, and more like home without overspending.
🛌 Bedroom Essentials
🛌 Mattress Topper
Many US apartments come unfurnished, and not all mattresses are comfortable.
A mattress topper can make a huge difference during your first few weeks.
Comfortable Bedding Essentials
Good bedding makes a huge difference when adjusting to a new country and routine. Investing in comfortable sheets, pillows, and a quality duvet can help your apartment feel settled much faster.
US bed sizes are different from UK sizes, so double-check measurements before buying bedding for your new apartment.
Most common apartment sizes:
Twin XL → common in student housing
Full → smaller apartments
Queen → BEST overall choice for most couples and apartments
King → larger apartments/homes
For most Brits moving to the USA, I’d recommend starting with:
✅ Queen size bedding
✅ Cozy Throw Blanket
because it’s the most common and easiest to shop for in America.
Blackout Curtains 🎞️
One thing many Brits don’t expect in the USA is how bright apartments can be at night — especially in cities with large windows and thin blinds. Blackout curtains are one of the easiest ways to make your apartment feel cozier, improve sleep, and add a more finished look to your space without spending a fortune.
💡 Bedside Lamp
Useful for small apartments, late-night unpacking, and cozy lighting.
🧺 Under-Bed Storage Bags
Perfect for smaller apartments, maximizing storage space, and seasonal clothing.
🏠 Living Room Essentials
Affordable Rugs for Your First US Apartment
One thing many Brits underestimate when moving to America is how empty apartments can feel at first. A simple rug can instantly make your new space feel warmer, cozier, and more like home — especially if you’re starting with basic furniture. I’d recommend looking for affordable, neutral rugs that are easy to clean and work well in smaller apartments.
🍴 Kitchen Essentials
🍳 Non-Stick Pan Set
One of the first things you’ll need if you want to avoid expensive takeout.
🥤 Water Filter Pitcher
Depending on where you move in the US, many expats prefer filtered water.
🍽️ Basic Dish Set
Affordable starter sets are perfect when you’re beginning from scratch.
☕ Coffee Maker
One thing many Brits quickly realise after moving to the USA? Good coffee at home becomes essential. Whether you’re adjusting to remote work, long commutes, or early American mornings, having a reliable coffee setup makes apartment life feel far more comfortable.
A classic Moka Pot is a simple and affordable way to make strong, café-style coffee without taking up much space — perfect for smaller apartments and first kitchens.
📦 Storage Containers
Keep your kitchen organized and your food fresh with a set of airtight storage containers.
🧼 Bathroom Essentials
🚿 Shower Organizer
Great for small bathrooms, shared apartments, and extra storage.
🧻 Toilet Paper Storage Basket
One of those surprisingly useful apartment items people forget.
🪞 LED Bathroom Mirror
Affordable upgrade that makes apartments feel more modern.
🧖 Towels
Soft, quick-drying towels are one of those apartment essentials you’ll use every single day. A simple matching towel set instantly makes a new bathroom feel cleaner, cozier, and more put together — especially when you’re starting from scratch after moving to the USA. Look for affordable cotton sets that include bath towels, hand towels, and washcloths for the best value.
🛁 Bath Mat
A non-slip, absorbent bath mat is a safety essential that also adds a touch of comfort to your new bathroom.