Personalizing a great new space can begin with introducing a few cherished objects from your permanent home. Before you set
off for your first—or 15th—assignment, determine how many "extras" you can reasonably pack and which items will be supplied
by your travel company.
The setting
Accommodations will vary from one contract to the next; however, private, short-term housing generally consists of a furnished one-bedroom unit, which is provided free of charge by many staffing agencies. If you'd like more room, you can ask your recruiter whether
upgrades are available, but you—not your company—would be responsible for paying the difference in rent.
What can you expect to find inside your apartment unit? Typically, a living room includes a couch, loveseat or chair, coffee
table, end table, and lamps. Kitchen areas usually have a refrigerator, table, and four chairs, and bedrooms are outfitted with a full- or queen-sized bed with headboard, dresser with mirror, nightstand, and a lamp.
Other essentials that may be in your housing package are a television, TV stand, microwave, phone, iron with ironing board,
vacuum cleaner, coffeemaker, toaster, and an AM/FM alarm clock. To ensure you don't end up with duplicate items, confirm the
list of what's provided with your company representative.
Comforts of home
Housing units may come complete with linens, pots, pans, utensils, dishes, glasses, towels, a shower curtain, and a garbage
can—which are either supplied by your staffing agency gratis or for a nominal fee. Prior to hitting the road, establish whether
you would prefer to have some of your own housewares on hand.
For instance, if you find it difficult to sleep restfully in a hotel bed while on vacation, you might consider bringing your own pillows, sheets, and comforter. These items can provide a sense of continuity, no matter where your travels take you.
You should also think about taking some keepsakes or heirlooms to keep special occasions and thoughts of loved ones near and dear to you. Photographs of friends and family create a sense of warmth in any dwelling. And don't forget to bring some of your favorite regional foods, such as the apple butter from your local market, so you can have a taste of home whenever you please. Other personal items
that can make you feel more grounded: a cell phone, computer, CD/DVD player, and your favorite music and movies.
Color your world
Implementing color is the easiest way to warm up a blank canvas. When paint is not an option, think about a vibrant area rug. It can deliver a punch of color, define a seating area, and give a room character.
Low-cost window treatments are another wonderful way to enhance your digs. You can do something as simple as draping a scarf on an existing rod or over blinds. A tablecloth, placemats, patterned potholders
and dishtowels, blankets, slipcovers, and throw pillows can effortlessly introduce splashes of color to your space as well.
A welcome home
A little ingenuity is all that's required to put your stamp on a temporary unit. Preparation is key. Yet if you use your imagination,
you'll always make the most of your surroundings and enjoy your new home away from home.
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