60 Must-Have Grocery Items for Your First Apartment



Erika Marie is a fashion and beauty writer as well…

So, you’ve finally secured your first apartment – congrats! Now comes the exciting yet overwhelming task of stocking up your kitchen with the essentials. Walking into a grocery store with a blank slate can be overwhelming, especially when you’re on a budget and trying to figure out what’s necessary. Fear not, because we’ve got you covered!
This article will guide you through the ultimate list of 60 must-have grocery items for your first apartment. Whether you’re a culinary novice or an aspiring chef, these items will set you up for success in the kitchen and ensure that your pantry is always well-stocked.
Pantry Items

- Rice
- Pasta
- Quinoa
- Lentils
- Canned beans (black beans, chickpeas, etc.)
- Canned tomatoes
- Tomato sauce
- Olive oil
- Vinegar (balsamic, apple cider)
- Salt and pepper
- Spices (cumin, paprika, garlic powder, etc.)
- Flour
- Sugar
- Baking powder
- Baking soda
- Honey or maple syrup
- Oats
- Breakfast cereals
- Peanut butter or almond butter
- Jam or jelly
Refrigerator Essentials
- Milk or plant-based milk
- Butter or margarine
- Cheese
- Yogurt
- Fresh fruits (apples, bananas, berries)
- Fresh vegetables (lettuce, tomatoes, onions, bell peppers)
- Hummus
- Salad dressing
- Condiments (mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard)
- Eggs
Freezer Items
- Frozen vegetables (peas, broccoli, mixed veggies)
- Frozen fruits (berries, mango chunks)
- Chicken breasts or thighs
- Ground beef or turkey
- Fish fillets
- Frozen pizza
- Ice cream or frozen treats
Bakery Section

- Bread
- Bagels
- Tortillas or wraps
Snacks
- Crackers
- Popcorn
- Nuts (almonds, peanuts, etc.)
- Trail mix
- Granola bars
Beverages
- Coffee
- Tea
- Juice
- Bottled water
- Soda or sparkling water
Cleaning Supplies

- Dish soap
- Sponges or dishcloths
- Trash bags
- All-purpose cleaner
- Paper towels
Personal Care
- Toilet paper
- Shampoo and conditioner
- Body wash or soap
- Toothpaste
- Laundry detergent
Wrapping Up
Creating a grocery list for your first apartment is an important step towards independence and self-sufficiency. You can save money and eat healthier by carefully planning your meals and shopping wisely.
With these must-have items, you can whip up delicious meals, host impromptu gatherings, and always have a snack ready for those late-night cravings. So next time you’re at the grocery store, grab these items and get your apartment kitchen off to a great start.
Pin it, save it, love it! Save this image to Pinterest to bookmark this page!


Erika Marie is a fashion and beauty writer as well as a hardcore vintage clothing enthusiast. In her free time, she can be found thrifting for hidden gems to add to her collection.