As everyone else decks the halls and counts down the days until family gathers around, you’re preparing for a big move to your new home. Maybe it’s not ideal, but moving during the holiday season doesn’t have to mean you’re stressed — after all, what better holiday gift than a new home? Here’s how to survive a holiday move without turning into Ebenezer Scrooge’s less-than-pleasant side.
Start it all before the holidays
Get everything taken care of at least two weeks ahead of time so you can enjoy the holiday fun that inevitably falls just before your move. Purge or donate unnecessary items, put what you want to keep but not bring with you into storage units, and pack as much as you can while leaving the essentials easily accessible — including that holiday party outfit and your favorite holiday DVD. If you’re moving long distance, do a bit of research to find fun holiday celebrations or attractions to visit along your trip. Parades, holiday concerts, or festive lights can keep the holiday cheer alive while you’re on the road.
Send the gifts ahead
Shop well in advance, and then ship your gifts to your new home so they will be waiting for you on arrival. If you’re ordering online take advantage of wrapping options so there’s one less step for you to worry about when you can’t find the scissors or tape. If you’re in the mood for a tree, do a bit of research to find out the best places to buy one — consider a small, live tree in a pot, which will require fewer steps to getting it set up and ready to for the festivities.
Hire a moving company in advance
Most moving companies will be short-staffed during this time, so one of the most important tips for moving during the holidays is to be sure you’re booked in advance. Do your research, get recommendations from friends and family, and get a solid estimate from a reputable full-service moving company well before the holidays roll around. Make sure you plan for a slightly higher cost of moving because of the time of year, and treat your movers kindly with cookies or other treats for their efforts.
Think snow
If you’re moving to an area where winter snow might be a consideration, be sure you have your snow boots and warm coats handy — as well as a snow shovel and ice scraper! This will help keep you safe and prepared on the road as well as upon arrival. If the kids are feeling industrious when you get to your new home, they might even get to work on your first snowman in your new yard if they’re ready with snow pants and mittens.
Keep your holiday traditions
Moving during Christmas doesn’t have to mean the cookies or Chinese takeout have to fall by the wayside. Planning your move well in advance will ensure you leave time and opportunity to keep the holiday cheer alive, so make an effort to keep this holiday just as festive as all the others- even if there are a few too many non-gift boxes around for your liking! No matter where you are in the moving process, you’ll remember those little moments of holiday joy more than the moving boxes, guaranteed.
Make the move itself festive
Decorate the inside of your moving truck, wear Santa hats or reindeer antlers as you pack those boxes, and play some festive holiday music while you organize or on your drive. You might have the kids decorate the moving boxes or even craft decorations that you can quickly unpack on arrival for an easy spruce-up to your new home. Just beware of excessive glitter- it has a tendency to get everywhere!
