How to Handle Moving During the Holidays
November 6, 2024
by Morayma MaKay
Corporate Relocation Consultant & Coach
Get-Ready-Set-Move
The freedom to move.
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Moving during the holidays may not be optimal, but life often throws us curveballs, and we’re left making the best of the craziest situations. So, what are we to do if our next move is smack dab in the middle of the holiday season? Here are a few tips to help!:
1. Emotionally Preparing for a Holiday Move
The holidays bring up a lot of emotions, and adding a move on top of that can feel intense. Acknowledge any stress or sadness but also view this as an opportunity for a fresh start.
- Set expectations. Understand that this holiday season will look different. Rather than focusing on traditions you might miss, think of this as a chance to create new memories.
- Celebrate along the way. Take a few small breaks to enjoy holiday activities, like watching a favorite movie or sharing a holiday meal. These little celebrations can keep your spirits up.
- Be gentle with yourself. Moving is a big transition; patience and self-care can make the process feel more manageable.
2. Strategize Your Packing
Packing for a holiday move requires extra care, especially with holiday decorations, gifts, and seasonal clothing in the mix.
- Pack a “holiday essentials” box. If you want to celebrate after you arrive, pack a small box with decorations or a few sentimental items to bring some festive cheer to your new space.
- Declutter holiday items. Moving is a great time to decide what seasonal items you actually use and love. Donate or recycle anything that no longer feels essential.
- Label holiday boxes. Label anything holiday-related clearly so you can locate it quickly and easily set up if you’re celebrating in your new home.
3. Plan Around Holiday Closures
Since the holiday season affects the availability of certain services, plan carefully around these changes.
- Book movers early. Movers and other service providers often have limited availability, so it’s wise to secure your moving date well in advance.
- Check storage facility hours. If using a storage unit, make sure you know their holiday hours to avoid any unexpected closures that might hinder your access.
- Change your address early. The holiday season is busy for mail carriers, so change your address and notify utility companies in advance to prevent any delays.
4. Balancing Holiday Cheer and Moving Responsibilities
Even if you’re busy packing, there’s no need to skip holiday festivities altogether. Embrace small ways to enjoy the season in between the moving chaos.
- Celebrate in your new town. Once you’ve settled, look up local holiday events to get a feel for your new community and make the holiday season feel festive.
- Set up a small holiday corner. Even in the midst of boxes, creating a mini holiday setup with a few decorations or a string of lights can bring comfort and joy.
- Plan a virtual celebration. If you won’t be able to celebrate with loved ones in person, organize a virtual get-together to stay connected and share in the holiday cheer.
5. Stay Organized with a Moving Checklist
Being organized is especially important when moving during the busy holiday season. Create a checklist to stay on top of everything from packing to address changes.
- Outline key dates. List what you need to accomplish each week, factoring in any holiday closures, moving appointments, or travel plans.
- Budget for holiday-season costs. Moving during the holidays can come with extra expenses. Account for things like increased moving rates and last-minute purchases so that financial surprises don’t add stress.
- Plan easy meals. Amidst packing, cooking can feel like a hassle. Plan for simple, pre-made meals or takeout to keep you energized without adding to your to-do list.
6. Embrace the New Year with Your Move
The timing of a holiday move means you’ll start fresh in the New Year—so why not embrace it as a chance to reflect and set positive intentions for this new chapter?
- Set up your new space thoughtfully. Take time to envision what you want your new home to feel like and make it a reflection of your goals for the coming year.
- Move at your own pace. Moving during the holidays can be rushed, so give yourself time to settle in. Focus on unpacking the essentials first, and take time to create a space that feels like home.
- Reflect on this milestone. Moving during the holidays can be a unique experience, allowing you to start the New Year in a new home. Embrace the opportunity to make new memories and set intentions for a fresh start.
With a little effort and a positive mindset, your holiday move can be a wonderful memory to look back on and the start of a bright new chapter!
