Friday, December 7, 2012


Moving and packing tips for the holidays


Moving and packing tips for the holidays
The holidays are a stressful time - between shopping and seasonal obligations there's barely time to relax. If you're moving in December, the most wonderful time of the year can quickly turn into a nightmare if you're not adequately prepared.
Whether your lease is set to expire or you simply want to be in your new home to kick off the new year, you might be unable to fully enjoy the holidays during your move if you don't plan properly. Read on for some packing and moving tips that can help you celebrate the spirit of the season as you transition from one house to another.
Pack your decorations last
It's always important to plan ahead before packing - homeowners can easily forget small necessities as they focus on larger belongings like electronics and furniture. When listing your essentials, consider boxing your seasonal decorations last.
As soon as you arrive in your new home, you can quickly unpack your ornaments and lights and hang them. This can help bring seasonal cheer into your new house while you settle in and unload the rest of your belongings. Additionally, packing your decorations last encourages you to only bring the ones you love most to save space.
Plan for travel delays
Vacationers frequently schedule annual trips around the holidays. If you're moving out of state or into a big city, you may be faced with lengthy traffics delays as travelers hit the road to visit their loved ones. It can be stressful to stay in the car when you want to enjoy your new house and start celebrating, so plan ahead and consider moving on less-hectic travel days.
Traditionally, the busiest days are the ones directly preceding the holidays, and rush hours usually feature heavily congested traffic. If you're able to move during December's first couple weeks, you can avoid some delays. You can also reduce the amount of time spent idling if you drive at night instead of during the daytime.
Participate in local celebrations
Long distance moving may mean you won't be able to hold your usual festivities with loved ones this year, as it can be difficult to hold parties at home when you're unpacking and settling into your new house.
Before your move, research local celebrations in your new neighborhood. Most cities and towns hold events throughout December so you can participate in seasonal traditions like tree lighting and caroling. You can also introduce yourself at these gatherings and start making new friends.