Moving with kids is not for the weak.
It’s boxes, chaos, emotions, and more boxes. Type A’s beware, you’re in for a scare!
We just did it, and while I’m still recovering, I can confidently say there are a few things that truly helped… and a few things I’d absolutely skip next time.
What actually helped:
- Reusable duffle bags > cardboard boxes
This might be my biggest tip. The big reusable zip duffle bags were gold. Easier to carry, easier to stuff quickly, great for clothes, toys, linens, random loose things, and no tape needed. I’d choose these over a mountain of boxes any day.
- Hire the moving company.
If it’s financially possible, do it. Truly. It felt like an investment, but worth every penny. Moving is already physically and mentally draining. Having professionals handle the heavy lifting saved energy I needed for my kids and my sanity.
- It is never too early to start.
You think you have time… and then suddenly you don’t. Start weeks earlier than feels necessary. Even if it’s one drawer a day, do it.
- Make memory bins.
This one matters. Keep one clear bin for each child with sentimental things, favorite books, keepsakes, artwork, baby items, little treasures. In the middle of a move, everything feels like clutter unless you give meaning a home.
What I’d skip next time:
- Saving too much “just in case.”
If I haven’t used it, worn it, needed it, or remembered it existed… goodbye. Moving makes you realize how much you carry that no longer serves you. Call the donation company and say bye bye.
- Trying to unpack everything immediately.
The pressure to be fully settled fast is fake. Focus on bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchen, essentials. The rest can wait. We are a few weeks in and I still have mountains of boxes to unpack and that’s ok.
- Doing it all myself.
No medal is coming. Accept help. Delegate. Order takeout. Let people show up for you.
Moving with kids is messy and emotional and exhausting, but also kind of beautiful. You pack your life in boxes and there are pieces of memories tucked into drawers, shelves, and corners. It’s a mix of heartbreak and excitement. Thank you casita for the memories, and cheers to surviving this move!
