It can take what seems like forever to pack up your entire life. Especially if there is more than one of you living in the house or children running around. On top of that you need to remember to organise moving trucks and maybe a few friends to lend a helping hand or two. Moving house is not an easy task and can be one of the most stressful processes, so we’ve put together some tips on how to keep it cool.

What makes moving so stressful

Money money money

From hiring a truck to petrol and packing boxes, moving usually isn’t cheap. Not to mention you’ve probably just paid 1 months worth of rent with bond or a big house deposit, no matter your situation both expected and unexpected costs tend to come up.

Emotional highs and lows

You may not be moving by choice and if you are that doesn’t make it easier. You could be moving away from family or close friends which can be challenging in itself. On the other hand you may be moving with your loved ones, leaving behind years of memories which can pull on the heartstrings. All whilst also feeling excited and trying to keep up with a massive moving to-do list. All these things can leave you feeling like one big ball of mixed emotions.

Unexpected hiccups

Let’s be real, you can’t control everything. The removalist might get lost and run late, something you cherish might break during your move, even running out of packing tape might be your final straw leaving you on the kitchen floor in tears. Things happen and it’s best to take a deep breath, have your moment, remember it could be worse and that you’re almost at the finishing line.

Feels like forever

It’s unlikely you have all the time in the world for moving house, unless of course your job title is removalist. You may not have the option to take days off work, you might even have more than one job or you don’t work and have someone else to care for. Life continues when you move, leaving you with less time to get things sorted and managing your time along with other commitments can be hard.

There is light at the end of the moving tunnel

Moving is never going to be easy however there are some things you can do to make it less stressful, even possibly a little more exciting and fun...

  • Don’t commit to anything you don’t have to, it’s best to dedicate your spare time to moving and keep your schedule clear
  • As you pack, throw out anything you haven’t used for 6 months
  • Avoid getting ‘hangry’ by keeping some snacks and water nearby
  • Try to finish packing at least a few days before the movers arrive
  • Make sure you have enough packing supplies, but if you don’t at least you’ve followed the previous tip and have a few days to get more
  • You’ll need clothing and some essentials, pack an overnight bag for moving day
  • If something unexpected happens, deal with it straight away so you don’t worry about it
  • Remember things happen and not everything will go perfectly, just shake it off
  • Take your moment to say goodbye if you need to, but don’t let it slow you down
  • Moving can be fun too, get friends to help out and turn up the music
  • Have a cleaner booked in for when the house is empty, you might have to do this to get your rental bond back
  • Try to have some spare cash for any unexpected hiccups along the way

Don’t forget the kids and your furry friends

We aren’t the only ones who find moving stressful. Animals and young children usually have no idea what is going on, so they can’t even prepare themselves emotionally. Try to keep that in mind because the calmer you are, the better they will feel. To help, here are some tips on making moving easy for kids and furry friends.

The little ones

  • Have a chat about why you are moving and how exciting their new home will be
  • Ask how they feel about the situation, let them vent
  • Leave some toys or clothes out for them to pack, it could become a fun game
  • Ask a family member to babysit, a playdate on move day might help
  • During your move and once you’re in the new house try to stick to your routine as much as possible

The family pet

  • Try to make sure your pet is used to being in a crate or car before you move
  • To keep them calm and out of your way, try to keep them in one room on moving day - with water of course
  • If you are able to access your new home before you move, take them for a visit so they get used to their new surroundings
  • Be patient, it may take some time for them to get back into the swing of things.
  • Don’t pack up their favourite toys, having them on move day might calm them down

To wrap it up

No one loves moving house, especially if you’ve done your fair share of relocating. That being said there are many ways you can make things easier for yourself and family and it all comes down to being prepared, organised and patient.