Overview

Moving during the holidays can be challenging, but with a little planning and a positive mindset, it can also be festive and meaningful. Decorate with portable items, create a holiday playlist, and send holiday cards as moving announcements. Reinvent traditions by dining out or starting new celebrations in your new home. Stay organized, book your movers early, set up utilities in advance, and label essential boxes. Take breaks to enjoy the season, even if it’s just admiring hotel decorations or grabbing holiday treats on the road. Hiring professional packers can ease the stress and help protect your belongings, because you truly can’t put a price on peace of mind.

How to Make the Best of Holiday Moving

Let’s face it, holiday moving isn’t anyone’s idea of a good time. While most people are cozying up around a fireplace, enjoying family dinners, and exchanging gifts, you might be knee-deep in bubble wrap and boxes. But moving during the holidays doesn’t have to be a total buzzkill. In fact, with a little creativity and a positive mindset, it can be a surprisingly meaningful way to start a new chapter.

Whether you're moving across town or across the country, here are some realistic and cheerful ways to make the most of a holiday move.

1. Put Some Cheer into Your Holiday Moving

When you’re surrounded by boxes and a disassembled sofa, it can be easy to forget that it’s still the most wonderful time of the year. But keeping the spirit of the season alive can make your move feel a lot less stressful, and a lot more festive.

Packable Decorations Are Your Friend

Skip the elaborate, hard-to-pack décor and go for smaller, portable holiday items. A tabletop tree, string lights, or a few wreaths hung around the house can bring warmth and spirit without becoming a burden. The best part? These decorations can go with you in the car and be set up at your new home almost immediately.

Create a Holiday Playlist for the Move

A curated holiday playlist can boost everyone’s mood, especially if you're loading the moving truck on a chilly December morning. Add classic carols, fun pop hits, or even a few sentimental songs that remind you of home.

Holiday Cards as a Moving Announcement

If you normally send out holiday cards, consider combining your greeting with a moving announcement. Let friends and family know your new address with a festive card that says, “New year, new place!”

2. Reinvent Holiday Traditions

Moving may prevent you from hosting your annual dinner or baking 10 dozen cookies—but that doesn’t mean you can’t create new traditions that are just as special.

Book a Dinner Out with Family or Friends

If your kitchen is packed and your dishes are in a box, take the opportunity to treat yourself. A holiday dinner at a restaurant is stress-free, cleanup-free, and can still feel celebratory. Bonus: no need to unpack the gravy boat.

New Home, New Traditions

Use your move as an excuse to try something new. Maybe it’s decorating gingerbread houses at your new kitchen island, taking a neighborhood light tour, or starting a countdown to New Year's in your new living room. Traditions don’t have to be old, they just have to be meaningful.

Host a “Goodbye Gathering” Before the Move

If time allows, invite friends or neighbors over for a quick farewell get-together before the chaos begins. Serve simple holiday treats (store-bought is perfectly fine!) and take a few minutes to say goodbye to the memories made in your current home.

3. Plan Ahead and Stay Organized

Organization is always important when moving, but during the holidays it becomes essential. Between holiday traffic, weather, and shipping delays, you’ll want to have a solid plan in place.

Book Your Movers Early

Reputable moving companies book up fast during the holiday season. Reach out as early as possible to lock in your preferred date. And make sure you choose a licensed, professional moving company with a strong track record, there’s no room for disaster during a holiday move.

(Need help choosing the right mover? Check out these questions to ask a potential mover.)

Set Up Utilities in Advance

You don’t want to arrive at your new home to find it cold, dark, or without internet, especially around the holidays. Set up heat, electricity, and Wi-Fi in advance so you can get settled quickly and comfortably.

Label for Easy Access

Clearly label a few boxes as “Open First” with essentials like winter clothing, hot cocoa mix, mugs, holiday books or DVDs, and basic kitchen items. Having those first few comforts available will help you and your family feel grounded amid the chaos.

4. Don’t Be Afraid to Take a Break

You’re not a machine. Even if you’re on a tight moving schedule, it’s okay to pause and enjoy a little holiday magic.

Plan Mini Celebrations Along the Way

Are you road-tripping to your new home? Find a festive stop en route, like a holiday market, light display, or seasonal event. Even staying in a hotel? Book one that’s decorated for the season or offers a special Christmas breakfast.

Let Go of Perfection

Your tree might be a little crooked, your holiday dinner might be takeout, but that doesn’t mean the holidays are ruined. Give yourself permission to enjoy the season even if it looks a little different this year.

5. Take Advantage of Professional Help

Hiring professional packers can take a massive load off your plate, especially when you’re juggling a move and the holidays. They’ll save you time, protect your belongings, and reduce stress. Plus, you can’t put a price on peace of mind when it comes to making your holiday move go smoothly.

If you’re looking for help, our team at Verity Van Lines offers both packing and storage services to help streamline your holiday move.

Final Thoughts on Holiday Moving

Holiday moving might not be ideal, but it doesn’t have to be miserable either. With the right mindset, a little planning, and a willingness to adjust, you can make the experience memorable and even joyful. After all, what better way to ring in a new year than in a brand-new home?

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