Unpacking Joy: Tips for Your Holiday Move
Moving during the holidays can be a bummer, but it doesn’t have to be. With planning and intent, you can still connect with the Spirit of the season.
The holiday season is usually a time for celebration, traditions, and togetherness—but it is also one of the busiest times of year.
If you’re moving to a new home during this season, the combination of relocation and holiday responsibilities may feel daunting.
With thoughtful preparation, you can minimize stress and keep the spirit of the season intact.
Moving to a new home doesn’t have to overshadow your holidays. With a little planning it can be a fresh start for new memories while still holding space for long-held traditions.
Timing and Logistics
Moving companies and truck rentals book quickly. Try to schedule your movers at least 4–6 weeks in advance.
Confirm dates twice. Businesses may close early or pause operations a day or two before Christmas or New Year’s Day.
If you’re driving long distances, account for potential winter road conditions and build in an extra day or two of travel time to avoid unnecessary stress.
Budget Considerations
Relocating is always an investment, and holiday timing can amplify costs. In addition to movers, supplies, and possible storage, you may be juggling seasonal spending on gifts and travel.
Outline a budget that includes both holiday and moving costs, and set aside a 10–15% cushion for unexpected expenses like weather delays or last-minute hotel stays.
Keeping Traditions Alive
Even amid boxes, you can maintain the holiday spirit. While large gatherings may not be realistic this year, honoring small traditions can keep your holiday spirit alive.
Preserving a sense of normalcy is especially helpful for young children. Set up a tabletop tree or a wreath before unpacking everything else. Make one of your favorite holiday dishes or indulge in a holiday movie marathon.
Staying Organized
Create a combined master checklist that includes relocation tasks and holiday to-dos. Label each box clearly with contents and destination room, and mark priority boxes with bright tape or stickers.
Pack a box of essentials to get you through the first 48 hours—toiletries, chargers, seasonal clothes, basic cookware, medications, pet supplies, and a few holiday decorations.
Keep critical documents like mortgage papers, lease agreements, IDs and travel confirmations in a single folder and carry it with you.
- Book movers 4–6 weeks out; reconfirm 7 days prior.
- Pad the travel plan by 1–2 days to accommodate weather and traffic.
- Budget with a 10–15% contingency.
- Pack a 48-hour essentials box and keep documents on you.
Embracing the New Chapter
Holiday moves are demanding, but they offer a unique opportunity to begin a fresh chapter in a season already rich with meaning.
The holidays are about gratitude, reflection, and new beginnings—values that align naturally with settling into a new home.
With planning, flexibility, and the right perspective, your holiday move can become the start of joyful traditions in a brand-new space.
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