Many Americans move across the country to a new city each year. Cross country moving may seem very overwhelming to some, which is completely understandable. After scheduling moving services, packing all of your belongings and saying goodbye to your home, friends, and city, you have to embark on a long journey to a new city which could take days to reach. However, moving cross country also has its benefits.

As you drive to your destination, you will be passing through several states – some of which you may not have visited previously. Rather than sit in the car for hours on end with no objective other than getting from Point A to Point B, turn your long distance relocation into an exciting road trip of our beautiful country. It only takes a couple of extra steps of preparation, and it will be an adventure that you will remember forever.

Plan a Path for Your Relocation Journey

Once you have a moving date set for you and your long distance moving company, do some research about the different ways to get from your current city to your new one. Highlight the major cities in between where you would like to stop and plan your path accordingly. Depending on the distance of your trip and the time you’d like to spend on the road, you can plan to make anywhere from 1-4 stops.

Do some research about each city you’d like to visit. Find local attractions, restaurants, and hotels to add to your tour. While it’s good to have a rough itinerary, it’s best not to finalize any reservations or attraction tickets just in case you decide to take a different turn. Instead, make a fluid list of the places you’d like to see and just “play it by ear” from there. 

Prepare Your Car for the Long Drive

No matter what path you decide to follow for your excursion, you will want to make sure that your car is prepared for the drive. As the main method of transportation, your car should be ready to take on the mileage and be caught up on all required maintenance. Your car’s health can be the difference between a successful road trip and a miserable one. 

Bring a Friend

Everything is more fun with good company, especially a road trip. See if any of your friends would like to tag along for the ride. You’ll be spending a lot of time with each other, so be sure that it is someone whose company you enjoy.

Put Together an Epic Playlist

Whether your jam is hip-hop, country, pop, rock, or an awesome combination of all types of music, create a playlist to take on the road. Be sure to include some sing-along worthy songs, as well. There’s nothing like a good session of road trip karaoke.

Black Tie Moving wants to join you on your move across the country! Contact us today for a free quote.

Pack Sweet and Savory Snacks

Snacks and road trips go together like state fairs and funnel cake; they are a must-have. Having a good stock of imperishable foods can also help minimize your stops, getting you to your destinations quicker. Go to a convenience store a few days before your trip and fill your cart with a variety of snacks - sweet and savory, healthy and junk food – to satisfy every craving you have along the way.

Organize Belongings Strategically

Although most of your belongings will be packed up in boxes and transported to your new home by your local movers, you will want to have a small bag of basics to take along with you. This includes toiletries, clothing, and important documents. Keep these items in one or two bags that are easy to take in and out of the car. If possible, take the bag down with you at each overnight stop to avoid risking a break-in. 

Play Car Games

It’s easy to get restless when you’ve been sitting in the car for hours. Car games are a great way to help the time go by quicker. Relive your childhood days with games like Truth or Dare and I Spy. Puzzle books and riddles are also great activities to take along.

Be Spontaneous

As mentioned previously, it’s best to keep a very rough itinerary rather than one that is set in stone. Your plans may change based on traffic and the number of stops you need to make along the way. Wait to make all hotel reservations and ticket purchases until you are sure that you will be in a certain city that day. This will also give you the chance to stop and explore something that catches your eye along the way, rather than have to rush through to stay on schedule. Embrace the adventure and keep your plans as flexible as possible.

Document Every Moment of Your Cross Country Move!

Most importantly, be sure to take a lot of photos along the way. You’ll enjoy reliving the memory once you’re settled in to your new home.