10 Crucial Items a Family Needs to Pack In Their Car When Moving:

Long-distance moving is an exciting yet anxiety-ridden ordeal. Moving has been one of the ten most stressful things in life for over twenty years, right there with the death of a loved one and losing a job.

There are many emotions and fears with relocating your family, not knowing what to expect in your new home and community. Will your children quickly make friends? Just not being familiar with your new surroundings can be very troubling.

Also, psychologists report that people often equate moving from their home to a deep loss like death, and some people even mourn that loss. Children have so many mixed emotions: excitement, fear, and nostalgia, so it is important to listen and empathize with them.

Once the Moving Truck disappears into the horizon, with everything you own, you and your family will have nothing to rely on but what you packed in your car until you arrive at your new home. This is why you must pack an expertly thought-out essentials bag so that all of you will be comfortable and prepared for the road.

Here are the top 10 things every family should pack when driving during moving long distance:

1. Important Documents

Keep all essential paperwork with you, including IDs, passports, birth certificates, medical records, lease or mortgage documents, and moving company paperwork. If anything gets delayed or lost, you’ll have peace of mind knowing these important items are safe.

2. Clothes and Toiletries

Pack a couple of days’ worth of attire, with backup in case there is a delay. Pack casual travel attire, pajamas, and weather-friendly attire. Pack essential toiletries such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo, soap, and any other personal grooming items.

3. Medications and First Aid Kit

If a member of the family requires daily medication, pack enough for the journey and a small surplus in case there are unexpected delays. A mini first-aid kit with band-aids, aspirin, allergy medication, and other necessities can also be useful.

4. Snacks and Drinks

Long car trips become hungry and cranky, particularly with kids. Bring along plenty of shelf-stable snack items, bottles of water, and juice packs to avoid bellyaches and crankiness. Bringing a small cooler packed with freshly cut snacks is also an excellent plan.

5. Entertainment for both kids and adults

A road trip can feel like an eternity to children, so pack books, coloring supplies, toys, tablets, and headphones to keep them entertained. Don’t forget chargers and power banks to charge devices throughout the journey. Even better, get an audiobook that the whole family could listen to. A good thriller can take hours off of the trip.

6. Pet Supplies (If Traveling with Pets)

If your pet is traveling, don’t leave his or her essentials behind! Bring food, water, bowls, a leash, poop bags, and a comfortable carrier or blanket. A favorite toy or treat will also soothe them during the journey.

Also, add additional time for bathroom breaks for your pet. Prepare ahead and remember to book “pet-friendly” hotels along the route.

7. Pillows and Blankets

Whether it’s for taking naps in the car or feeling cozy at a hotel, having your pillows and blankets makes a big difference. They’re also great for keeping kids comfortable if you’re driving overnight.

8. Cash and Payment Methods

Unexpected expenses can crop up during a long-distance move. Have some money on you, along with your credit/debit cards, in case you have to shell out for tolls, gasoline, meals, or overnight lodging on the trip.

9. Essential Tools and Emergency Kit

A flashlight, jumper cables, a can of Fix A Flat, and a multi-tool can be lifesavers if you have car trouble. Furthermore, make sure to have a car charger for your phone and a list of contacts in case you need roadside assistance. A few weeks ahead of time, join AAA | American Automobile Association, so if there is a breakdown, you have roadside assistance just a phone call away.

10. Basic Cleaning Supplies and Paper Goods

It’s helpful to have disinfecting wipes, hand sanitizer, paper towels, and trash bags on hand for spills and messes during the drive. If you’re stopping at a hotel or Airbnb, a small pack of cleaning supplies can come in handy.

Final Thoughts

Long-distance traveling is a journey, but with the basics in your vehicle, you can make the trip simpler and more convenient. Being prepared with these 10 basic Items to pack when moving ensures that you’re set, comfortable, and ready to transition into your new home once you arrive.

It is time to begin your drive to your new life with your family. If your drive is multiple days, the drive could be one of two things: a grueling trek for long hours or the start of your family’s adventure.

Start and end every day in the hotel pool. It’s free and fun. Research fun activities to do along the route. Simple and inexpensive things, like stopping at a horse farm and having the children pet and feed the horses. Stop at Vista Points, let the kids take in the beauty that god gives us, and teach them about that particular state. Depending on what part of the country you are in, find famous stops like South of the border. It is on the state line between North and South Carolina. There are many quick and easy on-off attractions throughout this entire country.

Have fun and travel safely to your new home!