Packing for a PCS

If you are part of a military family, you know the challenges that a PCS (Permanent Change of Station) can present. Not the least of which is deciding what, and how, to pack for your move. Some moves are just a one- or two-day drive, but others require a week or more in the car and hotel living, or flying halfway around the world and waiting for weeks to receive your HHG (Household Goods). So how do you even start to figure out what to take in your suitcase? Let me tell you!

First, with all travel packing, I recommend choosing a color palette to work with. This will make it easier to eliminate what you aren’t going to pack, as well as make putting outfits together easier. Typically you should choose 1-2 neutrals (black, brown, navy, grey, olive, white/cream) and 2-3 accent colors that look good together. This includes shoes and bags/purses, since those details can make or break an outfit.

Next, consider where you’re moving from and where you’re moving to. What is the typical climate at the time of year you’ll be moving? Are there certain cultural considerations you need to keep in mind? These details will determine whether you pack more warmer pieces and layers, or tank tops and shorts.

Now think about how you’re traveling: are you exclusively driving, or will there be flying involved? If you’re flying, there will be weight limits involved, and you’ll have restrictions on how many pieces of luggage you can take. If you’re driving, you have to consider how much trunk space you have. Think about where you’re staying, as well, and if you’ll need lounge wear or pajamas that are presentable around friends or strangers. Will you be staying with someone who wants you to remove your shoes inside, and you’ll want slippers?

Finally, consider your schedule. Will you be staying places that you’ll be able to do laundry? Are there events you’ll be expected to attend either after your house is packed up on the front end of the move, or before you could potentially receive them at your new location? Are you making any special stops along the way, and do they have dress code requirements? You’ll want to make sure you have appropriate outfits for any of these contingencies.

I know it feels like a lot, but if you think through these details before you start packing, it will make choosing what to take much easier! Choosing pieces that are versatile and can be dressed up or down is key. I also recommend packing pieces that don’t wrinkle easily, like denim, wool, canvas, corduroy, Tencel, polyester, and rayon (as well as a travel steamer and some wrinkle release spray).

And if it all feels like too much still, let’s chat! I can help you figure out what to pack so you can focus on the other things. Because military life is full of uncertainties, but knowing what to wear doesn’t have to be one of them.

Here’s my PCS Checklist to help you pack easily for your next move!