If you’re relocating your family to Des Moines for work or in search of a better lifestyle, you might be getting ready to embark on a long-distance roadtrip. Moving doesn’t have to be a hassle; if you do it right, you can make it a once-in-a-lifetime adventure for the whole family.
Plan ahead.
Do your research on the best route to your destination and good places to stay along your route. Books and internet sites can help you find rest stops, service plazas, gas stations, and restaurants. It’s also a good idea to take a good printed truck/rest stop guide and map along with you in case you pass out of cellular service or GPS range. Have a flexible plan with alternative options in the event that you’re hungry earlier than you planned, encounter construction, or experience auto trouble. If you’re planning to stop at popular destinations, reserve your accommodations in advance. Keeping everything in a three-ring binder can help you stay organized and track expenses.
Allow enough time.
Road trips take time – often much more than you expect. Weather delays, road construction, bathroom breaks, and other unexpected obstacles can make your trip take hours or days longer than you expect. Building in extra time to accommodate these potential delays can make your trip more relaxing, and if you don’t wind up needing the extra time, you can stop for some sightseeing (or arrive at your destination that much earlier).
Stop to see the sights.
Speaking of sightseeing, if you can, plan a few stops along your route to experience some of the incredibly diverse patchwork of cultural and scenic attractions, but don’t overbook! If you’re going to visit one of the national parks or other popular destinations, make sure you allow enough time to enjoy it. Many are crowded, and quite a few require reservations if you are going to camp on forest land. Alternative sightseeing stops might include pieces of classic Americana like the World’s Largest Ball of Twine, the Museum of Spam, or diners along Route 66.
Money matters.
Moving costs can add up quickly, whether you’re doing the move yourself or hiring professionals. Make sure that you carry some cash for essentials and emergencies. Alert your credit cards that you will be going on a trip so they don’t suspect fraud and suspend access to your account. If you don’t have AAA, it’s a great time to get it, both for the roadside assistance coverage as well as for the discounts that it can get you on truck rental, moving services, boxes and packing material, lodging, and other travel needs. Keep track of your expenses (even if that just means saving your receipts in an envelope and figuring out the rest when you get to your destination). If you are relocating for work, you may be able to deduct your moving costs on your federal income taxes; talk to a tax professional to determine whether you might qualify.
Make your comfort a priority.
Your easily-accessible packed items (i.e., those that are in the car with you rather than in the moving van) should include snacks, water, and medications. You should also have some emergency repair tools and useful items like flares, tire chains, gloves, bungee cords, and blankets. Also, bringing items like bed linens and basic kitchen items, like instant or French press coffee and mugs, plates, and utensils along in your vehicle (or easily identifiable and accessible if you’re driving your own van) can help make your first night and morning in your new home much more comfortable.
If you have a long trip, look up on the internet or buy a book of travel games you can play with your family or driving companion. Stop often to stretch your legs, make sure you get enough water, and eat healthy meals and snacks. Wherever you’re coming from, a moving roadtrip can be an adventurous and fun start to your new life in Des Moines!
Homes by Brill custom home builders can help you design and build the perfect home for you and your family in the Des Moines metro area. We’ll help you figure out what you want in a home, find land, and arrange financing. Contact us today for a no-obligation consultation, check out our gallery for inspiration, or click below to download our free eBook and check out the hottest home design trends of 2016.
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