The truth is that the move was pure madness. I never imagined it would be so hard to pull off and, honestly, at times it was downright maddening.
Even though I firmly believe a move is a nightmare and the devil’s own invention, you survive it. In the end, the key is that there’s always a bit of excitement that outweighs all the effort.
Tips to move house without losing your mind
1. Use second-hand apps
I think this is essential when there are pieces of furniture that won’t fit in the place you’re moving to. We used Wallapop and Vibbo to sell furniture and items that didn’t fit, but also to buy things we needed. These apps are great for making a little money off what you don’t use and for buying other things you need at a lower price.
2. Get rid of clutter
Important. I can’t stand that urge to hoard clutter, so typical of grandparents and great-grandparents. Try to let the “here and now” prevail in your life and keep only the things you genuinely need.
3. Donate clothes and toys
This is a must, because think about it: how much clothing can you realistically wear? And toys? How many pile up and are even outgrown by now?
4. Gather sturdy cardboard boxes
Once again, the obsession with order. Boxes should be strong and the right size, made of a sturdy material so you can properly pack everything from your home.
5. Keep things orderly
This is a key point to avoid going crazy and to keep everything reasonably sorted when loading it onto the truck or car. Start with the living room: books, CDs, movies… Then the bedrooms, the bathroom and, finally, the kitchen. The toughest moment will probably be the living room.
6. Pack with care
It’s better to spend a little more time packing than to get a nasty surprise when you open a box and find that treasured ornament smashed to pieces. Buy bubble wrap: it’s one of the best purchases for a move.
Dishes, glasses, jugs… all stay safe from bumps with this handy invention.
7. Hire a removals truck
Don’t even consider doing it with a car or van. Even if you don’t have much furniture.
8. Setting up: that little pleasure
For me it’s the best part of it all. It relaxes me and helps me sort out my mind and ideas. When everything arrives at the new place, the most rewarding thing is setting it up, because it’s like starting over. From that moment on, there’s no rush, no race against the clock. To make it easier, start with the kitchen, the bathroom and the bedroom. Those are the first things you’ll use.
Then, the rest. That way, on the very first day you’ll at least have your clothes within reach, be able to cook and, of course, shower after such a long day.
And you? Do you have any other ideas for surviving a move?
