Military Resources
If you are getting ready to PCS for the first time or the tenth time, it’s easy to forget about packing a few things that come in very handy during your PCS move. This is all about things you forgot to pack in your suitcase before the big move. So whether you are moving stateside or overseas, go ahead and grab your moving overseas checklist or the free PCS checklist at the bottom of this post and be sure to add these things to your list!
1. Extra cash on hand.
It goes without saying that having extra cash on hand during a PCS move is so important. There are often many hidden costs involved in a PCS move. Be sure to keep extra American cash (and extra foreign currency for your host country if you are moving overseas.) When traveling and once you arrive, the convenience of cash on hand will make things less stressful for you. And any sort of need cash now emergencies will easily be taken care of.
2. Power strip.
Unfortunately, many places you travel with have limited outlets to charge your electronic devices. If you are traveling internationally it can be really hard to keep electronic devices charged. Carrying a power strip in your carry on or handbag can eliminate this problem. Simply walk up to someone using an outlet and ask if you can share using your power strip.
3. Internet router.
Once you arrive at your destination, you will be able to get your internet up and running asap, which is a great way to stay connected. If your internet router is in your regular shipment, it could be several weeks to a few months before you are able to have it again.
4. Sheets, towels, pillows.
Pack enough clean sheets, towels and pillows to get you by for a while before your household items arrive. Plus, nothing helps you feel at home in your new home more than some good bed linens.
5. White noise.
There are weird noises everywhere. Moving to a new place can take a bit of getting used to. White noise can help you sleep a bit easier and drown out all those little noises keeping you awake. This is also great for kids who are struggling to adjust and just can’t sleep with noise and sounds around them.
6. Hand purifier.
Staying healthy during a PSC move is more important than ever. I make my own DIY hand purifier using Thieves essential oil. The best part is it’s completely safe to use with kids. I keep it handy in my purse and spray it on everything from remote controls to door knobs to shopping carts.
7. First aid kit.
Someone is bound to get a scrape or a bump or need a medicine of some sort. Save yourself the time of running extra errands when you already have enough going on, and keep a well stocked first aid kit in your suitcase.
8. Toys.
If you are like me then you might feel like your home is already overrun with toys. So if you are embarking on a PCS move, then carrying enough toys to get you through until your household goods arrive can be a huge money saver. No need to go out buying more toys that you don’t really need.
9. External hard drive.
This is a great way to protect all your most important digital files. Regardless if you are carrying your computers with you, things may get damaged unexpectedly during a move. Keeping everything securely stored on an external hard drive offers peace of mind.
10. Flashlight, measuring tape, simple tools.
Simple tools and a measuring tape can again help you complete small household tasks in your new home while you wait for all your regular tools to arrive.
The flashlight is a great thing to have, especially if you are having to stay in a one room lodge while you wait for housing. After the kids are asleep you may appreciate having a flashlight to find your way around the lodge without waking anyone up.
Want more on military life?
- Best Overseas Moving Checklist for Military Families (Free Printable Checklist)
- 20 Must-Have Documents for a Stress-Free PCS (Free Printable Checklist)
- The Hidden Costs of PCS Moves
- Military Moves Overseas: 7 Major Mistakes to Avoid
What’s your favorite item to put on your overseas PCS checklist or stateside PCS checklist? Let’s chat in the comments!
Great post, Lauren! Another PCS is coming for our family really soon and although I’ve moved quite a lot one can always learn something new! Btw, I’m not sure about the internet router as the different countries’s electrical systems vary and if you are moving you better check the needed parameters and standarts for the electricals to work there!
I agree. But for base housing in Japan, all US electrical devices work in the plugs. So I guess that is my mindset. Good advice!
Haha oh my gosh this list made me feel so accomplished. Lol I ACTUALLY brought every single one of these except a tape measure. We are literally neck deep in the PCS so this was fun to read.
Right now I am a military girlfriend but I do know he wants to marry me. So, I am fully prepared for the long haul and responsibility that comes along with it just didn’t expect to come into a new transition of me wanting to see him and being so far away at the same time. We talk all the time and send pics back and forth but it would be nice to see him this Christmas. I just learned of the govt shut down and all military personnel will have to work. So, just staying busy with my own family. But I pray everyday that he can come home to me. Several times do I pray.
These are great tips! We are starting yet another PCS. Thanks for sharing!