Should it stay or should it go? Your guide to moving
When you are getting ready to move to a new city, it can be hard to know just what to take with you. Should you spend money on moving your bed, your couch and your entire closet, or should you leave some of your treasured belongings behind?
First of all, think about the long term accommodation that you're moving to. It's best to sort out where you are living before you move cities, so you know you have a place to live and are familiar with what you can expect. It also helps the packing and planning process a lot.
"Try to lighten your load as much as possible by giving things you don't need away to charity or by selling them through a garage sale or online.
For example, does the accommodation you are moving to have basic furniture, such as a bed and a wardrobe? If not, you might have to weigh up the cost of taking your bed with you or buying a new upon arrival. Often, it is cheaper to purchase a second-hand piece of furniture in your new location, especially if the city you're moving to is far away - the cost of sending items between cities can be large.
Then there are all your smaller personal effects such as clothes and sentimental items to think about. What you can take with you depends on the amount of space you have and whether you can store belongings you don't need for the time being at a friend or relative's house.
Try to lighten your load as much as possible by giving things you don't need away to charity or by selling them through a garage sale or online.
Be sure to pack smart, too. Think about what you'll need right away. For example, if you're moving to a new city during the winter, pack your jackets and warm clothing. The summer thongs and swimsuits can probably wait a little longer in storage.
As long as you've got the essentials for the big move, you can probably last a while without those little extras.