Moving can be overwhelming. It involves a lot of packing, wrapping, labeling, organizing and coordinating (oh, my!) and can quickly feel like an impossible task. Thankfully, there are some efficient ways you can approach a move to make packing and unpacking easier.
For instance, consider using duffle bags or cardboard boxes for your clothing instead of a rolling suitcase. This frees up your rolling suitcase for heavier items, like books or kitchenware. Keep reading for more tips on packing your clothes and how to properly get rid of your old and used tech.
Watch this video for 10 genius tips for packing clothes and shoes for a move.
How to pack hanging clothes for moving
Start by setting aside an overnight bag with enough clothes to get you through moving day – and, if you’re like me, a few extra days, just in case! Don’t forget to include your chargers, toiletries, house shoes or slippers and any medications. That way, you won’t have to rummage through boxes looking for these essentials after a long day of moving.
Now, for the rest of your clothes:
- Start by packing seasonal items and clothes you don’t wear all the time. Don’t forget to make a donate pile for all the gently used clothes you no longer wear!
- Consider keeping your folded clothes in their drawers during the move. Remove the drawers from the dresser and wrap them to keep the clothes from getting dirty or falling out. This option might not be feasible for everyone, but if it works for you, it can save you a lot of unpacking time!
- Use trash bags for your hanging clothes. Slide the bag over your clothes and wrap the drawstring around the necks of the hangers. Just make sure to keep these bags far away from your trash pile!
- Pack bulky items like coats, towels or bedding in vacuum-sealed bags. Depending on how much you fit in there, the bags may be heavy, but they’ll take up significantly less space.
When it’s time to pack your shoes:
- Most importantly: don’t pack your moving day shoes!
- Stuff socks inside the shoes to save space and help them keep their shape.
- Pack shoes in a box with dividers. Many local bottle shops will give you their leftover boxes for free. All you have to do is ask!
Don’t forget your jewelry!
- If you have a travel-sized jewelry box or case, use this to secure your items.
- Delicate items can also be packed in an egg carton. Pad the packed carton with socks, a hand towel, a pillowcase or a scarf to keep the items secure. Then, close the carton and tape it shut.
- Prevent your necklaces from tangling by sliding the chain through a straw.
More:Check out moving tips and recommendations at USA TODAY Homefront
Recycling old tech
Packing for a move often uncovers a few hidden gems that haven’t seen the light of day for a while. If you uncover a collection of old cell phones, tablets, gaming consoles or computers, it’s time to let them go. If the item is still in good shape, you may be able to sell it, trade it in or donate it. If so, make sure you back up your data and perform a factory reset on the device first.
But if your tech has seen better days, many electronics stores will recycle them for free. Before dropping it off, check if they have any pre-donation requirements, such as removing batteries or memory cards.