Our PCS from Colorado to Florida: Tips for Military Spouses Making the Big Move
Moving is part of military life, but every move comes with its own challenges. Our most recent orders took us from Colorado to Florida. If youβre facing a similar move (or any big change in duty stations), here are some things I learned along the way that might make your journey easier π€
1. Organize and Purge Things You Donβt Need
Colorado gave us dry mountain air, four seasons, and snow-packed winters. Florida? Sunshine, humidity, and hurricane prep. We literally made the move just on the brink of hurricane season, if you can believe it! Before you move:
Purge seasonal gear: Do you need all that snow gear? Keep some things for visits or the next cold-weather duty station, but donβt haul the entire ski closetβ¦ You can always sell and buy on Facebook Marketplace!
Invest in new things: Let yourself feel excited about the move to a new location - whether thatβs new home decor youβve been eyeing or clothing youβre excited to wear in your new location.
2. Plan Your PCS Road Trip Wisely
The drive from Colorado to Florida was long, but you can make any move easier by:
Breaking it up: Stop at fun hotels in locations youβre excited to visit. Make it an adventure and explore new restaurants, take time off from work, and queue up the audiobooks.
Keeping a βPCS car kitβ: Snacks, important documents, pet supplies, cleaning wipes, and activities for kids. Trust me, this kit will save your sanity.
3. Embrace the Shift
Every location has its own personality and sometimes youβll feel a big shift!
Community connections: Dive into clubs youβre into, join local Facebook groups, and find eventsβ¦ it helps you find footing. Googling βevents near meβ or reading posters at your local lunch outings is a great way to get involved in the community. All this said, it still feels hard leaving a friend group and moving to a new town when you donβt know anyone yet. But - it will get easier with time π€
4. Take Care of Your Emotional Health
PCS isnβt just about moving boxes - itβs about moving your life.
Say proper goodbyes: Have a goodbye dinner or take one last hike with friends. Closure matters.
Give yourself time: It takes months, not days, to feel βsettled.β
Find new routines fast: Whether itβs a gym, playground, or coffee shop, small anchors make a big difference in feeling at home.
Youβve got this, and your next duty station might just surprise you in the best way!
