PCS season is quite the whirlwind for military families across the world. You go from the slow agony of waiting for orders to being whisked off to your new duty station before you know it. We all know how stressful a military move can be and how easy it is to overlook things in the process. That’s why we’ve created the list of 5 things to NEVER overlook before your next PCS.
Getting Your Car’s Maintenance Check
For a CONUS move, the car means everything to the trip. You’re depending on your car to get you from point A to B in your PCS, so it should be treated as a priority. Regardless of how old or new the car is, it is a good idea to do an overall maintenance check on the vehicle. Keep track of the oil change, windshield wipers, breaks, engine wellness, and tire traction. Trust me, your car will thank you later.
Speaking of Cars…Is Yours Prepared?
Not only is checking the overall ability of the car important, but you’ll also need to prepare your vehicle for the what ifs. On a long road trip, you never know what could happen and in what conditions it will happen in. It is always a good idea to have an emergency kit or two prepared. Be sure that your car is outfitted with MREs or ready meals, a blanket, road flares, flashlights, jumper cables, and tools. You’ll also want to prepare an emergency and first aid kit with bandages, alcohol wipes, water, and other supplies.
Focus on Paying Down Your Credit Cards
Credit cards can be a touchy subject. But, when you’re PCSing, the last thing you want is a ton of debt. The reality is, you never know what could come up, what furniture you’ll have to purchase or the kind of off-post housing you’ll need to arrange. You’ll want to clean up your credit card statement to cover the just-in-case and avoid taking out any loans.
Get Your Documents in Order
PCSing requires a lot of documenting and even more paperwork. PCS binders and apps come in handy to get the documents you’ll need to keep track of during your move. Everything from the family’s records to the gas receipts during the drive.
Hint: They also come in handy if you’re the person that draws a blank when you’re asked for your previous addresses. You’re welcome!
Double Check and Triple Check Your Belongings
If you’re like many families, you have a ton of mini appliances that hold water and other liquids. If you’ve PCSed before, then you know how swiftly the movers come in and pack everything up…even your trash. It is in your best interest to empty and clean those items out before the movers come. I would even go as far as to put your personal items in the car ahead of time. The last thing you want is forgotten liquids to spill on your items and destroy them.
Best of luck on your next PCS – we’re always here for you at Military Crashpad!
Written by Sierra Redmond
