Considerations When Moving to a Different Climate

Whether you’re trading in high top boots for flip flops or vice versa, moving to a part of the country that has a different climate means prepping for a whole new set of weather and temperature conditions. With a little research and some quick fixes to your home and wardrobe, you’ll be enjoying your new digs in no time. That said, you’ll still want to make sure you have the essentials to be — and stay — comfortable. Here are some tips and tricks for “weathering” the transition. 

“Climate Controlled” Clothing 

A move to a different climate means your wardrobe is probably going to need an overhaul. Our advice? Buy a few basics online before the big day but do most of your shopping once you get there. Not only will this help you get acquainted with your new city, but there will be less to move and in—season outfits will be much easier to find. 

If you’re moving to a warmer climate, stock up on light, breathable clothing like t-shirts, shorts, dresses, and sandals. Make sure to protect yourself from the sun with sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat. Light cotton, rayon and linen fabrics are great for staying cool. For a cooler climate, invest in layers. Choose shirts with long sleeves, as well as sweaters, jackets, scarves, gloves, and sturdy shoes or boots. Wool and heavy cotton fabrics will help you stay warm without feeling restricted. You can always take off a layer or two if you feel overheated! 

A final word of advice: If space allows, keep a few clothing items from where you lived previously just in case you go back for a visit. 

Home Upgrades: The Hot and Cold of It 

Before you find yourself in the middle of a DIY or contractor project, do a bit of preliminary research to find options that are best suited for where you’re moving.  

If you’re heading to a warmer climate, focus on keeping cool. Install energy-efficient ceiling fans, especially in living rooms and bedrooms. They’ll keep the air circulating without jacking up your electric bill. You’ll also want to consider insulated drapes or blackout curtains that block heat and UV rays during the day. An attic fan is another good option — and some extra insulation in your attic will reduce temperatures in the rest of the house. Also, consider a programmable thermostat that lets you raise the temperature when you’re away and automatically turn the air conditioning or a heat pump back on shortly before you return.  

For cooler weather, the key is retaining heat. Add weatherstripping tape around doors and windows and heat retaining window treatments to eliminate drafts. If your home has a fireplace or wood—burning stove, use it to supply additional heat (as well as a touch of ambiance). If you don’t have one already, install a programmable thermostat. Set it to lower the temperature around bedtime and put the heat back to your daytime preferences about 20 minutes before you’re up and about. And don’t forget a humidifier to add moisture to dry, heated air. If it’s an older home, consider replacing single-pane windows with double or triple-pane ones for better insulation.  

And Speaking of Insulation… 

Adding insulation to exterior—facing walls is a major renovation job and may not be worth the inconvenience and expense. However, putting additional insulation in your attic space is usually relatively easy and cost-effective. Some extra insulation in your attic will reduce temperatures in the rest of the house when it’s hot outside and keep things warmer when it’s chilly. Check out these insulation tips for older homes from the U.S. Department of Energy. 

Change Your Routine 

Moving to a different climate often means adjusting how you go about your day. Warmer weather may mean more opportunities to get outside, so you might go for walks or jogs, have a picnic on your patio, or participate in outdoor sports like hiking, swimming, tennis or pickleball. Colder places often mean less time outside, so pursue hobbies indoors like cooking, crafting or game nights.  

Ease Into Your New Life 

Remember to give yourself time to adjust to the changes in weather and culture. Stay open-minded, meet new people, and embrace new experiences. Before you know it, you’ll feel right at home soaking in the sun or cozying up by the fire. Most of all, enjoy this opportunity to start fresh in a new place and build new memories.  

Planning a Move Soon?  

No matter where you’re heading, it’s smart to move with experienced, reputable professionals. United’s full-service moving packages provide flexibility to mix and match the services you want and need.

Get a quote from United Van Lines today.     

Do you need help settling in? Check out our other blogs for moving tips and packing advice, as well as city guides and a wealth of other helpful, time—saving information.