What To Pack:

Packing. One of the thing's you'll hate when you PCS (Permanent Change of Station). Why do I say that? I say it because you have to haul a couple suitcases, your spouses bags full of uniforms, your kennels if you have animals, any children if you have any (plus their bags) or maybe you or your spouse are pregnant, your bag of entertainment for the plane ride and anything else you usually bring with you on a plane. You're definitely going to have to pay for one of those luggage carts. So what should you take? Well first off, look up the weather of the state or country you're flying to. Pack enough clothes for a month because depending on when you shipped your stuff, it could be months before you get it the rest of your clothes. If you have kids, obviously pack the essentials and toys for them. Pets? Just bring the leash, some toys and the food bowls. Some people will pack valuables in their suitcases. Such as jewelry and things that have sentimental value to them. Some people even pack an air mattress since the beds the military usually provides are not that comfortable. The beds remind me of those spring mattresses you usually see homeless people sitting on.

Here are a few tips:

- This first one is REALLY IMPORTANT. Take your social security card, birth certificate, marriage certificate/ license, passports (obviously) and anything else that is really important with you. Pack it in your entertainment bag for the plane so that it's always with you.

- Always keep in mind when you're packing or getting ready to PCS to a new home: The movers can lose this and the airlines can lose my luggage. What does this mean? It means bring your valuables with you, but it also means your stuff is more likely to be stolen by the movers than losing a piece of luggage.

- Pack an extra suitcase of essentials.

- The movers usually never pack your liquids. Something about exploding and chemicals. So just pack all your perfumes and moisturizers in your checked luggage.

- Always check the airline you are flying with (Delta is my favorite so far). Some allow military personnel to travel with several bags/ suitcases and allow up to 70 pounds per bag instead of 50 pounds. If you're not sure, just call.

- When PCSing always carry multiple copies of your spouses orders, but make sure to keep the originals.

Summery:

- Pack what you need

- Valuables

- Tips