The housing market naturally picks up during the warmer months as people make the most of the fair weather. Moreover, summer break for the kids makes it easier to move to a new place and transition to a new school.
However, moving can take a toll on your body, especially when the temperatures outside are at their peak. And here’s a fun fact: moving furniture and belongings in summer can burn at least 300 calories per half-hour. The last thing you want amid your move is to suffer from burnout and heat stroke. But with proper planning and safety precautions, you can accomplish your move without overexertion. Check out these helpful hacks to keep you cool and cosy during your summer move.
Make a Game Plan
As the famous adage goes, failing to plan is planning to fail. Check the weather forecast, especially the temp and humidity. You also want to plan your route, especially if it involves a long drive. After all, you don’t want to be stuck on the hot and humid road. You also don’t want to take a break in a place without air conditioning.
For best results, map out your route and research places along the way. It’s best to have more information so you can prepare better. Pinpoint potential rest stops for your physical and mental health. Everyone needs a break now and then, especially in something as stressful as moving during summer.
Pack Accordingly
You may have sensitive items that don’t move well in the heat. Examples are perishable food, certain electronics, indoor plants, and even candles. Since you invested money on these precious belongings, you don’t want them damaged during a high-temp move.
You have to make an extra effort to pack them well. Plan for these items and prepare special bins. For example, you can use coolers with ice packs for food. You can also use a protective heat cloth for your electronics. Separate these sensitive items and move them ahead so they won’t have to stay longer outdoors. This will prevent food spoilage and material damage.
Stay Hydrated
One of the essential things you need to pay attention to during a summer move is your water intake. Experts recommend drinking at least 8 glasses of water on average per day. After all, the body is made up of 60% water, and it needs the optimal amount to perform normal functions.
But when you’re engaged in lifting heavy boxes while fully exposed to the sun, you need to drink more to stave off dehydration. Your body sweating requires more water for thermal regulation. To keep you safe, replenish your fluids with cool water. You can also take sips of electrolyte drinks to prevent you from sweating out precious minerals.
Wear Sunblock and Reapply
When you’re moving in the summer, you’re likely to transport things from the car or moving truck to the house repetitively. With the risk of exposure to harsh UV rays, you must wear sunblock with at least SPF 30 and broad spectrum coverage. Bear in mind that sun rays can result in the following:
- Sunburn
- Hyperpigmentation
- Photoaging
- Melanoma or skin cancer
Therefore, you must stay vigilant with sun protection. And it’s not enough to just apply in the morning. You have to reapply every two hours, especially if you’re staying outside and sweating. It would help set a reminder in your cell phone and keep the sunblock in your pocket for easy application.
Wear Suitable Clothing
Dress in comfy clothes made from lightweight, breathable material. This promotes airflow and prevents you from overheating. You can also opt for clothes with built-in SPF to protect you against sun rays.
You can opt for moisture-wicking fabrics that draw sweat away from the body so it evaporates fast. Consider dressing in layers so you can take them off as your body temperature gets warmer through the day.
Try to Get Things Done in the Morning
Pack up and unload your moving truck as early as you can. You want to avoid the midday heat when the sun is at its peak and harshest. Besides, you’ll be a lot comfier in the morning sun while getting your dose of vitamin D.
Usually, the heat peaks between noon and 3 p.m., so it’s best to avoid staying outdoors during this time. Make early preparations, drive the moving truck when it’s still dark outside, and begin unloading things to your new home just as the sun rises.
Work Smarter
When moving in summer, working smarter and not harder gives you the most benefits. Follow your game plan, but rest when your body calls for it. Moving can be tiring, especially when it’s hot and humid. It’s important to rest to avoid overheating, overexertion, and dehydration. Taking breaks is more productive than forcing yourself to power through when you’re already exhausted.
And don’t be ashamed to ask for help. When you get assistance from family and friends, you reduce your working hours and get things done faster. Or employ professional packers and movers to make moving house even easier. As a result, you don’t have to stay out in the summer sun for too long, letting you look forward to chilling and unwinding in your new abode with the people you care about.
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