Moving long distance: how to make a smooth transition to a new city

Author: Gabrielle D, Staff Writer

Feeling like a fish out of water? We don’t blame you. Moving long distance can make anybody nervous. Whilst some people are used to travelling, for others, moving cross-country may be their first time fleeing the nest! It involves more than just packing your belongings; emotions can be hard to bypass, and planning can be a headache. In this blog post, we will provide valuable guidance and practical tips for those embarking this next stage of life. From researching your new city to sorting logistics and adjusting to a new environment, we'll help you make the transition as seamless as possible.

Research your new city

The more you know about your city, the sooner you’ll start to feel at home. Watch films and read books based on your city, whilst immersing yourself in the history and culture of the place. Discover new social clubs and activities to join, both in line with your current hobbies and new ideas too! Diving into activities will smooth the transition and help curb any homesickness you start to feel. Does your new city have a popular sport? Use Playwaze to find sports near you! Consider taking part and learning about upcoming dates and traditions.

Also, take note of the basics. It is crucial to understand the healthcare system, as well as the financial health of the city and social / cultural issues happening at the time. While it’s common to want to steer clear of the news at the moment, staying up to date is important.

Visit before you move

Embrace the change and get exploring as soon as possible! Try to plan a couple of trips before your move. Remember, moving in can feel like a blur, so it’s important to get a feel of the place before the removal van arrives. Pack lightly when you visit, so you can explore the area with ease. This will give you a first-hand experience and help you make more informed decisions about where exactly to live and work.

Consider a digital detox when you visit. Lifting our heads out from our phones might just allow us to strike up some conversation, take in views, spot new shops, and discover hidden gems. Get to know the local people, amenities, restaurants, small businesses, nature attractions and sports facilities. Use Eventbrite and Meetup to find activities near you! Take note of what you love. Are you a book enthusiast? Well, prioritise finding all the local bookshops and coffee shops, so you can read as much as possible! If you love running, visit all the nearby nature paths to step up your running game.

Sort out logistics and practicalities

Do you already know anybody in your new city? Try to create contacts in the area and gather some helping hands. Not only is it good to receive help from loved ones at home, but you also want someone to turn to when you arrive to your new city. Long-distance moves require a lot of thought, so it’s best to plan well in advance.

Always start with a big moving checklist, which should include:

1. Packing up your home
2. Booking a removal company and any storage
3. Make a list of everyone you need to tell your new address – personal contacts and companies
4. Transfer your utilities across
5. Set up post forwarding
6. Update your driver's license and vehicle registration
7. Register to vote
8. Familiarise yourself with local laws and regulations
9. Change your address on your deliveries
10. Register with a local dentist, doctor, and vets (if necessary) as soon as possible

To up your logistics game, use LOVESPACE. We’ll help you get into your new place smoothly. We’ll collect your items from home and deliver them to any address in the UK! You can also store your things securely for as long as you need, and we’ll deliver back to you. Our by-the-box, storage units and removals services will cover all your moving needs!

Network and make friends

Building a social network in a new city takes time, but it's essential for a smooth transition. If you’re moving for university, don’t put pressure on yourself to make best friends right away, but do be open to societies and events with like-minded people. If you’re moving for work purposes, join local walking groups and tech-free activities to get to know people on a deeper level. If you’re on the introverted side, take it one step at a time. Try not to overwhelm yourself with social activities, and only invest time into the relationships that fill you with joy. Over time, you’ll establish a solid sense of belonging in your new city.

Maintain connections with your previous city

Moving long distance doesn't mean severing ties with your previous city. Stay in touch with friends and family through regular phone calls, video chats, or visits. This will help you stay connected while you adjust to the new place. Make regular plans to visit so the transition doesn’t feel like such a leap and book public transport ahead so it’s affordable. If you suffer with homesickness, invite old friends to visit you in your new town, or you could even get a cat or dog to keep you company in your new home!

Give yourself time to adjust

Adjusting to a new city and environment takes time. Be patient with yourself and allow yourself to acclimatise gradually. Give yourself time to explore, make connections, and settle into a routine. Remember that it's normal to feel a mix of emotions, including excitement and homesickness, during this transition.

Moving long distance to a new city can be an enriching and transformative experience. By researching your new city, sorting logistics, finding new services and amenities, and embracing the new environment, you can make the transition as smooth as possible. Remember to be patient, stay positive, and give yourself time to adjust. Before you know it, your new city will feel like home, and you'll be ready to embrace the opportunities and adventures that lie ahead.