Making Successful Moves with Pets

Helpful Tips for Moving with Pets

I volunteer at an animal shelter and a frequent reason for owners surrendering their animals is they are moving, and they feel it is too difficult to take their pets. 

We always took our pets with us when we moved, so I needed help understanding the problem. So, I asked a group of military wives to assist me to determine if a “How To” article would help or if moving is an excuse to not have a pet. Most thought it was an excuse, but there were some valid points made for not taking pets on a move.  Below I provide I tips on how to move with an animal. 

I would like to extend a thank you to the Kings Bay Military Wives Group on Facebook for helping me with this article.

 We have made many moves with pets, so I thought I would share how we did it. I added some tips and links as well.

Moving with Pets

*This post may contain affiliate links – if you purchase something from this post, I receive a small commission with NO extra cost to you. To see my full disclosure click here. Thanks for supporting us!

Welcoming Pooky Home

My husband Michael and I got married when he was stationed at Pearl Harbor Navy Base.  It was my introduction to military life.  We had to wait until we moved to base housing, as our first apartment didn’t allow pets.

We went to the Humane Society in Honolulu and looked for our new dog.  We found this little guy who had just come in.  He came to the gate, but, wasn’t barking, he just wagged his tail shyly while cowering in the corner, terrified.  We went to the desk and they told us he had to stay on stray hold for a few more days, and we should call on the last day to see if he was still there.  We did, and he was. 

We named him Pooky after Garfield’s Teddy Bear.  Pooky was a love, he chewed on our stuff, he ran off from time to time, and had his own crazy character. But, mostly, he gave us so much love.

Tips for a successful move with pets

Our Move with Pooky

When it was time to move we arranged his travel with the airline and bought him a travel cage.  Did I mention that we had a baby eight months after we got him and is now a little over a year old?  Yes, we had a toddler, a dog and all our belongings.  We were going from Hawaii to Washington State, in November.

We made sure our hotel was pet friendly ,and we had gotten a referral to some old Navy housing that did accept pets. 

We got our household goods and unpacked, but it was the holidays and as typical military families do, we went to visit family for Thanksgiving.  The four of us, my husband, our son, Pooky and me were back on a plane for the visit.  That was our first move with a pet.

The next one came when we went from Washington to Georgia.  By this time, we had a toddler and a baby.  Given the personality of the boys and the length of the trip, we thought taking the dog in the car with us would be tough. We called the airlines, and for a small fee they would ship Pooky solo, if we had someone pick him up. Our family held onto him until we could get there.  

We enjoyed our Christmas with the family, but we then had to find a pet friendly place at our new base.  It was a brand-new base and there wasn’t much housing on or off base, and it was harder to rent with a pet, so we bought our first house.  That was Pooky’s last move with us, but he did take some trips.  When Pooky crossed the Rainbow Bridge we got our next shelter animal.  

We went to the base and found a sweet little girl named Snowy.  Snowy was a lively two-year-old Beagle mix. She was also a known runner and who could blame her, she was two and had already been passed between four families due to, you guessed it; moving. The poor girl had never known stability with a family. That effects animals as much as it would affect a child passed between foster homes.

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Our Journey with Snowy

A few years after we got Snowy it was time to move back to the West Coast.  This time my husband went ahead of us.  He found a temporary apartment that was pet friendly while we waited for our Navy housing to be ready.  Once in, we put up a fence for Snowy to have her own free space and took her on many trips in the car to see the mountains of Washington and the great Northwest. 

Our next move was when my husband retired from the Navy and we had to find civilian housing that was pet friendly.  It was more challenging, but we did it. 

When you get a pet, they are a part of your home and household and just as with any family member, you find a way to make the relationship work no matter what happens.  Advanced planning is essential.

We still travel a lot with our pets.  it is work but they are worth it.  To us, they are part of our family, a gilded member, and dogs as well as cats are social animals, they become part of a “pack”, whether human or of their own kind, and are loyal to that, and will protect it’s other members and they are affected as much by loss of that pack or any member of it, as much as you or I would be affected by the loss of a spouse or child, they feel that. 

Why do you think they are so happy when one returns from work, or a trip and they have been home alone, even if only for a few minutes?

Moving Tips with Pets

Below find some tips and links to help with making your trip or move with your pet less stressful:

Research your new location as soon as you know you will be moving.  You need to find out how the new home works for all the members of your family.  Schools and Doctors for the kids, employment for the adults, breed restrictions and veterinarians for the pets. 

If you find you are moving to an area where there are breed restrictions, you need to be aware of this before you go. (The ridiculousness of these rules is a whole other article.) Make sure where you live accepts the pet you have or will get, make sure your pet will fit into your living situation. A cat or a small dog will probably work better in a two-bedroom apartment with no yard rather than a Lab or Great Dane.  

These are simple steps that will help avoid heartache and headache.

At this point you may have to make some tough choices.  There are some circumstances under which it may be in the pet’s best interest to live with someone else rather than making the move. You may want to check out Pets for Patriots as a possible place for your pet.

I am not suggesting anyone shirk their responsibilities but putting a sixteen-year-old dog or cat into a long quarantine may not be in the pet’s best interest. We did rehome two animals for what we thought would be in their best interests. 

In both cases. we made sure they went to trustworthy families. The second one only lasted six months, and we got him back. Pooky was part Husky. They are runners, and when he kept running off we thought he would be happier at my parent’s house in the country.  My folks realized he missed us and brought him back, that was the last time we tried “re-homing.”

 It would be very hard on me, now, to find a new home for my pets, and I think I would prefer not to move if I couldn’t take my pets, they are our family and you don’t just abandon your family.  But the US military doesn’t always have that as an option, and when the orders have you going overseas you need to know and obey that county’s rules.  

Pets and PCS

The Trip Itself

For the trip itself this depends on whether you are driving or flying.  If you are flying, you will need to pick an airline that will allow your pets to fly with you. Find out the requirements and procedures and talk to your vet before the trip, they often prescribe a mild sedative you can give your pet before their flight to ease their anxiety.

You can imagine it’s very traumatic for them to be separated from people they know, trust, and love. Then they are trapped in a cage on a noisy, scary plane ride. Most people are nervous about flying, and we understand what is going on. Image what it’s like for the pet who has no idea what is going on!

I know we have had some horror stories in the news about airlines and lost pets.  Let’s remember, something only makes the news if it is unusual.  I believe most airlines get it right more than they do wrong. Here are a few airlines that take pets; these allow pets in the cabin.

If you are going by train, check the rules just as you would for the airline.  If you are traveling in the car with a pet, remember, they need a break just as you do. 

Plan to stop at places where they can safely stretch their legs and play, just like you would for the kids.  Rest areas have a place for pets and many hotels welcome your pet

Bring their familiar items like their crate or bed, some toys and treats.  These will make Max or Fluffy feel more at home. 

If you have a more unusual pet like a pig or a snake you will have to do a little more checking to see what hotels and rest areas allow. 

Owning pets is a privilege and a responsibility. You have a living friend that is close by and greets you at the door with enthusiasm, no matter what mood you are in or what you are dressed like. It is a relationship like no other.

They are here for a short time and trust me, when that friend leaves you miss them.  Make the effort to keep them for as long as you can, but if you must, also make sure they find a loving, safe new home.

Author

About the Author

Lisa lives with her retired US Navy Submariner husband in South Georgia. She is a former homeschool mom of two active boys who are now adults. She volunteers at an animal shelter.  She writes children’s educational books as well as articles for adults.

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Military Travel Discounts

Military Travel Discounts

A growing number of businesses in the travel industry honor U.S. service women and men by providing them with some pretty outstanding military travel discounts.

What is presented here is only a sampling of what currently is available from some of the major players in the travel industry when it comes to discounters for military service personnel.

Keep in mind that oftentimes these companies not only have discounts for military service women and men currently on active duty but they also have programs for vets as well.

7 Ways to Save

*This post may contain affiliate links – if you purchase something from this post, I receive a small commission with NO extra cost to you. To see my full disclosure click here. Thanks for supporting us!

Sandals

Sandals is a travel industry leader when it comes to all-inclusive travel packages. Sandals resorts are located at luxurious tropical destinations.

At this time, Sandals is offering military service personnel with an across the board benefit. Active military service women and men get 10 percent off of any Sandals package. This discount applies to those packages that are already discounted.

In addition to a discount on all Sandals packages, different Sandals destinations oftentimes have special perks available for military service personnel. The company publicizes its ongoing commitment to thanking our troops for their service to our nation.

Norwegian Cruise Lines

Norwegian Cruise Lines is a travel industry leader when it comes to cruises. Norwegian Cruise Lines is also committed to honoring out troops.

The company offers active military service personnel with an array of different discounts on its multitude of cruises each year. Benefits include discounts on nearly every cruise the company offers throughout the course of any given year.

Norwegian Cruise Lines offers military service personnel added on-board benefits as well. These benefits for military service women and men and their families are in addition to discounts on cruise prices.

These different perks and benefits vary from one cruise to another.

Military Cruise Discounts

Westgate Resorts

Westgate Resorts has consistently been dedicated to supporting the men and women who serve our nation in the armed services. Westgate Resorts rightly refers to these brave people as “our nation’s greatest heroes.”

Westgate Resorts offers a special discount packager to all military service personnel. Men and women from the U.S. armed forces receive special 10 percent military travel discount at any Westgate property.

The Westgate Resort discount program is one of the easiest to access and use in the travel industry. All a person needs to is make note that he or she is a member of the armed services when making a reservation and the discount automatically is applied. At the time of check-in, a service member need only present his or her military ID.

All Westgate Resort properties participate in the military discount program. Westgate has spectacular five-star resorts located across the United States.

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Military Travel Discounts

AARP

AARP is well-known for the array of discounts offered to its members. Veterans are not forgotten by the AARP as the organization offers many specialized programs for vets and their families. These include access to a variety of travel discounts.

There are AARP members who are still on active duty. As a result, the organization has additional discount travel benefits for men and women on active duty as well, benefits that extend to their families.

Expedia

Expedia is one of the largest comprehensive online travel services in operation today. Expedia provides a full spectrum of travel services, including booking air travel, hotel rooms, and so forth.

Expedia is also home to an array of travel bargains available in all sectors. Through Expedia, members of the military service can access an array of different types of travel discounts. These discounts include everything from airfare to lodgings and other travel related benefits.

Military Travel Discounts

Disney Resorts and Cruises

Over the course of many years, the Disney Company has been highly supportive of women and men in uniform. This remains the case today, including when it comes to special deals available from Disney at its resorts and on its cruises.

Members of the military service can obtain discounts for stays at any of the many Disney resort properties in the United States and elsewhere around the world. This includes discounts on lodging, admission to attractions, and many other offerings at a Disney resort property. A person on active duty, and his or her family, can also receive discounts on Disney package vacations. Want to see how one family was able to enjoy Disney on a budget? Click here.

In addition to discounts at resorts, Disney also offers military benefits on its cruises as well. Members of the military forces can obtain healthy discounts on the prices of cruise packages.

Many other enterprises in the travel industry offer discounts, special packages, and other benefits to military service personnel. When a member of the armed forces is planning a trip, it is always wise to ask what discounts or benefits may be available to a service member.

Wyndham Armed Forces Vacation Club

In order to honor men and women in the military service, Wyndham created the Armed Forces Vacation Club. The Armed Forces Vacation Club is open to all active members of the military branches.

One of the unique benefits offered via the Armed Forces Vacation Club is special access to Space-A stays. Space-A allows people, including families, rental options at travel destinations.

Military service personnel have access to $349 for weeklong Space-A stays in rental properties at different locations across the country. This truly represents one of the most affordable lodging options in the industry.

Getting ready to take a trip? Check out the most needed essentials here. Need some travel tips for your baby, click here. Have questions about traveling via airplane, check out this article on Airline Travel Tips.

If you found this advice, or any of my advice helpful, please consider buying from one of my affiliates at no additional cost to you and supporting The Military Move. When you click and make a purchase within 24 hours (at no additional charge), we receive a small donation. Thank you!

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Businesses You Can Run Successfully While Traveling

Escaping the 9 to 5

You may be at a juncture in your life at which you would like to travel a bit more than you’ve been able to do historically.  This desire may be coupled with the fact that you’re also interested in working for yourself. 

With the advent of these two desires, you want to identify a business that you can successfully pursue while traveling.

Through the list of possible businesses you can run online, you may find something that you think is perfect for you. 

On the other hand, this list of potential business options may actually provide you food for thought from which you may be able to come up with your own business idea that is ideal for a person who is traveling.

Top Jobs to Travel With

*This post may contain affiliate links – if you purchase something from this post, I receive a small commission with NO extra cost to you. To see my full disclosure click here. Thanks for supporting us!

Freelance Writer

A number of writers have found that they can successfully wed freelancing with different types of travel. This doesn’t mean that the write about travel. In fact, there isn’t any limitation on the topics or types of writing pursued when on the road.

Thanks to this being the digital age, freelance writing can be done anywhere and at any time.

Noting that, if you elect to travel and write, you should develop a strategy in which you set aside specific time each day in which to write.

Even when you are on the road, you can maintain a disciplined writing practice that makes it possible for you to earn money freelancing while traveling.

Web Design

Another business you can effectively run while traveling is web design. Armed with a laptop or notebook, and a solid internet connection, you really can pursue a web design business from anywhere.

As is the case with freelance writing, when it comes to web design while traveling, you should schedule out specific time each day to work.

Taking this approach ensures that you will make progress on behalf of your clients no matter where you happen to be at any given time.

As an aside, by taking to the road, you may have the opportunity to connect with other web designers.

Through this interaction, you may come up with some dynamic new web design ideas that you would not have been able to glean if you worked from a constant home base.

Top Jobs to Travel With

Consulting Business

The moniker consulting business is a broad, diffuse term. Understanding the vague general nature of saying your going to run a consulting business while you travel, there are a myriad of consulting options that you truly can embark upon while you travel.

Consulting comes in many different forms. If you have some sort of specialization of rather unique talent or skillset, you may be able to transform that into a consulting business.

In this day and age, a great deal of consulting relies upon digital and online resources. You can provide consulting assistance by taking advantage of digital technology.

You may not have to often meet face to face with your clients. This reality makes pairing a consulting business with travel a natural combination.

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Travel Businesses

Operate an Online Retail Business

If you want to travel and earn a living at the same time, consider setting up some type of online retail business.

The doors are wide open as to what a person can do when it comes to an online retail business. For example, such a business can sell items you create. Such an enterprise can market products produced by another enterprise.

In the final analysis, what you do for an online business is only limited by your creativity.

As an aside, thanks to drop shipping, depending on the type of online retail business you create, you won’t have to worry about shipping when a purchase is made. This is particularly possible if you sell goods produced by someone else.

On the other hand, you can also arrange for drop shipping for the point at which your own creations are manufactured.

Travel Businesses

Online Instructor

An ever growing segment of the population is turning to the internet when it comes to learning and educational opportunities. Another idea you should bear in mind is providing some type of online instruction that you can provide while traveling.

This type of online instruction can include everything from tutoring to different types of classes provided by various schools or online educational programs.

You will need to work your travels around your class or teaching times.

However, as was noted before, not matter the type of business you establish, you will want to schedule business matters first and then work your travel agenda around that.

If you found this advice, or any of my advice helpful, please consider buying from one of my affiliates at no additional cost to you and supporting The Military Move. When you click and make a purchase within 24 hours (at no additional charge), we receive a small donation. Thank you!

Jessica Kane

About the Author

Jessica Kane is a professional blogger who focuses on personal finance and other money matters. She currently writes for Checkworks.com, where you can get personal checks and business checks.

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Tips When Traveling With Your Infant

Tips for Traveling Infants and Newborns
Infant and Baby Travel Tips

This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of 1 Natural Way, a TRICARE breast pump provider. All opinions are entirely my own. If you have questions about my full disclosure, click here.

When I was 19, I traveled to Spain with my family for a family vacation.  The first leg was with my step-mother and two-year-old sister from Atlanta to England.  When we went to de-board the plane, my sister fell out right there in the aisle – full out wailing, and complete humiliation for me!

My stepmother walked right off the plane.

And there I was. Like a cat herder – railing it in.

If that is not natural birth control, I don’t know what is.

I vowed that I would do everything I could to have a plan with my own children. Yes, I know you are laughing because plans usually go out the window with children.

However, traveling seems to go smoother when we can plan – no matter what happens after that.

Luckily, I have traveled with both of my children as infants and luckily learned some things along the way.

Travel Tips for Infants and Babies

1. Have an FAA Approved Car Seat

If you are flying when traveling with a newborn or infant, you have two choices with the airlines, travel with the baby on your lap or purchase an extra seat. 

Now I know budgets are slim, but if you can – purchase the extra seat.  My father is a pilot, so I have traveled a lot.

Turbulence is unpredictable, and it can be very dangerous.  Just like there are crazy drivers, well there are crazy pockets of air up there.

If baby is secure in an FAA approved car seat, there is no worries that you or your spouse, or even big sister (like me), has to secure baby.

2. Wear Your Baby

Another great investment is a sling or baby carrier.  This gives you free hands to pull luggage, hold another child’s hand, or if you cannot buy an additional plane ticket – keep baby secure on you.

You can wear baby on an airplane, hiking, on a ferry ride, and on trains.  Baby wearing has become real popular, but actually is an old tradition in many cultures.

Many find that wearing their baby when they travel allows baby to be close to the heart, which helps them stay calm and sleep while in motion – mimicking that feeling in the womb.

My oldest daughter and I were in Disney for Christmas, and I saw so many moms wearing their babies.  This is a brilliant way to lose the stroller and keep baby close. 

I have tried several on, and must tell you to be sure to find one that supports your back and is breathable if you are traveling somewhere hot!

Infant and Baby Travel Tips

3. Travel with a Breast Pump

The best part about breastfeeding is the convenience – no heating or cooling bottles, or bottles period.

However, it is unsafe to take a baby out of it’s car seat during transit.

My husband was driving us from Orlando to South Georgia, and a car next to us slammed on his brakes causing several cars to react and wreak. 

In seconds, accidents can happen.  The safest thing to do is stop somewhere safe, or if necessary, feed the baby while he/she is secure with a bottle.  

Many airports have implemented breastfeeding rooms for you to feed/pump with privacy.  This would be a handy time to use it.

Do you not have one yet? Do you need an extra one?

1 Natural Way offers a FREE popular Medela, Spectra and Kiinde brand breast pump through Tricare.

How Do I Get My Free Breast Pump?

Easy really! These 5 steps are as easy as commenting on your friend’s next post.

It takes less than 5 minutes, and your Tricare breast pump will be on its way!

It is that easy!

Step 1 – Fill out our insurance information form found here

Step 2 – Select your breast pump model (Tricare covers all models they offer)

Step 3 – Enroll in their Monthly breastfeeding accessories program (called
Resupply)

Step 4 – Provide them with a prescription or your doctor’s information, and they will obtain one for you

Step 5 – Your pump and supplies will ship right to your front door via UPS or USPS

In addition to your free breast pump, 1 Natural Way also offers breast pump accessories, compression socks and postpartum care supplies. Get yours here.

How to get a Breast Pump through Tricare for Free

4. Backpacks Make Great Baby Bags

So I had a great weekender bag with a cute purple pattern that I could fit all my baby stuff into (actually for both kids and myself).

However, after about..oh 8 trips, I was juggling a weekender bag on my shoulder, a baby on the other (or in my front carrier), trying to hold my other child’s hand, and rolling a suitcase. 

Just imagine that image – you have all seen THAT single mom traveling.

Yep, that was me!

Well, I am here to tell you that I purchased another beautiful turquoise and grey flowered backpack (just as cute), but it is SO much more functional. 

I can place all of my 5 year old’s extra clothes, all my 7 month old’s essentials, bottles, a book or tablet for me, a wristlet with my ID and credit cards, and my phone. No purse, no diaper bag – my handy dandy all-in-one bag.

Also, if you do, invest in one that has multiple compartments. To stay organized, of course.

Infant Travel Gear

5. Have a Baby Travel Kit

Besides packing for yourself and older children, be sure to pack a travel kit (in your backpack) for baby.

Include diapers, wipes, pacifiers (if used), bottles, your Tricare breast pump, breast cover for when it allows, baby blankets (I prefer Muslin ones), baby food and spoon, teethers, and some soft baby toys.

I usually pack all bottles and baby food in a small insulated lunch box with an ice pack to keep them chilled.

What you pack will depend on the age of your newborn or infant, but be sure to include extras until you can access your baggage.

This also helps if you are traveling by car, train, or ferry.

6. Travel with Bottles

Many moms choose to wear their babies.  However, many airlines expect you to take your baby out of the carrier for take-off and landing.

When you are flying, air pressure in the cabin changes during take-off and landing.

This can be irritable for babies ears.

While children and adults can chew gum, babies cannot.  This is why sucking on a nipple during these two events can help alleviate that problem.

Depending on the mom, it may be easier to provide your child with your pumped milk than trying to take off the carrier.

If your baby is a bottle drinker, try to time a bottle (even if it is a small one) around take-off and landing.

If your baby breastfeeds, that breast pump from 1 Natural Way will come in handy here since you will have a bottle ready that you or your spouse (or even big sister again) can feed.

This also helps if you have just fed recently but need baby to suck to prevent popping in the ears.

Do you have any travel tips for my readers, leave it in the comments below.

If you found this advice, or any of my advice helpful, please consider buying from one of my affiliates at no additional cost to you and supporting The Military Move. When you click and make a purchase within 24 hours (at no additional charge), we receive a small donation. Thank you!

Kelsey Ramirez

About the Author

Kelsey Ramirez is a Real Estate Broker in western Washington. She is also a veteran elementary school teacher, military wife, and mom to two daughters.  She is the founder of The Military Move, a military-based website to help families in the PCS process. Kelsey loves to travel, write, and create amazing content.  She has her Masters in Technology, which she uses to learn all new things digital.

With three decades of military support, Kelsey’s mission is to help new and existing military families in their unique adventures through all military topics including PCSing, budgeting, school choice and rights, housing, and especially just being a military spouse.

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San Diego Travel Guide

San Diego Travel Guide

San Diego is one of my favorite cities in the United States.  I mean like #2 in my top 5.  My dad often had training on Coronado Island in his F-16 back in the 90’s, and me remember my stepmother driving my sister and me in our Cadillac DeVille from Tucson, Arizona to San Diego.

We would bike all over Coronado, stop at local mom and pop places and eat ice cream, and enjoy the parks and beaches.

When my dad became a commercial pilot, I begged to go on one of his San Diego layovers.  When I did go, I made him take me all over.  I had some of the best cheesecake in a delightful cafe in the Gas Lamp Quarter, walked around Seaport Village, shopped in Westfield Horton Open Plaza, and even casually had a drink in the famous Top Gun Diner, which is Kansas City Barbeque.

Travel Guide for San Diego

*This post contains affiliate links – if you purchase something from this post, I receive a small commission with NO extra cost to you. To see my full disclosure click here. Thanks for supporting us!

As you start planning your trip, look over the options in the provided infographic below.  These are some of the top rated restaurants, hotels, things to do, and tours.  When you find what you want to do, click on my CityPASS below, and you can save up to 50%.

San Diego Travel Guide

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San Diego Travel Guide

San Diego Travel Guide

With a father that flys for a major airline, I am aware of travel necessities. Be sure to check my guide on travel essentials for the whole family.

Also be sure to check out the airline and airport travel tips YOU NEED in order to have a smooth trip.  It will keep you up-to-date on the following:

  • specific airport arrival times,
  • baggage costs,
  • traveling with children, and
  • a way to get through security quicker.
Airline Travel Tips

Do you have a favorite place in San Diego that you love to visit?  Tell us in the comments below!

If you found this advice, or any of my advice helpful, please consider buying from one of my affiliates at no additional cost to you and supporting The Military Move. When you click and make a purchase within 24 hours (at no additional charge), we receive a small donation. Thank you!
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Kelsey Ramirez

About the Author

Kelsey Ramirez is a Real Estate Broker in western Washington. She is also a veteran elementary school teacher, military wife, and mom to two daughters.  She is the founder of The Military Move, a military-based website to help families in the PCS process. Kelsey loves to travel, write, and create amazing content.  She has her Masters in Technology, which she uses to learn all new things digital.

With three decades of military support, Kelsey’s mission is to help new and existing military families in their unique adventures through all military topics including PCSing, budgeting, school choice and rights, housing, and especially just being a military spouse.

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Charleston Travel Guide

Charleston Travel Guide Header

My Charleston Story

In 2004, when I was fresh out of high school, I made the best decision to attend college in one of the most historic cities in the United States – Charleston.

Driving up to my dorm, the first thing I saw was…BOYS! And no, not from the college because the College of Charleston has a crazy girl to guy ratio in favor for the guys, but the Citadel boys in their uniforms.

You guys know I am a military brat, so it should be no surprise that I am a sucker for those uniforms.

Beyond that, I experienced four years of all the treasures Charleston has to offer. It is a beautiful city with amazing food, sights, history, and opportunities.

So much so that I have been dying to get stationed there again. Why? My husband and I met while he was on the now decommissioned Dallas.

Charleston Travel Guide

*This post contains affiliate links – if you purchase something from this post, I receive a small commission with NO extra cost to you. To see my full disclosure click here. Thanks for supporting us!

We love visiting the city so much we had to take our oldest daughter A.S. to see mommy’s alma mater (College of Charleston)

A at the College of Charleston

That was her when she was 18 months walking across the historic Cistern (4.5 years ago).

College of Charleston

Charleston’s Popularity

Many popular movies and tv shows have used the beautiful landscape within their filming.  The Notebook took place downtown off King Street (the part where they lay down on the street as teenagers) and Broad Street (where Noah is on the bus and sees Allie) as well as Boone Hall Plantation.

Dear John and The Patriot both have scenes at the Cistern on the College of Charleston’s campus – I actually walked across the grassy part for my college graduation. Even Die Hard With a Vengeance features the old Cooper River Bridge.

The popular drama television series Army Wives was filmed on the old Navy Base (interestingly enough).

There are countless more, but it goes to show what the city has a lot to offer.

Charleston Travel Guide

Charleston travel guide

 

Travel Plans

I highly recommend Charleston for anyone who wants a classy city with a lot of great restaurants, historic preservation, and things to do.  It is hard to make a comprehensive list as there are so many things that did not even make this list (such as the Charleston Children’s Museum, found downtown).Charleston Children's Museum

If you plan on booking a trip to Charleston, get your activities discount here.

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Find the Best tours, Excursions & Activities with City Discovery

With a father who flys for a major airline, I am aware of travel necessities. Be sure to check my guide on travel essentials for the whole family.

Have you visited Charleston?  What was your favorite hotel, restaurant, or thing to do?  Let us know in the comments below!

If you found this advice, or any of my advice helpful, please consider buying from one of my affiliates at no additional cost to you and supporting The Military Move. When you click and make a purchase within 24 hours (at no additional charge), we receive a small donation. Thank you!

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Kelsey Ramirez

About the Author

Kelsey Ramirez is a Real Estate Broker in western Washington. She is also a veteran elementary school teacher, military wife, and mom to two daughters.  She is the founder of The Military Move, a military-based website to help families in the PCS process. Kelsey loves to travel, write, and create amazing content.  She has her Masters in Technology, which she uses to learn all new things digital.

With three decades of military support, Kelsey’s mission is to help new and existing military families in their unique adventures through all military topics including PCSing, budgeting, school choice and rights, housing, and especially just being a military spouse.

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Key West Travel Guide

Key West header

Are you feeling drinks on tropical beaches?  But you haven’t applied or renewed your passport.  I am totally in this boat with you.  After months of teaching and then being pregnant, I could use a vacation on the beach.  However, the Caribbean is not on my list! Key West – although is!

Key West Beaches

Look at that!! Do you see it? I see a perfect place for a hammock!

Key West is known for their beaches, tours, and nightlife on Duval Street.   Spend the morning watching dolphins or taking an aerial tour, followed by a few hours of sunshine on one of Key West’s sandy white beaches, and then go have drinks at popular places such as Irish Kevin’s or Sloppy Joes.

Key West City Guide

*This post contains affiliate links – if you purchase something from this post, I receive a small commission with NO extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting us! To see my full disclosure – please check here.

Key West is also known for their fishing.

More of the history buff – check out Fort Zachary.

In this week’s travel guide – you will find something for everyone.  However, you may want to include a stay at one of the many bed and breakfast locations on the island.

Check out:

Key West Bed and Breakfast

The Conch House Heritage Inn

 

Key West Travel Guide

Key West Travel Guide

 

Military Links and Information

If you are military – check out the various helpful links that will help you in Key West from my friend’s website UJ Space A Info including Space-A information, military lodging, medical centers, and base guides.

Discounts on Activities

Find deals on activities with City-Discovery by clicking below.

Find the Best tours, Excursions & Activities with City Discovery

As an avid traveler, I have had the pleasure of traveling to many countries. Be sure to check my guide on travel essentials for the whole family.

Essentials for Trips

Traveled to Key West? What are the must-sees, dining, and hotels? Tell me in the comments below.

If you found this advice, or any of my advice helpful, please consider buying from one of my affiliates at no additional cost to you and supporting The Military Move. When you click and make a purchase within 24 hours (at no additional charge), we receive a small donation. Thank you!

Kelsey Ramirez

About the Author

Kelsey Ramirez is a Real Estate Broker in western Washington. She is also a veteran elementary school teacher, military wife, and mom to two daughters.  She is the founder of The Military Move, a military-based website to help families in the PCS process. Kelsey loves to travel, write, and create amazing content.  She has her Masters in Technology, which she uses to learn all new things digital.

With three decades of military support, Kelsey’s mission is to help new and existing military families in their unique adventures through all military topics including PCSing, budgeting, school choice and rights, housing, and especially just being a military spouse.

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Seattle Quick Guide

Header for Seattle's City Guide

Sleepless in Seattle, Grey’s Anatomy, Frasier, An Officer and a Gentleman.

All cinemSpace Needle Seattleatic or television  that may come to mind when you think of the beautiful city of Seattle. 

It could be the Space Needle, the Puget Sound, Starbucks, or Pike Place.  Whatever it is, Seattle has many treasures within the beautiful city that is known for it’s rainy weather. Surrounded by mountains, water, and forests, many locals enjoy the scenery of this Washington town.

Becoming a local? You can benefit from different services found at the Seattle Government website found here.

The Quick Guide below is a list that will help you navigate the city on your next vacation or upcoming move to the city. 

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Ferry boat riding is a MUST.  Take a trip to Bainbridge Island, Kingston, or Bremerton.

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Bainbridge Island

However, in downtown Seattle, you must check out a few places.  The Space Needle has multiple things to do for couples and families.  Pike Market has an assortment of vendors and restaurants to check out.Save

Pike Market

There is a hidden alley, I like to call the “Gum Wall.” It is one of those things you see once and go “Okay, I’ve seen it!”

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Gum Wall

 

The Quick Guide below is a list that will help you navigate the city on your next vacation or upcoming move to the city. 

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Seattle Travel Guide

*This post contains affiliate links – if you purchase something from this post, I receive a small commission with NO extra cost to you. To see my full disclosure click here. Thanks for supporting us!

CityPass will get you all the best deals on the most iconic spots of Seattle with savings to you! Click above to save!

The Great Wheel
Seattle Infographic

With a father that flys for a major airline, I am aware of travel necessities. Be sure to check my guide on travel essentials for the whole family.Essentials for Trips

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Be sure to check out my airline and airport travel tips before you go to make sure your trip goes smoothly.  You will find airport arrival times, baggage information for each airline, tips for flying with children, and a tip for Active Duty to get through security fast. 

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Airline Travel Tips

If you found this advice, or any of my advice helpful, please consider buying from one of my affiliates at no additional cost to you and supporting The Military Move. When you click and make a purchase within 24 hours (at no additional charge), we receive a small donation. Thank you!

Kelsey Ramirez

About the Author

Kelsey Ramirez is a Real Estate Broker in western Washington. She is also a veteran elementary school teacher, military wife, and mom to two daughters.  She is the founder of The Military Move, a military-based website to help families in the PCS process. Kelsey loves to travel, write, and create amazing content.  She has her Masters in Technology, which she uses to learn all new things digital.

With three decades of military support, Kelsey’s mission is to help new and existing military families in their unique adventures through all military topics including PCSing, budgeting, school choice and rights, housing, and especially just being a military spouse.

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Boston – Quick Guide

Boston City Guide

Boston Travel Guide

Boston, the capital of Massachusetts, is one of the oldest cities in the United States.  Additionally, it is home to the Boston Red Sox, Celtics, and New England Patriots, it also hosts academics such as Harvard and Boston College.  One of the most well known events is the Boston Marathon, which is held on the third Monday of April. 

Pinterest Pin Boston Travel Guide

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*This post contains affiliate links – if you purchase something from this post, I receive a small commission with NO extra cost to you. To see my full disclosure click here. Thanks for supporting us!

Boston played an important role in the American Revolution, which can be seen in the museums that surround the area.  Paul Revere, a revolutionary fighter, was instrumental in the war against the British famously riding on horseback to warn colonists.

If you are traveling or moving to the area, find things that may interest you, your family, or your possible guests.

CityPass will get you all the best deals on the most iconic spots of Boston with savings to you! Click above to save!

Boston City Guide

With a father that flys for a major airline, I am aware of travel necessities. Be sure to check my guide on travel essentials for the whole family.Essentials for Trips

To reserve one of the hotels above or any number of hotels in the area – I recommend Hotels.com.  Create an account and earn free stays – my husband and I have done this through our military and personal travels.

Search Here for Hotels.com Best Hotel Deals!

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Receive up to a 25% discount for booking on your mobile device at Hotels.com.

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Flying to Boston? Airport travel is one of the most stressful parts of people’s trips.  Check out the airport and airline tips that provide specific airport arrival times, baggage information for each airline, and helpful info on traveling with children.Airport Travel Tips You Need

Kelsey Ramirez

About the Author

Kelsey Ramirez is a Real Estate Broker in western Washington. She is also a veteran elementary school teacher, military wife, and mom to two daughters.  She is the founder of The Military Move, a military-based website to help families in the PCS process. Kelsey loves to travel, write, and create amazing content.  She has her Masters in Technology, which she uses to learn all new things digital.

With three decades of military support, Kelsey’s mission is to help new and existing military families in their unique adventures through all military topics including PCSing, budgeting, school choice and rights, housing, and especially just being a military spouse.

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How to Stay Physically Stable During a PCS

Keeping it together during a PCS

“Wait. What’s a PCS?”

That was me almost twenty years ago when my husband suggested we get married during his PCS from Alaska to Florida. Oh, young and ignorant me … back when military speak was not a part of my world. I have come to truly love and appreciate so many amazing and wonderful things about military life.

But PCSing, otherwise known as Permanent Change of Station, otherwise known as moving all your household goods and family to a different military base, is not one of them.

Moving boxes

I am about 17 years into married life. I married my husband, and I married the Air Force way of life. As someone who grew up in the same house her entire life, I was rather fascinated by the concept of moving often and excited about all the opportunities. And to be honest, I still get excited about new homes and new places.

But after 7 PCS’s and 9 moves, I also dread the transition. Because no matter how many times you do it and how good you are at rolling with all the craziness, moving is still considered one of the very top stressors in life. And we military families do it over and over.  And over. We eventually become so seasoned at it that we start using PCS as a verb!

Let’s face it — it’s a very stressful time. You try to organize your stuff (which basically means giving a lot of stuff away to Goodwill and making piles of what you don’t want packed), deal with the mountains of paperwork, determine what things you need for the interim (because sometimes it’s door-to-door and sometimes it’s weeks upon weeks for overseas moves), do your best to make sure your kids aren’t too sad or angry about moving, go to a gazillion farewell events, and try to ensure everything is set up on the other end so your arrival is as pleasant as possible. Good heavens, I’m exhausted just thinking about it.Healthy Tips for a PCS Move

As someone who has been in the health and wellness business for many years, I have learned how to make the transition period as healthy as possible. Because all that stress and physical exertion and lack of stability really make us a lot more susceptible to abandoning our healthy ways, succumbing to poor choices, and just plain getting sick.

It’s so easy to just eat McDonald’s and ignore what your body really needs during this hectic time. And if there’s one thing that makes PCS’s worse, it’s a bug that the whole family passes around. Stay tuned for the story when the stomach flu hit our entire family while our household goods were being delivered. Awesome.

So you know how we all try to plan ahead to make our moving as painless as possible? Most of the time we don’t really factor in ways to maintain our health because we have so many other things to worry about.

But it’s SO worth it. Here are some tips to help keep everyone healthy during a PCS — physically, mentally, and emotionally. These are big topics which each deserve a very long blog post, but hopefully I can hit the major points.

1. Support your digestion.

When I talk to my kids about digestion, the conversation usually turns into one about poop. That is basically life with boys in a nutshell. However, bowel movements are a good indication of how things are going with your digestion. Good digestion is absolutely imperative for good health.

We need to eat high quality, nutrient dense food that we can digest properly and break down into the proper usable forms for our bodies to utilize. All those carbs, proteins, and fats are used by our cells to perform necessary functions of life.

So when we are not eating high quality food and/or digesting our food properly, our cells are not getting the nourishment they need to do ALL THE THINGS. And let’s face it, there is nothing like a PCS to create a ridiculously long list of things that absolutely have to get done within a specified amount of time.

Make it a point choose better — pick Chipotle over McDonald’s. Don’t survive on Domino’s pizza. And to support your digestion properly, you need to slow down, take a moment to acknowledge and appreciate your meal, chew your food slowly, avoid carbonated beverages while eating because they can halt digestion, and eat balanced meals.

Shoving french fries and a Diet Coke in your face while standing up in the kitchen, surrounded by the sounds of packing tape and sharpies, is not going to cut it. You have to seek out nutrient dense food that is going to nourish your body. Good things to consider during this time are adding in some digestive enzymes and an essential oil to allow your body to get into that parasympathetic mode (rest and digest) to truly digest and assimilate your food.

And guess what?

You’ll poop on a regular basis and that is a very good thing.

2. Support your immune system.

There is nothing worse than being sick in the midst of a PCS. I’ve had a moving truck with all our stuff on it go missing for a week as well as had a bunch of furniture ruined, but nothing compares to getting hit with the stomach flu while our household goods were being delivered.

Stretched out on the floor of my new closet trying not to vomit or pass out while the moving guys were piling boxes around me. Then watching each of my family members succumb to it as the delivery guys looked on in absolute horror. THE WORST.

Anyway … most of the time when people think about taking care of their immune systems, they equate Probioticsit with washing their hands frequently and avoiding sick people. While these things are definitely helpful, we want to really nourish our immune systems so we are strong enough to handle the germs that are inevitably going to surface during a PCS.

Did you know approximately 80% or our immune systems are located in the gut? So we want to truly support gut health, which includes the nutrient dense food and healthy digestion we already addressed.

When we are not digesting properly, our small intestines get overwhelmed and our immune systems take a beating. A very important way to boost your immune system is to provide it with healthy gut bacteria. While eating high quality yogurt products can be helpful, it is more effective to call in the big guns in the forms of probiotics, collagen peptides powder, and fermented foods (think kombucha, kimchi, or sauerkraut).

All of these things are hugely beneficial to gut health and immunity, which are SO important during a PCS. Because of two words: STOMACH FLU.

3. Keep your blood sugar levels regulated.

Oh man, this is a tough one during a PCS. There is NOTHING I crave more during the craziness of moving than caffeine and sugary baked goods. Give me a Venti Starbucks anything and all the Krispy DonutsKreme donuts that I bought “for the packers” because I want to show my appreciation for their hard work.

Unfortunately, filling your body with sugar and caffeine to just GET IT DONE is not doing your body any favors. Doing this just causes our blood sugar levels to skyrocket (we all know that jittery feeling we can get from a sugary caffeine rush). And while you may get a big jolt of adrenaline initially, there is the inevitable crash that follows … at which point we often reach for more caffeine or sugar.

Aside from the terrible damage this can do to your health because blood sugar disregulation diseases are an epidemic, this rollercoaster is going to really wreck your energy levels, cause your adrenal health to suffer, weaken your immune systems, and negatively affect digestion.

Don’t get me wrong, I know a PCS without any caffeine and sugar is completely and totally unrealistic — I may be all about health and wellness but I’m not delusional. Just try to balance the caffeine and sugar out with some protein and healthy fats.

Eat a handful of cashews with your coffee. Eat a hard boiled egg with that donut. (I was going to say half a donut but who am I kidding?) These little things will do so much to keep your body healthy and balanced. It’s a marathon, not a sprint. So keep it fueled for the long haul.

4. Move your body.

ExerciseI know what you’re thinking. Move??? I never stop moving during a PCS! I feel you on that. But moving amidst chaos is very different than moving intentionally for the purpose of exercise.

I truly believe everyone has a different fitness personality — some people’s bodies love the super challenging workouts that feel like punishment (I don’t get you guys but more power to you), and some people like more of a gentle, mind-body kind of thing.

So do whatever your body likes, even if it’s just for 10 minutes. Go for a walk or run, go into an empty room with stray pieces of packing tape and do some Pilates, or squeeze in a quick session at the gym. Focus on breathing and how your body feels.

Get your blood pumping and the oxygen flowing to all your muscles. I could go into a big explanation of why exercise is good for your body, but do I really need to? Don’t make a bunch of excuses. Just do it.

5. Make sleep a priority.

Sleeping familyYes, I know this is insanely hard. But the payoff is HUGE. When we don’t sleep enough, we basically turn into toddlers. We tend to be cranky, irritable, and quick to overreact to everything and anything. And there are always insane moments that occur during a PCS — we need to be calm and collected, not freaking out about trying to find box #127 because it has the Keurig in it.

(Even though that is a legit reason to lose your mind.)

Not to mention lack of sleep is linked to compromised immunity, increased inflammation, decreased concentration and productivity, overeating and poor food choices, and increased periods of anxiety and depression. Trust me, I have stayed up way too late getting things in order and woken up super early to be ready for the chaos just like you.

And you know what?

That was dumb and didn’t help anything. I just end up being a hot mess and 9 times out of 10 the packers and movers show up late anyway. So just go to bed and get a solid eight hours of sleep.

6. Put in the time and effort to prep.

To Do ListYou know it’s coming. Most of usually get a few months notice before the PCS hurricane descends, so use your time wisely. I have a list of things I do to prep:

  • I do a huge commissary run and buy all the healthy food and snacks our family usually eats. Even though we all enjoy the occasional treat, being able to grab an apple with almond butter, a Larabar, or a bag of trail mix is great when hunger strikes. And it’s so much nicer for your body than that candy bar at the gas station.
  • I scope out the food choices on both ends of the move. I know where the nearest grocery stores and healthier food joints are located, because eating out is just gonna happen no matter how well I plan.
  • I stock up on all the vitamins and supplements we need to last us through the days/weeks/months of transition. And yes, this health nut has a whole lot of them.
  • I bring everyone’s favorite pillows and blankets because they are comforting and we all sleep better. It’s so worth the extra suitcase.
  • I pack a separate bag of all our personal care products to include soap, toothpaste, shampoo, lotions, and skincare. Mostly because I am very particular about using safer products that aren’t harmful to our bodies, but also because using our regular items seems more “normal” and eliminates the possibility of irritation and reactions.
 

I know this may all seem like more stuff to put on your to-do list, but there really is something to be said for making the PCS transition feel as much like “home” as possible. Our bodies are having to deal with major change no matter what we do, so doing these things just makes it easier for our bodies to adjust.

PCSing is rough. It really doesn’t matter if you’re moving across the world or just a few hundred miles. Life as we know it is uprooted and transplanted, and our bodies needs some extra support.

I hope you will keep these things in mind the next time Uncle Sam informs you of your next adventure, because I promise you will enjoy the new location a whole lot faster and with a much better attitude when you’re not sick and exhausted. Military life is exciting and full of adventures, so let’s not allow the PCS’s to steal that joy.

What tips do you have to help you stay healthy during a PCS?  Let us know in the comments below.

Amanda Koch
Amanda Koch logo

Amanda Koch

Amanda Koch is a Nutritional Therapy Consultant, Pilates Master Trainer, and Director with Beautycounter. After dealing with personal health challenges to include infertility, multiple miscarriages, chronic pain, depression and anxiety, she made healing changes in her life with real food, healthy movement, and safer products. She strives to provide resources for women to live well balanced lives which are realistic and effective. She currently lives in Alaska with her Air Force husband and two boys — healthy, happy, and well.

Visit my Website or Email to contact me.

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