According to the Urban Dictionary, a “snowbird” is defined as an elderly person or senior who travels to Florida for the winter. However, certain sources have expanded on the definition to include:
“A person who migrates from the colder northern parts of North America to warmer southern locales, typically during the winter.”
Basically, it’s a nickname for individuals who have a northern home to live in during the summer and a southern home where they live during winter. This is the time they tell the icy temperatures and snow “goodbye” and say “hello” to the sun, shorts, and t-shirts. It works out well for them when it comes to comfortable living during the changing seasons.
When do snowbirds migrate south?
Typically, snowbirds head south to states such as Arizona and Florida in the months of October and November then start heading back home during the months of April and May. When temperatures start getting too cold in their northern homes, snowbirds head south where the outdoor temperatures are still tolerable. Even though migrating back and forth requires planning, preparation, and work, this is a part of their lives that they’ve grown used to.
What are NYC Movers & Packers snowbirds moving tips?
No matter if this is your first time or your 20th, there are always logistics that come into play. For instance, you aren’t going to be moving the entire household to your winter home. However, you’ll want to bring enough personal belongings with you so you feel right at home. Maybe you already have some things stored at your winter home, so only take with you what you’d really need there. Thus, the question arises what items should you bring and what items do you leave up north? Here are a few snowbirds moving tips that will help you sort everything out:
- Basic first aid, medications, and vitamins – Talk with your doctor before leaving about getting your prescriptions filled while you’re living in your winter home. Plus, you should probably establish a relationship with a local area pharmacist. Ensure that you bring enough to last you a month in your winter home. Additionally, don’t forget the first aid supplies and a good flashlight.
- Bring all important personal documents and information – you won’t be moving your filing cabinets with you to your winter home, you don’t want travel all that distance and then realize you didn’t bring your most important documents and information. You want make sure that you bring the following with you:
- health insurance documents
- home caretaker’s phone number
- a list of personal contacts
- a list of your doctors
- medical information and prescription medication
- photo ID (driver’s license or equivalent)
- utility companies phone numbers
- vehicle insurance policy
- If you don’t own your winter home, know what’s in your rental agreement – if you’re renting an Airbnb, apartment, condo, home, timeshare, or some other type of residence, amenities that are included in a winter rental package often vary. Read all content so you understand everything. Furthermore, be sure to ask questions about information that isn’t explained in the lease or rental agreement. You may want to bring certain specialty items with you such as cookware, glassware, kitchenware, a special pot or skillet, etc. The same where linens are concerned.
- You won’t need the thick socks and winter coat, but be prepared – this is another one of NYC Movers & Packers snowbirds moving tips that is often overlooked. Even warm climates have cooler nights from time to time. Thus, it’s a good idea to pack appropriate clothing such as a couple of sweaters, a light jacket, a rain coat, and umbrella (if you’re spending the winter in Florida). Don’t forget about your footwear and bring shoes that are relevant to your activities (e.g., dress shoes, hiking boots, sandals, etc.).
Remember, when you’re packing everything for your winter home, you’re also taking care of your regular home. Thus, it is important that you sort and take only what you will need for your winter home, instead of trying to take everything that you see.
How much will it cost to move to your summer home?
The cost will vary depending on certain factors such as the distance you’re moving, the moving services needed, the number of movers required, size and weight of your items, and the time of year. Since you’re moving south during the off-season and back north during the peak season, it will cost more when moving back up north.
