Flight to texas + 24 hr drive in a Uhual
I took a flight with my youngest (5 month old) to Texas from Florida. To start driving same day back to Florida for 24 hrs…
Why are we doing this?
Where military and to move we can either have movers pick up and drop our stuff off or… we can do a diddy move, which we move our “household goods” our selves to get paid double or triple what they would pay the movers. 🫢
And before I hear anyone say, why didn’t my husband do it alone? Would you? 24 hrs alone in a Uhual + Car Carrier ALONEEE… Don’t think so amiga
Long story short it was a long drive but we had fun 🫶🏽
Wow, what an adventure! Moving as a military family always comes with its unique challenges, but combining a flight with a 5-month-old and a 24-hour U-Haul drive truly tested our limits – and our patience! If you're considering a similar 'diddy move' or just navigating long-distance travel with a little one, here are some personal insights I wish I'd known beforehand. First, let’s talk about the U-Haul drive. Covering hundreds of miles, like from Florida to Texas, requires meticulous planning. I learned that mapping out your route with potential gas stops, rest areas, and even overnight accommodations (if you're not doing a non-stop push like us!) is crucial. When you're FLYING TO DRIVE 24 HOURS WITH A 5 MONTH OLD, every minute counts. Make sure your U-Haul is properly loaded – weight distribution is key for safety, especially with all your household goods. Pack an 'essentials' box that's easily accessible with things you'll need for the first night or two. And don't underestimate the physical toll; switching drivers, if possible, is a lifesaver. Keep plenty of snacks, water, and podcasts handy! Then there’s the flying part. Traveling with an infant, especially a 5-month-old, means packing smart. I found that having a dedicated 'baby bag' with extra diapers, wipes, formula/breast milk (pre-portioned!), a change of clothes for both of us, and small, quiet toys is a game-changer. Timing flights around nap times can also work wonders. For takeoff and landing, feeding your baby can help with ear pressure. Remember their car seat! Even if you don't buy them a seat, having the car seat gate-checked or using it on the plane if there’s an empty seat can be really helpful for the subsequent drive. Speaking of the drive, keeping a 5-month-old comfortable and safe for 24 hours in a car/U-Haul attached car carrier is a whole different beast. Regular stops are non-negotiable. Plan for breaks every 2-3 hours, not just for gas, but for diaper changes, feedings, and allowing your baby to stretch out of their car seat. This also gives you a chance to walk around and re-energize. For older infants or toddlers, having a selection of new, small toys or books can help with entertainment. Always double-check that their car seat is installed correctly and they are securely buckled. If a child refuses to buckle their seatbelt, for older kids, calmly explain the importance of safety and offer a small reward for cooperation, rather than forcing them. For infants, ensure the straps are snug and correctly positioned. Having soothing music or white noise can also aid in nap times during the drive. This whole military move experience, flying to Texas and then driving back, taught me so much about resilience and preparation. While it was tough, the feeling of successfully completing our own 'household goods' move and getting that extra compensation was incredibly rewarding. Every military family's journey is unique, but hopefully, these personal tips can make your next big move or trip a little smoother!
