Saving Money on Moving Expenses
Where will you stay the night before you depart for your big move? A hotel or motel might be most comfortable and convenient, but you could save a decent amount of money if you stay the night with a friend or relative. Or, if you have the gear, maybe you’d enjoy unrolling your sleeping bag and “roughing it” on your living room floor the night before you leave town? If you do, try to get hold of a sleeping pad or air mattress, which will help you get a good night’s sleep (you’re going to need it).
If you do need to stay in a motel, look into motel discounts along your route. Your automobile club membership may qualify you for a better rate. When you call about them, ask if the hotel or motel includes a breakfast with your stay. If your move involves an overnight stay and you’re game for camping, check into campgrounds and RV parks along your route. Be sure to ask whether a moving truck is allowed. Some parks have size restrictions; some RV parks may not welcome moving trucks; and some limit the number of vehicles allowed in a campsite.
Don’t forget to eat, you will need to keep up your strength, particularly on long distance moves. Try to balance your need to save money with your (and your family’s) health and comfort needs. Try to have at least one solid, nutritious, sit-down meal each day.
Breakfast can be a budget - and schedule - friendly meal purchased at a grocery or convenience store and eaten on the road: fruit, muffins, and juice for, example. Lunch prices at sit-down restaurants are typically cheaper than dinner prices. Consider having a hot lunch and then picnicking in your hotel or motel on supplies from a grocery store.