Moving is practically a sport for military spouses. If you’ve been through a PCS or two, you know that making the most of every inch is an art form. Whether you’re heading to a cozy apartment overseas or a bigger place stateside, figuring out how to pack efficiently can make the whole process less stressful. And when space is tight, smart storage hacks are your best friends.
Get creative with under-the-bed storage
If you’re like most of us, you’ve probably looked at your packed bedroom and wondered how everything will fit in your next place. One of the best ways to reclaim some space is by using under-bed storage. This spot is a goldmine for items you need but don’t necessarily want on display. Think off-season clothes, extra bedding, or even those keepsakes that hold sentimental value but don’t have a home yet.
Invest in sturdy under-bed bins that have wheels so they’re easy to slide in and out. If you’re into DIY projects, you can also use small crates or baskets and attach felt pads to the bottom. That way, you’re not scratching up the floor but still getting the storage you need.
Vertical stacking FTW
We all know floor space is precious, especially when you’re moving into a smaller place. That’s where vertical stacking comes in. If you have tall closets or extra-high ceilings, use them to your advantage. Install hanging shelves or add stackable bins that can hold everything from shoes to toiletries. The idea is to go up instead of out, which keeps things tidy without taking up too much of your valuable floor area.
One thing that worked for me was getting clear plastic drawers for my bathroom closet. They stack easily and keep things like extra toiletries, towels, and cleaning supplies separated. Plus, since they’re see-through, it’s easy to find exactly what you’re looking for. A friend of mine swears by the same method for her kitchen pantry. She uses clear bins to store everything from snacks to spices, and it makes unpacking during a PCS so much easier because she can set things up the same way every time.
Make the most of closet space
Closets are another area where you can get creative. Sometimes, closets at new duty stations are smaller than what you’re used to, or they might be set up differently. It helps to have adjustable hanging organizers to move around as needed. These are perfect for adding extra tiers for shoes or folded clothes. You can also use cascading hangers, which allow you to hang multiple items vertically, saving space while keeping your clothes neat.
I once moved into a place where the closets had no built-in shelves, so I bought a simple hanging organizer with multiple compartments. It became my go-to spot for shoes, bags, and even smaller items like scarves and hats. And if you have kids, these organizers work wonders for their closets too. My neighbor uses them for her children’s school supplies and small toys. It keeps everything in sight and off the floor, which is a huge win during a busy move.
Utilize over-the-door organizers
Another genius space saver is over-the-door organizers. These things are lifesavers when you have limited closet or drawer space. You can use them for everything from shoes to cleaning supplies to pantry items. It’s all about making use of those hidden spaces that are easy to overlook.
A milspouse friend once mentioned how she uses over-the-door shoe organizers for everything but shoes. In her bathroom, it holds all her hair tools and products. In her pantry, it’s perfect for spices, sauces, and even small snacks. And in her laundry room, she stores her detergents and fabric softeners there. It’s a simple way to make use of what’s often unused space, and it keeps clutter off countertops.
Folding techniques to save space
Folding techniques might seem simple, but they make a world of difference when it comes to packing and storing clothes. Mastering the art of rolling clothes instead of folding them flat is a game changer. Rolling helps prevent wrinkles and allows you to fit more items into a suitcase or drawer. It’s also great for those storage bins under the bed.
Another method I’ve used is the “file folding” technique for drawers, where you fold clothes in a way that they stand upright. It’s perfect for T-shirts, jeans, and even smaller items like socks. You can see everything at a glance, and it makes grabbing what you need so much quicker. My spouse and I use it for our PCS bags, too, so we don’t have to dig through everything to find one shirt. It’s all about keeping things simple and accessible.
Embrace flexibility
PCS moves are always going to be a little unpredictable, but having a few smart storage hacks up your sleeve can make a huge difference. By getting creative, planning ahead, and sharing tips with fellow milspouses, you can make each move a little easier and a lot more organized. Remember, the goal is to create a space that works for you and your family, no matter where the next PCS takes you.