Moving house is always a significant milestone, but doing so in the height of summer brings its own set of challenges. With warmer weather and more frequent heatwaves in the UK, it’s worth planning ahead to make sure your move is as smooth and stress-free as possible.
If you’re considering selling your property or moving to the area, take a moment to browse our Properties for sale in Wentworth Estate, Properties for sale in Virginia Water and the surrounding areas. If you have any questions, you can also visit our award-winning website or call us on 01344 843000 and email us.
At Barton Wyatt, we understand the practicalities of moving home throughout the year. From frosty winter mornings to long summer afternoons, each season brings its own challenges. Moving during a heatwave can be particularly demanding, especially when there’s a chain involved or time pressures to meet. Whether you’re buying, selling or letting, we’re here to guide you through the process with practical advice and a calm, considered approach.
Here are some of our top tips to help you stay cool, calm and in control if you’re moving house during a heatwave.
Start early in the day
Where possible, aim for an early start. Most professional removal firms will be happy to begin loading at 7am or earlier if needed. It’s a good way to avoid working in the hottest part of the day and will make lifting and carrying far more comfortable for everyone involved.
If your home has several floors, steps or a long walk to the van, early starts can also reduce the physical strain on your removals team.
Keep water and shade close by
Heat can catch you off guard, especially when you’re busy and on the move. Keeping bottled water on hand at both your old and new homes is a simple but essential way to avoid dehydration.
A cooler box stocked with drinks, ice packs and light snacks will go a long way during a long day. If you’re working with a removals team, offering refreshments is always appreciated too.
Dress for comfort and practicality
On moving day, choose breathable clothing in light colours and avoid restrictive or heavy fabrics. Supportive footwear is a must, especially if you’re lifting boxes or walking between properties.
Many people also find it helpful to wear a hat, carry a cooling spray or damp their cloths to stay comfortable during peak temperatures.
Look after heat-sensitive items
Some items can be damaged by heat or long periods in direct sunlight. If you’re moving house during a heatwave, keep a close eye on:
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Candles and wax-based products
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Toiletries and cosmetics
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Houseplants
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Electronics / Batteries
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Perishable food
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Artwork or items of value
If you can, transport delicate belongings in an air-conditioned vehicle, or ask your removals firm about heat-sensitive packing and storage options.
Prepare the new property ahead of time
If you’re able to collect keys or access the new property early, take a few steps to create a more comfortable arrival:
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Close blinds or curtains to block out direct sun
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Open windows to allow airflow
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Set up fans or air conditioning units
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Unpack cold drinks and essentials first
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Set up a shaded place to sit and rest
The more you can do in advance, the easier it is to stay calm when the move begins in earnest.
Make plans for children, pets and older family members
If you have young children, pets or elderly relatives, it’s wise to think ahead about how they’ll be looked after on moving day. Heat can make the experience more tiring and uncomfortable for them, especially if there’s limited access to shade, cool water or quiet space.
Where possible, arrange for a friend, relative or neighbour to help care for them for part or all of the day. If they do need to be present at the property, set up a calm, air-conditioned or shaded area with drinks, light food and any essentials they might need to stay comfortable.
Having someone available to focus on their well-being also allows you to concentrate on the logistics of the move.
Pack your essentials for the first night separately
No matter how well you plan, the first evening in a new home is rarely the time to start opening every box. One of the best ways to make your summer move more manageable is to pack a clear, well-labelled ‘first night’ box or bag and keep it with you.
Include items such as:
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Light bedding or sheets
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Pyjamas and a change of clothes
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Basic toiletries
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Towels
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Charging cables
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Snacks and water
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Any medication or items for children, pets or elderly relatives
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A fan or portable cooling unit if possible
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A small set of pots, pans, utensils, plates, and some easy-to-throw-together dinner ingredients or prepare an order for takeout in advance.
That last point can make a big difference when energy levels are low and the idea of cooking feels overwhelming. With a few key items to hand, you’ll avoid rummaging through boxes and can enjoy a more relaxed first evening in your new home.
Don’t rush
Moving house can be physically and emotionally tiring, especially in high temperatures. Once the main furniture and essentials are in place, give yourself permission to pause.
You don’t need to unpack everything in one go. A short walk in the early evening or a quiet moment in your new garden might be just what’s needed to mark the start of your new chapter.
Book removals early
Summer is one of the busiest seasons for moving, especially in sought-after areas like Virginia Water and the surrounding villages. It’s a good idea to book removals and transport services well in advance to ensure you get your preferred date and time.
Friday is traditionally the most popular day to move house, so if you’re able to book earlier in the week, you may find better availability, and a smoother, less rushed experience. We are happy to recommend reliable, professional removals firms that work to the standards our clients expect.
GET IN TOUCH
Moving house in a heatwave can be challenging, but with the right planning and support, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. If you’re thinking of moving in or out of the area, make sure you take a look at our latest properties for sale in Wentworth, Virginia Water and the surrounding areas.
If you’d like to speak to someone about properties to let in Virginia Water, a member of our expert team would be happy to help. You can call us on 01344 843000 or email us. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn to stay updated.
