If you’re facing a Permanent Change of Station (PCS) move, you probably know the drill. Packing up your life, saying goodbye to friends, and heading to your next duty station can feel like a whirlwind. I get it, it’s a lot to handle. But what if I told you this doesn’t have to be just another stressful chore? Instead of trying to drive as quickly as possible to your new base, picture this: you turn that military PCS into a cross-country road trip full of cool things to see and memories to make. You usually get a set number of days for PCSing, but this is your chance to flip the script. With a little planning, you can transform a tough move into an excellent opportunity for adventure. Keep scrolling to learn about how to make it happen.
Top Tips for Turning a PCS Move into a Cross-Country Road Trip
Take Leave
As a military member, you get a set number of days from PCS to your next duty station. That’s a start, but if you want to turn this into a real road trip, I recommend you request additional leave and extend your trip. Because rushing across the country in a few days leaves no room for fun. Extra time lets you breathe, explore, and enjoy the journey with your family. It takes the edge off the stress and gives you space to bond before diving into your new routine. Trust me, slowing down a bit turns a chaotic move into something special. You deserve that break, so go for it.
Plan Your Route
Now, let’s get into the fun part—planning your route. This step is huge because it’s where you decide what you want to see along the way. Sure, your GPS might push the fastest path, but this isn’t about speed. Sit down and map out where you want to go. Think about those cool things you’ve always wanted to check out, maybe a national park, a quirky roadside stop, or a cute little town. Research a bit and mark those spots on your map. You can cover a good amount of distance each day and still squeeze in some detours. A solid plan means you won’t miss out on what makes a road trip awesome.
Don’t Drive Too Far Each Day
Speaking of distance, let’s keep it real about driving. I know the urge to push hard and get there fast can kick in, but resist it. I recommend you plan for four to six hours of driving each day. That pace lets you cover ground without wiping yourself out. Plus, it leaves time to stop, stretch, and soak in the sights. Depending on where you want to go and what you want to see along the route, tweak your daily miles to fit. Short drives keep everyone happier, especially if kids or pets are in tow. This trip is about enjoyment, not exhaustion, so take it easy.
Book Hotels in Advance
PCS season can get crazy, and hotels along popular routes fill up fast. You don’t want to roll into a town at night with no place to crash. Book hotels in advance to lock in your spots. Knowing where you’ll stay each night takes a load off your mind. Look for places that work for you and your crew, maybe pet-friendly spots or ones with a pool for the kids. Forward planning scores you better rates and options too. With hotels booked, you can focus on the road and not stress about where you’ll sleep.
Don’t Be Limited to the Route the Internet Gives You
Your GPS isn’t the boss of you. Apps focus on getting you to your destination the quick way, but that’s not the vibe we’re after. Don’t be afraid to stray from the suggested path. Getting off the main highway can lead you to some real treasures. Think scenic backroads, historic villages, or random finds that spark joy. You don’t need to go way off the main freeway to mix it up. Even a small detour can surprise you with something unforgettable. Let your curiosity steer a bit, and watch the trip come alive.
Don’t Be Afraid to Take an Extra Day or Two to See Something New
Speaking of detours, here’s another tip: don’t shy away from stretching your timeline. If something grabs your attention, a national monument, a weird attraction, anything—take an extra day or two to check it out. These spur-of-the-moment stops often turn into the stories you tell forever. Since you’ve got your route and hotels planned, tweaking things isn’t hard. Don’t fear adding a day for something special. That freedom is what makes a standard PCS a cross-country adventure. So, if a neat spot pops up, go for it. You’ll be glad you did.
Pack a Box Of Small Household Items To Get Most Out Of Your PCSing
- Set of pots & pans ($49, amazon)
- Can opener ($11, amazon)
- Coffee Mug ($7, amazon)
- Cutting Board ($39, amazon)
- Spoons ($9 for 16-piece stainless steel teaspoon set, amazon)
- Knives ($39, amazon)
- Cozy blanket ($12, amazon)
Conclusion
There you have it, your guide to turning a military PCS into a cross-country road trip you’ll love. From taking extra leave to planning your route with care, these tips help you slow down and enjoy the ride. Don’t drive too far each day, book hotels ahead, and feel free to stray from the GPS path. Take an extra day or two if something catches your eye, and pack a box of small household items to make your new spot feel cozy. With a little planning and a good attitude, it can be an adventure packed with memories.
