Moving can feel like a giant game of Tetris, especially when you’re trying to fit your entire life into your car. If you’re not careful, you could end up with a banana-split disaster—where things topple over, get damaged, or simply don’t fit. But don’t worry, we know a thing or two about efficient packing. Follow these tips to ensure your move is a smooth peel.
1. Plan Before You Pack
Before you start stuffing your car like a banana in a tight peel, take a moment to strategize.
- Measure your space. Know the dimensions of your trunk, backseat, and any other available space. We aren’t saying you need a tape measure, but give it a good once over before walking everything down to your car.
- Sort your items by priority. Essentials like important documents, a change of clothes, and personal electronics should be easily accessible.
- Declutter before you load. The less you bring, the easier the process. Donate, sell, or discard anything you don’t truly need. We know this is tough, but taking a few hours to donate your unused items is a win-win for you and others in eed.
2. Go Bananas for Vacuum-Sealed Bags
Bulky clothes, bedding, and soft items take up more space than you’d expect. For any soft or bulky items not used to protect valuables (which we highly recommend), Use vacuum-sealed bags to compress them into manageable sizes. You’ll be amazed at how much space you save when you suck the air out—kind of like a banana peel collapsing when it’s empty!
3. Use Every Nook and Cranny
When space is limited, every inch counts. Think outside the (banana) box:
- Under the seats: Great for shoes, small bags, and rolled-up clothing.
- Glove compartment and center console: Ideal for essentials like chargers, snacks, and important paperwork.
- Inside large items: If you’re bringing storage bins, suitcases, or even a laundry basket, fill them with smaller items before stacking them.
4. Heaviest Items First, Lightest on Top
Bananas grow in bunches, and your packing should follow a similar concept: keep the foundation strong. Place heavy and sturdy items at the bottom—like books, appliances, and durable boxes—while lighter and fragile items go on top. This method prevents crushing and keeps everything stable during the drive. A great way to build a strong base is to use Banana Boxes as a foundation.
5. Keep the Rear Window Clear
It might be tempting to stack items up to the roof, but don’t let your car turn into a banana jungle. Keeping your rear window clear is essential for safe driving. If you absolutely need the extra space, consider using a rooftop carrier or renting a small trailer. Safety is key and the last thing you want is to get into an accident trying to cram too much in.
6. Soft Items as Padding
Think of your blankets, pillows, and towels as nature’s bubble wrap. Use them to wrap fragile items, cushion breakables, and fill in gaps between boxes. This prevents shifting and protects valuables from bumps and sudden stops.
7. Bungee Cords and Straps Are Your Best Friends
Just like a banana bunch stays together thanks to its sturdy stem, your packed items should be securely held in place. Use bungee cords, ratchet straps, or even strong rope to keep boxes from shifting around. This is especially important if you’re stacking items high or traveling long distances.
8. Doors First, Trunk Last
Packing is all about efficiency. Load up the backseat and other interior spaces first, then finish with the trunk. That way, if you need to shift things around, you won’t have to unload the trunk just to reach something inside the car.
9. Leave Room for Comfort
If your car is packed tighter than a banana in its peel, you’re in for an uncomfortable ride. Make sure the driver’s seat and front passenger area have enough legroom. If it’s a long trip, keep a small bag with road trip essentials—snacks, water, a phone charger, and any necessary medications—within arm’s reach.
10. Know When to Peel Off Some Weight
If you’ve tried every trick in the book and your car still won’t fit everything, it might be time to rethink. Consider shipping some items, using a moving box service like BananaBoxes.com, or renting a small moving van. No need to drive with your car bursting at the seams like an overripe banana!
Final Peel
Packing your car efficiently takes patience, planning, and a bit of creative thinking. By prioritizing essential items, using space wisely, and securing everything properly, you’ll ensure a safe and organized move. Whether you’re moving across town or across the country, these tips will help you go bananas for a stress-free journey!
Banana Box offers plastic and cardboard boxes for your move. You can book today for your upcoming move!