Moving House This Summer? 7 Ways to Make It Easier (Especially with Kids!)

Planning a summer house move - especially with kids - can feel overwhelming. But with the right planning and some local know-how, it doesn’t have to be stressful. This article shares seven practical tips to help make your move smoother, more manageable and even enjoyable.

 

Key Takeaways:

• Book your removals early - summer slots go quickly, especially weekends and holidays
• Get kids involved - let them help with packing and explore the new area ahead of time
• Pack smart and label everything - don’t forget an essentials box for each family member
• Prepare for the heat - start early and keep water, snacks and sun protection handy
• Stay on top of paperwork - some delays are common during the holiday season
• Schedule time to settle in - allow a few low-pressure days to get to know your new area
• Lean on local experts - the right estate agent can help coordinate every step

 

Summer is one of the most popular times of year to move and it’s easy to see why. The days are longer, the weather (usually!) behaves and if you’ve got children, the school holidays offer a natural window to get settled before September. But moving house in the summer - especially with kids - can also feel chaotic if you’re not prepared. As North London’s local property experts, we’ve supported hundreds of families through summer moves from Crouch End to Cockfosters. So, we’ve rounded up seven practical tips to make your move as smooth as possible.

1. Book Your Removals Team Early

Summer is peak season for movers. The best local removal firms book up fast, especially around weekends and bank holidays. As soon as your completion date is confirmed, lock in your moving team and get a few quotes to compare.

Local tip: In areas like Palmers Green or Enfield, consider controlled parking zones or narrow Victorian streets when booking vans. Check with your local council to reserve parking bays if needed.

 

2. Get the Kids Involved

Children can find moving unsettling, but involving them can ease the transition. Let them help pack their toys, choose the colour for their new room, or even ‘say goodbye’ to the old house.

If you're moving to a new area like Harringay or Southgate, plan a walk around the local park, visit their new school or try a nearby café together before the move. Familiarity breeds comfort.

 

3. Pack Smart and Label Everything

Start with non-essentials and work room by room. Label boxes clearly (with room and contents) and create an ‘essentials’ box for each family member - think snacks, chargers, toiletries and a fresh change of clothes.

Don’t forget a box for the first night in your new home - kettle, mugs, tea bags, bin bags, WiFi router… the survival kit!

 

4. Plan for the Heat

If you get lucky with sunshine, moving day can get hot fast. Start early, stay hydrated and have suncream on hand - especially for little ones.

Have a cooler ready with water bottles, fruit and a few treats - even small comforts can help keep stress down on a busy day.

 

5. Stay on Top of Paperwork

Solicitors and agents may be away on holiday during July and August. Make sure all documents are digitally backed up and keep contact details for everyone involved in the chain handy - just in case.

If you’re selling and buying simultaneously, make sure your agents are keeping both sides coordinated.

 

6. Schedule Time to Settle In

You won’t unpack everything in one day and that’s okay. Take time to explore your new neighbourhood. Whether you’re settling into Muswell Hill, Grange Park or Bounds Green, give yourself and your family a few low-pressure days to find your feet.

‘One of the best things families can do is walk the area before moving day - visit the local park, test the commute, find the nearest coffee shop. It turns the move into something exciting.’

- Josua, Sales Manager, Crouch End Office

 

7. Lean on Local Experts

From understanding school catchments to navigating the quirks of North London’s postcodes, having the right estate agent makes all the difference. At Anthony Pepe, our teams across Cockfosters, Crouch End, Enfield, Harringay and Palmers Green have helped hundreds of families make a seamless move.

We know the streets, the schools, the timelines and how to make your sale and purchase line up as smoothly as possible.

 

Thinking About Moving This Summer?

Whether you're upsizing, relocating or buying your first family home, speak to your local Anthony Pepe branch. We'll guide you through every step - from first viewing to moving day (and beyond).

 

Find your nearest estate agent office or book a free valuation today - we’re here to help.

 

FAQs: Moving in Summer with Kids

Q: When should I book a removals company for a summer move?

A: Ideally, as soon as your completion date is confirmed. Summer is peak season and weekends/booked holidays fill up quickly.

 

Q: How can I help my children adjust to a new home?

A: Involve them in packing, let them choose aspects of their new room and visit the new area beforehand to build familiarity.

 

Q: What essentials should I pack separately?

A: Toiletries, chargers, snacks, kids' comfort items, and first-night basics like mugs, kettle, tea bags and the WiFi router.

 

Q: Is it okay to delay unpacking everything right away?

A: Absolutely. Prioritise settling in emotionally and practically - get to know the area and tackle boxes at a steady pace.

 

Q: What if key contacts (solicitor/agent) are on holiday?

A: Keep all documents backed up and stay in regular contact. Having mobile numbers and emails handy can prevent delays.

 

Q: How do I find out about school catchment areas?

A: Your local estate agent can advise. Areas like Harringay, Enfield or Muswell Hill each have different catchment criteria.