It’s that time again—PCS season. Whether it’s your first or fifth, moving with the military never feels routine. From packing up your life to finding temporary housing and getting your family settled, there’s a lot to juggle.
But don’t worry—we’ve got your back. With some smart packing strategies and a little help from IHG Army Hotels, you can turn a chaotic PCS into something a little more comfortable, organized, and peaceful.
Let’s break it down—how to pack like a pro and stay like one too.
Start Smart: Pack With a Purpose
PCS isn’t just about throwing things into boxes—it’s about planning ahead and thinking practically. Here’s how to approach it like a seasoned mover:
Packing Checklist: Short Stay (under 7 days)
- 2–3 changes of clothes
- Toiletries and shower shoes
- Medications
- Chargers and tech essentials
- Snacks and drinks
- Important documents (more on this below!)
- Small toys, books, or games for kids
- Pet supplies
- One comfort item per person (pillow, blanket, etc.)
Packing Checklist: Extended Stay (1+ weeks)
- 5–7 outfits + workout gear
- Laundry supplies (many IHG Army Hotels have free laundry!)
- Bath towels and kitchen basics (optional, many locations supply these)
- School supplies or learning materials for kids
- Full medical kits and any specialist care info
- Work gear or uniforms
- Favorite coffee, seasoning, or kitchen must-haves
Pro tip: Check your specific hotel’s amenities before packing—you may be able to leave a lot behind (more on that soon!).
Lighten Your Load with IHG Army Hotels Amenities
The less you pack, the better. And when you stay at IHG Army Hotels, we make it easy for you to travel light:
Our amenities That Make PCS Easier:
- Kitchens and kitchenettes in many rooms – prep meals, make snacks, or heat baby bottles easily
- Free guest laundry – no need to pack the whole closet or spend money at a laundromat
- Complimentary breakfast – one less thing to worry about each morning
- Pet-friendly options – your furry family members are welcome, too
- Free Wi-Fi – for Netflix, homework, virtual meetings, and sanity
- Playgrounds and outdoor spaces at select locations – great for letting kids burn off energy
- Proximity to on-post services – you’re minutes from housing offices, schools, and clinics
We want you to settle in, not stress out.
Get Organized: Your PCS Binder (or Digital Folder)
You know the drill: PCS comes with a mountain of paperwork. Save yourself time (and panic) by organizing your essentials up front.
Here’s what to include in your PCS binder:
Essential PCS Documents:
- Orders and amendments
- Vehicle shipping paperwork
- Lease/mortgage documents (current and future)
- Housing application forms
- School enrollment documents + immunization records
- Medical and dental records
- EFMP paperwork (if applicable)
- Pet vaccination and microchip records
- Birth certificates, Social Security cards, passports
Keep everything in sheet protectors or digitally scanned in a folder (with backups on the cloud or a flash drive). You’ll use these docs multiple times over during your transition.
Keep the Kids Happy, Keep Yourself Sane
A PCS can be stressful, especially for little ones. Staying in a hotel—even a comfy one—can feel unfamiliar. But a few smart moves can help everyone settle in faster.
Kid-Friendly PCS Survival Tips:
- Create a routine quickly (meals, bedtimes, playtime)
- Pack a “kid bag” with favorite toys, books, snacks, and a nightlight
- Use IHG Army Hotels’ free Wi-Fi to stream favorite shows or virtual playdates
- Ask the front desk about nearby playgrounds or on-post family activities
- Let them help “set up” the room—claiming their space gives them a sense of control
Bonus: Family-friendly amenities at IHG Army Hotels like outdoor grills, walking trails, and on-site playgrounds help turn “temporary housing” into something that feels a little more like home.
Final Packing Pro Tips from PCS Veterans
PCS moves might be mandatory, but PCS stress doesn't have to be. Here’s what experienced families say helps most:
- Take photos of valuable items before the movers arrive
- Color-code your boxes by room using duct tape or stickers
- Label clearly—“Kitchen: plates & toaster” is better than just “kitchen”
- Don’t overpack—you’ll re-buy items or get issued things at your next duty station
- Bring your own pillows and coffee—you’ll feel at home instantly
- Snacks and water are a must for travel days
And perhaps most importantly: give yourself a break. A PCS isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress.
Why IHG Army Hotels Is Your PCS MVP
We’re not just a place to stay—we’re your partner in the PCS process.
Whether you're traveling solo, with a partner, or towing a full family and pets, our goal is to make your temporary stop feel like home. We serve over 40 U.S. Army installations, and every property is built with military families in mind.
What Guests Are Saying:
“Our stay at Fort Carson’s IHG Army Hotel felt more like an apartment than a hotel. We had a kitchen, space for the kids to play, and could even do laundry for free!”
“Moving with a toddler and dog isn’t easy, but IHG made it smooth. Staff were kind, and we were walking distance to everything on post.”
Wrap-Up: You’ve Got This
PCS season doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a little planning, some smart packing, and a comfortable stay at IHG Army Hotels, you can keep your sanity intact—and maybe even enjoy the journey a bit.
From packing checklists to cozy kitchens and kid-friendly spaces, we’re here to support military families every step of the way.
So pack light, travel smart, and let us help you land softly.
(c) 2025 IHG Hotels & Resorts. All rights reserved. IHG Army Hotels properties are independently owned by Rest Easy LLC, a Centinel Public Partnerships company, and operated by an affiliate of IHG. No DoD, US Army or federal government endorsement implied. For information on Centinel, visit CentinelUS.com.