Hawaii is paradise. It has warm weather throughout the year, amazing beaches, and awesome people. No wonder then that more and more people are choosing to make the switch to island life.
Planning and getting ready for this move can be exciting. But it is important to remember that there is a difference between moving to a new city on the mainland and moving to an entirely different island.
The logistics are different. Shipping costs are usually higher, and it takes more time. You can also expect a change in culture and lifestyle on the island.
Read Up on the Culture
Before moving to Hawaii, read up on their culture first. Like with moving to any new city, you would need to learn to adjust to how things are over there. That increases tenfold when moving to the islands.
The people, culture, and even some of the language would be different. It is completely different from what you expect on the mainland. Some things would remain the same but expect a huge adjustment period.
Visit the islands if you can before making the permanent move. That way, you can get a good feel of life and culture. You can also scope out areas where you might want to live and even restaurants you would frequent. If you have kids, you can visit research schools.
Read and do your research about Hawaii and its culture. Keep an open mind and try to set your expectations before planning to make your move.
Hire the Right Moving Company
Once you have decided, you have to find a moving company to help bring your things with you to the island. You can buy brand new once you get there, but there are things you want to bring with you. Additional luggage on the plane would not be enough.
Professional moving companies can help pack and ensure that your things get to your new island home safe and sound.
Expect the prices to be higher, though. There is a big difference between transporting your sofa from San Francisco to Orange County and the mainland to the island. The logistics are more challenging, not to mention the sheer distance of the travel.
Compare different moving companies and read comprehensive reviews to find the right one for you. Do not base it just on the price. You want to work with a trustworthy company to avoid getting stressed about your things.
Choose Your Things Carefully
Because moving your things to Hawaii is more expensive, you might want to consider what things to bring with you. The move is an opportunity for you to see what you need and what you can let go of.
Think about where you are going. You will need more swimwear than winter clothes, so you can leave that padded jacket behind. It may also be cheaper to buy some of your bigger appliances on the island instead of packing them with you.
You can try selling things you no longer need, then donate those you cannot sell.
Hire a Car Shipping Company
Getting around the island can be difficult if you do not have a car. You can rent, you can buy, or you can bring your car with you. Shipping car to Hawaii can be expensive, but it is still cheaper than buying a new one.
If you have two or more cars, shipping makes even more sense. You can get better prices if you bring multiple businesses with the same shipping company.
You can find different moving companies on the internet. Depending on where you are, you can meet them in specific locations to hand over the car or they can pick it up at your house. The latter is usually more expensive, but you pay for convenience.
To Rent or Buy a House
Is it time for you to buy a house on the island? That depends on you.
If you are just testing the waters or have doubts about the island life, you should start by renting first. If you fall in love with the lifestyle, that would be the time to make the purchase.
Get Your Identification
Get your driver’s license in Hawaii. It is easy to do so as long as you have a valid license from out of state. If you get it before needing to renew, you will only be required to take a written exam.
Get your state ID as well. That indicates you are a permanent resident of Hawaii. These will get you great discounts and other perks.
Conclusion
Some people think that they want to live in Hawaii. They move to one of the islands and eventually go back to the mainland after a few years. That usually happens because they did not do their research right or have not set practical expectations.
Do your research and know what you are getting into before packing your stuff to live in Hawaii.
