Life in Sarasota, Florida unfolds at a blissfully relaxed pace, inviting residents to indulge in simple pleasures and truly appreciate the stunning beauty that surrounds them. In fact, Sarasota has frequently ranking high on “best of” lists, including No. 5 for “Best Place to Live” and No. 11 for “Best Place to Retire” by U.S. News & World Report.
Related Blog: Sarasota Mattress Guide: Which Luxury Mattress Brands is Best for You?
If you're lucky enough to be moving to Florida, get ready for an exciting transition! Here are key tips to help you adjust smoothly while embracing the laid-back, restorative lifestyle that awaits you.
1. Pack for Your New Florida Lifestyle (What Not to Bring)
Now's the perfect time to declutter and get rid of things you don't need, especially with Florida's hot, humid weather. Since basements and attics aren’t really an option here, it's smart to downsize or look for versatile storage solutions. And, if you have space heaters lying around, you probably won’t need them in Florida, so consider selling or donating them before you move!
Ditch the heavy comforters, flannel sheets, and thick blankets. In Florida, lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen are better for staying comfortable in the heat and humidity. Before you move, determine whether your current mattress can stand the Florida heat. If your mattress retains heat at night, consider replacing it with a cooling gel memory foam mattress when you arrive in Florida.
2. Find Florida Friendly Furniture
When furnishing your new Florida home, choose lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen for comfort in the hot, humid climate. Opt for moisture-resistant materials like teak and wicker for durability, and select furniture that promotes air circulation, such as open-backed chairs and leggy tables, to stay comfortable in the heat.
Keep this in mind while furnishing your bedroom to avoid getting too hot while you sleep. Start adjusting to the laid-back and relaxed lifestyle in Florida by prioritizing your bedroom as you move in. Your bedroom is the relaxation oasis that will ensure you have the rest and recuperation you need to fully enjoy the vibrant Gulf Coast.
3. Transfer Your Medical Records
Before you move out, make sure to reach out to your doctor for your family's medical records to share with your new healthcare provider. Sarasota has a ton of great healthcare and wellness services available, like nutrition counseling, physical therapy, and holistic practices, all aimed at helping residents stay healthy and feel their best.
4. Design Your Outdoor Space
When you're customizing your outdoor living space in Florida, keep the unique climate in mind! Think about adding some shade with pergolas and umbrellas, and definitely go for UV-resistant materials to shield against sun damage.
Opt for durable furniture made from teak, aluminum, or resin wicker that can handle the hot, humid weather. To keep those pesky bugs at bay, consider installing mosquito netting and using natural repellents.
5. Change Your Utilities
Before you move, don’t forget to give your utility companies a heads-up about your moving date and set up a cut-off. Once you get to Florida, make sure your AC is running smoothly and has a dehumidifying feature. If it doesn’t, it might be a good idea to grab a couple of dehumidifiers for your place!
Florida's tropical climate makes air conditioning essential, which is why we have high-efficiency systems with higher SEER ratings compared to those in cooler states. Moving to a new home can be stressful and adjusting to temperature changes can mess with your sleep and health. so ensure your AC is properly set up to maintain the ideal temperature for a restful night.
6. Be Present For The Movers
If you’re thinking about hiring a moving company, it’s super important to be there when they load up your stuff. Being on-site lets you keep an eye on everything and make sure nothing gets left behind, whether it’s your furniture or those smaller items. Plus, you can check that everything is handled carefully and ask any last-minute questions you might have.
7. Prepare For The Weather
When you move to Florida from a colder state, it's important to give your body some time to adjust to the heat. Start with short outdoor sessions and gradually increase your time outside. Don’t forget to stay hydrated by sipping water regularly, and try to add light, refreshing foods like fruits and salads to your meals.
8. Consider Your Wardrobe
In Florida, the dress style is pretty laid-back, so you might want to donate any formal, long-sleeved clothes and go for a more casual wardrobe. When you're out and about, look for moisture-wicking fabrics like polyester blends to keep cool and dry. Loose fits are great for better airflow and moving around easily.
If you’re spending a lot of time outdoors, check for clothes with built-in UPF for sun protection. And don’t forget a lightweight, wide-brimmed hat and UV-protective sunglasses! Stock up on versatile pieces like polo shirts, sundresses, and lightweight slacks that can easily take you from day to night.
9. Take Care Of Paperwork
If you want to drive your car in Florida, make sure to register it within 10 days of moving here. This keeps your car compliant with state regulations so you can drive legally. Also, don’t forget to grab your Florida driver's license within 30 days.
The state’s Department of Motor Vehicle website has more information about the process for new residents. Just have your proof of identity and residency handy, and you’ll be good to go.
10. Get To Know Your New Community
Florida has so much to offer newcomers! From museums and beaches to exciting sporting events, there’s always something to check out. Grab your local newspaper for ideas and don’t be shy about exploring your new home.
In Sarasota and Siesta Key, you'll find amazing restaurants with delicious dishes waiting for you around every corner. Siesta Key is a little slice of paradise with stunning beaches and fantastic weather, plus tons of fun activities to enjoy!
If you need a new mattress after following these moving tips and relocating, visit Land of Sleep. We have free same-day delivery, so you’ll be sleeping away those moving-related pains in no time!
