Mastering Your PCS: Top 7 Tips for Military Members Relocating to Omaha

Your Move to Offutt Air Force Base

1. Start Early, Stay Organized

Early planning is key to a stress-free move. Create a detailed moving checklist to keep track of tasks such as contacting the transportation office and scheduling utility transfers. Staying organized from the outset will help streamline the moving process and minimize last-minute headaches.  I know being organized is hard for some (me) and easy for those organized types! But, trust me, it will help, especially if your family has a lot of stuff.

2. Understand Your Entitlements

Take the time to familiarize yourself with the entitlements available to you as a military member. Understanding benefits like per diem, Temporary Lodging Allowance (TLA), and Dislocation Allowance (DLA) will help you make informed decisions and maximize your resources during the move.

3. Research Your New Location

Get to know your new home in Omaha before you arrive. Research housing options, school districts, and local amenities to ensure a smooth transition for you and your family.

Decide if you want to live close to the base (i.e.Bellevue or Papillion) or if you don't mind a little further drive, many people live in Gretna or Elkhorn.  It all depends on your priorities (schools, commute, entertainment, home type).  A knowledgeable real estate agent can be valuable resources for finding military-friendly housing and gathering information about the area.

4. Utilize Military Resources

Tap into the support services available to military families as you prepare for your move. Organizations like the Military and Family Support Center (MFSC) and the Relocation Assistance Program (RAP) offer valuable resources and guidance to help make your relocation to Offutt AFB as seamless as possible.  If you will be new to the Omaha area, your unit sponser will guide you through some of this!

5. Prepare for the Move

Packing efficiently and decluttering your belongings will make the moving process smoother. Start early, and pack strategically to ensure that your items are well-organized and easily accessible. While you will have military movers to do your packing, no one cares more about your items then you. Being thoughtful ahead of time will help when they show up and start packing things into boxes.

Consider donating or selling items you no longer need to lighten your load and simplify the moving process.  This will also help on the unpacking side as well.

6. Stay Flexible and Adapt

Military life is full of surprises, and flexibility is key to navigating the unexpected twists and turns of a PCS. Embrace the uncertainty with a positive attitude and a willingness to adapt to changing circumstances. Remember that flexibility is your greatest asset as you embark on this new chapter in Omaha.  Follow the move process and be sure to document any "hiccups" along the way.

7. Embrace the Adventure

Moving to Offutt AFB in Omaha is an opportunity for a fresh start and new experiences. Embrace the adventure with an open mind and a sense of curiosity about your new surroundings. Surprisingly to many , Omaha is truly a great place to live with many family friendly tings to do, a vibrant downtown, outdoor activities, golfing, and more!

Explore all that Omaha has to offer, from its rich cultural heritage to its vibrant local community. Welcome home to Offutt AFB – we're glad to have you here!