A Journey Across Seas: Overcoming the Challenges of an OCONUS Move – Personal Stories and Advice

PCSing (Permanent Change of Station) is an inherent part of military life, but when it comes to moving OCONUS (Outside the Continental United States), the excitement of living in a different country is often accompanied by a distinct set of challenges. As a military spouse who has been on this journey, I can assure you that while the road might seem daunting, it’s a journey we’ve all shared, learned from, and ultimately, overcome. 

Read about the 15 Basic PCS Terms you Need to Know here.

Our OCONUS Story:

My own OCONUS move came as my spouse was deployed. Navigating through this significant change, managing paperwork, dealing with the anxieties of moving to an unfamiliar place, all while single-handedly looking after my family, wasn’t easy. However, what this journey has taught me is the importance of preparation, resilience, and the strength we possess as military spouses.

Navigating the Logistics:

An OCONUS move is not just about packing and shipping your belongings; it encompasses everything from arranging for necessary paperwork (like passports and visas) to complying with strict quarantine laws for pets in places like Hawaii. One crucial piece of advice I can share from my experience is: Start early. The earlier you start, the smoother your transition will be.

Emotional Resilience:

Amidst the logistics, one must not neglect the emotional aspects of an OCONUS move. The stress of moving, adjusting to a new culture, missing family and friends, and for many of us, doing this while our spouses are deployed can take a toll on us and our families. Remember, it’s okay to feel overwhelmed, but always take the time to engage in self-care, reach out to others, and keep the lines of communication open within your family.

Building a Support System:

Upon arrival, it’s essential to build a support system. Reach out to local military spouse groups or community groups. Remember, many have been in your shoes and are more than willing to help guide you through this new chapter. Having a support system also helps ease feelings of loneliness and makes adjusting to your new environment a lot easier.

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Keeping Home Close:

Living OCONUS often means adopting new cultures and routines. While this can be exciting, it’s also equally important to keep a slice of home close. Be it through familiar home-cooked meals, family traditions, or even celebrating American holidays with your new friends, these little reminders of home can provide immense comfort.

Seeking Professional Help:

When the complexities of an OCONUS move seem overwhelming, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. There are many resources available for military families PCSing overseas, from cultural adaptation resources to professional PCS consultants who can provide personalized advice and support.

Embarking on an OCONUS move can feel like venturing into the unknown. However, as I’ve learned from my journey, with the right preparation, mindset, and support, these moves can become enriching experiences that provide memories to last a lifetime. At The PCS Planners, we’re here to share our experiences, provide support, and help ensure your OCONUS move is as smooth as possible. Together, we’ve got this!