Smooth Sailing: Tips for PCSing to Tinker AFB
Are you PCSing to Tinker AFB? Whether you're a military service member, a civilian employee, or a family member, this move can seem overwhelming. But with the right information and a little planning, you can make your PCS smoother and less stressful. In this article, you'll find helpful tips for making your move to Tinker AFB a breeze.
Overview of Tinker AFB
Tinker AFB is a U.S. Air Force base located in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. It is home to the Oklahoma Air National Guard as well as to several other units and organizations. The base offers a wide variety of services and amenities, such as medical care, an on-base school system, and a commissary. It is also conveniently located near a variety of restaurants, shopping areas, and recreation options. Tinker air force base is situated near Choctaw, midwest city, del city, Moore, OKC metro, and downtown Oklahoma City.
How far is Tinker AFB from the nearest major city?
Tinker Air Force Base is located approximately 10 miles east of Oklahoma City, making it the closest major city. The air force base is easily accessible for service members via highway I-40, which runs through the region. There are also several public transportation options available to travelers wishing to reach Tinker AFB from Oklahoma City.
Preparations for Your Move
Military families, when preparing for your move to Tinker AFB, the most important thing you can do is to get organized. Start by creating a timeline of tasks that need to be completed, such as budgeting for the cost of the move, scheduling movers, and selecting a new home. You should also make sure you are aware of any special rules or requirements for your PCS, such as storage restrictions or transportation regulations. Additionally, it's a good idea to familiarize yourself with the area surrounding the base and to research any schools or daycare centers that you may need to use. Finally, make sure to review your benefits package to ensure you are aware of any benefits or entitlements you may be eligible for.
Getting to Tinker AFB
When you determine you're ready to move to Tinker AFB, there are a few different options for transportation. The most popular option is to fly into Will Rogers World Airport, located about 20 miles from the base. You can also choose to drive, which is especially good if you bring many items. Additionally, the base is serviced by many moving companies, and several military transport options are available for those who qualify. Once you arrive, plenty of resources are on location to help you with the transition.
Driving to Tinker AFB
If you choose to drive to Tinker AFB, you should take some time to plan your route in advance. This will help you avoid traffic and get you to the base faster. Also, check for any road construction or closures before you leave your house, or your journey could take longer than expected. You should also allow extra time for potential delays, such as bad weather or heavy traffic. Be sure to check the Tinker AFB website for up-to-date travel information to the location.
Flying to Oklahoma City
For those flying to Tinker AFB, the closest airport is Will Rogers World Airport, located about 20 miles away from the base. You can book a flight to this airport, or you may be able to find a flight that connects you to another Oklahoma City airport. Once you land, several ground transportation options, including rental cars and shuttles to the base, are available. Be sure to check the Tinker AFB website for up-to-date travel information.
Settling into Tinker AFB
Upon your arrival at Tinker AFB, settling in should be relatively easy. The base offers a family readiness center along with a wide variety of services and amenities to help make the transition smoother, such as an on-base school system, medical care, and a commissary. Additionally, the base is conveniently located near a variety of restaurants, shopping areas, and recreation options. To learn more about Tinker AFB, check out the website or visit the base in person to take advantage of all the support services.
Is there housing assistance for PCSing to Tinker AFB?
Yes, there is housing assistance available for those PCSing to Tinker Air Force Base. The Tinker AFB, Housing Management Office, offers a variety of services to military personnel and their families who are relocating to the base. They can provide assistance with locating available housing, providing resources for temporary lodging, and providing information about the housing market in the local area. Additionally, contact the Tinker AFB Housing Office can provide information about any housing allowance that may be available to help offset some of the costs associated with your move.
Housing at Tinker AFB
There are several options available if you're looking for housing at Tinker AFB. The base offers both on-base and off-base housing. On-base housing is available for military personnel and their families, and there are several types of housing to choose from. Off-base housing is also an option, and a variety of rental properties are located near the base. Be sure to research your options and find the best housing fit for you and your family.
On-Base Housing
Following your permanent change of station, you will have several housing options if you choose to live on base at Tinker AFB. The base offers single-family homes and apartments in various sizes, ranging from one-bedroom to four-bedroom units. These units are available to active duty, reserve, retired military personnel, and eligible civilians. On-base housing includes access to amenities such as playgrounds, a fitness center, and 24-hour maintenance services.
Off-Base Housing
For those looking for off-base housing, Tinker AFB is located near a variety of rental properties. These include single-family homes, apartments, townhomes, and more in the surrounding areas of Del City, midwest city, Choctaw, Moore, and Edmond, all of which are military-friendly. Additionally, plenty of amenities are nearby, such as restaurants, shopping centers, and recreational activities. Many of these properties are conveniently located close to the base, making commuting to and from work easy.
Education Opportunities at Tinker AFB
Tinker AFB also offers a variety of educational opportunities for service members and their families. The base has an on-base school system that consists of five elementary schools, two middle schools, and a high school. In addition, residents of Tinker AFB have access to a variety of higher education opportunities located nearby.
Public school options Around OKC
In addition to the on-base school system, Tinker AFB also offers access to public school options around town in Oklahoma City. Several options exist if you're interested in enrolling your child in a public school. The Tinker AFB public school system offers a variety of educational options for students. The system consists of five elementary schools, two middle schools, and a high school that provides quality education. All of the schools feature state-of-the-art classrooms, as well as a variety of extracurricular activities. Public schools in the area offer a variety of educational opportunities, including arts and extracurricular activities. Furthermore, most districts provide transportation for students.
Private school options around OKC
If you're looking for a private school option in the area, Tinker AFB also provides access to several private schools. These institutions offer a more personalized learning environment, with smaller class sizes and more individual attention. The area's private schools also provide various educational opportunities, including science, technology, engineering, and math. Additionally, private schools typically provide a variety of extracurricular activities and sports programs.
No matter where you choose to live or send your children to school, Tinker AFB is a great place to call home. Moving to a new base can seem daunting, but PCSing to Tinker AFB can be smooth sailing with the right information and resources. The base offers a variety of housing, educational, and leisure options, making it a great place to call home. From on-base housing to the public and private school system, you can find what you need to make your move to Tinker AFB successful.
Higher education opportunities around OKC
In addition to the on-base and public schools, Tinker AFB also provides access to a variety of higher education and training opportunities in the Oklahoma City area. Students can take advantage of several universities, community colleges, and specialty schools. Area universities include Oklahoma State University, the University of Oklahoma, and the University of Central Oklahoma. Furthermore, Tinker AFB residents can also take advantage of a variety of community colleges and specialty schools, such as ITT Technical Institute and Everest College. With these options, you can find the right educational experience for you and your family.
Recreation & Leisure at and around Tinker AFB
In addition to educational opportunities, Tinker AFB is home to a variety of recreational and leisure activities. The base has several parks and open spaces, as well as a variety of sports facilities. Additionally, the OKC area provides access to a variety of museums, theaters, and other entertainment venues. Furthermore, Tinker AFB is located near a variety of restaurants, shopping areas, and other attractions. With these options, you can find the perfect activity for your family to enjoy. Be sure to check out the OKC dodgers located in the Bricktown district, approximately 10 minutes from tinker air force base, perfect for day trips.
Outdoor activities
Tinker AFB offers various outdoor activities, from parks and open spaces to sports fields and basketball courts for kids. The base even has a variety of trails and paths for residents to explore. Furthermore, the nearby OKC area provides access to a variety of outdoor activities, such as fishing, camping, and hiking. With all these options, Tinker AFB residents will surely find the perfect activity.
Shopping & Restaurants
Tinker AFB is conveniently located near a variety of restaurants, shopping centers, and other attractions, including the Outlet Shoppes in Oklahoma City. Residents living there can also take advantage of shopping, dining, and entertainment venues nearby OKC, like the minor league Oklahoma Dodgers at the Chickasaw Bricktown ballpark. With all these options, there is sure to be something for everyone.
Indoor activities
In addition to outdoor activities, Tinker AFB also offers a variety of indoor activities. The base has an art gallery, a library, and a variety of other indoor entertainment venues. Additionally, the nearby OKC area provides access to a variety of museums, theaters, and other entertainment venues. With so many options, Tinker AFB residents are sure to find the perfect activity for them.
Conclusion
Tinker Air force base provides its residents with an array of educational, recreational, and leisure opportunities. From educational options to a variety of outdoor and indoor activities, Tinker AFB offers something for everyone. You can find the perfect activity for you and your family with all these options. So, start planning your schedule for your next PCS to Tinker AFB and prepare for smooth sailing!
