How to use storage units during travel

If you’re heading off on a long trip and are not sure what to do with your stuff, you’re not alone. Whether you’re in between homes, moving out of student accommodation or just want peace of mind while you’re away, using a storage unit is a smart move.

Putting your things in storage means you’re not paying rent on a place you’re not using, and you don’t have to worry about your belongings while you’re on the road. But to make it work properly, it’s worth getting a few things sorted before you go.

Why travellers use storage

People use storage while travelling for all sorts of reasons. Some are off on gap years, some are working abroad for a few months, and others are taking a break and don’t want to tie themselves down with rent. Storing your stuff gives you the freedom to go without the stress of leaving everything behind.

If you’re travelling with someone else, you might be thinking about whether you can share a storage unit with them. In most cases, you can. It’s a good way to save money and makes sense if you’re going to the same place. Just make sure one of you is responsible for the account, or speak to the storage company about adding both names before you leave.

Choosing the right space

Before booking, think about how much you’re storing. If it’s just a few boxes or bags, a small unit will do the job. But if you’ve got furniture or everything from a flat, you’ll need more space. You don’t want to overpay, but you also don’t want to cram everything into a unit that’s too small and hard to access.

If you’re only going for a short trip, let the storage company know upfront. Some have flexible contracts that suit short-term travellers. If you’re going away for a few months or longer, it’s even more important to make sure your unit is secure, easy to access if needed, and doesn’t require regular visits or ID checks.

Packing it all properly

Packing for storage is different to packing for a move. Everything needs to stay safe while you’re away, so it’s worth doing it right. Clean your items before putting them away, especially clothes and bedding. Use sealed boxes to protect against dust or damp, and wrap fragile things properly so they don’t break.

Stack heavy things at the bottom and lighter ones on top. If you’re storing furniture, take it apart if you can to save space. Cover anything valuable or delicate to keep it clean while you’re gone. Label your boxes clearly and keep a list of what’s in the unit. That way, you’ll know exactly what you’ve stored and won’t be left guessing when you get back.

What about access while you’re away?

Most people can’t check in on their unit while they’re travelling, so security matters. Choose a facility with CCTV, secure access and good locks. Some units come with individual alarms, too, which can give extra peace of mind.

It’s also a good idea to let the company know you’re going abroad. If anything comes up, or someone needs to collect something for you, it’s easier if they know in advance. You might be able to add a friend or family member to the account so they can access the unit if needed.

Paying from abroad

The last thing you want while travelling is to fall behind on payments or lose access to your unit. Set up automatic payments before you leave. Most storage companies will accept direct debit or card payments, and some even let you manage everything online.

Ask if they’ll send email updates so you don’t miss anything important while you’re away. Being able to check your account and get alerts means you won’t have any surprises when you get back.

Don’t forget about insurance.

Most facilities include a basic level of cover, but it might not be enough if you’re storing electronics, documents or anything valuable. Check the details and, if needed, get extra insurance before you go.

Taking photos of everything you’re storing is also a smart move. It gives you a record of what you’ve got and can help if anything ever needs replacing or claiming for.

Book early and keep it flexible.

If you don’t know exactly when you’re leaving or coming back, choose a plan that lets you adjust things easily. Many storage providers offer month-to-month rentals, so you’re not stuck in a long-term contract.

It’s also worth booking your unit in advance, especially if you’re leaving during a busy time of year. It gives you time to pack properly, check out the facility and make sure everything’s ready before you go.

When your trip’s over

Coming back from a big trip can be a lot to take in. Having your stuff safely stored means you can ease back into things without rushing. You can collect your belongings when you’re ready, unpack on your terms and decide what you want to keep.

A lot of people find that after travelling, they want less stuff. Using storage gives you space to figure that out and plan your next step without having to deal with it all at once.