The Best College Storage Options for Students.
Estimated reading time: 5 minutes
If you’re a college student, knowing the best storage options to store your stuff between semesters is vital. That’s especially true if you go to college or university far from home. Let’s face it, moving your stuff back home and, after the break, back to school is lots of work! It’s also lots of stress, money, and time on the road, at least for some. So, what are the best college storage options? We’ll go over college dorm storage, college storage bins, and college storage units.
Storing your things while at school is also important, especially if you don’t have a lot of room in your dorm or apartment. That’s why many college students look for local storage options in their college towns instead. Also, why many look for storage bins to use, too.
If that’s you, and you’re not sure what your best college storage option is, read on! We’ve got actionable information, advice, and tips on the best storage options for college coming right up!
Who Usually Purchases Storage for College?
When it comes to paying for storage, you might initially assume it’s mom and dad who shell out the money. That, however, would be about 50% wrong. For example, in a recent nationwide college student survey conducted by NSA, about 50% of students said they pay for their own storage. Of course, as you might have already guessed, the other half was paid by dear old mom and dad.
Is College Dorm Storage Feasible or Even Possible
Some students figure that they can just leave their stuff in their dorm during the semester break. That is sometimes possible, but, in many cases, it’s not. If it is, you should consider the following:
- Your stuff may not be safe, especially if anyone else has keys and access to your dorm or apartment.
- If you have roommates, they may not treat your stuff as well as you’d like. Also, things tend to, as they say, walk off on their own.
- Even if it’s not lost or stolen, someone else might use your stuff. If you’re not OK with that, leaving it in your dorm or apartment might not be the best idea.
Are College Storage Bins a Good Option?
Storage bins are great when you’re in college or university! They’re cheap, clean, and come with lids! You can often store them under your bed, too, and save valuable space. Also, when it comes time to move into a storage unit, storage bins are excellent! They’re durable, waterproof, and pest-proof, too. (Just don’t store food in them.)
If you purchase storage bins, get clear plastic bins. That way, you can easily see what’s inside and get it out when you need it. (You know, like that sociology book you’re supposed to be reading.) Also, if you get them to store your things in a storage unit, make sure they stack! Stacking is vital in a storage unit so that you can fit more inside!
Storage trunks for college can be just as helpful as an option, but, frankly, they’re also far more expensive. Also, trunks can be heavy and, filled up with your stuff, very heavy. If Grandma gives you one, go for it. Otherwise, use clear plastic bins instead.
What About Under Bed Storage?
Depending on your bed at college or university, you may be able to slide a low-profile bin underneath. (They sell them at your local big-box store.) Storing things under your bed is perfect! It’s free, convenient, and will save you a lot of valuable space.
STORAGE TIP: Measure the space between the floor and bed frame before you buy. That way, you don't get a bin that's too big to fit underneath.
Question: What’s Best for Storage? Answer: Self-Storage
If you want a safe, convenient, secure, and clean storage option, the best is a storage unit. With 24/7 security and on-site managers, they’re very secure. They’re also clean and affordable too. (Our survey said those were the three things college students want in a storage unit!) Below are a few more reasons why a storage unit is one of the best college storage options.
- Moving in and out of a storage unit is less stressful because you can take your time.
- Storage units are far more affordable than paying rent on a college apartment when you’re not there.
- All your things will be safe from, well, anyone. They’re locked up tight, and you have the key.
- If you have a college side hustle, a storage unit can be beneficial in several situations.
We hope we answered all your questions about the best college storage options. However, if you have more, you can always chat online with a Hide-Away storage manager. They’re knowledgeable, friendly, and ready to help when you are! Until then, best of luck in school and have a great break, too!
If you have questions, chat with us online! And remember, you can rent a storage unit from Hide-Away online, too, the easy way! Until then, dear college parents, we wish you a stress-free semester!
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