What are you going to do with all your things (i.e., your mountain of textbooks, mini fridge, and awkwardly large bean bag chair)?
In most cases, if you aren’t taking summer classes, you won’t be able to keep possessions in your dorm room. Unless you’re willing to keep paying rent on your apartment or shared house over the summer months, you’ll have to pack up those digs as well.
Review all of your belongings and sort them into one of three categories:
- Keep
- Sell/Donate
- Trash
If you haven’t used something all semester, you probably won’t miss it next year. Here’s a pro tip: sell your textbooks ASAP. Their value tanks fast after the semester ends, and everyone gets the same idea.
As you sort your belongings, remember that the less you keep, the less you’ll have to store, ship, or squeeze into your parents’ already-full garage.
Summer Storage Options for College Students
Now that you’ve trimmed down your things to the essentials, it’s time to figure out where to put it all over the summer. Each storage option has pros and cons, and the right choice will depend on your budget, how far you’re traveling, and how much you need to store.
Let’s break down your options so you can find the best solution for your circumstances.
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Mom and Dad
Driving or shipping your stuff to your parents’ place is the classic fall-back storage option. This tried-and-true method works well if you live relatively close to campus or don’t have too many bulky items.
However, your mom might have already converted your bedroom into her Peloton studio, so they might not have as much space as you assume.
Pros
- Free (minus shipping costs)
- Access to your belongings all summer
- No worries about security or damage
- Mom might even wash your laundry (no promises!)
Cons
- Can be expensive and impractical if you live far away
- Possibly limited space
- Potential for parents to “clean” and “organize” (aka throw away) your stuff
- Have to haul everything back at the end of summer
-
Campus Storage Services
Some colleges offer summer storage programs where you can stash your stuff right on campus. These services sometimes partner with local companies or student organizations to provide storage in unused dorm rooms or campus buildings.
Check with your housing department or student services office to see if your school offers this option.
Pros
- Super convenient location
- Often less expensive than commercial storage
- No need to transport items far from your dorm
- Your stuff is conveniently already on campus when you return
Cons
- Usually limited availability and space
- May have strict drop-off and pick-up schedules
- Might not be climate-controlled (RIP your favorite shoes in humid climates)
-
Self-Storage Units
Many college towns include self-storage locations specializing in student storage. These facilities typically offer flexible month-to-month leases designed specifically for college breaks. They may even have special rates during the summer months.
Look for locations close to campus, but keep in mind that they will likely fill up fast as finals approach. Don’t wait until the last minute to reserve a unit.
Pros
- Secure, dedicated space for your belongings
- Various unit sizes available
- Climate-controlled options at some facilities
- Access to your stuff if you’re staying nearby for the summer
Cons
- Monthly storage fee (though splitting with friends can help)
- Transportation required to and from the facility
- You’ll need your own lock and packaging materials
-
Storage Pods
Storage pods offer a unique hybrid solution. In this scenario, you’ll receive a container at your location, which you can pack at your own pace. This could be ideal if you need to pack up a multi-room apartment or house with your roommates.
Once you fill your pod, the company can pick it up and store it at their location until you’re ready to have it delivered to your next home.
Just make sure your house or off-campus apartment has adequate space for the pod. Your next-door neighbors won’t be happy if your pod is blocking their parking space in the lot.
Pros
- Multiple container sizes available at most companies
- Pack at your convenience without rushing
- No need to transport items yourself
- Pod can be delivered directly to your new place in the fall
Cons
- Pod drop off can be tricky or impossible for some apartment buildings
- Usually more expensive than traditional storage units
- Need enough space for the pod during loading and unloading
- Limited access to your things once the pod is in storage
Storage Best Practices (Don’t Skip This Part!)
Whichever storage option you choose, a little prep goes a long way in protecting your stuff. Here are some helpful tips to pack your things well and make sure you don’t face any unpleasant surprises when the fall semester begins.
- Use quality containers. Sturdy plastic bins outlast cardboard boxes and can protect your belongings from moisture.
- Label everything. Detailed labels will save you massive headaches when unpacking.
- Check if your renter’s or parents’ insurance covers stored items, purchase storage insurance, or ask about protection plans if you plan to use a storage facility.
- Clean before storing. Thoroughly clean your appliances, furniture, and clothing to prevent mold and odors.
- Plan for your return. Pack a separate “first day back” box with the essentials you’ll need immediately.
- Consider the climate. Keep sensitive items like electronics, photos, and important documents in climate-controlled storage.
Plan for Summer Storage Now, Thank Yourself Later
We’ve covered everything, from decluttering your stuff to exploring your storage options and properly prepping your belongings. Once you have made your storage decision, get planning.
When it comes to summer storage, starting early can save you lots of stress (your upcoming finals and semester-end projects are giving you enough of that already). Planning ahead means scoring better deals, finding the perfect storage solution, and avoiding the chaos of everyone trying to move out at the same time.
Plus, you’ll actually have time to properly pack. (Don’t even think about shoving everything you own into garbage bags.) You’ll have an even more amazing summer break knowing your stuff is safe and waiting for your return. Happy summer!
Image Credit: by envato.com
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