Summer Storage for College Students

It seemed that every semester I was going from one dorm to another, from one roommate to the next.

Turns out, I’m not alone.

Many college students move around a lot between semesters.

Because of this, it makes sense that their storage needs during the summer are unique. This is especially true in towns where colleges make up half the population.

Normal storage solutions get overcrowded and prices get inflated.

That’s why we made a summer storage guide for college students.

Find out what you can do to save money and always have an option to store your belongings between semesters.

Why do college students need summer storage solutions?

Most college students live in dorms and move back to their parent’s homes during the summer. Of course, those living in apartments or staying for a summer semester are the exception to the majority.

College students need summer storage solutions for their dorm furniture and other belongings. It’s common for college students to have things they won’t need at their parent’s home during the summer. However, they will need those things again when they go back to school.

Finding the right storage solution makes it easy for college students to leave their furniture behind for a few months. This keeps mom and dad from having to clear out space and it keeps students from having to haul their things back home, and again back to college.

Peak Storage Season is the Summer

With so many college students heading home for the summer, it’s not only the peak storage season but also the peak moving season. Movers will be super busy and storage facilities will book up fast.

If you’re a college student looking for summer storage options, you might need to think outside the box. There are plenty of options including storage facilities, but you might struggle to find a spot at a typical storage company.

How much should summer storage cost?

The cost of your summer storage can range from free to more than $100. It depends on how large of a space you need and where you store your belongings.

The free option might come with a few strings attached, however. This option requires you to find a friend or family member willing to let you store your things with them.

Of course, if you have larger items, such as a loft from your dorm, you might need to rent a moving truck to move your things to your storage option. If you cannot find someone willing to lend you space, you will likely pay from $20 to $100 per month to store your stuff for the summer.

Should you just rent a storage unit?

Some college students should simply rent a storage unit. It will provide the best solution for summer storage when away from college.

If you live far away from your school or you will be studying abroad for the summer, renting a storage unit is one of the best options. However, if you’re only a short drive from your college, there might be a better summer storage solution for you.

How much storage do college students need for the summer?

Storage units come in many sizes from 5×5 to 10×20, or even larger. College students will likely only have a few large belongings, such as a loft bed for their dorm or a few furniture items.

Most college students can use a 5×5 to 5×10 storage unit for their things. A 5×5 storage unit will hold a love seat, some decor items, and some boxes. If you have a full sofa and a twin bed, you probably need a 5×10, which will hold these, along with some boxes and other furnishings.

1. Self-storage units in town

The first and most convenient summer storage option for college students is a storage unit in town. If you can find one, this is the best option, especially, if you plan to pull all your belongings out of storage in August when you return to school.

However, in town self-storage facilities will likely book up very fast. If you can, make your reservation early and be prepared with a backup option, just in case.

2. Self-storage units outside of town

When you cannot find a self-storage unit in town, the next best option is likely an out-of-town storage unit. These will likely have lower prices and more availability. You can choose a facility in a neighboring town or you can haul your things back to where you will be staying for the summer.

3. College Moving and Storage Services

You can use a company, such as Storage Squad or Dorm Room Movers for your college summer storage needs. These companies offer specific storage options for college students. They know what you need during the summer and they provide the right amount of space for your things.

4. Full-Service Storage Companies

If you prefer to have someone do the entire job for you, a full-service storage company is the right choice. There are plenty of options including:

• Makespace
• Clutter
• Closetbox
• Redbin
• And More!

This type of storage option will actually pack up your things, move them for you, store them for the summer, deliver them when you arrive back at school, and unpack everything for you.

5. Friends or Family

If you have a friend or a family member with an extra bedroom, garage space, or a shed, you might be able to store your things with them for free. In some cases, the best storage option is a family member or friend because they know you and nobody else will be fighting for the space.

Of course, it doesn’t hurt that this summer storage option comes at the best possible price: FREE!

6. Neighbor.com, the Airbnb of storage

Another great option for summer storage for college students is Neighbor.com. This is the Airbnb of storage solutions. They allow people with extra space to list is for rent on their website.

If you need to store your things for the summer, you can use Neighbor.com to find a place offering storage near your college. You might get a better price than a self-storage facility and this option does offer another solution when the storage facilities are full.

7. Moving Container Companies

A moving container company comes in handy for many situations college students might face. If you’re moving from one school to another, this is a great option. They can move your things to your new school, store them for the summer, and deliver them when the time is right.

You can also use a moving container company if you’re moving to or from home. The containers will double as storage units for as long as you need. Then, they can be delivered to your destination, once you’re ready.

With a moving container company, you gain a storage provider and a mover all in one.

Can I get storage discounts?

The short answer…YES! There are plenty of storage discounts available to students.

Before you get excited about getting a discount, make sure you understand the requirements and how to spot scams.

When working with a storage facility or any of the options listed above, the best way to find out if you can get a discount is simply to ask. Many places offer student discounts, along with other storage discounts you might qualify for.