Are you a college student considering renting a storage unit? Whether you need a place to store items over summer break, plan to study abroad, or want to free up space in your dorm room, renting self storage can be a great solution. This guide answers common questions about self storage for college students.
When Should College Students Use Self Storage Units?
College students may find self storage helpful at times throughout the school year, such as during summer break or when living with a roommate. Here are a few occasions when you may want to consider renting self storage.
During Summer Break
Instead of having to haul everything back home once the school year ends, out-of-state students can rent a self storage unit to keep their belongings safe and out of the way during summer break. Monthly storage unit rentals provide a convenient storage solution until the start of the fall semester—or you can always keep the unit longer if you still need the space once summer ends.
While Studying Abroad
Studying abroad is an exciting opportunity for college students, but deciding what to do with your belongings while you’re away can be a challenge. Whether you’re living abroad for the summer, a semester, or a full year, renting self storage is a secure, cost-effective solution. It’s more affordable than keeping an apartment just for your things—and it saves you from committing to a lease if you’re unsure where you’ll live after returning.
When Living Space is Limited
Whether you’re living in a small dorm room or off-campus—alone or with a roommate—living space can be limited. Renting a storage unit helps free up shared areas and reduce clutter by providing a place for items you don’t use often. Experimenting with various decluttering methods can help you decide what to keep in your space and what to store.
For Storing Seasonal Items
If you’re living in an apartment or dorm room, you might not have space for items you only need for part of the year. Instead of hauling things like winter coats, holiday decor, heaters, and fans back and forth from your parents’ house, consider using a storage unit. It’s an easy way to keep seasonal items nearby and make your space feel more like home—without adding clutter.
What Should College Students Look for When Renting Self Storage?
When renting self storage, college students should consider more than just price. From unit size and access hours to climate control and security features, here are several factors that can help you choose the right storage option for your needs.
Storage Unit Size Options
Storage facilities offer a range of unit sizes, making it easy for students to find an option that works for their needs. Storage lockers are great if you’re storing only a few small items, such as textbooks or a couple of boxes. A 5x5 or 5x10 storage unit is ideal for things like a twin XL mattress, desk, mini-fridge, and several boxes. If you have larger items—including furniture like a full-size couch or queen bed—you may want to rent a 10x10 or 10x20 unit. Considering the size of your living space can also help you decide which unit makes sense:
Climate Control
If you need to store temperature-sensitive items such as electronics, textbooks, or wooden or upholstered furniture, a climate-controlled storage unit can help protect your belongings from extreme temperature changes. Climate-controlled storage units typically maintain environments between 55 and 80 degrees throughout the year—though some facilities may offer different types of climate control, such as air-cooled storage, heated storage, and humidity-controlled storage.
Drive-Up Access
One of the most convenient features that college students can look for in a storage unit is drive-up access. This storage feature allows you to pull your vehicle directly up to the entrance of your storage space—which is especially helpful if you’re storing heavy furniture or plan to make frequent trips to your unit!
Vehicle Storage
If you’re an out-of-state student dealing with limited campus parking, heading home for a seasonal break, or studying abroad, you may need a place to keep your car. Many storage facilities offer vehicle storage options, including drive-up units that provide enclosed, secure space for your vehicle.
Flexible Access Hours
College life doesn’t always follow a 9-to-5 schedule. Choosing a storage facility with 24-hour access or extended access hours allows you to visit your unit early in the morning, late at night, or whenever it fits your routine—making storage more flexible and convenient.
Security Features
Keeping your belongings safe is a top priority when renting a storage unit. Look for facilities with good lighting and security features like electronic gate access, video surveillance, and on-site resident managers. Some locations may also offer individually-alarmed units or restricted floor access for added protection. These features help keep your items secure and give you peace of mind while renting storage.
How Can Students Get the Most Out of Self Storage?
Once you’ve decided to rent a storage unit, a few key choices can help you make the most of it. From flexible rental terms to choosing the right location, here are some practical tips for getting the most out of self storage as a college student.
Look for Month-to-Month Rentals
Month-to-month storage offers college students flexibility without any commitment. This allows you to rent a unit for the duration you need, whether it’s for the entire school year or just short-term over the summer.
Choose a Storage Facility Near Campus
Renting a storage unit near campus adds convenience, especially if you’ll need to access your unit regularly. Some locations may even be within walking distance and offer extended access hours, making it easy to retrieve items on a moment’s notice.
Keep Costs Low with Budget-Friendly Options
Self storage can be a cost-effective way to free up space without upgrading to a larger apartment. With a range of options available—from small lockers to large storage units—you can find a storage space that suits your budget. Some storage facilities may also offer student discounts or promotions.
Store Your Items Strategically
Organizing your storage unit properly can save time and hassle later. Maintain an inventory list, label your boxes and bins, store frequently used items near the front, and avoid overpacking the space so you can easily locate items when you need them. Some facilities sell packing supplies on-site to help with setup and organization.
College Storage FAQs
What is the minimum rental commitment?
Many storage facilities require a one-month minimum rental commitment. Extra Space Storage facilities have units available for month-to-month rentals, and customers can cancel with either a written notice at least 15 days prior to move-out, or verbal notice at least 10 days prior to move-out.
What is the average cost of a storage unit?
The average cost of a storage unit depends on its size and features—such as climate control and drive-up access—as well as factors like location and demand. On average, a 5x5 storage unit costs $42.05, while larger units, such as 10x30, cost $255.59.
How secure are self storage units?
Security measures vary by facility, so it’s important to review the features each location offers. Extra Space Storage locations are equipped with measures like video surveillance, electronic gate access, on-site resident managers, individually-alarmed units, and security access to your floor only. For details on the security features available at your local facility, contact a team member.
Does my storage unit come with insurance?
Most storage companies, including Extra Space Storage, require customers to have insurance—typically through homeowners or renters coverage—as we do not insure stored items and are not responsible for damage or loss. If you don’t have insurance, Extra Space Storage offers storage insurance options when you rent your unit.
***
Find Self Storage Facilities Near Your University
Extra Space Storage has locations throughout the U.S. offering affordable storage solutions for college students!
Popular storage options for college students include:
- Grand Canyon University Storage Units
- Ohio State University Storage Units
- Fordham University Storage Units
- Stanford University Storage Units
- Xavier University of Louisiana Storage Units
- Howard University Storage Units
Find self storage near your college today!
