Self-Storage Tips for Long-Term Travelers in Brooklyn

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October 9th, 2024

If you're a Brooklynite preparing for a long-term trip—whether it’s an extended vacation, a work assignment abroad, or a semester studying in another country—one of the biggest headaches can be figuring out what to do with all your stuff. Apartments in Brooklyn are often small, and leaving your valuables unattended for months isn’t an ideal option. That’s where self-storage comes in. Storing your belongings in a safe, convenient space gives you peace of mind while you're away, knowing everything is secure and well taken care of. Let’s dive into some tips to help you make the most of self-storage before you embark on your adventure.

1. Assess What You Need to Store

Before you start packing up your apartment, take a moment to evaluate what really needs to go into storage. For long-term trips, you’re likely not bringing much back with you, so you may need to store everything from furniture and appliances to personal items and seasonal clothing.Make a checklist of the essentials. Consider whether certain items are better left with a trusted friend or family member (like important documents) or if they belong in a secure self-storage facility. Prioritize things that are valuable, hard to replace, or simply don’t fit into your suitcase.

2. Choose the Right Storage Unit Size

Once you've got a sense of what you’re storing, the next step is choosing the right-sized unit. The last thing you want is to pay for more space than you need—or worse, not have enough space to fit everything.For example, if you're storing just a few boxes and small items, a 5'x5' unit might be enough. But for larger furniture or multiple boxes, you may need to look at bigger units like 10'x10'. Fortunately, Lockaway Self Storage offers an online storage calculator to help you choose the perfect size based on what you need to store.

3. Pack Your Items Properly for Long-Term Storage

Packing for short-term storage is one thing, but when you’re going to be gone for months (or even longer), proper packing becomes even more important.Start with your fragile and delicate items. Wrap breakables like glassware, ceramics, and electronics in bubble wrap or soft padding to avoid damage. For furniture, consider covering it with blankets or furniture covers to protect against dust and scratches. Clothes can go into wardrobe boxes to avoid wrinkles or damage, while smaller items should be stored in labeled, sturdy boxes.

And don’t forget to leave some room in your boxes—overstuffing can lead to broken items when boxes are stacked for a long time.

4. Opt for Climate-Controlled Storage

If you’re storing sensitive items like wooden furniture, electronics, or artwork, climate-controlled storage is a must. Brooklyn’s summers are hot and humid, and winters are cold and dry—both of which can wreak havoc on sensitive materials.By choosing a climate-controlled unit, you’ll protect your belongings from extreme temperature fluctuations and moisture damage. This is especially important for long-term travelers who won’t be around to check on their items regularly.

5. Organize Your Storage Unit for Easy Access

Even if you're going to be away for months, it’s a good idea to organize your storage unit so that you can easily access important items when you return. Keep the things you might need first at the front of the unit, such as important documents or seasonal clothes. Label your boxes clearly so you won’t have to dig through everything to find what you need later.If possible, leave a bit of space between your belongings and the walls of the storage unit. This can help with ventilation and prevent mold or mildew from developing in your unit.

6. Set Up Auto Payments for Peace of Mind

The last thing you want to worry about while enjoying your travels is whether your storage bill has been paid. Most storage facilities, including Lockaway Self Storage, offer convenient auto-payment options so you can focus on your trip instead of logistics. Setting this up before you leave will help you avoid late fees and ensure your belongings remain safe and secure.

7. Notify Someone You Trust

It’s always a good idea to let a friend or family member know where your items are being stored and to provide them with access just in case. In an emergency, they’ll be able to check on your belongings, or retrieve something important if needed.

Ready to store your belongings?

Preparing for a long-term trip comes with its own set of challenges, but worrying about your belongings shouldn’t be one of them. By using a secure self-storage facility like Lockaway Self Storage, conveniently located in downtown Brooklyn, you can travel confidently knowing your things are safe and sound. With climate-controlled units, easy access, and a range of sizes to choose from, Lockaway is the perfect solution for Brooklynites looking for a reliable place to store their possessions while they’re away.