For most students heading to university, it’s very much likely to be the first time they’ve lived away from home. Knowing what to do with all your stuff can be a bit of a nightmare.
Lugging your life back and forth on the train (or asking your parents to help again) isn’t exactly fun. In fact many students make the mistake of taking items they don’t even need.
That’s where self storage comes in. It’s a super handy, affordable solution for students who need a bit of breathing space, without losing track of their belongings. But what exactly should you pack up and store? And what can stay behind?
Why do students need storage?
While some students have the benefits of studying close to home, most of student life is full of moving around. You might be:
- Going home between terms
- Spending a year abroad
- Starting a placement in a different city
- Stuck in that awkward gap between tenancies
Instead of dragging everything with you (even if you have the help of a good removal company) or risking it in a mate’s garage, renting a storage unit gives you a safe and flexible option to keep your things until you need them again.
Most storage providers in the UK offer self storage for students including short-term contracts and student-friendly deals, especially around end-of-term periods. Some even offer collection services, so you don’t need a car.
What to pack
Here’s a quick run-through of the kind of items most students choose to store:
1. Furniture & big items
If your student house isn’t furnished or you’ve invested in things like a desk, a bookshelf or even a mattress topper, it’s worth keeping them safe. These things take up space and aren’t worth dragging home for the summer, but you’ll definitely need them later.
2. Kitchen kit
Pots, pans, your trusty air fryer, cutlery, the kitchen essentials can be surprisingly bulky. If you’re moving out temporarily, you can store them rather than buying everything again next year.
3. Course materials
Textbooks, folders, notebooks, even if they feel like dead weight now, you might need them for future projects. Keeping them stored means they’re not cluttering your space, but they’re still easy to get hold of when needed.
4. Winter clothes & bedding
Seasonal items like heavy coats, boots, duvets or heated blankets can stay in storage during warmer months. That frees up wardrobe space and saves you from carrying your big coat back to your parents’ house.
5. Sentimental or personal items
Photos, keepsakes, and old gifts may not be essential, but they still mean something to you. Keeping them stored somewhere safe like storage units help avoid the risk of losing them in a house-share or temporary accommodation.
What to leave behind
Not everything needs to come with you to university. If you’re trying to save space (and money), be ruthless:
1. Outdated tech
That old laptop you’ve already replaced? PC monitor you no longer have a need for? Now’s the time to sell, recycle or donate. There’s no point in letting it take up valuable space when it can be put to good use somewhere else.
2. Clothes you don’t wear often
If it hasn’t left the hanger since freshers’ week, it’s probably not worth keeping. A quick wardrobe clear-out before packing for storage can save a lot of space.
3. Damaged or worn-out items
Broken headphones, cracked plates, flat pillows, there’s no point paying to store stuff you’ll likely replace.
4. Half-used toiletries & cleaning products
These are usually cheaper to replace later than to transport and store. Plus, that half-empty bottle of shampoo probably won’t survive a few months in a box anyway.
What to look for in a storage unit
If you’ve never used self storage before, don’t worry, it’s easier than it sounds.
Size matters
Most students don’t need a huge unit. A small locker or 10 sq ft unit is usually enough for a few boxes, a suitcase or two, and some small furniture. If you’re sharing a unit with friends (a smart move to save money), you might need a bit more space.
Location is key
Pick a storage facility close to your university or next accommodation. That way, collecting your things later won’t be a mission, especially if you’re doing it without a car.
Flexibility can be a deal-breaker
Look for providers that offer monthly rolling contracts with no long-term commitment. Some also give discounts for students, or deals on first-month rates.
Security and access
Make sure the facility is secure. Look for 24/7 CCTV, gated access, and individual unit locks. Some facilities also offer 24-hour access, which can be handy if you’re moving in or out during odd hours.
Don’t forget insurance
Most storage companies require your items to be insured while in storage. Sometimes it’s included in the price; other times you’ll need to sort it yourself. It’s worth checking what’s covered.
How to pack for storage
Once you’ve sorted what’s going in storage, take a bit of time to pack it properly. Here are a few quick tips:
- Use sturdy boxes – avoid bags if you can; they rip easily and don’t stack well.
- Label everything – future you will thank past you when you’re not opening 12 boxes to find your kettle.
- Wrap fragile items – bubble wrap, towels always work well.
- Disassemble furniture – take legs off tables and flat-pack where you can to save space.
- Keep essentials accessible – if there’s something you think you might need sooner (e.g. textbooks or coats), place it near the front.
Final Thoughts
Student storage is one of those things you don’t really think about until you really need it. Whether you’re moving home for summer, heading abroad or just between homes, it can take the stress out of shifting your stuff and help you avoid those awkward overpacked trains.Want help finding the right student storage option near your uni? Segment Storage offers affordable, secure units perfect for students, including short-term and long-term storage in Trowbridge with flexible contracts and easy online booking.