Vehicle Storage for Students
Posted on 5 December 2024 | 4 minute read
Keeping Cars Safe Off-Semester: Addressing students who might need a spot for their vehicles.
Knowing your car is safe while on break provides more than peace of mind. It also keeps your wheels out of the nasty weather and out of sight of would-be thieves and vandals. It can even save you cash from insurance and campus parking fees.
Student Vehicle Storage Options
You have a few options for tucking your car out of the way during vacation, each with varying costs and benefits.
You could rent a private garage. This is a good, secure option, but it may be a bit of a stretch for most student budgets.
Keeping your car on campus is a flexible option that will suit your schedule and budget. Unfortunately, space is limited, and securing a spot is hugely competitive.
Long-term parking lots also exist around Melbourne. However, pricing may make this option unattainable for students with limited funds.
Private garages and driveways from local friends provide a more personalised storage solution. This is one of the most affordable car storage options, but you must be lucky enough to know someone with enough spare space.
Self-storage offers another solution without excessive prices. It can tick all the boxes, such as high security, low cost, and protection from the weather, at a nominal price that won’t break the bank.
Indoor or Outdoor Storage
Deciding between indoor and outdoor storage will depend on your needs, budget, and length of storage.
Indoor storage offers superior protection for expensive or classic cars. However, if you’re on a tight budget or only need short-term storage, outdoor options can be practical with proper precautions.
Consider the benefits versus the cost of indoor storage versus outdoor storage to come up with the best solution:
Indoor Storage
Pros:
- Better protection from weather elements
- Reduced risk of theft or vandalism
- Less dust and debris accumulation
- Potential for lower insurance rates
Cons:
- Generally more expensive
- Limited availability, especially in urban areas
- Restricted access hours in some facilities
- May require booking during peak seasons
Outdoor Storage
Pros:
- More affordable option
- Greater availability and flexibility
- Easier access for quick check-ups
- Suitable for short-term storage needs
Cons:
- Exposure to weather conditions (sun, rain, snow)
- Higher risk of theft or vandalism
- More frequent cleaning and maintenance are required
- Possible paint fading and exterior damage over time
Getting Your Car Ready for Storage
Before you roll your wheels into a storage unit, you’ll want to prepare it first.
Give the car a good wash and wax to ward off rust. Clear out your personal belongings and check and top off the fluids to ensure your vehicle is driveable when you retrieve it.
Fill the fuel tank to prevent moisture buildup and add a fuel stabiliser to keep the petrol fresh.
Unhook the battery or attach a trickle charger to keep it charged and conditioned. This will ensure your car starts the first time, even after weeks off the road. Also pump up the tyres to avoid flat spots.
Don’t Skimp on Insurance
You may be tempted to save a few bucks on insurance while your car is in storage for several months. After all, you aren’t on the road, so what’s the worst that can happen while the vehicle is stationary?
We recommend continuing with your insurance policy. Even the best vehicle storage solutions aren’t immune from natural disasters like fire and flood.
Where to Find Affordable Vehicle Storage for the Holidays
Taking care of your car while you’re away from school is essential for protecting your investment.
Using 1800 We Store It, you can shield your ride from weather damage, potential theft, and mechanical issues during those long periods of inactivity.
We offer secure storage for standard, luxury, and sports cars using customised steel storage units to keep your precious ride safe from the elements.
We can also help you with motorbike, boat, and jet ski storage in outdoor or indoor locations.
For professional vehicle storage solutions tailored to students’ needs and budgets, visit 1800WeStoreIt.com.au or call 1800 937 867. With our vehicle storage solutions, you can enjoy a stress-free holiday knowing your ride is safe.