Published: June 01, 2025

A Guide to Student Summer Storage

Once the spring semester is over, college students face a familiar challenge: what to do with all their dorm or apartment belongings over the summer. Lugging everything home can be a hassle, especially if you’re heading out of state or moving temporarily. That’s why summer storage solutions are such a game-changer for students. This guide will walk you through what to keep, what to pack up, and how to organize it all.

What to Take Home and What to Leave Behind

Start with a strategy. Not everything needs to go home, especially if you’re returning in the fall. Sort your items into essentials and seasonals.

Bring Home:

• Daily essentials like chargers, headphones, laptops, and medications
• Clothes for warm weather, sandals, and summer gear
• Identification, personal paperwork, and important documents
• Sentimental or high-value items you wouldn’t want to risk storing
• Books or materials needed for summer classes or internships

Put in Storage:

• Winter coats, boots, and heavy bedding
• Dorm room decor, small appliances, and fans
• Kitchen items like utensils, pots, and pans
• Mini-fridge, lamp, and laundry supplies
• Furniture or shelving units for next semester

Storing bulky or seasonal items can free up room in your car and reduce stress during the move. Check if your next housing arrangement already provides any essentials, so you’re not storing or moving duplicates. It’s also a great opportunity to declutter. Before packing, consider donating or selling things you no longer need. This will make your storage lighter and your life simpler when you return to campus in the fall.

Packing Tips to Keep Your Items Safe and Organized

Packing smart makes summer storage easier and helps ensure your stuff comes back to you in perfect shape. Use these techniques:

• Use Plastic Storage Bins or Durable Boxes: Plastic totes are great for protecting items from humidity and pests.
• Label Everything Clearly: Use your name, contact info, and a quick list of contents on each box or bin.
• Disassemble and Wrap Furniture: Take apart desks, bed frames, and anything bulky to save space and reduce damage.
• Protect Fragile Items With Soft Materials: Instead of bubble wrap, use clothing or towels to wrap glass or electronics.
• Avoid Packing Perishables: Never store food, toiletries, or anything that might leak or attract insects.
• Seal All Containers Well: Tightly closed boxes or bins help keep out dust and moisture.

If you’re storing anything electronic, remove batteries and give items a quick clean before packing. Empty out and defrost your fridge at least a day before storage, then leave the door cracked open to avoid mold. Don’t forget to take photos of your valuable or complex items before you start packing them up. This can help you remember how to set them up again and provide proof in case of damage. Label each box clearly to make unpacking and locating items easier later on. Make sure to keep manuals and accessories together to avoid losing important parts.

If you’re a college student heading home or traveling this summer, smart storage planning will give you peace of mind—and a smoother move-in when fall returns. Keep your belongings safe, skip the stress, and return in September with everything you need right where you left it. Start early, stay organized, and don’t hesitate to ask for help when packing or moving bulky items. Summer storage for students doesn’t have to be overwhelming if you prepare properly. By following these tips, you’ll save time, avoid frustration, and protect your stuff, making your summer break more relaxing and your next semester easier to start. Taking the time to plan now can completely transform your moving experience.

Need a reliable summer storage solution? Visit UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage of Detroit or call (248) 617-056 for a free quote!