Your collection of vintage Pez or those extra chair from Aunt Mabel needs a new home. Enter the self storage world, a magical space where your items can live rent free. Well, almost. Take a look at this unique adventure and learn how to get the most out of your storage space.

Let’s begin by talking about size. Not everything will fit into a small shoebox. You want to find a storage unit that fits your needs while not making you feel like Tetris. Goldilocks, if you will. Too small means cramming in things; too large is like throwing money down a deep well. This is the goal.

Now let’s move on to the location. Would you really want to drive all the way across town whenever you need that box of holiday decor? You’ll save gas and time by choosing a nearby facility. Who wants to sit in traffic when ice cream is waiting for them at home?

There are differences in the facilities. Some come with fancy climate controls (perfect for those old books) while others are more basic. You should consider what you need to protect your treasures. Humidity control sounds posh, but may be vital if Grandma’s old quilt collection is being stored.

Safety is another important factor to consider. Imagine leaving a collection of comic books in an unreliable place. Search for areas with cameras and adequate lighting. There may even be a guardian dog named Sparky on the premises (okay, not Sparky). A little peace of mind can be worth more than a pound of comics or gold.

We should talk about access hours. Flexibility is important if you want to be able to work at night or in the morning. Some places are open 24/7, while others keep more traditional banker hours. Knowing the hours of your local bank makes life easier. Who knows when inspiration might strike to dig up those old yearbooks.

Insurance may seem boring, but it’s important to have one. You don’t want to regret not having insurance. You should check whether your homeowner’s coverage covers the items you store or if a separate policy is required. Everyone wants to be surprised, but only at birthday parties.

Consider packing materials as well. Boxes no longer are just boxes. Sturdy boxes keep things organized, and they protect against dust bunnies and any other rogue pests.

It’s important to read the reviews before you commit. People are always willing to share their online experiences, for better or for worse. So take advantage of what they have learned as they go through this journey.

In short: Self-storage renting doesn’t need to be rocket science. It is more like organizing garage sales without actually selling anything. You can use these tips when you’re looking for the perfect location to temporarily store your household items.