How to store your valuables when on a vacation?

Going on a longer vacation? Keeping your valuables safe while you're traveling is something you should plan thoroughly beforehand. Otherwise, you risk the chance of ruining your vacation with stress and worry. While it is an important task, it doesn't have to be overwhelming or tedious. You just need to know how to approach it and which supplies you'll need. In order to help you do this properly, we at Capital City Bins have created a guide on how to store your valuables when on a vacation. Read on and prepare everything for a worry-free vacation.

Make a list of valuable items to store when on a vacation

Before you start looking for a storage space, decide which items you’ll be storing. Renting a storage unit can be costly, and only the most valuable items are worth the cost. This category includes jewelry like necklaces and wristwatches and meaningful heirlooms. Also, large items like TVs and personal computers are safest in a storage unit during your vacation. Likewise, it is crucial that you store any important documents you will not be bringing with you. If you have a car you love you will not be using during your vacation, consider storing it. After you go through all of your belongings and determine which ones should be stored, make a list. With the list in mind, choose the best storage space for your items.

You don't want anything to happen to your jewelry and family heirlooms so find a secure place to store your valuables when on a vacation

Decide where to store your valuables when on a vacation

Depending on the amount of stuff you want to store, your options are to store them in a friend's or family's house, or in a storage unit. If you don't have to store too much stuff, your friends might offer their home. Also, if you have family nearby, consider asking them to store your valuables. But, if your valuables are fragile and bulky, or you have a lot of them, you probably don't want to inconvenient your friends and family. Also, some of your items might require climate-control. If that's the case, your best option is to rent a storage unit. Whether you want to rent one short-term or long-term, make sure that it is a safe facility.

How to choose the right storage unit

There are several factor you should consider when choosing a storage unit.

• Think about the size of the unit you'll need - use the list of valuables to store you made earlier.
• Make sure that the space has a good security system.
• Do your research and find out if you need a climate controlled indoor storage or can an outdoor unit serve the purpose.
• Consider how convenient is it for you to access the storage unit. For example, if you rent a fourth-floor indoor storage unit, this might make it difficult to move heavy pieces easily.
• Check for storage insurance - add another layer of security to your possessions.

Choosing a storage unit isn't that difficult, follow the tips we mentioned and you'll opt for the right one.

Try to store your valuables when on a vacation in an eco-friendly way

Packing for moving or for storing tends to produce a lot of waste. There's usually a lot of cardboard boxes that have to be thrown away after using them, as well as other packing materials. If you want to do your part in protecting the environment, try to reduce the amount of plastic and cardboard. This can be achieved by renting green storage bins, rather than buying. It might seem like a small change, but if everyone did it, imagine how better of our planet would be. Other than the benefit of protecting the environment, you'll also protect your valuables far better than by packing them in cardboard boxes. Plastic boxes are extremely sturdy and durable. They're also more easily stackable, so you can use space more efficiently.

Gather packing supplies

When it comes to valuable items, it's essential you don't just throw them in a cardboard box and call it a day. Be very careful when choosing packing supplies. While cardboard boxes are cheap and suitable for some items, they aren't suitable for your fragile valuables. The bottom can easily rip, and the can get wet. The best way to ensure the safety of your valuables is to pack them in plastic containers. Our eco-friendly moving boxes come in a variety of sizes, so you are sure to find ones that suit your needs perfectly. You can also rent, rather than buying them. Besides boxes, you'll also need the supplies listed below.

1. Protective padding - such as old linens and towels
2. Packing paper or packing peanuts
3. Cardboard dividers
4. Packing tape

Make sure to have all the necessary packing supplies in order to pack your valuables properly

How to pack fragile valuables for storing

Once you've gathered all the supplies, it's time to pack. Packing properly is extremely important. If valuables aren't packed as they should be, damages can occur easily. Start by placing protective padding at the bottom of the moving box. Then wrap the valuable item with at least two layers of protective wrapping. Place the wrapped item in the box and fill all the gaps and empty spaces with packing paper or packing peanuts. If you need to pack items such as crystal champagne glasses, be sure to use cardboard dividers. Place the padding over the item as well. Close the box and seal it properly with plenty of packing tape. Don't forget to label boxes with breakable valuables as fragile.

Enjoy your vacation

When you break down the task in smaller, easily done tasks, it doesn't sound that complicated, does it? Store your valuables when on a vacation using tips we mentioned here, and you can relax without worrying about their safety. Enjoy the many benefits of taking a vacation, while knowing that your prized possessions are protected.