Finding & Renting A Storage

Forget about the old days of using the phonebook to call a bunch of different storage facilities with half of them answering their phones, and half of those people having what you have available to rent, and then half of those not being able to meet you at the facility to let you in until it’s on their time frame. Today we have the greatest resources ever, the Internet. You can quickly search on the internet to find a website for the storage facility and see everything they offer, what storage are available, you can rent, and move in the same day. When it comes to finding, the Internet is the source to go to! Now that you’ve found a bunch of different storage facilities, it’s time to ask yourself some questions about the storage facilities that you’ve found.

• First, is Cost: How much does the storage cost?

• Location: Is it close to roads? How is the Neighborhood? Are the Neighboring businesses kept in good shape?

• Lighting: is there good lighting available for those darker winter months?

• Easy Access: Can you easily maneuver a truck around the facility?

• Fence & Gate: Is there a fence or a gate?

• Features: Do they have any convenience features, such as the ability to rent? Receive Text/Email Notifications about your bill or account? Can you access? Can you be set up on recurring billing?

Keep all of these questions in mind as you search for and rent your next storage facility; it could save you some headaches down the road.

Packing Your Storage

Now that you have found the perfect storage facility you were looking for, you are ready to move all your stuff in right? Well, before you do, there are a few things you should know that might make your experience go a little smoother. First of all, think about what you’re storing and for how long. Will anything need packed separately, or require special attention depending on how long it sits in storage?

For example, you might have some wood furniture that you will be storing for a long time. It might be smart to add some wood preserver oil to the that furniture. Also, depending on the type of storage you have rent, climate control or non-climate control, be sure to plan how you will store your electronics if you have any.

As you start packing up your items, remember that these items will most likely shift during the move to the storage facility, and then again when you take them out of the storage facility. Be sure to tape those boxes securely so they won’t break apart. Also as you’re packing your items use plenty of bubble wrap, packing paper, and blankets.

When you get to your storage facility take a moment to look at the space you’re working with and the items you need to store. It’s almost like a game of Tetris. As you start moving your items into your storage unit, place the heavier and bulky items towards the bottom and the rear. While packing your storage, try your best to fit things as close as you can to one another in order to maximize your space. Keep in mind, as you move your items in, it is often smart to leave a pathway along in order to grant future access to items in the back of the storage . This will help in case you ever need one item in the back of the later. Also, if you have your items label make sure to keep those labels facing out toward the door or the isle.

Finally, when you get everything packed in your storage, place a strong, secure lock on the door. We usually recommend disc locks. They prevent bolt cutters from getting around the lock bar, which provides your with more security.

Good luck and happy storing!

Three Tips To Overcoming The Fear Of Towing An RV

Don’t let the fear of towing stop you from enjoying the RV experience. Every year over one million RV’s take to the road. Towing an RV is doable! Here are three tips for overcoming your fear of towing an RV. 

Step One: Get in the right headspace

RV towing can be intimidating. However, it’s not only for people with specialized skills. Like we said before, over one million RV’s take to the road every year. Towing is just a skill you need to learn, and in no time you’ll be comfortable towing on your own. 

Step Two: Start your training

There are plenty of resources available to get you started. A great resource is looking up “How to tow a travel trailer” on Youtube. It’s important to learn the components of a hitch and the principles of towing before you hit the road. Learn things like, how far to pull out before pivoting so you don’t jump the curb when pulling out of a gas station. By researching ahead of time you’ll calm nerves and have a better idea of what you’re doing.

Step Three: Be prepared

When you’re ready to hit the road, make sure you are prepared. It’s important to get a reputable RV dealer that will make sure your RV and tow vehicle are a good match. A reputable RV dealer will also make sure your hitch is properly installed. This ensures your safety and that your towing experience will run smoothly.

To learn more about overcoming the fear of towing and RV, make sure to watch this video from Janine Pettit: https://youtu.be/JfQghscWCVo

Janine is the founder of Girl Camper and Camper-in-Chief of Girl Camper magazine. She has been training both experienced and novice campers for years with a focus on inviting more women into the wonderful world of camping and RVing. For more tips on RVing, check out Go RVing on Youtube.