Everything Surrey students need to know about storing belongings during summer holidays, gap years, placements, and study abroad programs
You're a student at University of Surrey, Royal Holloway, or another Surrey uni. Summer's approaching, and you're facing a familiar problem: what do you do with all your stuff when you go home for the holidays, head off on a year abroad, or move between accommodations?
This complete guide covers everything Surrey students need to know about storage – from costs and options to what's worth storing and money-saving tips.
Accommodation contracts end in June/July, but you're not moving into next year's place until September. Where does your stuff go for 2-3 months?
Duration: 2-3 months | Cost: £60-180 total
Going to study abroad? Store your belongings safely instead of dragging everything home and back again.
Duration: 9-12 months | Cost: £270-720 total
On a placement year? Store university items while you're doing your industrial placement or internship.
Duration: 12 months | Cost: £360-720 total
Moving house mid-year? Dates don't line up? Store your stuff for a few weeks while you transition.
Duration: 2-6 weeks | Cost: £30-120 total
Calculate the cost of storage vs buying new. If that £20 IKEA desk costs less than 2 months storage, it's not worth storing – sell it and buy a new one in September!
Professional storage companies with units near universities. The most popular option for students.
5 mins from University of Surrey
15 mins from campus
Near Royal Holloway
Split the cost of a larger unit with flatmates or friends. Much cheaper per person!
Companies that collect from your uni accommodation, store everything, and deliver back in September.
| Storage Type | Size Guide | Cost/Month | Summer Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Locker (25 sq ft) | Few boxes, small items | £25-40 | £75-120 |
| Small Unit (50 sq ft) | Single room worth of stuff | £40-60 | £120-180 |
| Medium Unit (75 sq ft) | Full bedroom + kitchen items | £60-90 | £180-270 |
| Shared Unit (100 sq ft) | Perfect for 3-4 students | £30/each | £90/each |
Many storage companies offer 10-20% off for students. Always ask!
Split a larger unit to halve (or quarter) your costs.
Storage fills up in May/June. Book in April for better rates and availability.
Less stuff = smaller unit = lower cost. Sell or donate what you don't need.
Mark boxes clearly with contents and which room they're from. Makes unpacking in September SO much easier!
Stack heavy boxes at the bottom, lighter on top. Prevents crushing and makes the unit stable.
Don't pack right to the door. Leave space to walk in and grab things if needed during summer.
Vacuum bags compress clothes by 75%. Saves tons of space and protects from moisture.
Wrap laptops, tablets in bubble wrap. Store in original boxes if possible. Keep them elevated off floor.
Photo your packed unit before leaving. Helpful for insurance and remembering what you stored.
Clear Space Team has partnered with storage facilities across Surrey to offer students great rates and convenient locations near all major universities.
Near University of Surrey, Royal Holloway & more
Special rates for university students
Advice on sizing and packing
Questions? Call us: 07826 917948 | Mon-Sat: 7am - 6pm, Closed Sundays