Gap Year? Summer Travel Plans? Here’s What to Do with Your Stuff

Embarking on a gap year or an extended trip abroad is an exciting adventure for students, young professionals, and long-term travellers.

However, one common challenge remains: what to do with your personal belongings when you’re going away. Leaving any of your possessions behind, even if they are packaged securely, can be a risk, but there’s a secure, flexible, and budget-friendly solution for that: self-storage. We offer trusted storage options in Ipswich, Colchester, and Norwich, and with students receiving a 10% discount, it has never been more convenient to store your belongings. We also offer short-term storage, making it perfect for between semesters.

We aim to make it easier and more convenient for those travelling to store their possessions confidently with more safety and security.

Why You Shouldn’t Leave Your Belongings Behind

Leaving behind your possessions in shared accommodation or sheds and garages belonging to friends or family can lead to damage, loss, or even disposal. They may not have the space your belongings require, or the time to make sure things are safe and secure. When you are leaving your student accommodation or leaving a short-term let, you are often required to move out completely during seasonal breaks. This leaves you with limited options on what to do with your belongings. Self-storage will give you ultimate control over your possessions, and also ensures that everything is secure and safely kept for when you return.

What to Store Before a Gap Year or Long Trip

Before you set off on your adventure, consider storing the following items:

Out-of-season clothing and bulky winter gear: Depending on where you are going, these types of things can be unnecessary to bring along when you go abroad, and they take up valuable space.

Uni books, files, and revision notes: Maybe you need them for future use for studies or will be handing them down to friends or siblings, but when you go away, they are not essential.

Electronics: Extra monitors, desktop computers, or kitchen appliances that are not travel-friendly.

Larger items: Make sure large, bulkier items are also put into storage, such as bedding, lamps and storage cubes, as they’re incredibly difficult to travel with.

Sentimental or valuable items: Keepsakes, musical instruments, and other valuables that you don’t want to leave unattended.

Our Storage Options for Travellers

Easy Store 24/7 offers convenient storage sites in Ipswich, Colchester, and Norwich, ideal for quick drop-offs before flying out. Located close to town centres with good public transport links for those without cars. We provide flexible short-term storage options perfect for 2–12 month trips or longer sabbaticals. Our facilities offer 24/7 access, catering to those travelling at odd hours or needing to retrieve items quickly. We have a range of unit sizes, from small units for essentials to full units for all your belongings.

For more details, check out our storage for travelling and student storage pages. Students receive a 10% discount when choosing us, making us an affordable and reliable choice for students in East Anglia.

Packing Tips for Long-Term Storage

To ensure your items remain in top condition, follow these packing tips:

Use strong, labelled boxes and avoid overfilling them to prevent damage.

Clean and dry all items before storing, especially appliances and clothes.

Use vacuum storage bags for duvets, coats, and bulky items to save space.

Store important documents in plastic folders or waterproof boxes.

Cover mirrors and fragile items with bubble wrap and store them vertically when possible.

How to Book and Store with Easy Store 24/7

Booking your storage unit with Easy Store 24/7 is simple:

Use our online size guide or give us a call to find the right unit.

Book in advance if you’re leaving during peak summer months, as student and travel demand rises.

Drop off your items at a time that suits you, customers have 24/7 access for your convenience.

Call your local branch in Ipswich, Colchester, or Norwich, or get a free quote in minutes.

Take a look at our TikTok to see what we have to offer. Alternatively, check our units here.

Enjoy your travels knowing your stuff is safe, dry, and waiting for you when you return! Reserve your secure unit ahead of your trip, it’s flexible, affordable, and stress-free.