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At some point, we all run out of storage space. Even with cabinets, shelves, closets and garages, stuff just seems to overflow. This can make it impossible to find that one thing you need when you need it and can lead to improperly-stored items getting ruined (I.e. leaving your lawnmower out in the yard).
The best outdoor storage tents take the load off (or rather take the load out) of your garage and other storage areas. They can be set up nearly anywhere, be it the driveway or yard, providing a place to store bikes, gardening tools, lawnmowers, firewood or toys. Some are even large enough to house motorcycles, ATVs and cars.
Because storage tents can be set up right at home, they’re far more convenient than a storage unit somewhere outside town. Plus, outdoor storage tents are far more cost-efficient than a storage unit. According to CostHelper, the average price of a five-by-five storage unit is around $50 a month (or about $600 a year). Compare that to storage tents (which last for years) that cost around $120 to $300 and you get a sense of the savings involved.
Some outdoor storage tents are also portable with a fast setup and a small size when taken down. This makes them ideal for camping trips or moving between houses for, say, summer vacation.
What to Know Before Buying an Outdoor Storage Tent
Before picking up a new storage tent, there are a few important specs you’ll want to check out.
Assembly: Setting up a storage tent, as with any furniture or gear, can be a nightmare. Some storage tents make the process easy with simple instructions and no required tools, leading to a fast assembly. Other tents might take longer to set up and may require a few tools (but nothing you don’t already have).
Fabric: Most storage tents are made of waterproof polyethylene tarpaulin, but not all tarps are the same. Some are rated for UPF or UV protection against the sun and others are just more durable. If you live in an area with serious weather, this is especially important.
Frame: Storage shelters use different materials and designs for their frames. If you live in an area with high winds or heavy snow, you’ll want a more rugged, durable frame made of thick steel.
Portability: Chances are you’ll be setting up a storage tent and leaving it in one place. However, these structures also make a great camping and travel companion. If a storage tent collapses into a small, lightweight package (and is easy to assemble) you can use it as a mobile storage unit wherever you go.
Size: Obviously, you’ll want to consider the size of your new storage tent. Firstly, check out how much space the storage tent will take up in your yard or driveway. Then, try to get a sense of how much stuff you need to store and how much interior space will be needed.
Extra features: A handful of storage tents have added features that give them a leg up on competitors. Some feature a floor to keep the whole thing water-tight, others have a zipper cover to keep out pests and so on.
