Yellowstone Airport Storage Blog

Expert Tips for Storing Your RV

If you're an RV owner, you know how valuable your recreational vehicle is—not just in terms of cost, but also in the freedom it provides. But when the travel season ends, the question becomes: Where should you store your RV? Whether you’re considering outdoor or indoor RV storage, making the right decision can save you time, money, and stress. Here are expert tips for storing your RV—and why using a storage facility is often the best solution. Why You Should Store Your RV at a Storage Facility 1. Free Up Space at Home Most driveways aren’t designed to accommodate a 30-foot RV. Parking your rig at home can block access, create eyesores, and even violate local HOA or zoning rules. 2. Avoid HOA Fines or City Ordinances Many homeowners’ associations and city codes restrict RV parking on residential streets or driveways. Using a storage facility helps you stay compliant and avoid potential fines. 3. Enhanced Security Our storage facilities offer features like gated access, security cameras, and on-site staff—much safer than leaving your RV on the curb or in an open driveway. 4. Protection from the Elements Storing your RV outside at home leaves it exposed to sun, wind, rain, and snow. Over time, these conditions can cause roof damage, tire dry rot, and fading paint. A indoor storage unit or a cover helps extend the life of your RV. Tips for Indoor RV Storage If you're opting for indoor RV storage, you’ll get the best protection from weather and theft. Here’s how to prep your RV for indoor storage: Clean and Empty the RV: Remove food, trash, and perishables to prevent pests and odors. Disconnect the Battery: This prevents slow drainage and prolongs battery life. Add Fuel Stabilizer: Keeps the fuel from breaking down and damaging the engine. Cover Vents and Windows: Keeps dust and critters out while protecting the interior. Inflate the Tires: Prevents flat spots from developing during long-term storage. Tips for Outdoor RV Storage Outdoor storage is usually more affordable and accessible. If you're storing your RV outside, follow these extra steps: Use a High-Quality ...

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June 21st, 2025

The Hidden Benefits of Storing During Your Renovation

If you're planning a home build or renovation, you've probably already realized how quickly things can get expensive—and complicated. One strategy many savvy homeowners and contractors are using to get ahead of the curve is purchasing and storing appliances, windows, doors, and other building materials early in the process. It might seem like an extra step, but the cost savings and peace of mind it can bring are well worth it. At our facility, we see firsthand how smart storage can make a huge difference in the renovation experience. Here's why: 1. Lock in Lower Prices Before They Rise Building material and appliance prices are notoriously volatile. Supply chain issues, fuel costs, and even seasonal demand can lead to sudden spikes in pricing. By purchasing in advance, you protect yourself from future price hikes and take advantage of seasonal or clearance sales that aren’t available when you’re buying last-minute. For example, refrigerators and ranges often go on sale in the fall, while windows and doors can be deeply discounted during end-of-season clearances. 2. More Control Over Your Build or Renovation When you have your materials and appliances on hand, you’re not at the mercy of backorders, discontinued models, or unexpected delays. Storing your materials gives you the time and space to plan around exact specs, ensuring your cabinetry fits your appliances or that your window rough-ins are perfectly measured. With your pieces already purchased, you can design with confidence and precision. 3. Avoid Last-Minute Supply Chain Surprises Ordering appliances or fixtures right before installation can be risky—especially if you're working with tight timelines. A shipping delay or out-of-stock item could stall the entire project. Storing them now guarantees that when your contractor is ready, you are too. No waiting around or reshuffling your project calendar. 4. Time to Inspect and Handle Any Issues Unboxing a cracked window or a dented dishwasher on install day? That’s a nightmare scenario. By storing materials early, you give yourself time to inspect for damage, contact manufacturers, and coordinate returns or repairs—without rushing ...

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June 21st, 2025

How to Protect Your Stored Goods from Mice

When you store your belongings in a storage unit, the last thing you want to worry about is the possibility of mice getting in and causing damage. Mice can be more than just a nuisance; they can ruin your items by chewing on furniture, clothes, paperwork, or even electronics. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to keep mice out of your storage unit and protect your belongings from damage. Here’s how tenants can prevent mice from causing trouble in their storage units. 1. Store Items in Sealed, Hard-Sided Containers One of the best ways to prevent mice from getting to your stored goods is to store them in sealed, hard-sided containers. Plastic bins with tight-fitting lids or metal containers are ideal because they make it harder for mice to chew through and access your belongings. Avoid cardboard boxes, as mice can easily gnaw through them, especially if they’re stored for a long period of time. 2. Elevate Your Belongings Mice are great climbers and can squeeze into small spaces, but they tend to stay on the ground level. Elevate your boxes and containers off the floor using pallets, shelving units, or other storage racks. This will give your items extra protection from potential rodent activity and make it easier to spot any signs of an infestation before they cause too much damage. 3. Seal Your Unit's Entry Points While storage facilities take steps to prevent pests, it’s always a good idea to inspect your own unit for any visible gaps or cracks. Check the door seals, corners, and walls for any holes or openings that might allow mice to get in. Seal any weak points with Steel Wool and place traps near them. 4. Use Mice Repellents Natural repellents like peppermint oil, cedar chips, or mothballs are common ways to deter rodents. You can place small bags or sachets of these items in your storage unit to discourage mice from entering. While not foolproof, these measures can help keep mice at bay. 5. Keep the Storage Unit ...

Austin
March 16th, 2025

Saving Money by Renting Storage

Why Renting a Storage Unit Can Be a Smart Financial Move: Offsetting inflation/rising prices and taking advantage of sales/discounts on big ticket items When it comes to managing your home, there are countless ways to save money, and one often-overlooked option is renting a storage unit. While most people think of storage as a place to stash away seasonal items or belongings during a move, it can also be a cost-effective strategy for smart buying and future planning. If you're trying to make the most of sales and special deals, a storage unit could be the key to saving money in the long run. Here's why: 1. Take Advantage of Sales and Discounts We’ve all seen those irresistible sales—whether it’s a kitchen suite, a set of appliances, or a piece of furniture. These promotions can offer significant savings, sometimes as much as 50% off the regular price. But what if you're not ready to use these items yet? Rather than missing out on these deals or waiting until you need them (when the sale may be over), you can buy them now and store them in a secure, convenient storage unit. For example, imagine you spot a beautiful kitchen suite at a fraction of its original price. It's a great deal, but you don't need it until your kitchen remodel next year. Renting a storage unit allows you to purchase and store the suite until you're ready for installation, saving you money and avoiding the risk of paying full price later on. 2. Free Up Space at Home Purchasing items ahead of time might make your home feel cluttered or crowded. Renting a storage unit gives you the flexibility to keep your home organized while still benefiting from purchasing items when they’re on sale. Whether you’re dealing with seasonal decorations, extra furniture, or in this case, larger kitchen appliances, you can store your purchases without overcrowding your living space. This frees up room for your everyday items and ensures your home remains tidy, even as you plan ...

Austin
January 22nd, 2025

Winter Storage Tips

Winter Storage Tips for a Successful and Enjoyable Storage Experience Winter weather brings unique challenges for those storing items at our facility. With the cold temperatures, snow, and ice, it's important to be prepared for these conditions to ensure that your stored belongings remain safe and accessible. Here are some practical winter storage tips to help you navigate the season with ease: 1. Unfreezing Locks One of the most common issues during winter is frozen locks. The cold temperatures can cause moisture to freeze inside the lock mechanism, making it difficult or even impossible to open. To avoid this frustration, keep a few helpful tips in mind: Use Lock De-icer: Keep a lock de-icer on hand. These products are designed to thaw out frozen locks quickly and efficiently. Lubricate the Lock: Applying a dry lubricant like graphite powder before the cold weather sets in can help prevent freezing. Avoid using oils or WD-40, as they can attract dirt and grime. If your lock does freeze, don’t force it open as it could damage the lock or the door. Use a de-icer or allow the lock to warm up naturally for a few minutes. 2. Shovel the Snow Immediately Snow accumulation can make it difficult to access your unit, and sometimes after some warm and cold cycles it can freeze in a block at the base of the door. To ensure you have smooth access: Bring a Shovel: If snow has accumulated right in front of your unit, it’s a good idea to bring a shovel to clear the path. Our plowing services are only able to get within 6" inches of the doorways. This way, you can get to your items without delay. Consider clearing the snow after a snowfall: If you are looking to have regular access throughout the winter, consider removing the snow from the front of your door after a snowfall so it doesn't have the chance to become a block of ice. While our facility works hard to keep access clear, it’s helpful for you to have ...

Austin
December 18th, 2024

What Not to Store in your Storage Unit

While rules and contracts/leases may vary from self storage facility to facility there are some commonalities on certain items that are not allowed/illegal to be stored in your unit. Check your lease or contact your facility for the specific items prohibited where you store. Perishable Items: Most facilities do not allow perishable item/food storage in units. Food attracts rodents and other pests which may cause damage to your stored items, your neighbors and the facility. If perishable items rot it can lead to terrible odors which no facility or its customers want. Residing in Units: Storage facilities are not built for residential purposes. Living in a storage unit is dangerous and in most states illegal. Even sleeping in a your stored vehicle/RV is a no no. Combustibles and Corrosives: These items include things like gasoline, propane, kerosene, grease, oil and anything else that can be an accelerant or cause a fire. Chemicals like fertilizer, cleaning solvents, paint thinner/paint, acids etc are also not allowed due to the danger and possible fire and health risks they impose. Drugs: Illegal drugs are obviously not allowed to be stored at any storage facility. If you are a pharmaceutical rep, check with your facility prior to storing any samples, or prescription controlled substances in your unit. Hazardous/Radioactive Materials: No storing any biological waste, asbestos or any other illness causing or damaging substances. Vehicles: Some facilities do not allow vehicle storage inside of your units. Others require proof of current registration and insurance to store a vehicle. Check with your facility prior to storing any vehicles (cars, trucks, atv/motorcycles and boats etc). Happy Storing! ...

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May 28th, 2024

Top Storage Tips

Mastering Self-Storage: Top Tips for a Smooth Experience Self-storage has become an indispensable solution for many people facing space constraints, moving houses, or needing a temporary spot for their belongings. Whether you're a seasoned self-storage user or a newbie, optimizing your storage experience can save you time, money, and stress. Here are some expert tips to help you make the most out of your self-storage unit. 1. Choose the Right Size Unit Before you start packing, estimate the amount of space you’ll need. Self-storage units come in various sizes, from small lockers to large garage-sized units. A common mistake is either overestimating or underestimating the space required. Create an inventory of the items you plan to store, which will help you determine the appropriate unit size. You can use our storage calculator on our website to help estimate the correct size, or give us a call - we'd be happy to help! 2. Pack Efficiently Efficient packing is crucial for maximizing space and ensuring your items are protected. Here’s how: Use Uniform Boxes: Standardized boxes stack neatly, saving space, and making it easier to retrieve items. Label Everything: Clearly mark each box with its contents and the room it came from. This will make finding specific items later much easier. Disassemble Large Items: Take apart furniture and other bulky items to save space. Keep screws and small parts in labeled bags taped to the item. 3. Protect Your Belongings Proper protection prevents damage and keeps your items in good condition: Wrap Fragile Items: Use bubble wrap, packing paper, or blankets to cushion delicate items. Avoid Plastic Bags: These can trap moisture and cause mildew. Use breathable materials instead. Use Pallets: Elevate your boxes and furniture off the floor with pallets to prevent potential water damage. 4. Maximize Space Utilize every inch of your storage unit by following these strategies: Vertical Space: Stack boxes and furniture up to the ceiling, placing heavier items at the bottom and lighter ones on top. Shelving Units: Portable shelving can help organize smaller items and improve access. Utilize Hollow Spaces: Store items inside ...

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May 28th, 2024