Is Climate-Controlled Storage Worth It for You?

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Bolt Storage
December 11, 2025
5 min read
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A climate control in the wall set at 63 degrees

If you're considering renting a storage unit, you’ve likely come across the option for climate-controlled storage. It’s often a bit more expensive than a standard unit—but is the extra cost worth it?

For many homeowners and students, the answer is yes. Climate-controlled storage helps protect your belongings from heat, cold, and moisture, which can cause serious damage over time. Let’s break it down.

What Is Climate-Controlled Storage?

Climate-controlled storage units maintain a consistent temperature—usually between 55°F and 80°F—and sometimes regulate humidity too. This protects your items from extreme weather changes throughout the year.

If you live somewhere with hot summers, cold winters, or high humidity, climate control can make a big difference.

Why It’s Great for Homeowners

If you’re a homeowner using storage during a move, renovation, or seasonal change, climate control gives extra peace of mind. It helps protect:

  • Wood furniture from cracking or warping
  • Electronics and appliances from overheating or moisture damage
  • Photo albums, documents, and keepsakes from mold or fading
  • Seasonal clothing, leather, or wool from mildew or temperature swings
  • Decorations, tools, or hobby supplies that can get damaged in heat

Why It’s Ideal for Students

Heading home for summer or moving between apartments? A climate-controlled unit can help students:

  • Keep laptops, game consoles, and electronics safe
  • Prevent musty odors or mold on clothes and bedding
  • Protect textbooks, notebooks, and paper materials from curling or mildew
  • Store instruments or artwork without damage

New York Student Storage Locations:

Virginia Student Storage Locations:

You've invested in your gear—don’t let a hot, humid summer undo that.

When You Might Not Need Climate Control

Climate-controlled storage is best for long-term storage or sensitive items, but it may not be necessary if you're storing:

  • Tools, metal shelving, or yard equipment
  • Plastic bins with non-sensitive contents
  • Items for just a short period during mild seasons

Still unsure? Reach out to our team—we’re happy to help you choose the right unit for your needs.

Find the Right Storage Unit Near You

At Bolt Storage, we offer both standard and climate-controlled storage units at over 60 locations across the U.S. Whether you’re a homeowner storing furniture or a student heading home for break, we’ve got the space and support you need.

🔎 Check storage availability near you.

Final Thoughts: Is Climate-Controlled Storage Worth It?

In most cases, yes—especially if you’re storing valuable, delicate, or temperature-sensitive items. Climate-controlled storage helps protect your belongings so they stay in excellent condition, no matter the season.

Why Choose Bolt Storage?

  • Over 60 locations across 12 states
  • Friendly customer support (phone or online)
  • Affordable climate-controlled and standard options
  • Secure, clean, and easy-to-access facilities

Find Storage Units Near You Up To 75% Off

Discover nearby storage units with up to 75% off at Bolt Storage. Affordable solutions for your storage needs. Find convenience without the high cost.

 

PRICE MATCH GUARANTEE

We will beat any price in town

Your Storage, Your Way – Safe, Affordable, and Convenient

At Bolt Storage, we offer secure, cheap storage units with 24/7 access and video surveillance with 63 facilities across 11 states. Whether you need extra space for your home, business, or seasonal items, we have the perfect fit with drive-up storage and climate-controlled storage units. Rent online in minutes and take advantage of our great deals with up to 75% off your first two months!

Aerial view of a bolt storage self storage facility with rows of brown door storage units

FAQs: Your Self Storage Questions, Answered!

Got questions about self-storage?
We've got easy answers! Wondering about unit sizes, security, or online renting? Check out our FAQs for quick solutions. Keeping storage simple and stress free - that's our thing!

Are my items safe?

Your items are secured by a gate (most locations) and 24/7 video monitoring. Your items are very safe. See how we keep storage secure.

What types of RVs can I park at Bolt Storage?

You can park motorhomes, travel trailers, camper vans, and fifth wheels. If it fits within the parking space, we can accommodate it.

What size storage unit do I need for a one bedroom apartment?

A 5x10 or 10x10 storage unit is ideal for a one-bedroom apartment. It can fit a bed, couch, small appliances, and several boxes.

Is it easy to get access?

It is extremely quick and easy to rent storage units 24 hours a day. Simply go on your phone or laptop and sign the lease, make your payment and you’re all set. Instant access right on the spot! You’ll be sent a text message with your gate code (most locations). See exactly how to rent a storage unit step by step.

Are the parking spaces covered or uncovered?

Most of our RV parking spaces are uncovered and located outdoors. This allows for easy access and affordable pricing.

What size storage unit fits a two bedroom apartment?

A 10x10 or 10x15 unit is usually the right size for a two bedroom apartment. These units hold furniture, mattresses, dining sets, and around 30-40 boxes.

Are the storage units affordable?

There’s a reason why our facilities stay over 90% full, our storage units start at just $45/month, and we even include a free lock with your rental! Plus, throughout the year, we offer special promotions at selected locations, up to 75% off for the first two months, depending on availability.See how much a storage unit actually costs.

Can I store other vehicles besides RVs?

Yes. While RVs are the most common, we also store trucks, trailers, boats on trailers, and cars.

Is a 10x20 storage unit big enough for a three bedroom house?

Yes, a 10x20 storage unit typically fits the contents of a three bedroom home including large furniture, appliances, and boxes.

Is it month to month or do I sign a longer lease?

All of our storage units are month to month rentals, so you're never locked into a long term contract. Just give us a 10 day notice before moving out and you won’t be charged for any extra time. Learn how flexible month to month storage works and why it’s a great option.

Do I need to reserve in advance?

It is recommended to reserve your RV parking space early, especially during busy seasons when space fills up fast.

Are there climate controlled controlled storage units?

Bolt Storage offers climate-controlled storage in some facilities. Temperature-controlled spaces maintain the ambient temperature and  humidity at ideal levels for keeping your things in great condition. Easily rent online if you need climate-controlled/temperature-controlled storage unit, remember that we only have online rental.

What can I store in a 5x15 storage unit?

A 5x15 unit holds the contents of a studio apartment or large walk-in closet, including boxes, small furniture, and bikes.

Can I rent my storage unit online at Bolt Storage?

Yes, absolutely! Renting your storage unit online at Bolt Storage is incredibly simple. Just find a storage unit near you and complete the rental process hassle-free. See in detail how easy is to rent with Bolt Storage.

How big is a 10x30 storage unit?

A 10x30 storage unit can hold the contents of a 4-5 bedroom home including furniture, appliances, and outdoor gear. Perfect for large moves.

Do I need a lock when I rent a storage unit?

A free lock is provided upon rental for each storage unit. Find the lockbox on-site to get your free lock.

Can I store a vehicle in a storage unit?

Bolt Storage does not recommend storing vehicles inside traditional storage units. Instead, we offer dedicated outdoor and covered parking spaces for RVs, boats, and cars.

What size storage unit do I need?

If you’re unsure of what size you should choose, head over to our size guide to get a better idea of what you need.

How do I choose the right storage unit size?

Start with an inventory of your belongings and estimate the square footage you need. Our online size guide helps match you with the right unit. Get more helpful advice in our Blog section.

What size storage units and parking spaces are offered by Bolt Storage?

Our facilities have storage units starting from 5×5 to 20×30 drive-up units, and climate controlled storage units, giving customers options to choose the right size for their belongings. find your unit here.

Do storage units have height limits?

Most units have ceilings around 8 feet high, so you can safely stack boxes and furniture to maximize vertical space.

Do you accept cash?

We do not accept cash.  Payment can only be made via credit/debit card or via ACH (same as a check).

Should I leave space to access my items in storage?

Yes, we recommend leaving an aisle or at least space to move around inside your unit. Place frequently used items near the front.

Do I need insurance for my storage unit?

We require insurance for all stored items to help protect your belongings from unexpected events. You can use your own policy or choose a low-cost plan during rental. Learn more about storage unit insurance

Is climate-controlled storage worth it?

Absolutely. Climate-controlled units help protect wood furniture, electronics, and clothing from humidity and temperature changes.

How should I pack my storage unit efficiently?

Place heavier items on the bottom, stack similar-sized boxes, and label everything. Disassemble furniture to save space.

How long can I rent a storage unit for?

At Bolt Storage, all rentals are month-to-month. Whether you need storage for just one month or for years, you can stay as long as you like without signing a long-term contract.