Travelling abroad: Rent a storage unit in Lucerne or sell your furniture?

Sell or put furniture in a storage unit?  

Got wanderlust? Or want to learn a new language? Your bag is packed and you're on your way to your dream destination. But what do you do with your stuff while you're busy travelling the world – let it gather dust? 

If you're not sure whether to store your furniture, sell your household belongings or sublet your flat, the following questions can help you work out what best suits your current situation. 

Question 1: Do you really need it? 

Your trip is the perfect opportunity to sell items you don't need. That way you won't have to worry while you're away. The benefit: nothing gathering dust, an organised home, plus a bit of extra travel cash. 

Question 2: Better to upgrade? 

Has your fridge seen better days? Is the sofa more antique than shabby chic? Part with items that actually need an upgrade. You might even fetch a tidy sum for them to spend on massages in Bali. 

Question 3: How will its condition hold up while travelling? 

Some items can easily be stored for a few months in the attic or a storage unit. Others need a bit more attention. Mattresses, for example, easily lose their shape. You should rotate your mattress every few months to keep it in shape. 

It's a similar story with cars. Someone should start the engine occasionally to prevent standing damage. It's best to get a family member or friend to look after it. If you were thinking about selling the old banger anyway, the time before your trip is the perfect opportunity. 

Question 4: Does the item have sentimental value? 

You surely own valuable items you don't want to part with. Possessions with sentimental value fall into this category. Just because you're setting off to discover new cultures doesn't mean you won't like Grandma's (slightly creepy) doll collection when you return. 

And if you don't: you'll find grateful buyers on eBay and similar sites. 

The big question: Store or keep furniture? 

Is a professional storage unit really the best option for storing household goods and furniture while you are away? 

Three good reasons. 

1. Security 

Your items are safe with us. The unit is secured with a safety padlock and monitored by electronic video surveillance. The units are clean, dry and not exposed to extreme weather conditions. 

2. Store your furniture with us for as long as you like

If you spontaneously decide to stay away longer, you can easily extend the rental period of your storage unit with us. That's not so easy with family and friends. A self storage unit makes you independent of other people. You never have to feel guilty about changes of plan and can store your things safely for as long as you want. 

And if you return earlier than planned: imagine knocking on Uncle Jacques' door at 4 at night. He won't be thrilled. Our storage facilities, on the other hand, are accessible around the clock. 

All packed and ready to go? Thanks to our expert tips, you'll learn everything you need to know about furniture and storage space. That way your items are guaranteed to stay in top condition until you return.