Cycling isn't just a mode of transport; it's a way of life for many students. Whether it's commuting to lectures, exploring the countryside, or competing in races, bicycles play a central role in the lives of student cyclists. However, managing bicycles in a university environment, where space is often limited and accommodation changes are frequent, can pose a significant challenge. In this comprehensive guide, we explore various storage options tailored specifically to student cyclists in the UK.
Student life often involves moving between accommodations, with limited space available for storing bicycles. Additionally, the diverse range of bicycles owned by student cyclists, from expensive road bikes to rugged mountain bikes and compact foldable bikes, adds complexity to the storage dilemma. Finding suitable storage solutions that accommodate these different types of bicycles while ensuring their safety and accessibility is crucial for student cyclists.
We aim to be as transparent as possible with our prices and openly communicate all costs involved. You can calculate your storage fees using our calculator in our booking page. In addition to the storage costs you can expect to pay the collection fee of £25 plus delivery of empty Kit Keeper boxes at £11.99.
As long as your items fit in either a cardboard box or a suitcase we can store as many of them as you want!
We can only accept your belongings into storage if they are in one of our approved boxes, other double-walled cardboard boxes, or suitcases. Take a look at a helpful list of some the things we don’t store or ship here.
Whether you’re storing your belongings with us, or using our shipping services, we highly recommend purchasing our brand new double-walled cardboard boxes to keep our items safe. You can also purchase our strong and durable packing tape, to ensure that your boxes are securely shut. If you order bubblewrap, we will send you 5 metres of brand new bubble wrap for your fragile and precious items. We recommend using bubble wrap to keep any delicate belongings safe. We cannot take responsibility for any breakages, if you don’t use bubble wrap or other suitable protective packaging and also don’t follow the packing guidelines. We will keep your items safe, but you have to do your part by packing them right!
We offer 4 different box sizes. Small Box (30x30x30cm). Medium Box (35x35x35cm). Large Box (40x40x4cm). Extra Large Box (46x46x46cm). Please note when packing that no box can weigh 25kg when packed.
On-Campus Bike Shelters: Many universities provide dedicated bike shelters or storage areas on campus. However, not all of these facilities offer secure storage for bicycles, protecting from theft and adverse weather conditions. On-campus bike shelters are convenient for students as they allow easy access to bicycles throughout the day.
Self-Storage Units: Self-storage facilities offer flexible storage options for student cyclists who need to store their bicycles during term breaks or when changing accommodations. These facilities provide secure storage units in various sizes, accommodating different types of bicycles, including mountain bikes, road bikes, and foldable bikes. Students can rent a storage unit based on their specific needs and budget but sometimes will end up paying for a space too large for their needs.
Specialist Bike Storage Services: Recognising the unique requirements of bicycle storage, some companies like Kit Keeper offer specialised storage services tailored specifically for bicycles. These services may include secure storage facilities equipped with racks and hooks designed to accommodate various types of bicycles. Additionally, specialist bike storage services may offer maintenance and repair services to keep bicycles in top condition.
When evaluating storage solutions for bicycles, student cyclists should take into account several crucial factors to ensure they make an informed decision. Bikes can be a common target for theft as they are often difficult to trace once they have been taken. The safety and security of bicycles are paramount. Students should inquire about the security measures in place at the storage facility. At Kit Keeper your bike and items are carefully stored in a secured facility with CCTV monitoring.
Space Requirements and Bike Compatibility: Assess the size and dimensions of your bicycle(s) to determine the storage space required. Different types of bicycles, such as road bikes, mountain bikes, foldable bikes, or electric bikes, may have varying storage needs. Ensure that the chosen storage solution can accommodate your bicycle(s) comfortably without risk of damage or overcrowding or perhaps even worse, charging for an extra large space that goes mostly unused.
Budget Considerations: Cost is a significant factor for students when choosing a storage solution. Booking with Kit Keeper will be an affordable option for most and offers fantastic value for money based on our door-to-door services.
Long-Term Suitability: Consider the long-term suitability of the storage solution for your needs. If you anticipate changes in your living arrangements or cycling habits, choose a storage option that offers flexibility and scalability like Kit Keeper. Similarly, if you plan to store your bicycle(s) for an extended period Kit Keeper offers a fully flexible service.
With various storage options available, student cyclists can find a solution that suits their needs, budget, and lifestyle. Whether it's utilising on-campus bike shelters, renting self-storage units, opting for specialist bike storage services, or sharing storage space with fellow cyclists, there are plenty of ways for student cyclists to keep their bicycles safe and accessible throughout their university journey.
By considering factors such as security, accessibility, space requirements, budget, and additional services, student cyclists can make informed decisions and enjoy peace of mind knowing that their bicycles are well-cared for. With the right storage solution in place, student cyclists can continue to enjoy the freedom and flexibility that cycling offers while navigating the challenges of university life.