Houghton Lake Boat & RV Storage

Drive-Through Units: What They Are and Why They Matter

Drive-through units what they are and why they matter Most people think all storage units are basically the same—some metal walls, a roll-up door, a lock. But that’s not really the case, especially when you're trying to store something bigger than boxes and a few pieces of furniture. When you’re working with a boat, trailer, or RV, the difference between a standard unit and a drive-through unit isn’t just convenience—it’s the whole reason the experience works or doesn’t. At Houghton Lake Boat & RV Storage, we designed our facility with that in mind. Not every customer is showing up with a pickup and a few bins. A lot of people are pulling 30- or 40-foot trailers. Pontoons. Large travel campers. And the moment you try to back one of those into a standard unit with limited clearance or tight corners, you realize real fast that not all storage is built the same. How drive-through units save time The main thing a drive-through unit gives you is time. You pull in, drop off, and pull right out—no backing in, no tricky maneuvers, no stress about scraping the side of your trailer. You don’t need a second person to guide you, and you don’t have to spend 20 minutes inching back and forth just to line it up. If you're someone who stores seasonally, uses your unit on weekends, or swaps gear out between trips, those saved minutes add up fast. It’s also about flexibility. Let’s say you have a boat in the front and summer gear in the back. With a drive-through unit, you can enter from one side, grab what you need, and exit through the other. No unloading the entire trailer just to get to the item in the back. The design works with your routine, not against it. Where traditional units fall short That’s not to say traditional units don’t have their place—they do. But when you’re hauling something longer than a pickup bed, the math changes. Standard units are usually built to serve basic ...

Admin
March 31st, 2025

How to Organize Your Storage for a Fresh Start

New Year, New Goals There’s something about the clean slate of a new year that makes us believe in possibilities—and this is your moment to take advantage of that energy. But let’s be real: organizing a storage unit isn’t glamorous. It’s not the kind of thing you’ll post about on Instagram, but the payoff is undeniable. At Houghton Lake Boat & RV Storage, we’ve seen how a little planning and effort can transform chaos into clarity. It Starts with a Decision Before you even step foot in your storage unit, stop and think: what’s your goal? Are you trying to make more space for new adventures? Are you decluttering after the holidays? Or maybe you’re gearing up for boating season on Houghton Lake and need a system that makes your gear easy to grab. Goals give you a framework. Without them, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. With them, every decision becomes simpler. That old tent you haven’t used in five years? Does it support your goal? If not, it’s time to let it go. The Art of Letting Go Decluttering isn’t just about stuff—it’s about stories. That box of tangled Christmas lights might remind you of your first apartment, but if it doesn’t work anymore, it’s not a keepsake; it’s clutter. Letting go isn’t easy, but it’s necessary. Here’s a simple approach: Keep: What’s functional, meaningful, or necessary for the year ahead? Donate: What’s still good but no longer serves you? Trash: What’s broken, worn out, or unusable? Be ruthless. You’re not saying goodbye to memories—you’re making room for new ones. The System That Works for You Once you’ve decluttered, it’s time to set up your unit in a way that makes sense for your life. Think of it as designing a space you’ll actually enjoy using. Label Everything: This isn’t just for looks; it’s for sanity. Use clear bins with big, easy-to-read labels. Create Zones: Group similar items together. Camping gear in one corner, holiday decorations in another. Go Vertical: Shelving isn’t just for garages. Maximize your unit’s space by stacking upward. Keep It ...

Alex Parr
December 30th, 2024

Winter Storage Solutions

How to Store Your Belongings in Winter Winter brings its own set of challenges to home organization, as snow boots, heavy coats, and holiday decorations quickly overrun your living space. Start by tackling your entryway, which often becomes a hub of chaos. Clear out summer shoes, beach towels, and other warm-weather gear to make room for winter essentials like boots and coats. Similarly, garages and sheds can benefit from a seasonal sweep. Pack up patio furniture, yard games, and fishing gear to free up space for snowblowers or winter sports equipment. Don’t forget your closets and living spaces. Closets bursting with off-season clothing can make it hard to access your winter wardrobe, so rotate out what you don’t need. In living areas, declutter surfaces and stow away knick-knacks to create a more open, inviting atmosphere. With some intentional organizing, your home can feel cozy and functional, ready for holiday gatherings or relaxing winter nights by the fire. Use this opportunity to rotate out seasonal items and create breathing room for holiday gatherings. Why Self Storage is the Perfect Winter Solution Self storage isn’t just about "more space"—it’s about smart space. With a facility like ours, you can tailor your storage needs to your lifestyle. Here’s how: Protect Seasonal Gear: Stash summer gear like kayaks, life jackets, and grills in a secure, climate-controlled unit. They’ll be safe from the harsh winter weather and ready for action when spring arrives. Save Space for the Holidays: Free up your closets and guest rooms by moving rarely used furniture, decorations, or off-season clothes into storage. This helps your home stays festive and functional without feeling overcrowded. Keep Your Boat Secure: Houghton Lake locals know that winter means saying goodbye to the water for a few months. At Houghton Lake Boat & RV Storage we take pride in making sure your boat stays protected and out of the elements until it’s time to hit the lake again. Self Storage Tips for Success To make the most of your self storage unit, start by ...

Alex Parr
November 25th, 2024

Tips for Off-Season Storage

Houghton Lake Boat & RV Storage Winter in Michigan is brutal—icy winds and freezing temperatures are not so kind to our vehicles. Whether you’re storing a fishing boat, RV, trailer, or pontoon, it’s important to take the right steps to ensure everything stays in top shape until spring. At Houghton Lake Boat Storage, we’re not just offering space—we’re offering peace of mind. Follow these ideas for winterizing your ride so it’s adventure-ready when the warm weather returns. The Unexpected Hazards of Winter Storage Leaving your vehicle exposed to the elements or in improper storage can result in costly repairs. Here’s what you’re up against during the off-season: Freeze Damage: Frozen pipes and waterlines can cause leaks and bursts. Rodent Invasion: Mice and other critters love to nest in idle vehicles. Corrosion & Mold: Without proper ventilation, moisture can wreak havoc on both interiors and exteriors. Battery and Tire Wear: Cold weather can drain batteries and cause flat spots on tires. Step-by-Step: A New Approach to Winterizing Your Boat, RV, or Trailer Keep Critters Out: Use peppermint oil or ultrasonic repellents to discourage mice and other pests from nesting in your vehicle. Seal potential entry points with steel wool or mesh covers to block access. Battery Maintenance: Invest in a smart battery monitor to remotely track battery levels and prevent unexpected drains. Use a maintenance app to schedule inspections and set reminders for key upkeep tasks throughout the winter. Smart Storage Tip: Place desiccant packs in tight areas like cabinets and engine compartments to prevent moisture buildup. Raise trailers or boats slightly off the ground to avoid tire flat spots and extend tire life. Comparing Storage Options: What Makes the Most Sense? When it comes to winter storage, not all solutions are created equal. Here are some unique choices that might fit your needs: Drive-Up Units: Ideal for those who want quick access to their vehicles throughout the off-season. Heated Garages: Perfect for vehicles with sensitive components that need consistent warmth. Outdoor Spaces with Advanced Covers: New generation covers offer UV and moisture protection, bridging the gap between indoor and ...

Alex Parr
October 18th, 2024