15 Storage Hacks for Islanders

Living on PEI means making the most of every season. Whether you’re decluttering your home in Charlottetown, packing up your cottage for the winter in Cavendish, or storing seasonal gear between tourist seasons, an organized storage unit is key. It saves you time, money, and stress, protecting your belongings from the damp island air and ensuring you can find what you need without a frustrating search.

Here are 15 essential hacks to pack your PEI storage unit like a pro.

1. Plan Your Layout Place large, heavy items at the back and leave a center walkway to access everything easily.

2. Use Uniform Boxes Use sturdy, same-sized boxes. They stack securely, prevent crushing, and maximize your space.

3. Use Clear Bins For items you’ll need often—like beach gear for a trip to the North Shore or your Christmas decorations—use clear plastic bins to see the contents at a glance.

4. Label Everything Specifically Label every box on the top and sides with specific contents (e.g., “Kitchen: Mugs & Glasses,” not just “Kitchen”).

5. Create a Digital Inventory Number each box and list its contents in a spreadsheet or phone app. This makes finding specific items simple.

6. Think Vertically Use freestanding metal shelves to take advantage of high ceilings and keep boxes from being crushed.

7. Disassemble Furniture Take apart large items like tables and bed frames. Keep all screws in a labeled bag and tape it securely to the largest furniture piece.

8. Use Furniture as Storage Fill empty spaces inside dressers, wardrobes, and clean appliances with smaller items like books or linens.

9. Store Couches and Mattresses Vertically Save significant floor space by storing couches and mattresses on their end or long edge, propped securely against a wall.

10. File, Don’t Pile Use a filing cabinet or accordion folders to protect and organize important papers and documents.

11. Protect Valuables from Island Air Protect your items from PEI’s damp, salty air. Use bubble wrap for fragile items and furniture pads for wood. Avoid standard plastic wrap, which can trap moisture and lead to mildew.

12. Vacuum-Seal Soft Goods Compress bulky winter gear, bedding, and seasonal clothing with vacuum-sealed bags to save space and protect them from dust and moisture.

13. Elevate Items Off the Floor Given the island climate, this is crucial. Place wooden pallets or a thick tarp on the concrete floor to create a barrier against potential moisture.

14. Keep Tools Handy Leave a small toolkit, step stool, and flashlight near the entrance for easy access.

15. Put Essential Items at the Front The last items you pack into the unit should be the ones you’ll need first. Place them right by the door for quick retrieval.

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