We all love the laid-back vibe of our holiday homes, those little slices of paradise where we can escape the daily grind. Sun-drenched decks, the smell of salt in the air, and… a storage situation that would make Marie Kondo weep.
Let’s be honest, sometimes the biggest challenge isn’t battling sandflies; it’s battling the ever-growing mountain of stuff we accumulate at the bach.
It could be kayaks or Christmas decorations, winter bedding or the shell collection – it all ends up crammed into cupboards, under beds, and precariously balanced on the rafters. Sound familiar? Here at Safeguard Storage, we’ve heard all the stories.
If you’re nodding your head in agreement, it might be time to rethink your bach storage strategy.
Let’s dive into some creative storage solutions that’ll help you declutter your holiday home, reclaim your bach, and actually enjoy your holidays.
The Bach Storage Challenge: A Kiwi Conundrum
Bach life is all about relaxation, but it becomes increasingly more challenging to do so when you’re constantly tripping over fishing rods.
The issue is that baches aren’t usually designed with storage in mind. Think cosy, not capacious. And while that’s part of their charm, it does present a unique set of challenges when it comes to bach storage.
We’re talking limited space, seasonal gear overload, and the constant threat of dampness turning your favourite board game into a science experiment.
If your bach is in the Coromandel, you’re looking at summer trips – which requires kayaks, paddleboards, and enough beach towels to supply a small resort. If it’s in Queenstown, it’s more likely you need space for winter apparel – skis, snowboards, and thermals. Meanwhile, your Northland bach could be overflowing with diving gear and fishing equipment. The point is, each holiday home comes with its own set of must-have items, and they all need a home. And let’s not forget the “just-in-case” items – extra blankets and such, just in case.
So how do we tame the bach beast and create a space where we can actually relax? It’s all about getting creative with your bach storage and thinking outside the box.
Here’s some ways to get started on decluttering and transforming your chaotic second home into a relaxation zone that’s both organised and functional.
Vertical Victory – Reaching New Heights of Organisation
When floor space is at a premium in your holiday home, thinking vertically is key.
Wall-mounted shelving is a versatile solution for storing a multitude of items. Consider installing shelves of varying depths to accommodate different objects. Shallow shelves are perfect for books, games, and smaller items, while deeper shelves can hold larger items like storage bins or even neatly folded blankets.
Using stylish baskets or containers not only keeps things organised but also adds a touch of personality to your bach. Labelling these containers is crucial – it eliminates the frantic search for the cheese grater when you’re trying to whip up a snack.
For larger items like surfboards, kayaks, and bikes, wall-mounted racks are a game-changer. These racks not only free up valuable floor space, but they turn your gear into a stylish display. Imagine your sleek kayak hanging proudly on your wall outside, ready for your next adventure.
Just be sure to choose racks that are sturdy enough to support the weight of the equipment.
Multi-Functional Magic – Furniture That Works Overtime
Furniture that serves more than one purpose is a lifesaver when you’re dealing with a particularly small bach.
A storage bed is a brilliant investment, offering a discreet space to stash bed sheets, out-of-season clothes, and bulky winter blankets during the summer months. Ottomans with hidden storage are another great option to hide away magazines, games, or remotes.
Benches with built-in compartments are perfect for storing away outdoor gear, kids’ toys, or even firewood. Place one on the deck for extra seating and convenient storage for cushions and gardening tools.
Even coffee tables can get in on the action. Many models now come with built-in drawers or shelves, perfect for storing books, magazines, and board games. Think creatively about how you can maximise the functionality of your furniture.
A little ingenuity can go a long way in creating a clutter-free and comfortable bach.
Under the Bed Bonanza – Taming the Dust Bunnies
The space under your bed is often overlooked, but it can be a goldmine of storage potential. Shallow, clear storage containers are ideal for maximising this space.
Fill them with out-of-season clothes, extra blankets, or even those Christmas decorations that seem to multiply each year. Clear containers make it easy to see what’s inside, so you won’t have to rummage through multiple boxes to find what you’re looking for.
For larger items, consider using vacuum-sealed bags to compress bulky items like winter bedding or duvets. This can significantly reduce the amount of space they take up. Just be sure to label each container clearly.
Turning this often neglected space into a functional storage area can make a huge difference in the overall organisation of your bach.
Decluttering Decadence – The Art of Letting Go
Decluttering may not be the most glamorous part of owning a bach, but it’s essential for creating a relaxing and enjoyable space. Embrace the KonMari Method or any other decluttering system that resonates with you.
The key is to be ruthless.
Ask yourself if you truly need, use, or love the item. If the answer is no, it’s time to let go. Do you really need three sets of fondue forks when you only use them once a year? Probably not.
Be honest with yourself about what you actually need at your bach. Think about your lifestyle and how you use the space; getting rid of excess clutter not only frees up valuable bach storage space but also creates a sense of calm and order.
A decluttered bach is a decluttered mind.
Gear Guardians – Protecting your Prized Possessions
Your outdoor gear is an investment, and it deserves to be treated with care.
Before storing anything, make sure it’s clean and dry. This will prevent mildew, musty smells, and damage to your equipment. Invest in protective covers and bags to shield your gear from the elements, dust, and pests.
For delicate items like surfboards or vintage fishing rods, consider storing them in a climate-controlled environment if possible. Fluctuations in temperature and humidity can cause warping, cracking, and other damage.
Think about how you can best protect each item – like, for example, storing fishing rods in cases to prevent them from getting tangled or broken. Hang wetsuits to dry to prevent mildew.
By taking time to properly care for your gear, you’ll ensure it lasts for years to come and that you’re always ready for the next adventure.
Safeguard Storage: Your Bach’s Best Friend
Here’s where Safeguard Storage comes in.
Think of us as your bach’s personal storage space, a place where you can keep all those seasonal items and bulky gear – including your inflatable Santa. We offer a range of unit sizes to suit your needs, and our facilities are secure and easily accessible, making holiday home storage a breeze.
Imagine this: you’ve just finished a fantastic summer at your Coromandel bach. Instead of cramming your kayaks and paddleboards back into the already overflowing garage, you simply drop them off at your nearby Safeguard Storage unit. Easy peasy. When winter rolls around, you can swap out your summer gear for your skis and snowboards. No more lugging everything back and forth!
We’ve got a range of deals on offer at a bunch of our units – check out our website to learn more and enjoy a clutter-free holiday away!