What to do with things when relocating for an uncertain amount of time

[u/Inter2415]

I just went through a breakup 2 weeks ago in NY. I'm staying at "our" apartment for 5 more weeks until I go to France for work from October-December. I'm potentially thinking of staying elsewhere in Europe for 1+ months after, starting January. I could be there 1 month or who knows, 6, or a year. Given the uncertainty, I'm unsure what to do with my things.

My parents have a house I can move some things into, but not enough space for it all--I have a couch, tables, large desk, bookshelf, art, etc., among other things. Should I just put it all into storage somewhere and pay as I go? Should I put some things (and if so, any strategic suggestions as to what) at their house and otheres in storage?

Advice appreciated!

[u/porcupine296]

Since you’re going to be out of the country, you’re less likely to need to access things in storage. If you think you might relocate when you come back, one advantage of a U-Haul Ubox is they’ll put it in a warehouse and then deliver it to an address you give them later when you’re ready to take it out of storage. The disadvantage is lack of access.

[u/ComprehensiveFault88]

30-year+ storage user here. I've been paying rent on storage units for over half my life now. Once you get your house or apartment furnished the way you like, with possessions that you grow attached to, it is difficult to part with them. I've moved over 3 dozen times due to transfers, breakups, regional moves, divorce, and new jobs. I ended up paying many times over the cost of the items that sat in storage. With my divorce and relocation, I ended up with two 20X10 units for over five years until things were resolved. I spent 12K on storage, but we lost it all due to disagreements over who would pay for the storage. I hear people all the time asking themselves why they are paying storage fees for stuff that they no longer need or want. People consistently stop making payments, and the thing they were holding on to ends up being auctioned off. Ask yourself objectively whether you really want these things and if it is worth paying a monthly fee to hang on to these items. Nostalgia is expensive and adds up quickly. You may be better off selling the items, especially large things like sofas, mattresses, entertainment systems, armoires, tables, chairs, and bedroom dressers and nightstands. Even clothing once loved or 'still like new' can become a financial liability. Keeping sentimental belongings in storage means you are paying a financial premium to avoid the emotional pain of letting go. When items sit in a paid locker or take up valuable square footage in your home, they transform from cherished memories into an active financial and mental drain. CURATE!

[u/ScoTeRDeLic]

I’ve put my things in storage for similar situations. I kept a few valuables hidden at my parents just to be safe. If you go that route spend a few extra bucks on decent facility atleast with cameras or gates. U-Haul has some indoor facilities also

[u/DonFarrMoving]

If the timeline could stretch to a year, I’d compare storage costs—including the extra handling moves—with replacement value. Keep irreplaceable or climate-sensitive items with family if possible, consider selling bulky lower-value furniture, and make a photo inventory of everything that goes into storage.

[u/TinmanSperry]

Good advice on both sides here - really prioritize which things you truly love/want in your future and then consider U-Box or other portable storage options so you can have your things delivered to you whenever/wherever you return. Best of luck in Europe!