St. Louis Boat Owners: How to Choose the Right Boat Storage Size for Your Watercraft

Getting Real About Boat Storage in St. Louis

Let’s face it—owning a boat is amazing, but finding the right place to store it? That’s where things get tricky. If you’re a boat owner in St. Louis, you already know our seasons can be tough on watercraft. Between the scorching summer sun and the frigid winters, your boat deserves a safe place to stay when it’s not on the water.

That’s where the right boat storage size comes into play. Whether you’ve got a sleek fishing boat, a sturdy pontoon, or a weekend cruiser, you want to make sure it fits snugly into a storage space that’s secure, accessible, and built to handle your setup—trailer and all.

Let’s walk through how to find the best fit for your boat, your needs, and your budget.

Why the Right Boat Storage Size Actually Matters

If you've ever tried squeezing your boat into a unit that’s just a few feet too short, you know how frustrating (and damaging) it can be. Choosing the right boat storage size isn’t just about convenience—it’s about protecting your investment.

An undersized unit can scrape your hull, damage your motor, or make maneuvering a nightmare. On the flip side, an oversized unit means paying for space you don’t actually need.

And don’t forget: your boat isn’t floating when it’s in storage. You’re dealing with boat trailer storage, too—tongues, hitches, and tires all take up space. So, measure wisely.

Measuring Your Boat the Right Way

Before you even look at a facility or pick up the phone, grab a tape measure and jot down these three numbers:

• Length – from the tip of the bow to the back of the motor or swim platform
  
  
• Width – the widest point of the boat (beam)
  
  
• Height – from the bottom of the trailer tires to the highest point of your boat, like a tower or canopy
  
  

Don’t overlook the trailer tongue or anything that sticks out. Some boats are compact on paper but need a few more feet of wiggle room once the trailer is added in.



A good rule of thumb? Add at least 2–3 feet to each measurement. That extra space makes it easier to move around the unit and ensures your boat isn’t crammed into a tight space.

Exploring the Different Types of Boat Storage Units

Now that you’ve got your boat measurements, let’s look at the main types of boat storage units available in the St. Louis area:

Open Outdoor Storage

Think of it as a parking spot. It’s the most affordable option and great if your boat is weather-resistant or if you use a custom-fitted cover. Not much protection from the elements, but solid for short-term or seasonal use.

Covered Outdoor Storage

A little more protective—your boat stays shielded from direct sunlight, rain, and snow. If you’re not quite ready for indoor but want something safer than open air, this is a strong middle ground.

Indoor Enclosed Storage

Your boat gets full coverage—walls, roof, even climate control in some places. This option costs more, but it’s ideal if you’ve got a high-end vessel or just want peace of mind all year long. Bonus: it’s also the best solution for long-term storage during St. Louis winters.

At St. Louis RV Storage, we offer options in all three categories—so you’re not stuck with a one-size-fits-all plan.

Don’t Forget About the Trailer

We see this all the time: folks focus so much on their boat that they forget about the trailer. But if your trailer doesn’t fit, you’re either taking it home separately (which is a hassle), or paying for a second space.

When you’re shopping around for boat storage units, be sure to ask whether boat trailer storage is included in the space. At our facility, we accommodate both your boat and trailer in the same unit or space so you never have to split them up.



This also makes it way easier when it’s time to hitch up and go—no extra steps, no extra time.

Indoor or Outdoor: Which One Fits Your Needs?

Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide what’s best for your boat:

If you boat every weekend during the summer, outdoor storage might be all you need. But if you're planning to winterize or won't be using the boat for a few months, indoor is worth the upgrade.

What to Look for in a Storage Facility

Size and type are only part of the picture. A great storage facility also needs to tick a few other boxes:

• Security: Gated entry, cameras, lighting, and staff on-site
  
  
• Accessibility: Wide driveways, pull-through access, and flexible hours
  
  
• Clean, Dry Lots: You don’t want your trailer sitting in puddles or mud
  
  
• Responsive Staff: When you call, someone should answer—and be helpful
  
  
• Proximity to Waterways: Closer to your launch point means less towing
  
  

At St. Louis RV Storage, we check all those boxes—and then some.

Why Local Boat Owners Trust St. Louis RV Storage

We’re not just a storage facility. We’re boaters, too. We know what it’s like to invest in a watercraft and want it to last—not just float, but thrive.

Our storage options are flexible, affordable, and designed with boat owners in mind. Whether you’re looking for short-term outdoor parking or a year-round indoor solution, we’ve got you covered—literally.

You’ll get:

• Boat storage spaces that actually fit your boat (and trailer)
  
  
• Clean, secure, and well-maintained units
  
  
• Friendly, local staff that knows your name
  
  
• Easy online payments and no hidden fees
  
  

Want to take a look? Come visit us or book a spot through our website.

Final Thoughts: A Smart Move for Your Boat

Choosing the right boat storage size isn’t just about square footage—it’s about keeping your boat safe, accessible, and ready to hit the water. And the good news? With a little planning and the right partner, it’s easier than you think.

At St. Louis RV Storage, we’re here to help you make the smart choice. From quick weekend getaways to long off-season stretches, we make sure your boat is protected and prepared—so all you have to do is turn the key and go.

Give us a call today at (314)-628-8246, or email us at stlrvstorage@gmail.com to request more info. Let’s find the perfect storage solution for your boat—and make sure it’s ready when you are.

Protect your boat the right way. Trust the local experts at St. Louis RV Storage.

Frequently Asked Questions