Let’s be honest— what to do with luggage storage when traveling is a big thing. A big headache! Lugging bags around after you’ve checked out of a hotel or while you wait for a train is one of the fastest ways to suck the fun out of a trip. And if you’ve ever tried navigating the narrow bridges of Venice or the uneven cobblestone streets of Rome and Florence with a roller suitcase and a backpack? You probably know what I’m talking about.
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I can recall the stress of those awkward travel-day gaps before check-in or after checkout, especially when renting an apartment instead of staying at a hotel. You’re on the move but stuck with your stuff—not ideal.
The Travel-Day Dilemma
Too many people build jam-packed itineraries with tight schedules and multiple cities in one trip. But that’s the beauty of European travel. But, it also means there are often hours where you’re stuck between places. And when you’re hauling your luggage around, those hours feel even longer.
You could leave your bags at some train stations in Italy. But in my experience from listening to others, that comes with that lingering “I-hope-my-bag-is-still-there” feeling.
Why Luggage Storage Services Just Make Sense
Perhaps you didn’t know that luggage storage services partner with cafes, hotels, shops, and even bookstores in cities worldwide. You book a location through an app or website, drop off your bags, and enjoy your day hands-free. Your bags are stored in monitored, vetted locations. They’re reasonably priced – most services cost less than a cappuccino and a cornetto. They’re convenient, and many locations are near major stations or tourist hotspots.
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The App Advantage: Luggage Storage When Traveling Solution
Here’s where things get even better. You can now store your bags just by opening your phone. Luggage storage apps connect travelers with available drop-off locations in real time. Here are a few of the most popular—and what to know about them:
Stasher
- Pros: Easy to book, affordable, locations near train stations, hotels, and cafes
- Cons: Limited customer service hours in some areas
- Best for: First-timers who want a user-friendly app with lots of options
LuggageHero
- Pros: You only pay for the hours you use; insurance is included
- Cons: Fewer locations in smaller towns
- Best for: Travelers who need flexible pricing and shorter storage times
Vertoe
- Pros: Known for quality customer service and reliable partners
- Cons: Smaller network (65 cities, 1000+ locations)
- Best for: Those traveling to major cities and looking for top-rated service
BagsAway
- Pros: 24/7 customer support, free cancellations, long-term discounts
- Cons: Limited to a few cities (mainly in the U.S. and London)
- Best for: U.S. travelers and anyone needing extended storage
LugLockers
- Pros: Rapid expansion, global presence, and works with businesses and individuals
- Cons: Some app reviews mention a clunky user interface
- Best for: International travelers outside of the usual hotspots
Pro Tip For Luggage Storage When Traveling: Always double-check reviews for the specific location you’re booking. It’s like Airbnb—you want to know the exact vibe of the place before dropping your luggage off there.
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Other Luggage Storage Options (and What to Watch Out For)
But know that you’re not limited to apps. Here are some traditional options—and a few things to keep in mind:
Final Thoughts: Travel Days Don’t Have to Be Wasted Days
Luggage storage when traveling may seem like a small thing, but it makes a huge difference. That last day in a city? It could be spent sitting at a café with a glass of wine, visiting one more museum, or getting lost in charming streets, not sweating under the weight of your suitcase.
So next time you plan a trip, build in a little breathing room—and know that letting go of your luggage (literally) might be your best decision.
Excellent information as we are traveling through Italy currently.
Thanks for posting!
Sometimes just need to make it easier. Thanks Susan for commenting!!
Thank you for the great overview of the way to do this. It has always been a challenge for us, especially when renting apartments.
I truly get it. It is challenging at times. I never knew there was an app! I guess I should have guessed. Thanks Angelo – you’re a great supporter and we appreciate it!