If endless sunshine is the way to your heart like it is for me, then you’re probably already plotting your escape as Sydney’s summer draws to a close. You might be dreaming of diving the Great Barrier Reef, spending lazy days sprawled on the golden beaches of the Gold Coast, or trekking through the depths of the Outback. If you’re looking to leave Sydney this winter, I’ve got all the good tips for you.
When you think of getaways, you might jump straight to packing our bags and boarding the flight. However, there’s a bit of practical groundwork to take care of first, especially when in your home. From subletting your apartment to finding reliable Sydney storage for those prized possessions, use my pre-departure checklist for the things you’re leaving behind.
Should You Sublet While You’re Away?
If you’re sitting there wondering if it’s worth subletting whilst away, then the answer is yes. Travelling can be pretty costly, even if you’re doing it cheap and cheerful. So, for anyone who owns or rents a place in Sydney, letting it or subletting it out whilst away is an easy way to make back some of those pennies. In fact, if you’re lucky, it can even cover your rent or mortgage repayments while you’re off exploring the wonders of Northern Australia. Looks like a win-win all round.
Here’s what to do before you sublet your place:
Check your lease or mortgage terms
Many rental agreements in Sydney require landlord approval before subletting, and some home loans have conditions around short-term rental platforms.
Look into reliable subletting or rental sites
Posting to friends on social media can be an easy way to keep your sublet within a close circle, especially if you’re not a fan of letting complete strangers into your home. However, for those who don’t mind casting a wider net, sites like Flatmates and Airbnb are secure and reliable options that are popular nationwide, meaning you’re more likely to gain interest.
Remember your home will be lived in by others
If you’re a bit of a self-confessed neat freak, like me, then consider if subletting is right for you. Letting out your home to others means accepting that your TV remote may not be in the exact spot you left it or that the bed may be made different to how you’re used to. For some, the prospect of their cutlery being used and their bed being slept in by strangers is enough to put them off and that’s okay. It’s just a good idea to be honest with yourself before you’ve walked out the door.
Covering Those Items That Matter
Life has a funny way of throwing curveballs when you least expect it – like when you’re about 1,000 kilometres away sipping a cold bevvy on a Queensland beach. That’s why sorting your home insurance before you leave is a must.
Despite best interests, even minor accidents can snowball into expensive repairs and damaged belongings, which is certainly the last thing anyone wants to come home to after months of sunshine and adventure. With solid home and contents insurance, you get peace of mind that all your belongings are financially covered from a clumsy subtenant or that wonky shelf that’s finally decided to call it a day.
And for those items that money can’t replace, you may want to think about removing them from the home entirely. No, that doesn’t mean paying an extra 300 dollars in baggage allowance. Secure Sydney storage gives your prized possessions the protection they need and you the ability to switch off and enjoy your trip away without vigorously checking your emails for something gone wrong.
Putting Your Belongings in Sydney Storage
Yes, yes, I know it’s your holiday but that doesn’t mean you can’t also treat your belongings to a little break of their own. In fact, finding a good storage company is one of the smartest moves you can make before any extended trip up north. With security protection, weather-proof storage crates and convenient packing services, not even the clumsiest subtenant could cause worry. Of course, not all storage was created equally, so when you’re choosing a Sydney storage facility it’s important to know what exactly you’re looking for.
- Mobile storage options – Companies that have mobile storage usually provide professional removalists who load and transport your belongings door to door for you. No heavy lifting on your end!
- Security you can count on – A rusty padlock and crossed fingers may not be enough this time round. Choosing a Sydney storage facility with proper 24/7 CCTV monitoring and secure access control is essential.
- Flexible storage – One of the great things about heading north for winter is that there’s no fixed timeline. Maybe you’ll be back in three months…maybe six. A good Sydney storage provider will offer flexible contracts so you’re not paying more than needed.
With so many different storage providers offering up a variety of options, it can be difficult to know who the right experts are to go with. Choosing a reputable company with security and flexibility is that extra level of protection that you can count on when you’re a thousand kilometres away.
What to Put in Storage Before You Head North
If you’re going to sublet, then there are a few things I’d suggest leaving in the responsible hands of storage providers (that aren’t just your nanna’s china collection):
- Seasonal items that won’t be coming with you, seeing as your subtenants will probably need some room to put their own things.
- Valuables, collectables, artwork, and sentimental items – anything that’s worth more than just money.
- Electronics and tech gear you’re not bringing with you.
- Documents or any important paperwork, both professional and personal.
Now You’re Ready to Escape Sydney Winter
There’s genuinely no better feeling than stepping off a plane into warm northern sunshine while Sydney shivers through July. But getting there takes a little bit more planning than just chucking on your sunnies and making a run for it. Sorting your home and belongings is one of the most important steps you can take before you go. From organising a sublet to locking in professional Sydney storage, nothing says smug like coming back from your travels with a glorious tan and a home that’s just as you left it.
