Portable Garages: A Hot Trend In Outdoor Vehicle Shelters

Portable garages have come into their own. Gone are the days when the only garage or canopy option was the ugly sheet of fiberglass or corrugated roofing supported by heavy metal poles.

Today you can find a greater variety of portable garages, also called 'instant' garage kits and canopies, that are both functional and attractive.

Since there are portable garages in dozens of shapes, sizes, and designs, it can be difficult to compare quality and find the right choice for your specific need. In addition, the term ‘garage’ is used rather loosely and with lots of variations.

There are open canopies, enclosed shelters, single- and double-car designs, mesh and solid polyethylene canvas carports, round and peaked roofs, extended length, and even RV portable shelters.

So let’s clarify the terms, and the options.

Portable, Yes... But Garage or Canopy ?

As the name suggests, portable "garages" are generally enclosed on all four sides. A heavy-duty polyethylene canvas covers the steel frame in either a uni-body construction or as panels, and extends from the roof to ground. Some versions have an open door and back, but a complete enclosure is the best choice for maximum protection from rain and wind.

In a different category are the car canopies. Simpler and less expensive, they resemble the traditional stand-alone carport with four open sides. Like the garages, they use a canvas canopy over a peaked or rounded steel roof fame. But their wide-open design allows them to fit into tighter spaces, and also makes them useful for providing sun protection to social gatherings, barbecues, or work areas.

Options In Portable Garages

Portable garage kits come in a variety of sizes and styles to fit almost any vehicle.

1. Single Vehicle Garages - For the average car, truck or boat, these garages measure a standard 10' wide x 20' long. Height will vary between 7' and 9'. The galvanized steel frames are supported by 8 legs, and wrapped by UV-resistant polyethylene canvas. In some cases, the side and end walls are removable for use as an open canopy. Prices range from $200 - $400.

2. The 2-Car Portable Garage - These are the extra-wide, 2-car versions of the above. They measure 20'L x 22' W x 10' to the peak. At 22' wide, if you don't have a 2nd car, the extra room is perfect for added storage or work space. Costs run $900 - over $1,000.

3. Large Truck & SUV Garages - Offering additional room in all directions, these portables are ideal for large trucks, boats, SUVs, and trailored vehicles. Widths range from 12' to 14', and the lengths from 24' to 36'. Height at the peak is usually about 10'. They require 8-14 legs, tough laminated canvas, and a heavier steel frame for support. There is lots of variation in this group and prices are between $300 - $3000.

4. RV Garage Kits - Campers, trailers, and RVs need shelter too ! There are kits for portable garages that cover even the largest motorhomes. They are a full 14' wide and 14' - 16' high. And even with lengths of 40 - 46 feet, these 'instant' garages can be setup in a day. Lots of steel and commercial-grade canvas is used to make these sturdy shelters, so prices will run about $1900 and up.

For a very flexible solution to your vehicle shelter or storage needs, a portable garage is certainly with a look.

Recommended Portable Garages

The top picks for durability and price are these portable garages The single-car 10'x20' garage is a true bargain at under $200. And the larger 12' x 20' - 24' shelters are equally good. The 17 gauge frames and 7-10oz vinyl laminated canvas is stronger than most others. This is the place to get a 2-car garage - a heavy steel frame and triple laminated covering for under $900.

For More Information:

Garage Kits - A summary of your choices in garage kits.

Portable Garage - 5 more good reasons to own one.

Canopy Carport - The least expensive of all 'garage kits', with new styles and sizes.

Instant Garage - Can an 'instant' garage also be really durable ?

RV Shelters - To rent or buy - a few things to consider.