Model Train Storage: A Comprehensive Guide to Protecting Your Collection

Most model train enthusiasts will tell you their passion for model trains began as a hobby. A single starter train set displayed on a coffee table can quickly evolve into massive tracks and scenic displays circling entire rooms. Parents often introduce their children to the hobby, handing down collections from one generation to the next. As a model train collection expands, so does the demand for space in your home. 

Because these collections can be so personal and so treasured through generations, well-thought-out model train storage is crucial to ensuring your heirlooms and investments remain in top condition. Our guide will walk you through some best practices for train set storage that will help preserve and protect your collection. 

Scale Matters: Train Set Storage Options by Size

Train sets by scales

As you consider your model train storage options, keep in mind that size matters. The scale of your model trains determines the type train set storage you will need:

• HO scale trains measure approximately 1:87 scale, with individual locomotive pieces measuring between 2″ high x 1.5″ wide on average. HO scale is the most popular and affordable of the standard model train sizes, offering accurate detail and plenty of options for both beginners and experienced collectors without bank-breaking prices. 
• N scale trains are smaller in size, at 1:160 scale, with locomotive pieces measuring 1″ high x 0.625″ wide on average. This size allows collectors and hobbyists to build complex, detailed layouts in compact spaces. 
• O scale trains are larger, at 1:48 scale, with locomotive pieces measuring an average of  4″high x 2.5″ wide. These model sizes are popular in Christmas village train displays. Their larger size makes them more durable than smaller sets, and they are ideal for children’s toy sets or permanent displays. 
• G scale trains are the largest of model train sizes, clocking in at an average of 8″ high x 5″ wide. These are often found in outdoor settings, garden displays and are suitable as toys for children.

Complete layouts vs individual pieces

Collectors who maintain permanent or semi-permanent layouts need train set storage solutions that keep locomotives and rolling stock easily accessible for regular operations, while protecting pieces not currently in use.

If your collection focuses on individual pieces, perhaps with a focus on a specific railroad line, historical period or type of locomotive, focus on storage designed for categorization, inventorying, and cataloging your trains and set pieces for easy retrieval.

Vintage vs. modern sets

Vintage and modern sets have their differences, but each requires train set storage solutions designed with a focus on protecting them from environmental damage such as moisture, dust, and breakage.

Vintage collections are typically more delicate and rare, and safe storage for these pieces requires extra care when storing to ensure the preservation of sentimental or particularly valuable pieces. 

Modern sets may be more durable and less fragile, but many modern sets include sensitive electronics and digital controls that require special attention to ensure they remain operable over time. 

Options for In-House Model Train Storage: Tips for In-House Train Set Display and Organization

Display shelving and cabinets are the most visible and accessible forms of model train storage. These options allow collectors to showcase prized pieces while simultaneously keeping them protected. Glass-front display cabinets and cases with UV protection offer excellent protection from dust, fading and cracking over time. Wall-mounted shelves can make use of vertical space to display larger-sized models.

Dedicated hobby rooms and basement spaces are popular choices among serious collectors, as each offers storage and operational space in your home. Converting a climate-controlled spare bedroom, finished basement or attic space into a hobby room lets collectors lay out elaborate displays and layouts without fear of catastrophes and accidents.

Self storage is worth consideration to set up multiple collections or vintage displays. An off-site storage unit can also be transformed into a hobby space if you need to spare precious square footage at home.  

Original packaging is an excellent model train storage solution. Whenever possible, store your trains and set pieces in their original packaging, which provides protection designed by the manufacturer for the safekeeping of each specific piece. Original packaging also increases resale value.

A well-considered train set storage organizational system will help manage your collection. Clearly labeled, custom foam-lined containers are stackable options that will help categorize and safely store trains and delicate set pieces.

Keeping Your Collection Protected and Pristine: Tips and Best Practices for Proper Toy Train Storage

• Climate-controlled model train storage is the single most critical factor to ensure long-term safekeeping. Humidity levels should be consistently maintained below 60% to deter rust on metal wheels, axles and electrical contacts. Maintaining consistent moderate temperatures between 65 – 75 degrees Fahrenheit will prevent cracking and peeling due to expansion and contraction. 
• Dust and UV damage prevention requires a multi-pronged approach, as these culprits can wreak havoc on delicate electronics and build up on set pieces in even the cleanest homes. Dust regularly with soft brushes, and consider enclosed UV-safe display or storage boxes for maximum protection. 
• Careful packing techniques ensure your set pieces stand the test of time. Take extra care when wrapping, packing and stacking pieces for storage. Wrapping pieces in acid-free tissue or bubble wrap and nestling them between foam inserts will help protect pieces during transportation and long-term storage.
• Maintain detailed inventory records of large collections with photographs, receipts and proof of purchases, and condition notes to help keep track of your pieces. Clearly label storage bins, and consider using attractive labels in display cases to keep track of stored and displayed pieces.

When is a Self Storage Unit Worth it? Off-Site Options for Various Model Train Storage Scenarios

It may be time to consider an off-site model train storage unit if your collection has become unmanageable at home, or if you are no longer able to set up and enjoy your collection as you’d like to due to space constraints. Storage units are excellent choices for collectors who need to store and manage large collections, for hobbyists who regularly rotate seasonal displays, and for those who need to collect valuable or vintage train sets and pieces.  

A climate-controlled storage unit provides spacious, secure train set storage that can help preserve and organize large collections. Self-storage units also protect from the risk of basement flooding, extreme attic temperature fluctuations, and varying environmental conditions that could negatively impact the longevity of model trains.

For homeowners with large model train collections, home expansion or self-storage are the two most commonly considered solutions to maintaining and managing their beloved, ever-growing hobby. When comparing costs, consider that the average cost to finish a basement or add an addition to a home can run between $15,000 – $75,000 or more, depending on the size and location of your renovation. Comparatively, long-term self-storage can run $100 – $300 per month, depending on the size and location of the unit.

Your decision ultimately depends on your personal circumstances. Home renovations are major, permanent and expensive undertakings that offer long-term benefits but may limit the use of areas of your home for long periods of time till construction is complete. A storage unit may add up over time, but the flexible solution with no long-term commitment or major home construction make self-storage the go-to solution for many model train collectors.

Train Set Storage in a Storage Unit: What You Need to Know to Make the Right Choice for Your Collection

Earlier in this piece we reviewed the most common model train sizes. A 5×5-foot storage unit offers 25 square feet of storage and can comfortably accommodate modest hobbyist collections of several dozen boxed trains, plus accessories if shelving is also added. Serious collectors typically need at least a 5×10 unit that provides 50 square feet of storage space, or for extensive collections a 10×10 unit that provides 100 square feet of storage space. Collectors who want to use self storage as hobby spaces with train set installations typically opt for the larger walk-in units.

Climate-controlled units are a must for toy train storage, as these units allow you to set and maintain a consistent, temperate environment ideal for protecting your investment long-term. Look for units that offer year-round temperature regulation, dehumidification systems and monitoring to ensure conditions remain stable even during outages and equipment failures.

Safe storage is also paramount, and the right self storage unit will provide plenty of protection and peace of mind for collectors seeking secure model train storage. Premium facilities offer in-unit alarms, 24-7 security surveillance, gated access with entry codes and on-site management during business hours.

Organize your unit with freestanding metal or plastic shelving units, and pack your pieces in clear, lidded storage bins that are labeled for easy inventory. Stack bins by weight, with heavy items at the bottom. Make sure you allow a pathway through your unit to access your item hassle-free, and place items you need most regularly within easy reach.

Finally, consider insuring your collection when using off-site model train storage. Verify if your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy covers off-site train set storage, and consider if specialized high-value collections insurance makes sense for your collection. A sound insurance policy just makes sense if you own priceless or valuable trains, heirloom or vintage sets, or one-of-a-kind pieces. 

Your Collection Deserves Long-Term Protection: Stay on Track with Proper Train Set Storage

The best train set storage solution is the one that gives you peace of mind, provides the ability to set up and enjoy your sets the way you desire, and aligns well with an organized home. That may mean the best option is an expensive home renovation for serious collectors, or affordable monthly off-site train set storage for hobbyists with smaller arrangements. If off-site model train storage is right for you and your collection, our handy storage unit finder tool can help you find and compare affordable, conveniently located self-storage units near you.