A garage protects your vehicle and gives you extra storage space. Many homes do not have one on the property so a portable garage may be an option. Building a traditional garage can be costly and require building permits and other bureaucratic steps before you can even begin your plans.
A portable garage is a strong compromise. Also referred to as a carport canopy, a portable car garage provides protection for your vehicle and some additional storage space with the steep costs and permits required with a traditional garage. The key is to find the best portable garage for your needs.
In A Hurry? The Best Portable Garage Options
PLAN
Number
minutes
Price
Price for 1 minute
TOP PICK
Quictent Heavy-Duty Carport Gazebo Canopy
#2
Rhino Shelters Temporary Garage
#3
Ikuby Heavy-Duty Portable Lockable Carport
#4
Quictent Heavy-Duty Car Canopy
#5
Abba Patio Storage Shelter
The 5 Best Portable Car Garage Options
1. Quictent Heavy-Duty Carport Gazebo Canopy
[su_note note_color=”#ffffff” text_color=”#000000″ radius=”1″]
[su_button url=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005RT6UGM/?tag=b34r9-20″ target=”blank” background=”#D62828″ color=”#ffffff” size=”11″ center=”yes” radius=”0″ rel=”nofollow”]CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON[/su_button]
[/su_note]
The Quictent heavy-Duty Carport Gazebo Canopy features several windows and strong materials. This carport canopy functions as both vehicle protection and storage space.
The frame is a powder-coated steel. It can withstand temperature extremes and wet weather without rusting prematurely. This garage has a cover that is a waterproof PE material that offers protection in a variety of weather situations.
The door and cover resist ultraviolet light so that your vehicle does not get excessive exposure when it is sitting outside. Its joint connector is an upgraded heavy-duty steel so that the structure is maintained for the long-term.
You can put this portable garage together easily. On average, it takes a few hours to fully construct it. Use this as a shelter for outdoor celebrations or a garage, depending on your needs.
[su_note note_color=”#00FF33″ text_color=”#000000″ radius=”1″]
What We Liked
- It was easy to put together
- You can use it for several purposes
- This portable garage accommodates multiple vehicle types
- There is a lot of extra space after parking your vehicle
[/su_note]
[su_note note_color=”#cccccc” text_color=”#000000″ radius=”1″]
What We Didn’t Like
- A windstorm may knock it down
- You might have to add additional anchoring
[/su_note]
Our Overall Impression
This is one of the best portable garage options because it is large and flexible. You can fit any vehicle inside as well as lawn equipment. The windows make it easy to see what you are doing during the day.
2. Rhino Shelters Temporary Garage
[su_note note_color=”#ffffff” text_color=”#000000″ radius=”1″]
[su_button url=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00M89BOHO/?tag=b34r9-20″ target=”blank” background=”#D62828″ color=”#ffffff” size=”11″ center=”yes” radius=”0″ rel=”nofollow”]CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON[/su_button]
[/su_note]
The Rhino Shelters Temporary Garage measures 14 by 24 by 10 feet. This is plenty of space for non-commercial trucks and cars.
The construction is a heavy-duty galvanized steel. It uses structural tubing that is easy to put together when you are building it. This structure’s components resist rust so you can have it outside long-term without it breaking down prematurely.
The carriage bolts are industrial grade so that they keep this portable garage intact even during heavy wind and snow. The fabric that makes up this shelter is 22mil thick. It is fire retardant and UV treated. There is a black scrim inside the fabric that offers additional UV ray blocking for more protection.
This garage comes with cable hook anchors. These will work with numerous surface types, including dirt, grass, asphalt, hard pack and gravel. The anchors have a 300-pound pull out ratio and they are an auger style.
There are doors in the back and front of this garage. This makes it easier to get out of and into the structure, and it allows for adequate ventilation. The doors open and close using double zippers made of a heavy-duty nylon material. They have a design that prevents them from freezing or jamming. Open them from outside or inside the garage.
[su_note note_color=”#00FF33″ text_color=”#000000″ radius=”1″]
What We Liked
- This garage is very sturdy
- There is plenty of space for a variety of vehicles
- You can maintain this garage easily
[/su_note]
[su_note note_color=”#cccccc” text_color=”#000000″ radius=”1″]
What We Didn’t Like
- It takes a little longer to construct this garage compared to similar models
[/su_note]
Our Overall Impression
This is one of the best portable garage options because it fits even larger vehicles. Since it prevents water from getting it, this structure is also ideal for storing items like tools and lawn equipment.
3. Ikuby Heavy-Duty Portable Lockable Carport
[su_note note_color=”#ffffff” text_color=”#000000″ radius=”1″]
[su_button url=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N0VYNMF/?tag=b34r9-20″ target=”blank” background=”#D62828″ color=”#ffffff” size=”11″ center=”yes” radius=”0″ rel=”nofollow”]CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON[/su_button]
[/su_note]
The Ikuby Heavy-Duty Lockable Carport sets itself apart from similar portable garage choices because you can lock it. This feature adds additional protection for your vehicle. It weighs 170 pounds so it can hold up well in bad weather, including some hailstorms, heavy winds and snowstorms.
The fabric used for this carport is a 600D oxford fabric, ensuring that it is heavy duty. It is 100 percent waterproof and features a PU coating.
Installing this portable garage on your property is easy. It comes with all of the anchors and hardware that you need to construct this structure completely. Use the numbers on the pipes so that you can easily identify the exact part you need during the installation process.
This garage protects anything that you put into it from frost and snow, water and wind, sunlight, hail and dust. It also protects your vehicle from scratches and similar damage that are common when it sits in an open driveway.
[su_note note_color=”#00FF33″ text_color=”#000000″ radius=”1″]
What We Liked
- The materials are very high in quality
- You can put this garage together in under two hours
- This garage holds up well in winds up to 50 miles per hour
[/su_note]
[su_note note_color=”#cccccc” text_color=”#000000″ radius=”1″]
What We Didn’t Like
- The assembly instructions could be clearer
[/su_note]
Our Overall Impression
This portable garage is secure and large. It offers sufficient protection for the items that you want to store and your vehicle.
4. Quictent Heavy-Duty Car Canopy
[su_note note_color=”#ffffff” text_color=”#000000″ radius=”1″]
[su_button url=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00267Q856/?tag=b34r9-20″ target=”blank” background=”#D62828″ color=”#ffffff” size=”11″ center=”yes” radius=”0″ rel=”nofollow”]CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON[/su_button]
[/su_note]
The Quictent Heavy-Duty Car Canopy is a versatile structure that is easy to maintain. It measures approximately 10 by 20 by eight feet.
The frame uses a powder-coated, heavy-duty steel that is resistant to rust and weather-related damage. This garage comes with a cover that is a PE material and waterproof. For the door, the material is a 160g PE. It is waterproof and it has ultraviolet light protection.
This structure’s joint connector is made from a heavy-duty, upgraded steel. Due to this, the joints will not collapse easily in bad weather.
The pipes that make up this structure are 0.8 millimeters thick and are 38 millimeters in diameter. This ensures that the structure is strong after you finish assembling it. There is a high level of stability due to the metal base plate that is heavy duty.
[su_note note_color=”#00FF33″ text_color=”#000000″ radius=”1″]
What We Liked
- You can add additional stakes easily to further secure this structure to the ground
- The fabric is easy to clean and maintain
- It is fast and easy to construct this garage
[/su_note]
[su_note note_color=”#cccccc” text_color=”#000000″ radius=”1″]
What We Didn’t Like
- The tarp may develop holes when hail occurs
[/su_note]
Our Overall Impression
This structure functions as a portable garage or a shelter for people when you host outdoor parties. The strong materials ensure that it will not falter easily during inclement weather.
5. Abba Patio Storage Shelter
[su_note note_color=”#ffffff” text_color=”#000000″ radius=”1″]
[su_button url=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B075LLZRSP/?tag=b34r9-20″ target=”blank” background=”#D62828″ color=”#ffffff” size=”11″ center=”yes” radius=”0″ rel=”nofollow”]CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON[/su_button]
[/su_note]
The Abba Patio Storage Shelter works as a storage space and a portable garage. You can put this structure together in under three hours.
The steel frame has a powder coating and it is approximately 1.5 inches thick. It is resistant to peeling, corrosion, chipping and rust. This ensures a high level of stability and strength.
This garage comes with a polyethylene top cover. It will prevent the penetration of ultraviolet light to protect your vehicle. The material also provides solid protection against rain, wind and snow.
There is a door at the front of this structure. You can detach it completely if you prefer to keep the garage open. Use the zipper to open, close or remove the door. This ensures versatility and better ventilation.
You can transport this garage if necessary because it is fully collapsible. It comes with all of the hardware that you need to assemble it.
[su_note note_color=”#00FF33″ text_color=”#000000″ radius=”1″]
What We Liked
- You can fit this structure into standard driveways easily
- The design works well for most non-commercial vehicles
- It comes with clear assembly instructions
[/su_note]
[su_note note_color=”#cccccc” text_color=”#000000″ radius=”1″]
What We Didn’t Like
- It may develop holes prematurely, especially if there is hail in the area
[/su_note]
Our Overall Impression
There are four different size options that you can choose from. It is easy to assemble so that you do not have to wait to start using it to protect your vehicle.
[su_note note_color=”#D9EDF7″ text_color=”#111111″ radius=”1″]
Portable Garage Buying Guide
To buy the best portable garage, you need to know how to evaluate the portable garage options on the market. Use this information to explore the common features, specifications and concerns related to a carport canopy. The following questions and answers allow you to choose the best portable garage for your property.
- What is a Portable Car Garage?
- What Are the Benefits of a Portable Garage?
- What is Your Local Weather Like?
- What Size is the Best?
- Which Materials Are Common for a Winter-Friendly Portable Garage?
- Is a Portable Garage Easy to Install?
- Can You Customize a Portable Garage?
What is a Portable Car Garage?
A portable garage is a structure that uses a fabric cover and a network of poles. Once you construct it, it provides the same protection as a traditional garage for your vehicle or any items that you are storing inside.
There are numerous options and features that you will find. For example, some of these structures have doors at the back and front. The doors usually use a zipper or Velcro to secure them. In some cases, you can also open the sides for greater ventilation when you need it.
You can find these garages in a wide variety of sizes. There are options that can accommodate large trucks and SUVs. Several of them have enough space to accommodate your vehicle and workspace.
What Are the Benefits of a Portable Garage?
There are several benefits associated with having this type of garage. These include:
- You can use them during an outdoor party if the weather may turn later in the day. They offer sufficient protection against wind and rain.
- Create extra storage space on your property. If you will store things of value, consider a portable structure that has a locking feature.
- These garages protect your vehicle from sleet, snow, hail, rain and damaging winds. They also help to protect you if you need to do some work on your vehicle when the weather is bad.
- When your vehicle sits out in the hot sun for years, the UV light can gradually cause damage to the paint job. This type of structure prevents UV rays from penetrating so that your vehicle is safe.
- In the hot summer months, your vehicle sitting in direct sunlight can cause the internal temperature to become dangerously high. This type of structure provides adequate shade so that your car or truck is more comfortable when you get inside.
What is Your Local Weather Like?
Your local weather will determine the best materials for your portable garage. Consider the following when you are trying to determine which garage is best for your area:
- If there is a lot of rain where you live, look for a structure that has a roof with a steeper pitch. This feature lets the water run off effectively so that it does not accumulate on top. When the rain has somewhere to go, this reduces the risk of the roof caving in.
- If you are in an area that gets a lot of sun, consider a structure with fabric that offers ultraviolet light protection. Look for the polyurethane material. It works to prevent the penetration of UV light to decrease the risk of sun causing damage to your car’s paint.
- Strong winds can be disastrous for this type of garage if you choose the wrong one. Look for structures that have a strong anchoring system and different anchoring points. These features will keep your garage on the ground in winds that are strong so that the structure does not blow away. You also want poles made from a strong steel so that the wind does not cause them to bend.
What Size is the Best?
The size is one of the most important considerations when you are looking for a new garage. Start by measuring the space where you plan to put the structure. Measure the length, width and height.
Use these measurements to compare to the dimensions of the structures that you are interested in. When you are considering the placement of your garage, make sure that the area is level and can accommodate the structure.
Which Materials Are Common for a Winter-Friendly Portable Car Garage?
If you live in an area that gets a traditional winter, you have to consider the structure’s materials to make sure that they can stand up to the weather. The right materials will also ensure that anything that you put into the garage will have adequate protection against the snow and cold. Look for the following:
- Polyethylene is the ideal material to remain strong during harsh winter weather. It will not rot with prolonged moisture like many canvas fabrics.
- The steel should have a powder coating. This coating reduces the risk of rusting.
- A built-in ratchet system lets you tighten the outer materials. This prevents moisture from accumulating and ensures a tight seal around the frame.
- You want a garage that lets you use a heat seal instead of stitching. A heat seal is more effective at keeping moisture out of the garage.
Is a Portable Garage Easy to Install?
Once you choose the best portable garage, it is imperative that you install it properly so that it lasts and can withstand bad weather. The first step is finding a space on your property where the ground is level. If necessary, you should level the ground yourself or install a concrete pad to install this structure on.
When you are ready to put the portable garage together, follow the instructions exactly. This information should be in the owner’s manual.
Once you have the garage constructed, brace the poles. These garages come with anchoring equipment that you will use according to the directions. However, you can choose to add additional support. This is a good idea if you live in an area that gets a lot of snow or wind.
The last step is putting the tarp or fabric over the poles. This component usually ties down once you get it situated properly. You can add additional ties to reinforce it.
Can You Customize a Portable Garage?
There are many ways to customize your portable garage once you build it according to the instructions. Just make sure that you do not add too much weight to the fabric to prevent rips and tears. Some customization ideas include:
- Place benches along the back of the garage for extra storage or workspace
- Attach peg boards to the poles for tool storage (do not let these get too heavy)
- Run a heavy-duty, all-weather extension cord to the garage to supply electricity to your structure for lighting or heat
- Use a critter guard to prevent animals from getting inside
[/su_note]
[su_note note_color=”#D4DFF8″ text_color=”#000000″ radius=”1″]Guide For Buying is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. If you make a purchase through our links we get a commission, at no additional cost to you.[/su_note]
