Best 5 Car Shelters – Reviews & Buyer’s Guide
Have you always wanted a home garage but have never had the time or money to have one installed? Well, good news. There’s an easier, cheaper option: a car shelter.
A car shelter is a great way to keep your car literally “sheltered” during harsh weather conditions. Whether it’s sunlight, rain, snow, or wind, a good car shelter can keep your vehicle safe and in mint condition.
The emphasis here is on the word “good”. You need to be sure you’re spending your money on something that’s actually worth it. The best car shelters are spacious, weather-proof, adjustable, and stable throughout different conditions.
Since choosing the right car shelter might be a bit difficult at first, we’ve come up with a list of the top 5 car shelters on the market. We’ve also thrown in a handy guide on how to choose the perfect one for you.
Best Selling Car Shelters
Who Needs a Car Shelter?
Well, that’s a good question. It really depends on your personal needs and how the weather is where you live. That being said, some people might benefit from a car shelter more than others.
⦁ Garage alternative
If you’re someone who can’t afford the time or money needed to install a garage in your home or simply don’t have space, a car shelter is an excellent alternative.
Car shelters are basically portable garages that you can take with you and set up any place you’d like.
⦁ Bad weather
If you live somewhere where the weather is bad or constantly changing, you might want to consider getting a car shelter. Not all vehicles can handle the continuous onslaught of rain or snow.
Same goes for areas that have endless sunlight. UV rays damage the interior and the exterior of your car. If you live somewhere where it’s extremely hot and always sunny, you might want to consider getting a car shelter.
How to Choose the Best Car Shelter – Things to Consider
Don’t be overwhelmed by the sheer number of options available on the market. Just keep a few factors in your mind when deciding and you’ll be able to find the right car shelter in no time. Here’s what you need to consider.
1. Budget
The first and foremost thing to consider when choosing a car shelter is your budget. It’s what ultimately decides which shelters you can choose and which are outside of your buying ability.
That being said, most car shelters cost somewhere around $300, on average. Of course, you might be able to find a few bargain options that offer excellent features but at a lower price. Just think about your budget.
2. Weather
The second most important thing to consider is your local weather. Ask yourself: does it rain a lot where you live? If so, then you’re better off going for a shelter with a roof that features a steeper pitch. This enhances your runoff.
What about sunlight? Is it always sunny where you live? If that’s the case, you should go for a car shelter that has a polyethylene build. It’ll protect your car from unwanted UV rays.
If your local weather is usually windy, your best option would be a car shelter that has strong anchoring points so you can tie everything down properly.
3. Size
Generally speaking, car shelters can accommodate all kinds of normal-sized cars. If your car is larger than most, you might want to double-check the car shelter’s dimensions before deciding on one.
4. Materials
This is obviously an extremely important factor to consider. You want your car shelter to be made from materials that offer durability, protection, and value.
That’s why the majority of shelters on this list are made from powdered steel frames and polyethylene covers.
There are other options to choose from, although not as effective as steel and polyethylene.
For example, some people opt for wooden frames. The problem with these kinds of car shelters is that they’re too weak. They’re also extremely susceptible to moisture damage.
Other people might prefer PVC outers, which are cheap, flimsy, and provide zero protection against UV light.
This is why none of the car shelters on this list are made from these materials.
Top 5 Car Shelters – Reviews
1. Abba Patio 12 x 20-Feet Car Shelter- The Mid-ranged, All-Around Great Car Shelter
First up on this list is the Abba Patio. It may not be the best or most expensive item but it’s an excellent mid-range and mid-priced car shelter that you can rely on.
First of all, you easily assemble the Abba Patio in a matter of minutes without any effort at all. It’s also just as easily collapsible.
This makes it ideal for those who favor temporary car shelters. You can set it up in the winter and summer to protect your vehicle from harsh weather and then pack it away during spring and fall.
In terms of construction, the Abba Patio favors a sturdy, durable steel build that is powder coated for extra protection against rust and corrosion.
As for the body and roof, the polyethylene build protects against wind, rain, snow, and even UV rays.
The Abba Patio also comes with removable sidewalls and strong, stable footpads that stay put on hard surfaces like asphalt and soft ones like grass alike.
Features
⦁ Detachable sidewalls
⦁ Stable footpads
⦁ Powder-treated steel construction
⦁ Polyethylene body and roof
Pros
⦁ Very stable
⦁ Easy to set up and disassemble
⦁ Strong, durable build
⦁ Steel is corrosion-proof
⦁ Polyethylene material protects your car from different weather elements
Cons
⦁ Some people have complained that it doesn’t hold up against strong winds
Our Verdict
If you’re looking for a great, all-around reliable car shelter that is mid-ranged in terms of price and features, the Abba Patio is a great option to consider.
2. Peaktop Heavy-Duty Car Shelter- The Zippable Car Shelter
Just like the Abba Patio, the Peaktop comes with removable side panels, but also front and back panels that can be opened or zipped shut. This is a huge advantage that most car shelters don’t offer.
For example, let’s say you’re doing some sort of car maintenance project. Whether it’s washing, waxing, oil draining, or replacing engine parts, the Peaktop can literally be your portable garage.
It’ll allow you to isolate your car from all unwanted elements like wind, dirt, and debris. All you have to do is zip up the panels of your car shelter and you’ll be able to work in peace.
In terms of durability, the Peaktop is made from 38mm powder-treated steel along with UV-resistant polyethylene.
Overall, the Peaktop is an excellent choice for isolating your car from the environment, giving you some time to work on your favorite set of wheels.
Features
⦁ Removable side panels
⦁ Zippable door panel
⦁ Powder-treated steel frame
Pros
⦁ Completely isolates your car from the environment
⦁ Zippers allow you to work on your car without interference
⦁ Strong, durable construction
Cons
⦁ Some people have complained that the poles are weak and bendable
Our Verdict
If you’re looking for a strong, heavy-duty car shelter that allows you to completely isolate your vehicle from unwanted elements, this zippable car shelter is perfect for you.
3. ShelterLogic 10×15 AutoShelter -The Durable, Long-Term Car Shelter
ShelterLogic is a market-leading brand when it comes to car shelters. Their shelters are of such high quality, some people don’t even bother considering other brands when choosing.
The 10×15 AutoShelter is no exception with its ability to resist wind, sun, rain, animal droppings, and practically anything you can think of.
Its canopy is specially coated for extra protection against harmful UV rays while its augers help keep it latched safely in place.
The 10×15 AutoShelter is made from sturdy, triple-woven polyethylene material along with heat-seals that prevent water from entering.
Features
⦁ High-grade steel frame
⦁ Triple layer, heat-sealed polyethylene
⦁ Ratchet cover tension adjustment
⦁ 15-inch auger anchors
⦁ Gray fitted cover
⦁ 36 square feet of storage space
Pros
⦁ High-grade steel frame
⦁ Rust and corrosion-resistant
⦁ Easy to set up and disassemble
⦁ Water-resistant, heat-sealed seams
⦁ Easy to clean
⦁ Made to last
⦁ Easy slide cross rail system
Cons
⦁ The instructions provided for installation aren’t very clear
Our Verdict
If you’re looking for a powerful car shelter that can withstand long term installation and can also double as a storage shed, this is the perfect choice for you.
4. Quictent Heavy-Duty Car Shelter- The Most Budget-Friendly
This might just be the cheapest car shelter on our list, but that doesn’t mean it’s not as reliable as the others. The Quictent is one of the best, yet simplest car shelters on the market.
It favors a simple, portable design without any fancy bells or whistles. In terms of construction, it’s made from powder-treated, heavy-duty steel that guarantees protection from corrosion and rust.
The tubing itself is 3.8cm thick, providing a solid, durable frame. As for the roof, the thick polyethylene material helps keep UV rays, wind, and rain away from your car.
Features
⦁ Great, affordable price
⦁ Durable, extra-thick polyethylene construction
⦁ 3.8cm diameter steel tubing
⦁ Powder-treated steel
Pros
⦁ Lowest price on this list
⦁ Can double as a party tent
Cons
⦁ Height isn’t adjustable
⦁ Isn’t easy to assemble
⦁ Comes in one size only
Our Verdict
If you’re looking for a reliable, year-long car shelter that is well within your budget, this is an excellent choice to consider.
5. SORARA Heavy-Duty Car Shelter- The Best Overall
SORARA makes some of the best outdoor living products you’ll ever come across including umbrellas, hammocks, gazebos, and of course, car shelters.
This model lives up to the company’s reputation thanks to its brilliantly crafted design. Here are some of the best features this car shelter has to offer.
Features
⦁ Powder-coated frames for extra stability
⦁ Thick UV-treated polyethylene covers (inside and out)
⦁ Solid base plate
⦁ Durable, rust and corrosion-proof steel frames
⦁ Metal corner joint
⦁ Water, wind, rain, snow, and UV-resistant fabrics
⦁ Removable front and back doors
⦁ Windows on each sidewall
⦁ Heavy-duty bungees cord
Pros
⦁ Removable doors allow for cross ventilation and venting
⦁ Strong build
⦁ Easy to set up
⦁ Fully collapsible
⦁ Instructions included
⦁ Works great for parties and social events
⦁ Can also be used to store boats and motorcycles
Cons
⦁ The fabric could be a bit more flexible
Our Verdict
If you’re looking for a large, efficient best-seller that can keep your car, boat, or motorcycle safe, you can’t go wrong with the SORARA.
The Best Overall among the 5 Best Car Shelters
Out of all these excellent choices, the best car shelter would have to be the SORARA car shelter. It’s not only versatile, large, and reliable, but it also provides excellent protection from all kinds of environmental elements.
Best Car Shelters – Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of shelter should I choose for winter?
Winter can be rough on your car. Luckily, there are several different options to choose from if you’re worried about your car.
One option you can go for is powder-treated steel. Regular steel is liable to rust when exposed to moisture so if you’re thinking of getting a steel frame, make sure it’s treated. Otherwise, it might not last through winter.
Another great tip is to choose heat-sealed materials rather than stitched ones. They act as a protective barrier, keeping out unwanted moisture.
Do I need a car shelter in the summer?
While summer weather doesn’t typically involve rain, snow, or windy weather, you should keep in mind that cars are heat magnets. In fact, some cars can reach 200 degrees!
This level of heat can damage your car’s internal architecture such as the dashboard, upholstery, and even the car’s electronics.
UV light is also a major concern because it can affect your car’s paintwork. A car shelter helps protect from all the troubles of the summer.
Final Verdict
Everyone loves their car. Whether it’s an old Honda or a brand new Ferrari, you don’t want it to get even the smallest scratch, dent, or any kind of damage. A good car shelter helps protect your vehicle from all kinds of things.
You just have to choose the right one. With this guide, you should be able to pick out the perfect car shelter for your needs. If you’re still having difficulty choosing, why not pick a shelter from this list?
These 5 are some of the best car shelters on the market, each having their own unique properties. Pick one out today and give your car the comfy, makeshift home it deserves.
