Are you looking for the best garden trunk? Read my reviews, my opinions and discover the guide to choosing.
The outdoor trunk knows how to make your life easier, especially if you are lucky enough to own a garden. In fact, it allows you to obtain a useful space to store anything, from the cushions in the garden lounge to work tools, or any other object that you want to protect or hide from view. I also use it to preserve the filter system of my swimming pool: this is to make you understand the thousand uses of the trunks, and the many opportunities they offer you.
Table of Contents
Features of the garden trunk
Not all outdoor trunks are the same, since both the materials and the characteristics of their structure can change. Some are designed to withstand rain and therefore waterproof, others still have comfortable wheels at the base, which give you the ability to move them without too much effort. Then there are the containers that you can also use as a seat, but in that case it is more correct to speak of garden chests.
A very important issue obviously concerns the materials, given that not only the water resistance depends on them, but also the robustness and therefore the duration over time. Among the most common materials we find resin, both because it is quite cheap and because it is waterproof. Wood is the most suitable material for those who want an outdoor container that is not only resistant but also beautiful. On the other hand, I advise you to select only products in treated wood, to withstand the rain (otherwise it would deform).
It is clear that there are other values to take into consideration, before choosing a trunk suitable for outdoor use. The capacity in liters is fundamental, because it determines the space available to you, and the same goes for the maximum flow rate. That is for the total of kilos that the structure can hold, if you decide to use it also to sit down. Another element that I advise you to evaluate is the weight: if it does not have wheels and if it is very heavy, you may struggle when you move it.
Finally, the dimensions, which affect both the overall capacity of the trunk, and the space occupied on the walkable surface in the garden (so we are talking about the footprint).
Best trunks for the garden
1. Toomax Trunk Stora Way in Polypropylene
Probably one of the best garden trunks, in the sector of polypropylene models and therefore in sturdy plastic. This one in particular has an exaggerated capacity (from 842 liters), while the dimensions correspond to 129.5 x 74.5 x 111 cm. Being very tall, it has a double opening system: in fact, you can open it either by lifting the top panel, or by opening the front doors, just like with a common locker.
- Materials: polypropylene
- Dimensions: 129.5 x 74.5 x 111 cm
- Scope: too high to sit on
- Capacity: 842 liters
This product has many positive qualities, such as the presence of a windproof closure system, enriched with the possibility of placing a padlock. In addition, the closing of the upper deck is accompanied by the resistance opposed by the pistons, so you will not run the risk that it can close violently. The design is also very nice, with a rather realistic wood effect and with the possibility of choosing between various colors, such as taupe or anthracite black (with lots of veins in evidence).
Obviously it is able to withstand both wind and water, so it is waterproof and does not wobble when hit by strong gusts. It is not even afraid of UV rays, so it does not harden as it would happen with cheap plastics. In addition, the base is super stable, mounts easily, can be moved around without too much effort and is great for storing tools and small gardening machines (even the barbecue). Finally, know that there are guides to mount the shelves, but these are not included in the package.
2. Keter Outdoor Trunk Resin Pool Box
Costicchia, but it’s really worth it. This outdoor trunk by Keter is a real gem, both in terms of resistance and design. Made of premium quality resin, it has a capacity of 454 liters and a capacity of around 300 kilos, so you can use it as a seat without fear of anything. Imposing dimensions, equal to 145 x 69.7 x 60.3 centimeters.
- Materials: resin
- Dimensions: 145 x 69.7 x 60.3 cm
- Scope: 300 kilograms
- Capacity: 454 liters
It is a beautiful box, with a wooden planks effect, and also versatile: you can in fact use it to contain not only garden tools, but also pool accessories, cushions and many other things. The opening system is equipped with pistons, so the movement is always accompanied, and there are two metal slots to insert a padlock and to protect the contents of the box. In addition, there are several alternative versions, with different sizes and designs.
Personally, I struggle to find faults, as it is also easy to assemble, as well as having a really interesting design. As I explained to you, you can use it as a seat and it is also very roomy, as well as being 100% waterproof and windproof. It is not even afraid of the sun, it does not wear easily and it is a product destined to last a lifetime. Finally, there are also side handles and slits that allow you to ventilate the interior, but without letting water in.
3. Keter Trunk Denali Gray Duotech 380 Lt
Another round, another race, another Keter garden trunk of exceptional quality. In my opinion it is one of the best in circulation, due to its excellent strength due to the use of a resin of fine workmanship. The material is Duotech, it can be painted without problems and moreover the trunk is composed of a double panel structure: a feature that increases its sturdiness even more. Of course you can also use it as a seat, and it resists water and wind without problems.
- Materials: resin
- Dimensions: 122 x 62.1 x 70.6 cm
- Scope: 200 kilograms
- Capacity: 380 liters
The dimensions are equal to 122.9 x 62.1 x 70.6 centimeters, while the capacity reaches 380 liters, a really large value. Secondly, there is the double slot to insert a padlock and the opening is accompanied, since the lateral pistons are present. What are the other peculiarities to underline? The wood effect on an aesthetic level is really elegant, and even to the touch the feeling is very realistic. Finally, being in premium resin, it does not harden due to the UV rays of the sun.
It is a waterproof outdoor trunk that is very easy to assemble, and in fact it does not have a defect that is one. If I really have to find a note that is out of place, I would like to point out the fact that it does not have wheels, so it is slightly more complex to move, but it is a widely surpassable limit. And if you think it is expensive, if I have to be honest, it is better to spend rather than take home a cheap trunk destined to break after a few months.
4. Deuba Keter Marvel Plus External Container
If you are looking for a waterproof, reliable but not too expensive garden trunk, then I recommend this model from Deuba Keter. It is an outdoor container made of polypropylene, with a light wood effect design, and with a total capacity of 270 liters. It is a great product for hiding objects such as small garden tools from view, and does not let a drop of rain come through.
- Materials: polypropylene
- Dimensions: 117 x 45 x 57 cm
- Scope: 220 kilograms
- Capacity: 270 liters
Of course, plastic is still plastic: we are not at the top in terms of resistance, but for the use you will make of it (and for the price to spend) we are perfectly in line with the market averages. The dimensions are equal to 117 x 45 x 57 cm, while the capacity reaches up to 220 kilos, so you can also use it to sit down, avoiding dancing on the macarena if possible. Finally, know that polypropylene is great for outdoors, because it does not harden due to the UV rays of the sun.
Very easy to assemble, this trunk allows you to also place a padlock, in order to prevent any attempts of theft. Secondly, although it is not the most elegant container in the world, I must say that it still gives a pleasant effect, due to the sobriety of the anthracite color. In conclusion, a great mid-range trunk, with good strength and easy to handle move, also thanks to the wheels.
5. TERRY Box 120 Qblack Multipurpose container
Here is another mid-range outdoor container, obviously usable in the garden and able to withstand both violent downpours and gusts of wind. It is made of plastic and has a weight of 10 kilos, and at least in this case it is not a good idea to use it as a seat, because it is not suitable for this purpose. The dimensions are equal to 120 x 54 x 57 centimeters, while the internal capacity is quite large, considering that it reaches 240 liters.
- Materials: plastic
- Dimensions: 120 x 54 x 57 cm
- Scope: you cannot use it as a seat
- Capacity: 240 liters
One of its best qualities is its water resistance, as it is an IP X3 certified garden trunk. As for the structure, it is equipped with comfortable side handles and has the classic wheels, which will allow you to move it without spilling a single drop of sweat. It takes two minutes to assemble, so it is a very easy container to assemble.
Being resistant to rain, you can use it in all places exposed to the elements, but no one prevents you from using it as a container for the laundry or for the closet. The only real flaw is the lack of slots to insert a padlock, but being a not very expensive product, you cannot expect the moon. If you do not have excessive demands, with the Terry trunk you will find yourself wonderful.
How to choose the outdoor trunk
1. Materials
As I anticipated, the most frequent material of all is resin. Since it is real plastic, it is very economical and light, therefore it also facilitates the movement of the outdoor trunk. On the other hand, it is less resistant than other materials, but guarantees you perfect waterproofing. Other options are wood, which is beautiful from an aesthetic and elegant point of view, and stainless steel, the top in terms of strength and durability.
Resin trunks
Are you looking for a waterproof and inexpensive garden trunk? Then the resin is just for you. It is a thick plastic material made using synthetic compounds such as polypropylene and polyethylene. What are its main features? Unlike wood, resin does not rot when exposed to humid environments or water.
Furthermore, plastic is a super-cheap material, to the point that resin trunks hardly exceed 50 euros. The defects? It is not very robust and therefore has a limited duration over time, and the plastic tends to harden when exposed to the sun, unless you buy a trunk with an anti-UV treatment.
In terms of appearance, some products are made from synthetic rattan (also known as polirattan). This material is full-fledged plastic, but resembles the look of classic rattan, so it is more elegant. For the record, even the garden cabinets they could have this peculiarity.
Wooden trunks
Fantastic from an aesthetic point of view, these containers are not only robust but also refined and elegant. In addition to their main role (i.e. allowing you to store tools and so on), they also play another role: they embellish your garden with a real piece of furniture.
It has no rivals in decorative terms, but always remember that ordinary wood is not suitable for outdoor use. This is due to the fact that, being a hygroscopic material, it would tend to swell and deform due to the absorption of water and humidity. If you find a wooden outdoor trunk, then, make sure it has been treated to withstand the elements.
Also know that there are trunks in composite wood, the result of a mix with synthetic materials and resins. In this case we are talking about a product that can resist in the garden, because it does not risk rotting, and also cannot produce splinters. Finally, consider that natural wood can also be treated to withstand rain and humidity.
Metal trunks
Aluminum is not very common, because when exposed to rain and humidity it tends to anodize, while stainless steel is more common. This metal alloy is ideal due to the fact that it does not oxidize, and because it is designed to last a lifetime. But steel also has its downsides: that is, it weighs a lot and tends to get hot when exposed to the sun. In summary, moving it will not be easy and if you use it as a seat you will not be able to do without cushions, to avoid burning your lower back.
One of the best qualities of steel is its resistance to corrosion, which is achieved by treating the material with chrome and nickel plating.
Trunks in steel and resin
Know that there are also trunks with a steel core and coated in resin, classic or polirattan. These are excellent accessories both for a question of resistance and aesthetics, and also the polypropylene coating prevents them from becoming hot in the sun.
2. Capacity, range, measurements and weight
By capacity we mean the volume (always expressed in liters) that the trunk is able to contain. In summary, a high capacity equals more space available, and always depends on the depth and height of the container. The question relating to the maximum capacity is different, which instead depends on the solidity of the structure and therefore on the material used for the outdoor trunk. Usually the plastic ones are not very suitable as seats, precisely because the resin has a low carrying capacity.
Weight is a very important factor to consider, especially when it comes to moving the container. The plastic ones are very light and hardly exceed 6 kilos, although it always depends on their size. The models in steel and wood are the heaviest of all, and in some cases can even exceed 50 kilograms. There is little to add about the measures: depth and height must be adequate for the space you have in the garden.
For this reason, I personally always recommend that you take the measurements of the space to dedicate to it and compare them with the size of the trunk you want to buy. On average, a trunk of this type has a depth of 80 cm, a height of 60 cm and a width of about 120 cm, while the capacity is around 270 liters.
3. Structure and modularity
On a structural level we can find garden trunks with some extras, as in the case of wheels. They are especially great if you buy a very heavy product, made of wood or steel, or if you decide to move the container when it is full of objects (and therefore weighs more). Other interesting additions? Some trunks have buttonholes that allow you to close them with a padlock, for example to prevent them from stealing your work tools, or to shelter the children.
Modular outdoor trunks deserve a separate mention. These are products made up of 2 side blocks, and various central blocks that you can add as inserts. The main advantage is the following: you can decide how much space they will take up in width, then customize them according to your specific needs. Finally, since these are real trunks, the opening is always placed at the top of the block, and this is true for all models.
I would also like to mention the shape, with a flat but slightly sloping “roof” near the edges. This peculiarity, also known as anti-drop, allows water and liquids in general to slide off the surface, thus avoiding the danger of stagnation, which could create a favorable environment for the proliferation of molds and bacteria.
4. Upholstery and design
Some plastic trunks have a shape that resembles that of wooden planks, useful for adapting to a garden made for example in a rustic or shabby chic style. Still others, as I have already explained to you, are made in such a way as to replicate the typical shapes and weaves of rattan. Finally, there are also resin containers with a wood-effect coating, which makes them more aesthetically pleasing.
5. Internal nylon bag
In some models of outdoor trunk there is also an internal nylon bag. It is useful, for example, when you are storing garden tools that are still dirty with soil, because it prevents debris from accumulating on the bottom. And when you want to clean the bag, all you have to do is remove it from the special hooks that are inserted into the eyelets of the cloth, remove it, wash it, let it dry and put it back inside.
6. Opening system
The best trunks always have an opening system with hydraulic pistons, which allow you to accompany the movement of the door, and who also manage to keep it open. In addition, this system also facilitates the closing of the trunk, which will be easier, preventing it from falling over and hitting it. Finally, consider that some premium and taller models have a double opening (top, and front doors).
