9 Things Americans Have in Their Garages That Brits Would Keep for Absolutely No Reason
Ever wondered what fills an American’s garage? It might surprise you that what’s common in the US can be pretty unusual elsewhere, like in Britain. From extra fridges to tools that could stock a store, Americans use their garages for more than just parking cars. Let’s walk through some of these intriguing garage staples and find out just why they’re so common across the pond but not so much in Britain.
1. A Second Refrigerator

In many American homes, a second refrigerator in the garage is as normal as having a microwave in the kitchen. Why? Well, it comes in handy for storing extra beverages, bulk purchases from the supermarket, or leftovers from big family dinners. Imagine after Thanksgiving, with all the extra turkey and pies; that second fridge really saves the day. Plus, during hot summers, grabbing a cold drink from the garage fridge is super convenient when you’re mowing the lawn or working out there.
2. An Enormous Chest Freezer

Next up is the enormous chest freezer, another garage feature you’ll find in many American households. This isn’t just any freezer; it’s a beast that can hold everything from bulk meat purchases to months’ worth of frozen veggies and large ice cream tubs. For families who love to save money by buying in bulk or those who hunt and store large quantities of meat, this freezer is a lifesaver. It’s all about convenience and making fewer trips to the store.
3. Industrial Shelving Filled with Bulk Groceries

Speaking of buying in bulk, let’s talk about those industrial shelves stacked with groceries. Many Americans prefer stocking up on sale items, seasonal goods, or just everyday essentials like paper towels and canned food. These shelves in the garage are perfect for keeping all those extra supplies organized. Imagine you’ve got a big family or you’re prepping for a storm, these shelves are your best friend.
4. A Workbench Worthy of a Professional Workshop

A well-equipped workbench is a common sight in an American garage. Whether it’s for fixing a leaky faucet, assembling furniture, or a hobby like woodworking, a sturdy workbench with all sorts of tools is often the center of garage activity. This setup not only makes DIY tasks easier but also turns the garage into a personal workshop where all repair and craft magic happens.
5. Several Bicycles Hanging from the Walls

Bikes hanging from the walls? Absolutely. With outdoor activities being popular among families, it’s common to find multiple bicycles stored in the garage. This space-saving method keeps the bikes out of the way and in good condition. Whether it’s for commuting, a leisurely park ride, or intense mountain biking, having easy access to well-maintained bikes can encourage more family outings and healthy habits.
6. Large Sports Equipment Collections

From basketballs and baseball bats to golf clubs and ski equipment, many American garages serve as a mini sports depot. This variety reflects the diverse sports interests that are prevalent across the country. Keeping this gear in the garage is super practical since it’s out of the way yet ready to go for any spontaneous game or practice session.
7. Seasonal Decorations for Every Major Holiday

Americans love to celebrate, and this is clear from the seasonal decorations that take over their garages. From Halloween skeletons to Christmas lights and Easter bunnies, decorations for each occasion are often stored in the garage. This makes it easy to transform a home for every season, keeping festivities alive throughout the year.
8. Camping Equipment for the Entire Family

For many American families, camping is a popular getaway, and all that gear? It’s stored in the garage. Tents, sleeping bags, hiking boots, and cooking gear all find a home here. This not only keeps the equipment organized and ready but also helps in planning those spontaneous adventure trips without a fuss.
9. A Ride-on Lawn Mower

And then there’s the ride-on lawn mower, almost a staple in homes with big yards. This isn’t just about convenience, it’s almost a necessity for maintaining large gardens efficiently. Parked in the garage, it’s ready to roll whenever the grass gets a bit too high, making yard maintenance less of a chore and more of a drive in the park.
We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home.
We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home. With over 10 years of experience in dating and traveling to romantic places, we share our favorite date ideas and romantic destinations to help couples level up their relationships. Having lived in and traveled through the USA, we also share our favourite things to do in the States.
With 70,000 monthly readers and 16,000 followers on social media, Be Right Back is your go-to resource for romantic trip ideas and couple activities at home and abroad.
