When looking to buy a new home, or renovating the outdoor area of your current property, a garage becomes a frequent topic of discussion. The lack of a garage can often be a deal-breaker for many.
Fortunately, if you find yourself with an unsightly garage that you’re considering taking down, are thinking about purchasing a home without one, or simply need more outdoor storage, there are options for you!
Here is the Best Overall Carport at Amazon
A portable garage (or carport, canopy) is a great and cost-effective solution to give you a covered space for the storage of cars, motorcycles, small boats etc. It can even be used to hold backyard parties or provide shade for outdoor BBQ gatherings.
We understand the skepticism in thinking they are too complicated to install, not sturdy enough, or even perhaps too costly, so we are here to demystify the carport, or portable garage, and give you insight on your options!
From the best choice on a budget to solid and high-end options, here is our breakdown of the 5 best options for portable garages on the market, and how they will best suit you.
Our Quick Recommendations
- #1 BEST OVERALL: Abba Patio 12 x 20 Heavy Duty Carport
- #2 ALL AROUND COVERAGE: Peaktop Outdoor 10 x 20 ft Upgraded Heavy Duty Carport
- #3 COST EFFECTIVE: Abba Patio 10 x 20 Feet Outdoor Carport Canopy
- #4 SMALL BUT MIGHTY: Quictent 10’ x 20’ Heavy Duty Carport Canopy
- #5 AESTHETICALLY PLEASING: Advance Outdoor 10 x 20 Heavy Duty Carport Canopy
#1 BEST OVERALL: Abba Patio 12 x 20 Feet – Heavy Duty Carport
- Made with polyethylene top cover, UV-resistant, Water-resistant, protecting your car against wind, rain and snow
- Two detachable zipper doors can be easily removed for open air exhibits
- Heavy duty 1-1/2-inch diameter white powder coated steel frame resists chipping, peeling, rust and corrosion and provides increased stability
Last update on 2023-11-29 at 13:18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This great product from Abba Patio makes our list as the best overall (in both size and sturdiness). Notice that it is the only 12×20 feet in our list which is a size that’s not easily available in the market.
The Abba patio 12 x 20 Feet Heavy Duty Shelter is durable, UV and weather-resistant, and has great customer ratings as you can see on Amazon here.
But what separates it from the rest is, while budget-friendly and sturdy, it also has removable side panels allowing it to be utilized for a variety of purposes in addition to car shelter and storage (e.g parties in the backyard).
It is also the largest option on our list as we mentioned above. Whether being used for storage or entertaining, with more space and more customization, we feel this Abba Patio Carport is the best overall option for portable garages.
Here is a video (of a very similar model from the same company) that can help you to assemble the carport:
PROS:
- The optional side panels offer added versatility in how you set up your portable garage.
- Large 12×20 coverage area.
- Can withstand heavy winds and snow (we suggest to buy an extra set of ground anchor stakes and tie the carport with ratchet straps).
- Heave duty and thick polyethylene cover.
- Some customers reported that this product survived Hurricane Irma in central Florida.
CONS:
- The anchors that come with the product are weak. You will need to get an extra set of anchor stakes.
#2 ALL AROUND COVERAGE: Peaktop Outdoor 10 x 20 ft Upgraded Heavy Duty Carport
- 【REINFORCED TRIANGULAR BEAM】- Triangular reinforcement beams on top and sides of the main body frame, bring stability and effectively reduce the risk of twisting or collapsing under severe outdoor weather conditions.
- 【HEAVY DUTY GALVANISED FRAME】- Heavy duty 1-1/2inch (Dia.) galvanized rust-resistant steel metal poles and thickened 1.65inch (Dia.) connectors, provide whole frame increased stability. The galvanizing process protects steel pipe surfaces from chipping, peeling, rust, and corrosion.
- 【DURABLE ANTI-UV FABRIC 】- Extra-thick 180g polyethylene fabric provides your vehicle weather damage protection against UV, rain, dirt, and scratches.
Last update on 2023-11-29 at 13:18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Peaktop 10×20 ft Carport Car Canopy is the second portable garage on our list that can be 100% enclosed; it is also one of the heaviest products on our list, weighing in at around 130 lbs.
This shows that it’s a product made with heavy-duty material thus it can withstand strong winds and severe outdoor conditions.
With its completely galvanized steel frame and thick (180g) anti-UV treated cover, customers have even used this Peaktop model as a strong storage shed in addition to storing and protect both cars and boats.
Used as a portable garage, however, it is easily accessible for multiple other purposes thanks to the zippered front door.
Another nice addition that other models here do not have includes the 4 weight sandbags which can be attached to the poles for extra stability.
Because of the option for total enclosure, it is also a great option for boats and recent upgrades of this model give it a longer operating life. For total coverage and protection, this portable carport is our second winner.
PROS:
- Offers 100% all-around coverage.
- Looks and feels most similar to a traditional garage out of any on the list.
- The cover is made by extra thick (180g) Fabric (polyethylene material) which is water, snow and UV resistant.
- New upgraded heavy-duty steel galvanized frame with thicker diameter (1.65 inch diameter).
CONS:
- Because of it being all enclosed and heavy, the assembly may require 2-3 people; it is not recommended to assemble it yourself.
- Look out for the instructions included because some times it comes with wrong instructions (call the company if this happens).
#3 COST EFFECTIVE: Abba Patio 10 x 20 Feet Outdoor Carport Canopy
- Double polyethylene fabric, UV-resistant, Water-resistant, protecting your car against wind, rain and snow
- Heavy duty 1-1/2-inch diameter white powder coated steel frame resists chipping, peeling, rust and corrosion and provides increased stability
- Quick and easy set up by easy-to-follow, step-by-step instructions; fully collapsible for easy transport and storage
Last update on 2023-11-29 at 13:18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Abba Patio 10 x 20 ft Carport Canopy hits our list as the best on a budget. Priced reasonably for any budget, but don’t let the price tag fool you! This canopy can hold its own!
Weighing in at just under 100lbs, this portable garage option boasts great Amazon reviews from customers.
Whether you are looking for a reliable canopy to place patio furniture under, so you can shade yourself while sitting outside, or trying to prevent yourself from having to spend early morning hours dusting off your call after a snowstorm, this Abba Patio product has got you covered!
Consumers rave about how sturdy, yet easy to assemble this canopy is, so if you are looking for a simple, yet cost-effective portable garage, this Abba Patio Carport is the right choice for you!
Although it’s not a fully-covered carport (like the first two in our list above), it can be used for protecting your car, truck, motorcycle, boat etc or even as a party tent or BBQ shelter.
PROS:
- Affordable on nearly any budget.
- 10×20 coverage is great for a budget unit.
- Being a Lightweight product, it can be easily assembled even by a single person.
- Can withstand winds of 20-30 mph and heavy rain.
CONS:
- You may need to place weighted sand bags that wrap around each leg for better fixing on the ground.
- Anchors coming with it are plastic so you need to get an extra set of metal anchor stakes.
#4 SMALL BUT MIGHTY: Quictent 10’ x 20’ Heavy Duty Carport Canopy
- ✅【WARRANTY】1. Lifetime WARRANTY Replacement for Connectors, Pegs, Ropes, Elastic ropes, etc. 2. 1 Year Warranty for Covers and Poles.
- ✅【Extra-thick Polyethylene Fabric】Reinforced PE material is Tear-proof, Waterproof and Anti-UV. Industrial grade Cover Fabric for long lasting durability and protection guaranteed.
- ✅【38mm White Powder Coated Steel Tube】All frames are made of Upgraded White Powder Coated Steel Pipes, which is Heavy-Duty and Anti-Rust. The diameter of the steel pipe is up to 38mm and the thickness is up to 0.8mm. Use with the metal joint with a diameter of 42mm, our carport is more durable, more powerful and more stable.
Last update on 2023-11-29 at 13:18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
With its simple structure and white polyethylene cover, the Quictent 10 x 20 Heavy Duty Carport may appear unassuming, rest assured it is anything but this.
Its upgraded heavy-duty steel frame, and UV resistant cover will protect your vehicle and outdoor belongings.
Customers are saying one thing about this portable garage: “sturdy!” This Quictent product is a great option if you are looking for something to set up on a more permanent basis, as its sturdy frame does not make it the easiest to relocate.
Yet, its strength and reasonable price point make the product an unbeatable value.
Something else we like about this carport is the WARRANTY offered by the manufacturer. There are several warranty levels covering a range of materials, from connectors, ropes etc up to the cover and poles of the product.
PROS:
- Quictent has an excellent customer service track record.
- This unit is known for being very sturdy and durable.
- Easy to assemble (even by yourself alone). All components lock together easily.
- Well priced product.
CONS:
- Though it is sturdy and built to last, this particular carport is not easily relocated.
- Some customers reported that the tarp (cover) will not last long if you live in a place with hot weather (lots of sunlight).
#5 AESTHETICALLY PLEASING: Advance Outdoor 10 x 20 Heavy Duty Carport Canopy
- 【4 Adjustable Heights】- There are 4 options for the side height of this metal carport, which are 6.5ft, 7.0ft, 7.5ft, 8.0ft, accordingly peak height 9.5ft, 10.0ft, 10.5ft, 11.0ft. You can choose a suitable height for all kinds of your needs.
- 【Waterproof Canopy Cover】- This carport is made of heat-sealed, triple-layer 180g polyethylene fabric, which is Anti-UV, Waterproof, and can protect your car or boat against all four seasons elements, like sun, wind, rain, dust, hail, and snow.
- 【Heavy Duty Metal Frame】- This carport shelter consists of 1.5inch diameter galvanized steel poles with 8 solid legs, 1.2mm Thick and 1.65inch diameter connectors, 16 steel pegs, and 8 auger anchors, to make the whole steel carport much safer and more stable.
Last update on 2023-11-29 at 13:18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Do you regularly host outdoor events, or would like to but do not have shelter from the elements? If your yard needs a covered gathering space for you to entertain, the Advance Outdoor 10 x 20 Heavy Duty Canopy is perfect for hosting guests.
Advance Outdoor has developed a canopy that not only covers you and your belongings from the elements but looks great in your yard! The tapered beige cover is an attractive way to protect your vehicle or host your next backyard barbecue.
Affordable, and well designed, this canopy option will have your neighbors eyeing your new outdoor oasis, and it has also earned customers’ stamp of approval being dubbed the #1 New Release in carports this summer. You will not be disappointed with this one!
PROS:
- Looks nice, and won’t clutter your outdoor space.
- Offers heavy-duty protection while still looking great.
- It has extra poles to make the height adjustable.
CONS:
- Some customers reported that the tarp should be stronger.
- Relatively new product in the market.
Choosing The Right Portable Garage For You
A variety of things can come into play when selecting the right option for your needs. With many different options on the market, and just subtle differences separating each one from the next, selecting the product that works best for you can become daunting.
The best plan of action is to define your primary purpose of having a carport or canopy in your yard. Here is a list of some things to consider when researching options before making your purchase:
- What is the general purpose of your portable garage? Are you primarily looking for a space to park your car, or are you looking for a place to entertain guests outdoors?
- What space do you have to set up a portable garage? We suggest mapping out the area in your yard you plan to set up your portable garage, to make sure it will fit before ordering.
- Do you need to be able to relocate it frequently, or are you looking for a more permanent structure? This is a big differential in decision making, some options are easy to tear down and take away, but others are built to stand. Depending on your unique needs, mobility and ease of assembly will weigh heavy on your selection process.
- What elements will your portable garage be exposed to? If you live in an area exposed to some severe weather elements, durability will be crucial in making your choice.
- Do you need a 100% enclosed portable garage or a “canopy” style with just a top cover is enough?
Other factors to consider: Will your portable garage be installed at your primary residence or vacation property?
Should it be cemented into the ground?
Taking these things into account when shopping around will ensure you narrow it down to the best options for you. Product reviews are also a great guide to help you make the right choice!
Breaking Down The Options
Your search for a portable garage will turn up hundreds of results; specifically, identify your needs and begin your hunt. You want to select the one that will hold up and serve your purpose for years to come. To sum it up, here are our 5 best options for portable garages currently on the market:
- #1 BEST OVERALL: Abba Patio 12 x 20 Heavy Duty Carport
- #2 ALL AROUND COVERAGE: Peaktop Outdoor 10 x 20 ft Upgraded Heavy Duty Carport
- #3 COST EFFECTIVE: Abba Patio 10 x 20 Feet Outdoor Carport Canopy
- #4 SMALL BUT MIGHTY: Quictent 10’ x 20’ Heavy Duty Carport Canopy
- #5 AESTHETICALLY PLEASING: Advance Outdoor 10 x 20 Heavy Duty Carport Canopy
Calling a local home and garden professional can also help guide you in your selection process. After evaluating your available space for a portable garage, and your usage purposes, they can assist in picking the right product for you!
From protecting vehicles to enhancing your outdoor living space, if you are considering a portable garage for your home, exploring your options first is always the best idea. We hope our evaluation of the 5 best portable garage products helps in your selection process.
What Sizes do Portable Garages Come in?
Besides the convenience of their setup, carports are also convenient because they come in a variety of sizes depending on your needs. A standard carport is about 12 feet wide and can fit a single car or truck of most sizes.
If you need more space, there are plenty of bigger carports on the market. Double carports range from 18 to 24 feet wide.
There are also triple carports that can be up to 30 feet wide, and commercial carports that can be as wide as 60 feet.
Which carport size is best for you will depend on several factors. The number of vehicles you are trying to store is important. For example, if you are a two-car family, you should choose a double carport over a single.
The size of the vehicles is also important. A standard carport may be wide enough to store a car, but it will not protect an RV or a piece of farm equipment.
When looking at different carport sizes, make sure that all of your vehicles will have space to park and plenty of space between them and the walls. You don’t want to damage your cars or other vehicles if you are trying to park them in a carport that is far too small.
What is the average size of a 2 car carport?
Most double carports are 18 feet wide. However, some double carports go up to 24 feet in width to accommodate bigger vehicles such as trucks, vans, and RVs. Again, the size of the carport that you need will depend on the sizes of your vehicles.
How do you secure a portable garage to the ground?
Installing a portable garage is easier than building a standard garage from scratch, but it still requires some work.
Before you install your carport, you need to prepare the location where it will be. Clear the area of any debris and flatten the ground so it is level.
To secure the carport in the ground, you will need ground anchors or Earth-drive anchors, which are stakes that attach the carport ribs to the dirt.
Most carports come with these stakes, otherwise, you can buy them at any hardware store. We also recommend to buy additional stakes so that your portable garage will be even more stable on the ground.
During installation, first, attach the anchors to the pre-drilled holes in the carport’s base rail. Then, finish preparing the holes with a hole saw and insert the anchors from the top so that the tip is pointing toward the ground. Use a mallet or sledgehammer to finish driving the anchor into the ground, ensuring that it is through the hole.
Do carports add value to a home?
Generally, a carport will add value to your home. Future buyers will be interested in a shady place to protect their vehicles, and they will be impressed by the care you’ve shown for your property in home improvements.
What fits in a 12×20 carport/shed ?
Even a 12×20 foot carport or shed can store plenty of things. It can usually fit a single vehicle, such as a car or even a pick-up truck. There will be space left along the edges for home and gardening tools, your kids’ bikes, and more. Moreover, you can also fit a small boat easily.
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