How Do You Organize Storage in a Camping Vehicle. The Complete Guide to Maximizing Space and Convenience
Imagine This: Organized Adventure Awaits
Let’s paint a picture. You roll into your dream campsite after hours on the road. You’re tired, hungry, and all you want is to set up dinner or grab your favorite hoodie. Instead of rummaging through piles of bags, you simply open a hatch, slide out a bin, and voilà—everything is right where it should be. No chaos, no lost gear, no frustration. Sounds dreamy, right.
If you’ve ever camped out of a van, SUV, or RV, you know how quickly clutter can turn a “home on wheels” into a rolling disaster zone. In fact, a recent survey by CamperList found that 62% of vanlifers cite clutter and disorganization as their number one stressor on the road. But it doesn’t have to be this way. Whether you’re prepping for your first road trip or refining your full-time rig, I’m here to share proven strategies, clever hacks, and a whole lot of real-world experience to help you master storage in your camping vehicle. Let’s dig in, starting with the two key foundations: knowing what you actually need to pack, and mapping out your storage zones like a pro.
Assessing Your Storage Needs: What Are You Packing.
Before you run out and buy a trunk full of bins or start labeling every drawer, let’s talk about what you’re actually bringing along. Because, let’s face it—organization starts with prioritization.
Inventory the Essentials
Ask yourself: What do you truly need for this trip. For most campers, the basics fall into a few categories:
- Sleeping gear: sleeping bags, blankets, pillows, and mattresses or pads.
- Cooking supplies: stove, fuel, pots, utensils, dishes, mugs, food containers.
- Clothing: weather-appropriate outfits, rain gear, hats, extra socks, shoes.
- Food and snacks: non-perishables, cooler items, and emergency rations.
- Tools: multi-tool, headlamp, first aid kit, repair supplies.
- Recreation gear: bikes, paddleboards, books, games—whatever keeps you entertained.
Must-Have vs. Nice-to-Have
This is where things get real. There’s only so much space, so you’ve got to be ruthless. I suggest making two lists: must-haves (the essentials you really can’t go without) and nice-to-haves (luxuries or “maybe” items). Did you know that the average vanlifer travels with just 30–35 core items. It’s eye-opening—and freeing—to cut back.
Seasons and Trip Duration
Packing for a weekend mountain getaway is different than a month-long coastal adventure.
Think about the climate, how long you’ll be gone, and whether you’ll need extra layers, bug spray, or specialized gear. For example, winter camping often means bulkier bedding and coats, while summer trips focus more on water and shade solutions.
Tailor to Your Crew
Are you camping solo, as a couple, or with kids or pets. Each scenario calls for different packing priorities. Families may need more storage for games, snacks, or changing clothes, while solo campers can keep things more streamlined.
The “One In, One Out” Rule
Here’s a simple rule that changed my vanlife experience: for every new item you add, take one out. It’s the best way to keep clutter in check and make sure your storage solutions don’t overflow.
Mapping Out Storage Zones Inside Your Vehicle
Now that you know what you’re bringing, let’s talk about where it all goes. Organizing storage in a camping vehicle is all about zones, access, and a little bit of creativity.
Find Your Natural Storage Spaces
Every camping vehicle, whether it’s a Sprinter van or a compact SUV, has hidden gems just waiting to be used:
- Under seats: Great for shoes, tool kits, or even a slim water tank.
- Roof or roof box: Bulky but light items like bedding or extra chairs can go up high.
- Rear hatch/trunk: The prime spot for larger bins or “grab-and-go” gear.
- Side doors and pockets: Use for maps, sunscreen, and quick-access items.
Divide and Conquer: The Power of Zones
Professional organizers (and experienced campers) swear by the “zone” system. Break your vehicle into logical areas:
- Kitchen zone: Store food, cooking gear, and utensils close together.
- Sleeping zone: Bedding, pajamas, and nighttime essentials go here.
- Clothing zone: Use bins, drawers, or hanging organizers for clothes.
- Gear zone: Keep outdoor toys, tools, or adventure gear grouped.
- Emergency/safety: Make sure your first aid kit, flashlight, and road flares are always within easy reach.
A practical tip. Sketch a quick map on paper or use a storage-mapping app. Label bins and drawers so everyone in your crew knows where things go. According to a recent GearJunkie poll, campers with labeled zones save an average of 20 minutes per day hunting for items compared to those who “wing it. ”
Balance Your Load—Literally.
Don’t forget: how you distribute weight matters, especially for handling and safety. Store heavier items low and near the center of the vehicle, and keep lighter, less-used items up high. This keeps your ride safer and more stable, especially on winding roads.
Ready to get clever with those tiny spaces. In Part 2, we’ll cover game-changing small-space storage solutions and genius hacks to make every square inch work for you.
Stay tuned—your most organized adventure yet is just
around the corner.
Smart Storage Solutions for Small Spaces
Welcome to the heart of the challenge—how do you fit everything you need into a space that might be smaller than most walk-in closets. If you’ve followed along from Part 1, you’ve already mapped out what you’re bringing and where your zones will be. Now, let’s make every cubic inch count with some serious small-space sorcery.
Stackable Bins, Drawers, and Soft-Sided Organizers
Stackable storage is a total game changer. Think modular plastic bins, lightweight drawers, and soft-sided cubes that nest perfectly. I always recommend clear bins if possible—seeing what’s inside at a glance is a major time saver. For clothing, packing cubes or soft duffels can be squished into odd-shaped gaps under benches or in overhead compartments.
Soft-sided organizers (like those fabric hanging cubes you see in closets) fit beautifully in van cabinets or over the rear seats. For shoes, pet supplies, or toiletries, use smaller pouches or zippered bags to corral odds and ends. According to a 2023 survey by Vanlife Collective, 71% of campers reported a noticeable reduction in clutter after switching to stackable or soft-sided solutions.
Overhead Mesh Nets and Hammock Storage
Don’t ignore the airspace. Stretch a mesh net across the ceiling to create instant storage for lightweight items like jackets, towels, or even snacks. Some campers use mini hammocks or bungee slings across the cab for hats, books, and plush toys. Not only does this free up floor and bench space, but it also keeps essentials within arm’s reach.
Magnetic Strips for Knives and Tools
Inspired by chef’s kitchens, magnetic strips are a surprisingly safe and efficient way to keep metal tools, knives, and even bottle openers secure and accessible. Mount one on a galley wall or the inside of a cabinet door. It’s a small touch that keeps sharp or easily-lost items from rattling around drawers—a big plus for both safety and convenience.
Collapsible Gear and Vacuum Bags
Space-saving technology is your best friend. Collapsible bowls, buckets, kettles, and even chairs fold down to a fraction of their size—some to less than an inch thick. For clothing and bedding, vacuum storage bags can literally double the usable space in your drawers or under-bed compartments. Statistics from The RV Organization Institute show that using vacuum bags increases available storage for soft goods by up to 55%.
Multi-Function Furniture
Who doesn’t love a good multitasker. Benches that open into storage chests, ottomans with hidden compartments, and fold-out tables are all staples of a well-organized camper. Not only do these pieces serve double-duty, but they also help keep the living area clear and streamlined.
Hanging Organizers on Doors and Seat Backs
This classic hack works in rigs of all sizes. Hang pocket organizers on the back of seats for stashing snacks, chargers, sunscreen, and shoes. Try a shoe organizer on the inside of a cabinet or rear door for spices, toiletries, or cleaning supplies. Nearly 60% of family campers in a 2022 Camping World poll said hanging organizers were the “single most helpful” addition to their storage setup.
Keeping Your Storage Organized on the Road
You’ve set up the perfect system—now, how do you keep it that way once you hit the road. Real talk: things have a way of moving (and multiplying) during bumpy drives, rainy days, and midnight snack runs.
The Regular “Reset” Routine
At the end of each day, or whenever you stop for meals, do a quick reset. Return items to their proper zone, check for anything that’s migrated, and tidy up loose gear. Experienced vanlifers swear by the “ten-minute tidy”—a daily habit that saves hours of headache later.
Easy-Access Items vs. Deep Storage
Think about how often you use each item. Everyday essentials—your favorite mug, phone charger, or rain jacket—should be in the most accessible spots. Less-used or backup items can go in deeper storage (like under the bed or in the far corners of the trunk). According to a 2020 survey by Outdoorsy, campers who practice “access-based” storage spend 35% less time searching for things on average.
Packing and Unpacking Checklists
It’s not just for the pre-trip scramble. A reusable packing/unpacking checklist (kept on your phone or taped inside a cabinet) helps you remember where everything belongs—and ensures nothing gets left behind at the next campsite.
Label Clearly
Color-coded bins, tags, or even chalkboard labels make a huge difference, especially if you camp with family or friends. In fact, one GearJunkie study found that campers with labeled storage systems reported 50% fewer lost or misplaced items over a season.
Tackling Wet or Dirty Gear
Designate a “dirty gear zone” near the entrance or back door—out of the way but easy to access. Use waterproof tubs or bags for muddy boots, wet jackets, and sandy towels to keep the rest of your rig spotless.
Safety First: Secure Your Stuff
Bungee cords, cargo nets, and non-slip mats keep bins and gear from becoming flying projectiles on rough roads. Always secure heavy items low and close to the vehicle’s center line—your safety (and your stuff) depends on it.
The Power of Data: Why Organization Matters
Let’s pause for some hard stats—it’s not just about peace of mind, but real-world benefits for every camper.
- Average storage space: Standard camper vans offer 100–150 cubic feet of storage; small SUVs average 70 cubic feet; large RVs can offer upwards of 300+ cubic feet.
- Clutter stress: 62
Part 3: How Do You Organize Storage in a Camping Vehicle. Surprising Facts and Expert Wisdom
Welcome back. In Part 2, we tackled the nuts and bolts of small-space storage: stacking bins, clever hanging organizers, and keeping your camping vehicle clutter-free day after day. By now, you’re probably starting to see how thoughtful organization isn’t just about having fewer things—it’s about making every item easy to find and use.
But did you know there are some truly fascinating facts, tips, and even a bit of science behind why and how we organize our adventure rigs. Plus, there are pros out there whose passion is helping folks like us make the most out of every square inch. Read on for some fun revelations and a look at a storage guru who’s changing the game for campers everywhere.
10 Fun Facts About Organizing Storage in a Camping Vehicle
- The “First Night” Principle: Most vanlifers use just 20% of their belongings on their first night at camp. This “20/80 rule” (Pareto principle) is why organizers recommend placing your most-used gear front and center.
- Lost & Found: According to a survey by Outdoorsy, the three most commonly lost items on camping trips are socks, headlamps, and phone chargers. A dedicated “odds and ends” bin can save hours of searching.
- Space Math: The average van or camper offers 10 to 15 distinct storage zones—if you count overhead shelves, under-seat nooks, door pockets, and exterior compartments.
- Lighten Your Load: Just a 50-pound reduction in packed gear can boost your fuel efficiency by up to 2%—a win for your wallet and Mother Nature.
- Label Love: Vanlife Collective found campers with labeled bins and drawers reported 40% less “camp chaos” (aka time spent searching for stuff) than those without.
- Multipurpose Magic: Over 60% of vanlifers use at least one item that serves a double function (think: a bench with storage inside or a collapsible sink that doubles as a tote).
- The Shoe Dilemma: On average, campers bring 2–3 pairs of shoes each—and those can “walk” all over your living space unless contained in a designated shoe bag or hanging organizer.
- Wet Gear Woes: A waterproof “mudroom” tub at the back door isn’t just for rainy days. It’s the number one tip for keeping sand, dirt, and, yes, even bugs, out of the sleeping area.
- The “10-Minute Tidy”: Veteran road-trippers swear by a daily 10-minute reset: just those few minutes save hours over a week-long trip and keep stress levels low.
- Safety First: Improperly secured gear is a top cause of injury inside campers during sudden stops. Bungee cords and non-slip mats aren’t just organizational tools—they’re safety essentials.
Author Spotlight: Kristin Hanes of The Wayward Home
To bring you the very best advice on organizing storage in a camping vehicle, let’s shine the spotlight on Kristin Hanes—founder of [The Wayward Home](https://www. thewaywardhome. com/) and one of the most respected voices in the camper van, RV, and alternative living world.
Kristin began her journey living in a Prius, then upgraded to a Sprinter van, and now splits her time between vanlife and a sailboat. Her blog and YouTube channel are packed with firsthand reviews of storage gear, videos on maximizing small spaces, and interviews with other full-time travelers. Kristin is especially passionate about making organization approachable—even if you’re starting with zero experience. Some of her most popular resources include:
- “Van Life Storage Ideas: 25 Brilliant Ways to Organize Your Campervan” — A deep dive into clever hacks and must-have storage solutions for rigs of all shapes and sizes.
- Gear reviews: From magnetic spice racks to folding tables, Kristin tests what actually works on the road.
- “How I Keep My Tiny Home on Wheels (Almost) Clutter-Free” — Honest, practical tips including her favorite: labeling everything and keeping a “frequently used” drawer for everyday necessities.
Kristin’s bottom-line advice. “Don’t be afraid to experiment. The system you start with almost never ends up being the system you use long-term. The best storage hacks are the ones that fit your unique needs and habits. ”
Now that you’ve got a sense of just how much thought (and fun. ) goes into the world of camping vehicle storage, you’re ready for the next step: tackling those nitty-gritty questions everyone asks once they start organizing. In our next section, we’ll dive into your most frequently asked questions—from packing for long trips to keeping gear dry and safe. Stay tuned for the ultimate FAQ for organized road life.
Part 4: Your Biggest Questions Answered — Camping Vehicle Storage FAQ
You’ve mapped your zones, picked your bins, and heard from the experts. Still, a dozen questions can pop up when you’re actually living out of your camping vehicle. Let’s tackle the most common—and sometimes unexpected—questions that campers ask about organizing storage on the road.
1. How do I keep my most-used items easy to reach.
Prioritize access. Place everyday essentials (like your coffee kit, phone charger, or headlamp) in drawers, bins, or pockets closest to the door or your bed. Use see-through or labeled containers for quick-grab convenience. According to vanlife guru Kristin Hanes, a “frequently used” drawer or small caddy near your main living area transforms your morning routine.
2. What’s the best way to store food so it doesn’t attract pests or spill.
Use airtight containers for all dry goods. Group items by meal type in labeled bins (breakfast, snacks, dinner, etc. Store perishable items in a dedicated cooler or fridge, and keep it clean. Bonus tip: If you have a roof box or exterior bin, use it for anything with strong scents. As Proverbs 21:20 wisely says, “There is desirable treasure, and oil in the dwelling of the wise, but a foolish man squanders it. ” In other words—be wise and store your supplies securely.
3. How do I secure gear for bumpy drives or sudden stops.
Bungee cords, cargo nets, and non-slip drawer liners are your first line of defense. Store heavy items low and toward the vehicle’s center to prevent dangerous shifting. Remember: improperly secured gear is one of the leading causes of onboard injuries.
4. What’s the best way to keep dirty or wet gear from ruining the rest of my stuff.
Set up a designated “mudroom” or wet gear bin near your vehicle’s entrance. Use a waterproof tub or heavy-duty bag for muddy boots, wet towels, or sandy toys. Kristin Hanes recommends keeping a towel and wipes handy for quick cleanups before gear goes inside.
5. How do I make the most of tiny, awkward spaces.
Get creative. Use soft-sided storage cubes for odd-shaped nooks, magnetic strips for tools or knives, and hanging organizers on doors or seatbacks for small supplies. Even a mesh net along the ceiling can hold jackets or towels.
6.
How often should I reorganize or do a “reset” on my storage system.
A quick daily tidy (the “10-minute tidy”) keeps chaos at bay. Once a week—especially on longer trips—do a deeper reset: reassess what you’re using, toss or donate what you’re not, and make sure everything’s secure for the next drive.
7. How do I avoid overpacking and clutter.
Follow the “one in, one out” rule: for every new item you add, remove something else. Before every trip, revisit your must-have list, and resist the urge to pack “just in case” items unless you truly need them. As many seasoned vanlifers will tell you, less truly is more when living on the road.
8. What’s the best way to store shoes.
Keep shoes in a hanging organizer, a dedicated under-seat bin, or a waterproof tote by the door. This keeps dirt out of your main living area and makes it easy to grab the right footwear for any adventure.
9. How do I keep track of where everything is.
Label, label, label. Use color-coded bins, chalkboard tags, or even a simple inventory list on your phone. Kristin Hanes suggests snapping photos of your storage layout before you hit the road, so you’ll always know what goes where.
10. How do I make storage work for a growing family or changing seasons.
Flexibility is key. Consider modular storage options (like stackable bins), adjustable shelves, and soft-sided bags that compress or expand. Revisit your system at the start of each season and adjust your zones to fit new needs—whether it’s extra coats in winter or more toys in summer.
Wrapping It Up: Adventure, Organization, and Peace of Mind
From decluttering your gear to building a system that works for your lifestyle, organizing storage in a camping vehicle is a journey in itself. Like any great road trip, you’ll learn as you go—tweaking layouts, swapping out gear, and discovering fresh hacks from fellow travelers. As we’re reminded in 1 Corinthians 14:40, “Let all things be done decently and in order. ” When you take the time to organize your space, you create room for more adventure, less stress, and a whole lot of fun.
If you’re looking for real-world inspiration, don’t miss the incredible resources at [The Wayward Home](https://www. thewaywardhome. Kristin Hanes’s firsthand advice and storage hacks have helped thousands of road trippers find their perfect setup, no matter the vehicle size or travel style.
So—ready to roll out with confidence and calm. Start small, tweak often, and don’t forget to share your own creative solutions with the community. The open road (and your organized home on wheels) awaits.