20 Clever Caravan Storage Ideas & Hacks to Maximise Space
While clever layout options and ample storage areas are integral features of our Windsor range, optimising the space inside your vehicle can enhance your RV adventures, particularly if you are a “just in case” packer! Neatly organised spaces are vital to a stress-free travel experience — everything will have its place, and you can be confident that you haven’t left anything at home. Here are our top 20 caravan storage ideas and hacks.
1. Collapsible storage
Collapsible, fold-out, and pop-up products are the ultimate space savers, are cost-effective (and clever), and can be used for everything from kitchen items and dinnerware to dirty laundry and water storage. Just use, wash, or wipe, and then fold up or down to effortlessly store for next time.
2. Attachable hooks
Hooks are super-functional and come in all shapes, sizes, and weight loads. Keys, bags, hats, utensils, phone chargers, small tubs (for more contained storage) — you name it, hooks can pretty much hang it. Choose hooks with reinforced strips that are easily removable (rather than nailing hooks into the wall), and you’ll also minimise damage.
3. Hanging shoe organiser
When it comes to storage ideas for caravans, a hanging shoe organiser can be a game changer for footwear, whether you hang it somewhere convenient or store it out of sight to minimise clutter. And they’re not just for shoes. They’re also ideal for storing socks, scarves, gloves, and other small items like toiletries, packaged food items, cleaning supplies, mozzie repellant, suncream, and other miscellaneous items you need to access easily.
4. Stackable storage tubs
Stackable storage tubs aren’t discriminatory — they’ll accommodate any item you can imagine, from clothing and food supplies to children’s toys and cleaning products. They are also waterproof, lightweight, and have lids, so they’re many people’s go-to storage solution. A helpful tip is to think about what needs storing and where the tub will go. Then, measure the space it needs to fit into and choose a tub that will snugly fill that space. Too easy!
5. Pantry organisation
Who doesn’t love an organised pantry? But, unlike at home, when you’re travelling, food storage space can be limited, and the conditions are different, so a little organisation will ensure things are kept tidy, fresh and unspillable. Plastic food containers are lightweight and sealable and come in various shapes and sizes. Because they’re also stackable, they’ll make good use of vertical space. And for the final super-organised touch, label everything!
6. Drawer liners
Yes, they may be a little old-fashioned, but they are one of the cheapest, simplest caravan storage hacks. Drawer liners are great for pantries as they can prevent items from falling over when you’re on the move, particularly if the liners are made of rubber or a similar material. They’ll protect your cupboard bases from scuff marks, can be easily cut to size, and are also washable.
7. Magazine racks
These multi-purpose wonders are great for storing kitchen items, bottles, bin bags, plastic wrap, iPads, magazines, maps, newspapers, books, games, toys … you get the picture. Many can also be hooked over cupboards and doors, maximising the use of space, where you least expect it!
8. Dish draining mats
Simple, yet oh-so-practical. Dish draining mats soak up excess water to prevent water from running along your benchtops and will minimise wet areas and mould growth. They are quick-drying, easier to store than traditional drying racks, and can also be used as a heat-resistant oven mitt and as a cushioned surface for drying more delicate items. Multi-functional!
9. Drawer dividers
If your van’s kitchen has drawers, drawer dividers can maximise the space, minimise clutter, and create an ordered kitchen at the same time. With dividers, you can stack items neatly on top of one another without them becoming jumbled. They can help you separate items like flatware, utensils and serving ware and minimise damage by preventing items from shifting during your travels.
10. Magnetic knife racks
Storing knives in a drawer is never ideal, particularly while you are caravanning because of the low-light conditions and the presence of little ones. Knife blocks are a great way to store knives. However, they are an unnecessary weight to pack. The solution? A magnetic knife rack. Fix it to the wall near your food prep area, ensuring it is in a safe spot. A second one could also be used to hold other metal utensils like tongs, a can opener, your egg flipper, or even your keys!
11. Over-the-door racks
This is another one of our clever caravan storage ideas that will minimise clutter and maximise your caravan’s storage potential. Indoors, you can hang tea towels to dry and backpacks, jackets, towels, hats and scarves in easy reach. Outside, hang damp beach towels and swimwear after you’ve enjoyed a little seaside action.
12. Bed pockets
Have you ever woken up fumbling for your glasses or phone in the middle of the night? Then bed pockets are your new best friend! Bed pockets typically hook over the edge of a bed and are designed to store all the must-have-near-bed essentials conveniently. They are particularly useful in RVS where lighting is more limited, as items are literally at your fingertips, whether they are your essentials or your child’s favourite bedtime story.
13. Lanyards
You may have one at the office, but lanyards are also the perfect solution for your downtime — particularly for keys. Costing next to nothing, they allow you freedom of movement while having your keys securely at hand whether you’re busy prepping dinner or enjoying a campsite BBQ with friends. Wear it around your neck or store it in your pocket, and at the end of the day, hang it on its own designated hook inside your van. Choose a vibrant colour, and there’ll be no more do-you-know-where-the-keys-are conversations!
14. Storage nets
Storage nets are another cost-effective and go-to caravan storage idea that can be installed almost anywhere due to a great combination of durability and flexibility. Whether you fix them beside your van’s front door, in cupboards, in the ensuite or beside the bed, its construction means there is no “rattle effect” as you travel. They can store objects of different shapes and sizes, plus they are super-easy to clean.
15. Soap dispensers
If you have the luxury of an ensuite in your RV, you’ll know that keeping things clean, tidy and relatively damp-free are priorities. One of the easiest caravan storage ideas to minimise in-van bathroom maintenance is to install a soap dispenser. And the best part is, they’re not just for soap. Soap dispensers can also be filled with hand wash, body wash, shampoo, and conditioner. If you don’t have an in-van ensuite, they can be used outside the bathroom for dishwashing liquid and even as hand sanitiser. No more soap dramas or drips and spills from multiple personal care products!
16. Hanging organisers
Hanging organisers can be used for a range of storage needs but are an ideal solution if you’re looking for caravan clothes storage ideas. Hanging organisers are fantastic for making the best use of vertical space (rather than drawer storage and floor space), which is a valuable element you should consider when looking for storage solutions. They allow you to compartmentalise, meaning you can divide different types of clothing into different sections. This means everything is easy to find, particularly on a busy morning when you can’t wait to leave for your next adventure! Opt for organisers with transparent pockets so you don’t have to go rummaging through each to find what you need, and if possible, roll clothing, which will save space and reduce wrinkles. They can be hung on hooks and doors and also typically fold down, so they are easily packable. A few for you, a few for the kids, and the stress of bag unpacking is no longer an issue!
17. Packing cubes
Packing cubes are a great way to make the most out of limited space in wardrobes, kitchen cabinets, under-bed storage, and more. They come in all sorts of sizes and can be stacked on top of each other or placed side by side. You can use them to store towels, clothes, blankets, kid’s toys, and just about anything else you can think of!
18. Sink cover
If your RV doesn’t already have one, it’s worth investing in a sink cover. This is a multi-purpose tool that not only covers your sink (obviously) but can also act as extra prepping space while you’re cooking. It can act as storage for defrosting meals or to-be-washed items, and wooden versions can also be used as a chopping board.
19. Under-shelf baskets
Before looking for new storage areas in your caravan, why not focus on making the most of the ones already there? Under-shelf baskets slide onto the base of existing shelving and are great options for your pantry, under your sink, or even on your kitchen countertop.
20. Tunnel boot storage
A caravan’s tunnel boot offers the perfect hideaway spot to store gear you need to easily access from outside of your caravan. In terms of caravan tunnel boot storage ideas, collapsible boxes and baskets, pop-up hampers that fold flat, and a portable clothes dryer or two will all easily accommodate fishing gear, laundry needs, and all the other practical paraphernalia a camping or road trip experience requires. For more caravan storage ideas, including clever customisation options, contact your local Windsor dealership today.