Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a full-time nomad, organizing a camper is no small feat. When you’re living in a compact space, every inch matters. But that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice comfort for function. With the right camper storage ideas, you can make the most of your mobile home without it feeling cluttered or cramped.
Are you ready to transform your camper into a well-organized, cozy retreat on wheels? We’ve gathered 19 camper storage ideas that will maximize space and keep things tidy, from clever use of walls to multifunctional furniture. Let’s dive into these creative solutions that can help you make your camper feel like a perfectly organized sanctuary, ready for any adventure!
1. Overhead Cabinets and Shelves
Overhead cabinets and shelves are game changers for camper storage. These storage solutions make excellent use of vertical space, allowing you to store items without sacrificing precious floor space. Installing overhead cabinets helps keep your camper clutter-free while maintaining ample headroom. Choose shallow shelves or cabinets that are deep enough for storage but don’t protrude too much.
Sliding doors on overhead cabinets are a smart choice in campers, as they prevent items from falling out while driving and save space compared to swing doors. Consider adding small baskets or bins inside these cabinets to keep things tidy and avoid the dreaded “junk drawer” situation where everything gets thrown in haphazardly.
2. Under-Bed Storage
Under-bed storage is another fantastic way to utilize every bit of available space in a camper. Beds often take up a lot of room, so why not put that empty space underneath to good use? Investing in pull-out drawers that fit snugly under your bed is ideal for storing clothes, shoes, or even bulky items like blankets and pillows.
Clear plastic storage totes can also keep your belongings organized, allowing you to see what’s inside without needing to dig through. For those who like convenience, beds with a lifting frame provide easy access to the storage space underneath, especially for storing larger items that you don’t need to access frequently.
3. Foldable and Nesting Kitchenware
Having foldable and nesting kitchenware can make a big difference when dealing with a small kitchen space. You don’t need to give up your favorite cooking tools; instead, opt for compact versions that are easy to store. Collapsible bowls, strainers, and colanders that flatten down save a lot of space in your kitchen cabinets.
Investing in nesting pots and pans with removable handles can significantly reduce clutter. These items stack neatly together and are perfect for limited storage spaces. Multi-purpose utensils that combine multiple functions, like a spatula with a built-in measuring cup, are another great way to keep your kitchen organized.
4. Magnetic Strips and Hooks
Magnetic strips and hooks are fantastic for utilizing wall space in a camper. They keep items easily accessible and free up counter space for other uses. Installing magnetic strips on kitchen walls to hold knives and metal utensils keeps them within easy reach and eliminates the need for bulky knife blocks.
Magnetic spice racks that stick to your refrigerator or other metal surfaces save space in cupboards and make spices easy to find. Hooks on the walls or inside cabinet doors can be used to hang items like cooking utensils, keys, or even shoes, making it easy to keep things organized and off the counters.
5. Multi-Functional Furniture
Multi-functional furniture is essential in any small space, and campers are no exception. Choosing pieces that serve more than one purpose helps you save space and reduce clutter. A convertible sofa bed is perfect for maximizing space, allowing you to lounge during the day and sleep at night without needing separate furniture.
Storage ottomans provide a place to put your feet up while also hiding blankets, books, or other items. A fold-down table mounted on the wall can serve as a dining table, desk, or additional prep space in the kitchen, folding up when not in use to free up floor space.
6. Ceiling Nets and Hammocks
Think of the ceiling as your secret storage ally. Using ceiling nets and hammocks can be a clever way to store soft, lightweight items. Mesh nets installed on the ceiling can hold soft items like blankets, towels, or clothes, keeping them off the floor and beds.
Small hammocks attached to the ceiling can hold stuffed animals, fruit, or other lightweight items, perfect for kids’ toys or items you want to access easily. Opt for ceiling nets with adjustable straps so you can tighten them to prevent items from shifting around while driving.
7. Door Organizers
Doors are often overlooked as potential storage spots. Over-the-door organizers can help you use this space efficiently without taking up additional room. Over-the-door shoe organizers aren’t just for shoes; they can be used for storing toiletries, cleaning supplies, snacks, or even craft supplies.
Foldable door hooks on bathroom and closet doors are great for hanging towels, robes, or hats. For a custom solution, consider building shallow shelves or racks on doors to provide extra storage without adding too much weight.
8. Hidden Compartments
Hidden compartments are an excellent way to keep valuables safe and out of sight while also utilizing unused space. Floor compartments in many campers provide hidden storage for items you want to keep safe or things you don’t need frequently. This is an excellent use of space that might otherwise go unused.
Creating secret drawers under seating areas or cabinets can provide secure places for storing important documents or emergency supplies. False bottoms in cabinets can also be installed to hide valuables like passports, jewelry, or emergency cash.
9. Collapsible Furniture
Collapsible furniture is a game-changer for those who want to save space in their camper without sacrificing functionality. Folding chairs and tables that fold flat for easy storage can be stored behind cabinets, under beds, or even hung on walls.
Pop-up laundry hampers that fold down when not in use are perfect for saving space in bathrooms or sleeping areas. A collapsible drying rack can be added for those who love to hand-wash clothes, folding away when not in use to keep the space free for other purposes.
10. Stackable Storage Bins
Stackable storage bins are great for maximizing vertical space in a camper. They come in all shapes and sizes, making them versatile for any setup. Choosing clear, stackable bins helps store pantry items, toiletries, or tools, allowing you to see what’s inside without needing to open each one.
Labeling each bin can save time and keep things organized, preventing them from getting mixed up. These bins can be placed on high shelves or in overhead compartments to maximize storage space while keeping everything accessible.
11. Utilize Space Under the Seats
If your camper has benches or built-in seats, there’s a good chance they can double as storage space. Lift-up seat covers reveal hidden compartments underneath, ideal for bulkier items like camping gear or extra bedding.
Installing drawers under seating areas can make accessing stored items more convenient than lifting an entire seat. Custom seat storage solutions are also a great DIY project to suit specific storage needs and maximize your camper’s space.
12. Use Stackable Shoe Racks
Stackable shoe racks are a versatile storage solution for more than just shoes. They are perfect for campers looking to maximize vertical space. Placing a stackable shoe rack near the entrance helps keep footwear organized and out of the way.
Repurposing shoe racks for storing cleaning supplies, canned goods, or other pantry items can also help keep things visible and easy to grab. Foldable shoe racks offer even more convenience, easily stored away when not in use.
13. Hang Up a Pegboard
Pegboards aren’t just for garages; they can be incredibly useful in campers for hanging up tools, kitchen utensils, or craft supplies. With a pegboard, you can easily customize the layout and change it as needed by adding hooks, small baskets, or shelves.
For those who love crafting on the road, a pegboard can hold scissors, ribbons, and other supplies without taking up drawer space. In the kitchen, pegboards are perfect for hanging utensils, pots, pans, and cutting boards, helping to keep the kitchen clutter-free.
14. Utilize the Space Above the Cab
If your camper has a space above the cab, this area can become a storage haven. Adjustable shelving in the cab space can be highly versatile for storing different items, from luggage to books and extra bedding.
Cargo nets can keep things secure while driving, preventing items from falling off. Installing a small, retractable ladder or step stool can make accessing the cab space easier and more convenient.
15. Organize the Bathroom with Shower Caddies
Keeping the bathroom organized in a camper is essential, and shower caddies can be your best friends. Stick-on shower caddies that attach to walls or doors are perfect for holding shampoo, conditioner, soap, and other toiletries.
Corner caddies in the shower area utilize often-overlooked corners for additional storage. Mesh bags hanging from the showerhead provide another clever way to store small items without creating clutter.
16. Use Narrow Cabinets for Slim Spaces
Camper interiors often have slim, narrow spaces that seem impossible to use. Narrow cabinets can turn these areas into functional storage spots. A slim pull-out pantry can fit into narrow gaps in your kitchen area, providing a perfect spot for canned goods, spices, and snacks.
Narrow cabinets are also ideal for storing cleaning supplies vertically, keeping them accessible while saving space. Slide-out spice racks can be mounted inside narrow cabinets, maximizing storage in the camper kitchen.
17. Store Items Behind and Under the Sink
The area behind and under the sink often goes underutilized in campers. This space can be an excellent spot for some clever storage solutions. Tension rods under the sink can hold spray bottles, keeping them off the cabinet floor.
Tiered shelving under the sink provides a place to store cleaning products or extra toiletries. Small bins or trays behind the sink can hold dish soap, scrubbers, and sponges without crowding your counter space.
18. Roll-Out Pantry Drawers
Roll-out pantry drawers are a great solution for storing food and kitchen essentials in a small space. Customizing these drawers to fit the size of your pantry items ensures nothing gets lost at the back.
Tall and narrow roll-out drawers help you make the most of vertical space, while guardrails can be installed to prevent items from falling out while driving. This ensures that everything stays neatly in place, even on bumpy roads.
19. Hooks and Rods for Hanging Storage
Hooks and rods are simple yet effective storage solutions for campers, especially in tight spaces. Hooks can be installed almost anywhere, from walls to the back of doors, to hang jackets, hats, towels, or kitchen utensils.
Tension rods can be used for curtain dividers and also for hanging clothes, keeping them off the floor and wrinkle-free. Overhead rods for clothes can be installed if you have the headroom, adding an additional storage solution to your camper.
Conclusion
Camper life can be full of adventure, but it also comes with its fair share of storage challenges. With these 19 creative camper storage ideas, you’ll find clever ways to utilize every nook and cranny of your mobile home. From overhead cabinets and magnetic strips to multi-functional furniture and hidden compartments, there’s no shortage of ways to maximize your space and keep things tidy.
Whether you’re embarking on a weekend trip or a cross-country journey, these solutions ensure you have a well-organized and cozy camper to return to. Happy camping, and may your travels always be filled with fun and well-utilized spaces!
