7 Tips to Organize Your RV Space and Add More Storage

Feeling like your RV is bursting at the seams every time you pack up for a trip?

Are you looking for better ways to store all your gear without giving up your living space?

In this article, we’ll explore 7 simple, creative storage hacks that will help you get back some much needed space in your RV—no complicated setups required.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Hang it up!
2. Under the bed
3. Cabinets
4. Bins
5. Vertical Folding
6. Hooks
7. Fold-Down Shelves

Hack #1: Hang It Up! Vertical Space Is Your New Best Friend

Ever feel like the walls are closing in? Well, let’s put those walls to work! In an RV, the key to saving space is to think up rather than out.

Hanging organizers, hooks, and baskets are perfect for storing things without taking up any floor space.

Here’s what you should consider when hanging it up:

• Door Organizers: Hang a multi-pocket organizer on the back of your bathroom or closet door for toiletries, shoes, or those random travel trinkets that seem to multiply.
• Adhesive Hooks: These little guys are magic for lightweight items. Think keys, hats, kitchen utensils, or even small bags. Plus, they won’t leave holes in the walls when you’re ready to switch things up.
• Magnetic Strips: Perfect for the kitchen—just slap one on the wall to hold knives, metal utensils, or spice jars. You’ll save counter space, and it looks cool, too!

Bonus Tip: Just remember to keep an eye on weight. You don’t want to overload a door organizer and then spend the trip trying to fix a door that’s sagging like a sad camping tent.

Hack #2: Under-the-Bed Magic – Where Storage Dreams Come True

Think your bed is just for sleeping? Think again! The space underneath it is a treasure trove waiting to be filled with all the stuff you don’t need cluttering up your living space.

Here’s how to make the most of your RV’s hidden storage paradise:

• Storage Bins: Slide in some slim, plastic storage bins to hold extra bedding, off-season clothes, or even camping gear. Out of sight, out of mind, but still easy to access!
• Vacuum-Sealed Bags: Need to pack bulky items like blankets or winter jackets? Throw them into vacuum-sealed bags, flatten them down, and slide them under the bed. Boom—extra space!
• Rolling Drawers: If your RV bed is a bit higher off the ground, invest in some rolling drawers that you can easily pull in and out. They’re perfect for keeping things organized without a hassle.

Safety Tip: If your bed doesn’t have struts and you’re concerned about the weight, avoid storing heavy or fragile items under there that you might need to access frequently. Instead, focus on lightweight or seasonal items that won’t need to be retrieved as often.

Hack #3: Behind Closed Doors – Maximizing Cabinet Space

You might think your cabinet doors just hang out, keeping your clutter hidden. But with a little creativity, they can actually become some of the most useful storage spots in your RV. 

Here’s how you can make the most of your cabinets and free up extra space:

• Hanging Baskets: Attach small wire or plastic baskets to the inside of your cabinet doors using adhesive strips. They’re perfect for storing spices in the kitchen, toiletries in the bathroom, or even little office supplies if you’re working on the road.
• Over-the-Door Hooks: Use over-the-door hooks to hang towels, cutting boards, or dishcloths. Super easy to add and remove, and they don’t take up any extra space inside your cabinets.
• Command Strip Caddies: These little caddies stick to the inside of your cabinet doors, giving you extra pockets of space for small items like bottles, cleaning supplies, or snacks—because who doesn’t love a snack stash?

Quick Reminder: Just make sure you’re not overloading the doors. You want them to stay firmly on their hinges, not become the next RV repair project!

Hack #4: Bins, Bins, Bins – The Secret to Organized Chaos

If you’re not using bins in your RV, are you even RVing? These handy little containers are the unsung heroes of keeping things organized — without losing your sanity. 

They turn messy drawers and cabinets into neat, easy-access spaces where everything has its place.

Here’s how bins can save the day:

• Stackable Bins: These are perfect for cabinets and closets. Stack them up to create layers of storage for everything from dry goods to toiletries. Bonus points if they’re clear so you can see what’s inside without digging through them.
• Under-Seat Storage Bins: Got seating with hollow space underneath? Pop a few low-profile bins under there to store extra shoes, blankets, or even your outdoor gear.
• Drawer Dividers: Okay, technically not bins, but drawer dividers give you the same organized feeling! Use them to separate utensils, tools, or craft supplies in those notoriously messy drawers.

Pro Tip: Label your bins! A little label goes a long way in keeping your RV organized. Plus, it helps you avoid the classic RV shuffle: moving one bin to find what’s in the one below it.

Hack #5: Fold It, Don’t Roll It – Space-Saving Magic

In an RV, every inch counts—so when it comes to clothes, folding is your new best friend. 

Forget trying to roll everything into a perfect little burrito. Instead, master the art of space-saving folds that make sure your wardrobe stays neat and ready for your next adventure.

Here’s how to make the most of folding:

• The Vertical Fold: Fold your clothes so they stand up vertically in drawers or bins. This not only saves space but also lets you see everything at a glance, meaning no more digging around for that one shirt you know is in there.
• Foldable Storage: Use foldable cloth or mesh boxes for clothes, towels, or linens. They’re easy to stash away when not in use, and they keep things tidy without taking up too much space.
• Folding Chairs & Tables: If you’re really tight on space, consider folding furniture. Folding chairs and tables can be stashed away when not in use, giving you more room to move around without sacrificing comfort.

Fun Tip: Make folding a game! Set a timer and see how fast you and family can organize a drawer—winner gets to toast the first marshmallow next time you make s’mores.

Hack #6: Hooks Everywhere – The Unsung Heroes of RV Life

When in doubt, hang it up! Hooks are the ultimate space-saving champions, perfect for turning any unused surface into a storage solution. From jackets to cooking utensils, if it can hang, it’s a win.

Here’s how to make hooks your best friend:

• Entryway Hook Rack: Install a hook rack by the door for jackets, hats, and keys. It keeps everything in one place so you’re not playing hide-and-seek with your essentials when you’re heading out for an adventure.
• Kitchen Hooks: Free up counter and drawer space by hanging pots, pans, or even utensils from hooks on the wall or under cabinets. It gives your kitchen that “rustic chic” look while saving precious space.
• Bathroom and Bedroom Hooks: Hang towels, robes, or even a toiletry bag in the bathroom. In the bedroom, hooks can keep bags, hats, or accessories off the floor and neatly organized.

Pro Tip: Use adhesive hooks if you don’t want to drill holes in your RV walls. They’re strong enough for most items and easy to remove or reposition when needed!

Hack #7: Fold-Down Shelves – Pop ‘Em Up When You Need ‘Em!

Need more storage but short on space? Fold-down shelves are the perfect solution! They give you extra storage when you need it and can be tucked away when you don’t.

Whether it’s for a mini workspace, extra kitchen counter space, or even a spot to stash books, fold-down shelves are like magic in an RV.

Here’s how fold-down shelves can make life easier:

• Extra Kitchen Space: Install a small fold-down shelf near your kitchen area. Perfect for meal prep or holding cooking utensils while you’re busy at the stove.
• Portable Workspace: Create a fold-down desk that doubles as a work-from-anywhere station. When you’re not using it, simply fold it back up and get your floor space back!
• Reading Nook: Set up a fold-down shelf next to your bed or seating area for books, a lamp, or even a cup of coffee in the morning. Instant cozy corner!

Pro Tip: If fold-down shelves feel too complex, look for clip-on shelves that attach to cabinets or furniture for a similar effect without any installation.

Ready to Maximize Your RV Space? Here’s What’s Next!

We know that RV life can feel cramped, but now you’ve got the tools to take control of your space! From hanging organizers to fold-down shelves, these easy hacks will help you keep things neat and tidy, so you can focus on enjoying the adventure.

At Bish’s RV, we don’t just sell RVs—we’re RVers ourselves, and we’re passionate about helping you get the most out of your camper. Whether it’s offering storage tips or helping you find an RV with more space, we’re always happy to share what we know.

Next Steps For Storage

• Find an RV with more storage: Explore our inventory of RVs designed for organized, stress-free travel.

• Trade up for more space: Curious about upgrading to a roomier RV? Check the value of your current RV and see how you can trade up.

• Talk to an RV Outfitter: Need more personalized storage tips for your current setup? Our RV outfitters are here to help you maximize every inch.