When you’re living small, the fastest way to feel cluttered is letting bulky, dirty gear creep into your RV’s living space.
Add a Slide-Out Tray for Easy Access
The first time I used a slide-out cargo tray in an exterior compartment, I couldn’t believe how much time it saved my back and my patience. I keep the heavy stuff on it so everything comes to me instead of me crawling into the bay.
Check these products out:
- Heavy Duty RV Cargo Slide Tray: Install a sturdy sliding tray to bring your gear directly to you, saving your back from unnecessary strain.
- Industrial Drawer Slides: Build your own custom pull-out storage solution using these robust, locking rails designed for heavy vehicle use.
- Large Woven Storage Basket: Keep loose items organized on your cargo tray with durable baskets that make loading and unloading simple.
Zone Your Pass-Through Storage Bay
I treat my pass-through storage bay like a tiny garage and group gear by task (water, power, leveling, camp comfort) so I’m not digging in a panic at the campsite. A few labeled weather-resistant totes made the biggest difference for me.
Explore these options:
- Heavy-Duty Storage Bins: Organize your gear by category with durable containers that stack securely and withstand outdoor conditions effectively.
- Vinyl Label Decals: Clearly mark every container to find supplies instantly and keep your pass-through storage bay perfectly distinctive.
- Expandable Hose Keeper: Keep water lines tidy and manageable by storing coils in flexible baskets or dedicated circular bags.
Use Stackable, Sealed Totes Outside
I switched to smaller sealed bins in my exterior compartments, and suddenly nothing was a jumbled mess after travel days. Stackable totes also let me use the full height of the bay without playing “gear Jenga.”
A few suggestions:
- Heavy-Duty Weatherproof Storage Trunk: Protect your gear from moisture and dust with these rugged, sealable containers designed for tough outdoor environments.
- Clear-Lid Stackable Cargo Box: Keep supplies visible and organized; stack these durable bins to maximize every inch of your storage bay vertical space.
- Industrial Strength Utility Tote: Secure uneven or heavy equipment safely during transit with these reinforced bins equipped with sturdy, ergonomic carrying handles.
Create a Tie-Down Grid in the Bay
I learned the hard way that even organized bins shift, so I added a basic strap-and-hook tie-down system in my exterior compartment. Now I snug everything down before rolling out and nothing crashes around back there.
You might give these a try:
- Cargo Net or Bungee Web: Secure loose gear quickly with a flexible cargo net that adapts to hold odd-shaped items or bins firmly.
- Heavy Duty Tie-Down Straps: Mount larger items like coolers securely using adjustable, durable straps that prevent shifting during your road trips.
- Metal Footman Loops & Anchors: Create your own custom anchor points anywhere in the bay to attach webbing, straps, or nets exactly where needed.
Keep Sewer Gear in Its Own Exterior Carrier
I never mix sewer hoses with clean gear, and keeping them in a dedicated exterior hose carrier made me feel instantly more sanitary. It’s one of those “why didn’t I do this sooner?” upgrades.
A few things you might like:
- Adjustable Sewer Hose Carrier: Keep your sanitation gear stored safely outside your RV with this convenient, adjustable carrier tube for easier access.
- Ventilated Storage Tube Cap: Upgrade your existing carrier with vented caps to allow airflow and prevent moisture buildup inside your storage tube.
- Mounting Brackets for Storage Tubes: Securely attach your new sewer hose carrier to your RV’s bumper or undercarriage with these durable mounting brackets.
Use Under-Step Storage for Setup Gear
I keep my wheel chocks and leveling blocks in an under-step exterior box so I can grab them the second I park. Having that “first five minutes” gear right by the door makes setup feel weirdly calm.
Possibly helpful picks:
- Wooden Under-Step Storage Box: Keep your setup gear accessible beneath your entry steps with a sturdy, open-top wooden storage crate.
- Stackable Gear Storage Containers: Organize smaller tools and accessories right by your door using durable, stackable bins with secure lids.
- Camper Leveling Blocks: Ensure your RV is perfectly stable immediately upon parking with these essential, heavy-duty interlocking leveling pads.
Add a Hitch Cargo Rack for Overflow
When I’m carrying bulky extras, a rear hitch cargo rack lets me keep it all outside without stealing floor space inside. I always secure a big tote with a cargo net so it stays put on bumpy roads.
Possibly handy products:
- Hitch-Mounted Cargo Carrier Basket: Expand your hauling capacity instantly with a sturdy rear basket, perfect for keeping bulky gear accessible yet exterior.
- Heavy-Duty Cargo Storage Bag: Protect your belongings from road grime and weather by loading them into a durable, weather-resistant carrier bag.
- Elastic Bungee Cargo Net: Ensure your load stays secure on bumpy roads with a stretchable net designed to hold items firmly in place.
Store Bikes Outside With a Secure Rack
I’m a huge fan of keeping bikes on a rear bike rack because it frees up a shocking amount of room in the RV. I stash helmets and locks in a small exterior storage bag so the whole “bike kit” lives together.
Might be a good match:
- RV Mount Bike Rack: Secure your bicycles to the back of your camper to save precious interior floor space while traveling.
- Waterproof Cargo Bag: Protect your helmets and riding gear from the elements with a durable, weather-resistant exterior storage bag.
- Bike Frame Adapter: Ensure your mountain or women’s bike fits level and secure on your rack with this simple bar.
Use the Tongue or Hitch Area for Quick-Grab Items
On towable rigs, I’ve kept a tough crate near the hitch area for things I want fast, like a tarp and work gloves. It’s basically my “arrive-and-unload” exterior staging spot.
Items that may come in handy:
- Heavy-Duty Cargo Crate: Organize your essential gear with a rugged container perfect for quick access near your RV entryway.
- Waterproof Outdoor Blanket: Keep a durable, easy-to-clean blanket handy for impromptu picnics or protecting your gear from damp ground.
- Leather Work Gloves: Protect your hands during setup and teardown with tough, reliable gloves stored right where you need them.
Go Up Top With a Roof Storage Box
For seasonal gear, I’ve used a roof storage box to keep the inside from feeling stuffed to the ceiling. I only put lightweight items up there, and I pack them in weatherproof bags for extra protection.
Consider these options:
- Hardshell Roof Cargo Carrier: Secure your extra gear and free up interior space by installing a durable, aerodynamic rooftop cargo carrier.
- Heavy-Duty Cargo Straps: Keep your stored items from shifting during travel by securing them down with reliable, heavy-duty cam straps.
- Weatherproof Duffel Bags: Pack your clothing or seasonal items in water-resistant duffels to ensure they stay dry and organized overhead.
Turn the Bay Door Into an Organizer Wall
I’ve attached slim organizers to the inside of an exterior bay door for small stuff like gloves, adapters, and a tire gauge. It’s such a satisfying “hidden space” win because those little pieces stop disappearing.
Some ideas to consider:
- Wall-Mounted Canvas Pocket Organizer: Store your small tools and gloves neatly using these durable, fabric-based storage pockets with easy mounting options.
- Industrial Strength Velcro Strips: Securely attach your organizers to any exterior bay door without drilling permanent holes or damaging surfaces.
- Adhesive Hooks for Door Organization: Hang keys, flashlights, or lightweight organizers instantly on your bay doors for quick and easy access.
Create a Hidden Skirt Stash While Parked
When I’m staying put for a bit, I’ll slide a couple low-profile waterproof bins under the RV and tuck them behind a mat so they’re out of sight. It’s a surprisingly handy temporary exterior storage trick for camp toys or extra shoes—just pull them before you travel.
Give these a look:
- Low-Profile Underbed Storage Bins: Keep camping gear organized and dry by sliding these durable, low-clearance containers right underneath your RV.
- Large Jute or Outdoor Rug: Conceal your storage bins and define your patio space with a stylish, durable mat that hides clutter.
- Woven Storage Baskets: Add rustic charm and quick access storage for items like throw blankets or shoes near your entryway.
