Embarking on a long road trip in an RV is a thrilling adventure, offering freedom, flexibility, and the chance to explore new destinations at your own pace. However, the longer the trip, the more important it becomes to keep your RV organized and clutter-free. A well-organized space not only makes life on the road more comfortable but also enhances your overall travel experience by minimizing stress and maximizing space.

In this guide, we’ll cover a handful of essential RV storage ideas to help you keep your RV clean and tidy during long road trips. From storage ideas to tips on what to pack (and leave behind), these strategies will help you make the most of your RV’s space.

RV Organization Hacks and Tips

1. Maximize Vertical Storage

When it comes to RVs, every square inch matters. Since floor space is limited, one of the best ways to create more storage is to make use of vertical space.

• Hanging Organizers:  One of the best RV storage solutions for unused space is to use over-the-door or wall-mounted hanging organizers for items like shoes, toiletries, and kitchen supplies. These can be hung on bathroom doors, inside closets, or even on the back of your RV’s entrance door.

• Magnetic Strips:  Mount magnetic strips on the walls to store metal objects like knives, scissors, and small tools. This keeps them easily accessible without cluttering your countertops and saves drawer space.

• Pegboards: Install a pegboard in the kitchen or storage areas to hang utensils, pots, pans, and even cleaning supplies. Pegboards are versatile and can be customized to fit your RV storage needs.

2. Use Clear Storage Bins

Clear storage bins are some of the best organization and storage solutions for a road-tripper. They help you categorize items and see what’s inside without having to rummage through everything. Visit a container store to find small space storage solutions.

• Stackable Bins: Choose stackable plastic storage bins for items that you don’t need to access frequently, such as seasonal clothing, extra bedding, or pantry items. Stack them under the bed or in overhead compartments to free up floor space.

• Label Everything: Even if your bins are clear, labeling them ensures everyone knows where things belong. Label bins with items like "Snacks," "Toiletries," or "Camping Gear" to maintain order throughout your trip.

• Under-seat Storage: Many RVs have space beneath the seating areas. Invest in low-profile bins or containers that can slide under seats to store board games, extra blankets, or anything else you might need quick access to, and take advantage of this empty space.

3. Declutter Before You Depart

Before you hit the road, take time to declutter your RV. Bringing fewer items with you makes it easier to stay organized during your trip.

• What to Pack: Focus on multi-purpose items. For example, instead of packing three separate pots for cooking, bring one high-quality pot that can serve various functions so as not to clutter your RV kitchen cabinets. Likewise, pack clothes that can be mixed and matched to create multiple outfits with fewer pieces.

• What Not to Bring: Resist the urge to pack items “just in case.” While it’s tempting to bring along extra kitchen gadgets, outdoor gear, or shoes, most of these items will just take up precious counter space. Only bring essentials and things you know you’ll use.

• Create a Packing List: A well-thought-out packing list helps ensure you only bring what you need. Stick to the list and avoid adding unnecessary items at the last minute.

4. Use Drawer Dividers and Compartmentalized Containers

Keeping drawers tidy can be a challenge, but using dividers and compartmentalized containers can make a world of difference. These organizers prevent your items from shifting during the drive and help you find things faster in tiny spaces.

• Kitchen Drawer Dividers: Use dividers in your kitchen drawers to separate utensils, cutting boards, and cooking gadgets. This will save time when you’re preparing meals on the road.

• Bedroom and Bathroom Dividers: In bedroom and bathroom drawers, dividers can be used to organize socks, undergarments, toiletries, and hair accessories. Everything has its place, making daily routines smoother.

• Tension Rods for Cabinets: In cabinets, tension rods can be used to separate different sections or create compartments for standing items like cutting boards, dish towels, and cleaning supplies. Maximize space and keep everything organized with these awesome RV organization ideas.

5. Install Shelving Solutions

If your RV has limited built-in storage, consider adding temporary or removable shelving solutions.

• Removable Shelves: These can be added inside cabinets to create double the storage space for plates, cups, or canned goods. Use lightweight and adjustable shelves that can be easily installed or removed when needed.

• Shelf Risers: In cupboards or closets, shelf risers help you maximize vertical space, allowing you to store more items in an organized fashion.

• Adhesive Hooks and Shelves: For lighter items like keys, hats, or small bags, adhesive Command hooks, and mini shelves can be placed on walls without damaging the RV’s interior. They can be easily removed once the trip is over.

6. Utilize the RV’s Exterior Storage

Don’t forget that many RVs come with exterior storage compartments, which are perfect for storing larger, less frequently used items.

• Outdoor Gear: Keep bulky outdoor gear like chairs, grills, and bicycles in these compartments to free up space inside the RV.

• Toolbox and Maintenance Supplies: Store your toolbox, spare tire, and any maintenance supplies in the exterior storage to keep them accessible but out of the living area.

• Seasonal Items: If you’re traveling during summer, store any cold-weather gear like coats, boots, or extra blankets outside, and vice versa.

7. Make the Most of the Kitchen

RV kitchens tend to be small, but with some strategic organization, you can make RV meal prep a breeze.

• Collapsible Kitchenware: Collapsible bowls, colanders, and storage containers are great space savers. When not in use, they can be flattened and stored with ease.

• Magnetic Spice Rack: Keep spices organized and accessible by attaching a magnetic spice rack to the fridge or a cabinet door.

• Pantry Baskets: Use small baskets or bins in the pantry to group similar items together, such as snacks, canned goods, or baking supplies. This prevents food from getting lost in the back of cabinets.

• Drawer Inserts for Plates and Bowls: RVs tend to move around a lot on the road, so prevent breakage by using foam inserts or tension rods to secure plates, bowls, and other fragile items inside cabinets.

8. Implement a Daily Clean-Up Routine

Even with the best organizational hacks, RV living can get messy quickly. That’s why it’s crucial to establish a daily clean-up routine.

• End-of-Day Tidy Up: Before heading to bed, spend 10-15 minutes putting things back in their designated places. This will prevent clutter from accumulating and keep the space neat and functional.

• Assign Tasks: If you’re traveling with family or friends, assign specific cleaning tasks to each person. This could include wiping down countertops, folding blankets, or organizing the kitchen.

• Use Multi-Purpose Cleaning Products: To save space, bring multi-purpose cleaning products that can be used on various surfaces. This reduces the number of items you need to store.

Keep it Clean with Cruise America

Keeping your RV organized on long road trips is essential for comfort and convenience. By maximizing vertical space, using clear storage bins, decluttering, and utilizing smart shelving solutions, you can make the most of your RV’s interior space. Additionally, packing only the essentials, compartmentalizing drawers, and establishing a daily clean-up routine will help maintain a tidy living environment throughout your journey. Whether you’re traveling solo or with family, these RV organization hacks will ensure a smoother and more enjoyable road trip experience. Connect with Cruise for an RV rental!