A lot of RV owners make the same mistake at first. They spend too much on camping gear that looks smart on the shelf, then find out it works worse than regular home stuff.
In the video at the end of this post, Jason Epperson of RV Miles makes a simple case for IKEA. For RV living, the best buys are often cheap, compact and easy to store, and not fancy. That idea shows up right away in the most-used parts of the rig.
Why IKEA works so well in an RV
An RV is small, but it is still a house on wheels. That is why IKEA makes so much sense. Its products are built for tight spaces, and many of them cost less than so-called camping versions.
Epperson points to a few easy wins near the door and in the closet. The BAGGMUCK shoe tray keeps dirt, sand, and mud in one spot, whether it sits inside the door or outside. The MURVEL shoe organizer also helps, because double-stacking shoes saves a surprising amount of closet space.
Closets get another boost from SPRUTTIG hangers, which are thinner than standard plastic ones. KOMPLEMENT drawer organizers also help keep clothes and small items from sliding around and clattering during travel.
The kitchen is where IKEA shines
The kitchen is the strongest argument for skipping pricey camping gear. IKEA 365+ stainless steel pots and pans are affordable, durable, and often more satisfying than ultra-light specialty cookware.
LEGITIM cutting boards are another smart pick. They are small, cheap, and easy to keep in multiples, which works well for indoor use, outdoor prep, or separating meat and vegetables. The NÄRP utensil set fits the same theme: low cost and easy to replace.
For storage, KLIPPKAKTUS containers help stop food from rolling around in the fridge on a travel day. VARIERA’s plastic bag dispenser turns grocery bags into ready-made trash liners, and HÅLLBAR bins make good trash, recycling, or storage containers because their straight sides waste less space.
One item did not impress Jason as much, however. IKEA’s TILLREDA induction cooktop can be useful for RVers with a solid inverter and battery setup, especially for outdoor cooking, but similar burners often cost less at Target or Walmart.
Bathroom basics and one useful RV extra
In the bathroom, simple storage matters more than style. The RINNIG shower basket keeps bottles together, both in the RV and during campground bathhouse runs. TISKEN suction hooks and organizers are even more useful because they stick well and can hold shower items, helmets, wreaths, or even a Starlink cable. The one warning: Do not stick them to RV graphics.
IKEA also does well with towels, sheets, comforters, and pillows. Jason especially likes towels with hanging loops, because they stay put while the RV is moving.
What stands out in the SOLUPPGÅNG outdoor collection
IKEA’s limited SOLUPPGÅNG outdoor line mixes useful camping gear with campsite style. Some of it leans decorative, but several pieces fit RV life well.
The enamel plate, bowl, and mug set looks classic and stacks easily. The spork earns its place for quick meals. A folding eucalyptus table adds prep space, while the bamboo cooler basket and knife with a sheath feel practical enough for picnic days and outdoor cooking. The cast-iron hibachi grill looks solid, too, although its price is about the same as similar grills sold elsewhere.
One small drawback stood out. The collection was hard to find in-store, because items were spread across different departments instead of one camping display. You can shop for them more easily online, however.
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RVDT2885
We go to Ikea everytime that we are near one. Free coffee as family members.
Many Ikea products are scaled for European sized living spaces. That helps in selections.
Be sure and roam the “As Is” section. Think creative and re-purposing.
Ikea has lots of shoe storage options
Thank you for recounting the video’s points, Cheri. This sort of column/video can save one time and effort in adding desired components to ones RV. Have a great weekend and safe travels!