By Cheri Sicard
Keeping an RV organized can feel like a never-ending battle. Space is limited, and clutter seems to multiply overnight. In the video below, Ben and Charity from the Grateful Glamper share smart RV storage hacks that can transform your rig from chaotic to livable.
The great RV purge: Keep, donate, or trash?
Why is decluttering so important? A tidy RV isn’t just about appearances. It’s about having more space, carrying less weight, and creating a relaxing environment. So, how do you start? The Grateful Glampers have a simple system. It involves creating three piles: keep, donate, and trash.
• Keep: These are the items you use all the time. The essentials for RV living.
• Donate: Got items in good shape that you no longer need? Someone else could put them to good use.
• Trash: Broken items, things that can’t be used, and anything without a purpose need to go.
Analysis paralysis can kick in during this process. Should you keep something “just in case”? The key is to be decisive. Put it in a pile and move on. Once everything is sorted, revisit the “keep” pile. Are those items really essential? It’s easy to get attached to things, but remember, less is more.
Ever find hidden treasures or, in this case, hidden clutter? The Grateful Glampers found three extension cords scattered in different compartments. How does that even happen? This is a perfect example of how clutter builds up without you even realizing it. By consolidating items and eliminating duplicates, you can free up precious space.
Clever RV organization systems to maximize every inch
• Utilizing vertical space with stacking storage: RV storage compartments are often tall, but the space isn’t always used well. The Grateful Glampers suggest stacking storage bins to take advantage of all that vertical space.
• From boxes to bags: Bulky packaging can take up valuable space. The Grateful Glampers recommend decanting items into Sunee Zipper Pouches to reduce volume. These pouches are great for storing board games, electronics, and other loose items. They’re also more durable than standard Ziploc bags. Don’t forget to label the bags. It will make it much easier to find what you’re looking for later.
Reorganized RV basement
This part of the video looks inside the reorganized RV basement. In the first compartment, you’ll find stacked bins containing frequently used items. An indoor/outdoor rug is easily accessible for setting up an outdoor space. A telescoping ladder is stored underneath, since it’s not needed as often. There’s also a quick-connect propane line for a Blackstone grill, plus a collapsible bucket and other useful items, including the “outdoor living room” setup.
The second compartment holds the Starlink cable, items for the tow vehicle, and tie-down straps. A tire minder and tire inflator also live here.
It’s crucial to keep sewer-related items separate from everything else. The Glampers use the third compartment to contain the sewer hose and accessories, as well as items related to the gray tank.
Compartment four contains fresh water and seasonal gear as, just as with the sewer items, freshwater-related items should be kept separate. Inside are the freshwater hoses and accessories along with items used less frequently such as paddle boards, kids’ scooters, life jackets, and snorkeling gear.
The tie-down strap dilemma: Tangles and frustration
Tie-down straps. Every RVer has them, and they always seem to end up in a tangled mess. Untangling them is a frustrating waste of time.
Ben has a simple technique for keeping tie-down straps organized:
1. Bring the strap up through and back all the way through, leaving a little slack.
2. Close the strap up.
3. Grab the end, make sure it’s flat, and bring it up to the half mark.
4. Mark the half mark with a marker.
5. Start rolling the strap tightly.
6. Roll the end up on top of the strap.
7. Bring the end over and hook it onto the strap.
This method keeps the straps neat and ready to use.
How many tie-down straps does one really need? Opinions vary widely. Ben believes you can never have enough, while others might think 10-15 is plenty. What do you think?
Bonus tip: cord organization
Tangled cords are a common annoyance. Using Velcro cord ties is an easy way to keep cords neat and organized. Simply wrap the tie around the cord to prevent tangling.
The importance of prioritizing space
Think about how often you use an item when deciding where to store it. Items used daily or weekly should be placed in easily accessible locations. Items used less frequently can be stored in harder-to-reach spots. This principle applies to all areas of the RV, not just the storage compartments.
Keeping an RV organized requires regular effort and smart storage solutions. By decluttering, using stacking bins and zipper pouches, and prioritizing space, you can transform the RV into a comfortable and functional living space.
How many tie-down straps do you think is enough? What are some of your favorite RV storage tips or hacks? Be sure to leave your thoughts in the comments below.
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