When living or travelling in an RV, space is your most valuable asset — and often, the hardest to manage. Whether you’re navigating a tight campervan interior or setting up a caravan for a long trip, clutter builds up quickly. Without efficient storage, even the most beautiful journey can feel cramped, chaotic, and stressful.
That’s where DIY storage mods come in. These clever, low-cost customisations help you make the most of every nook and cranny, turning wasted space into organised zones that serve your daily needs. From under-bed drawers and hanging ceiling nets to magnetic spice racks and fold-out tables, small modifications can deliver big improvements in functionality and comfort.
This guide will walk you through practical, beginner-friendly ideas to maximise your RV’s space using simple tools and accessible materials. Whether you’re a weekend traveller or full-time vanlifer, these Aussie-tested tips will help you stay organised, reduce clutter, and love every inch of your mobile home.
Plan Before You Mod: Assessing Your RV’s Storage Potential
Before you start cutting timber or buying baskets, take time to assess your storage needs and opportunities. Planning upfront ensures your DIY mods actually solve real problems — rather than adding more bulk or clutter.
Evaluate What You Actually Carry
Make a list of:
Daily-use essentials (clothes, cookware, toiletries)
Occasional gear (camp chairs, hiking boots, beach toys)
Seasonal or bulky items (jackets, bedding, tools)
Ask yourself: Do I need all of this onboard? Downsizing is often the first (and cheapest) storage improvement you can make.
Identify Dead Space in Your RV
Walk through your caravan or motorhome and note:
Empty vertical space above beds or under cabinets
Wasted gaps behind or under benches and cupboards
Untapped ceiling space in pop-tops or high-roof vans
Backs of doors, walls, or closet panels with no storage at all
These areas are ripe for creative mods that don’t intrude into living space.
Sketch and Measure Before You Build
Use a tape measure and sketchpad (or RV design app) to note:
Dimensions of available gaps or voids
Cabinet depth, ceiling height, under-bed clearance
Door opening arcs (to avoid interfering with mods)
Basic Materials and Tools to Have On Hand
Most DIY storage mods can be built with:
Plywood or pine boards
Plastic tubs, stackable crates, or fabric bins
Velcro strips, bungee cords, or elastic netting
3M Command hooks or magnetic mounts
Basic tools: drill, jigsaw, screwdriver, measuring tape, adhesive
With a bit of prep, you can turn unused space into purposeful storage — without tearing apart your rig or overspending.
Under-Bed and Bench Seat Storage Solutions
The space beneath your bed or bench seats is one of the most underutilised zones in an RV — and with a few smart DIY mods, it can become your go-to spot for bulk storage, gear organisation, or even a hidden pantry.
Lift-Up Bed Bases for Large Item Storage
If your RV has a fixed bed with a solid base, consider converting it into a lift-up compartment using gas struts or hinged panels. This gives you access to the full footprint beneath the bed — ideal for storing:
Bedding, blankets, and pillows
Seasonal clothes or outdoor gear
Water bottles, long-life food, or extra tools
Use plastic storage tubs or soft-sided cubes to divide the space neatly and prevent things from shifting while in motion.
Roll-Out Drawers or Crates Under Benches
For dinette benches or sofa seats, remove the front panel and build in sliding drawers or roll-out crates using:
Drawer runners
Locking castor wheels
Low-friction plastic strips
Label each drawer with contents (e.g., “Tools”, “Shoes”, “Kitchen Backup”) and secure them with latches or bungee cords for travel.
Bed Risers or Platforms for Extra Height
In campervans or pop-tops where the bed is close to the floor, adding a custom riser platform can give you 15–30 cm of extra vertical storage. Use that space for:
Folded camp chairs
Swag or tent storage
Slim toolboxes or folding tables
Tip: Cover your bed platform top with carpet tiles or foam to improve grip and reduce rattle.
Use Packing Cubes or Colour-Coded Containers
Organisation makes access easier and faster. Use:
Colour-coded tubs for different family members
Packing cubes for clothes and linens
Vacuum bags to compress bulky items like doonas or jackets
Under-bed storage is perfect for things you need often — but not urgently. With smart dividers and access systems, it becomes a powerful mod that saves both space and sanity.
Vertical Storage: Walls, Doors, and Ceiling Hacks
In a small RV, going vertical is one of the smartest ways to free up floor and cabinet space. Your walls, doors, and even ceilings can hold far more than you think — without making your space feel cramped.
Wall-Mounted Nets, Mesh Bags & Organisers
Install cargo nets, elastic mesh, or hanging organisers on unused walls and cupboard sides. These are great for storing:
Shoes or thongs
Soft toys, books, or cables
Sunscreen, bug spray, and quick-grab items
They’re lightweight, soft, and don’t rattle on rough roads.
Magnetic Strips for Kitchen and Utility Gear
Mount magnetic strips (like those used for knives) on the wall to hold:
Cooking knives or utensils
Spice jars with magnetic lids
Metal tools or torches
Make sure the strip is mounted securely with strong adhesive or screws — and test strength before driving.
Hooks, Velcro, and Stick-On Racks
Use removable 3M Command Hooks, Velcro strips, or adhesive-backed racks for:
Hanging tea towels, oven mitts, or fly swats
Storing keys, hats, or headlamps
Mounting TV remotes, tablets, or Bluetooth speakers
These are renter- and van-builder-friendly — no drilling required, and easily repositioned.
Ceiling-Mounted Storage for Lightweight Items
Ceiling space above beds, in rear corners, or under high cabinets can be used for:
Soft hanging baskets
Bungee cord nets for clothes or blankets
Clips or mounts for folding camp chairs, rods, or yoga mats
Ensure everything is secure and lightweight only — no risk to passengers below in case of movement.
Tip: Use your van’s cab roof lining or pop-top space as a bonus attic — many travellers mount mesh hammocks across the top to store jackets, towels, or dirty clothes out of the way.
Vertical mods make your RV feel bigger without expanding the footprint — and they’re usually the easiest to DIY.
Overhead Cabinet and Shelf Optimization
Overhead cabinets are prime real estate in any RV — but without the right organisation, they quickly become a jumble of pots, plastic containers, and mystery items. A few smart mods can double your usable space and prevent the dreaded cupboard avalanche every time you open a door.
Stackable Bins, Shelf Risers & Expandable Shelves
Maximise vertical space inside each cabinet by adding:
Stackable plastic bins (clear ones make it easier to find items)
Shelf risers to create a second level inside tall cupboards
Expandable or wire shelves for separating dishes, mugs, and food
Use narrow baskets with handles to make pull-out “drawers” for small items.
Non-Slip Mats and Mini Tension Rods
Line each shelf with rubber non-slip matting to stop sliding while driving. For extra security:
Install mini tension rods at the front of shelves to act as barriers
Place rods vertically to keep cutting boards or trays in place
Use mini bungees or cargo nets for open shelving systems
These small mods make a huge difference in travel-day sanity.
Labelled, Clear Containers for Quick Access
Labelling helps everyone in the van know where things belong. Use:
Clear food storage containers with locking lids
Label makers or chalkboard stickers for easy ID
Clip-on bins under shelves to separate utensils or electronics
Organise by frequency of use — items you use daily should be easiest to access.
Install Cargo Nets Under Cabinets for Light Items
The space beneath your overhead cabinets can hold:
Rolled-up towels
Maps or books
Soft bags or jackets
Install a lightweight cargo net underneath the cabinet, stretching from side to side, to create a “storage hammock” that doesn’t interfere with the cabinet function.
Overhead mods are a small DIY effort with big returns — better access, reduced clutter, and zero surprises when you open a door after a bumpy road.
Bathroom and Laundry Storage Mods
The RV bathroom is one of the smallest and most awkward spaces to organise — but it’s also one of the easiest to upgrade with a few clever, water-resistant mods. With smart wall-mounted and collapsible solutions, you can keep toiletries, laundry gear, and cleaning supplies tidy without using up valuable living space.
Hanging Shower Caddies and Over-Door Racks
Use lightweight, rust-proof organisers like:
Mesh shower caddies that hang from shower heads or suction to walls
Over-door towel racks or multi-hook bars for drying wet items
Corner shelves with tension poles if your bathroom has a standing shower
Choose plastic or stainless steel to avoid corrosion, and secure all items before travel.
Collapsible Laundry Hampers and Storage Bins
For dirty clothes and cleaning gear:
Use collapsible laundry hampers that tuck under a bench or in a corner
Try fabric cube bins for storing cloths, pegs, or cleaning spray
Hang laundry bags on the bathroom door to save floor space
Tip: Hang a hook or elastic strap inside a bathroom cupboard to store the hamper when not in use.
Wall-Mounted Dispensers for Toiletries
Free up sink and shelf space by installing:
Shampoo, conditioner, and soap dispensers on the shower wall
Toothpaste and toothbrush holders with adhesive backing
Magnetic or Velcro strips for clippers, tweezers, or razors
Look for campervan-specific dispensers with locking lids to prevent spills while driving.
Hooks for Wet Gear, Washcloths & Toiletries
Install multiple removable hooks on doors, cabinet sides, and unused corners for:
Face towels
Loofahs and hairbrushes
Hanging toiletry bags
Use 3M water-resistant or suction-based hooks for damage-free, renter-friendly mods.
Bathroom mods may be small, but they have a big impact on your day-to-day comfort — and reduce frustration when space is limited and wet gear is involved.
Kitchen and Pantry Space-Saving Ideas
The RV kitchen is where space runs out quickest — and clutter creeps in fastest. With limited drawers, awkward cabinets, and nowhere to spread out, cooking can become chaotic unless you plan smart. These DIY kitchen storage mods help you maximise every inch, from spice jars to chopping boards.
Magnetic Racks and Spice Jar Storage
Use vertical space with:
Magnetic spice jars mounted to your fridge or a metal wall plate
A magnetic knife strip above the sink or stove
Magnetic hooks for hanging utensils, scissors, or pot holders
Be sure magnets are strong enough to hold during bumps — or add travel locks.
Tension Rods Inside Cupboards
Install adjustable tension rods inside cabinets to:
Keep cutting boards, trays, or plates upright
Act as barriers to stop food items from falling out
Separate bottles or containers into stable rows
These are simple, no-drill solutions and easily repositioned as needed.
Collapsible Cookware and Nesting Essentials
Choose gear that does double duty:
Collapsible bowls, strainers, and measuring cups
Nesting pots and pans with detachable handles
Stackable plastic containers with snap-fit lids for leftovers or dry food
These space-savers reduce drawer bulk and help streamline your kitchen setup.
Slide-Out Pantry Baskets or Drawers
Deep cabinets often become black holes of cans and condiments. Fix this by:
Installing pull-out wire baskets or DIY slide-out drawers
Using drawer runners and slim timber or plastic bins
Adding friction-fit dividers to sort snacks, jars, and sauces
Label everything and add grip liner at the base to stop items sliding in transit.
A well-organised RV kitchen makes cooking easier, waste less likely, and mealtimes more enjoyable — even on a moving vehicle.
Exterior Storage Mods: Maximising Outside Compartments
While interior storage gets all the attention, your RV’s external hatches and lockers are the perfect place to stash bulky, dirty, or infrequently used gear. With a few mods, these awkward spaces become easy-access zones that simplify setup, pack-down, and campsite life.
Install Slide-Out Trays or Drawers
Most external compartments are deep but hard to reach into. Solve that by adding:
Slide-out drawers using heavy-duty runners
Locking roller trays for generator storage, BBQs, or toolboxes
DIY plywood trays with rope pulls if you’re on a budget
These mods make it safer and easier to access gear — no more crawling or unpacking the entire hatch.
Use Plastic Tubs for Categorised Storage
Separate your gear into tubs:
Water & hoses
Electrical & power leads
Tools, jacks, spares
Outdoor cooking or firewood gear
Choose stackable or lock-lid tubs and label them clearly. Add bungee cords or cargo nets to prevent shifting on rough roads.
Add PVC Pipe Tubes for Long Gear
Mount capped PVC pipes under the van or on the rear bumper to store:
Tent poles
Fishing rods
Awning rafters or levelling ramps
Use screw or rubber end caps to keep contents clean and dry.
Secure External Boxes or Racks
If you need more outdoor gear space, consider:
Adding a lockable alloy toolbox on the drawbar or rear bumper
Installing bike racks, shovel holders, or jerry can mounts
Using quick-access side bags for things like dirty shoes or dog gear
Ensure anything added to your RV exterior is secure, road-legal, and weight-rated.
With these upgrades, your exterior hatches become more than just gear dumps — they become part of your daily travel efficiency system.
Multi-Functional Furniture & Fold-Out Features
In tight RV spaces, furniture must earn its keep. By adding fold-out, flip-up, or multi-use elements, you can unlock new functionality without sacrificing space. These DIY upgrades transform dead zones into usable surfaces and turn fixed items into dual-purpose solutions.
Fold-Out Tables and Cupboard-Mounted Desks
Perfect for working, cooking prep, or extra dining space:
Mount a fold-out table to a cupboard wall or kitchen cabinet
Use drop-leaf hinges or locking brackets for support
Add a small leg or wall latch to secure it during travel
These are great for laptop stations, kids’ homework, or coffee corners.
Convertible Dinettes and Sofa Benches
Upgrade existing furniture to serve double duty:
Modify your dinette table to drop into a guest bed base
Add lift-up lids to sofa benches for hidden storage
Insert drawer units into the base of built-ins to maximise use of floor space
Tip: Use soft-close drawer runners or friction pads to avoid rattling on rough roads.
Flip-Up Benchtop Extensions
Need more kitchen space? Add a fold-up bench extension:
Use piano hinges and a fold-down bracket
Mount it to the side of your kitchen bench, bathroom vanity, or outdoor BBQ shelf
Secure it with magnetic latches or sliding bolts
It folds away flat and gives you prep room only when needed.
Murphy Beds, Slide-Outs, and Removable Panels
If you’re renovating or building from scratch, consider:
Murphy-style beds that fold up against the wall
Sliding storage panels in cabinets to hide valuables or pantry goods
Removable, modular panels that clip in and out for seasonal flexibility
Think modular and movable — small changes to fixed furniture can yield big results in functionality and space.
Conclusion: Customise Your RV, Your Way
When it comes to RV living, comfort and functionality come down to how well you use your space — and no two travellers have the same needs. That’s the beauty of DIY storage mods: you can customise your rig to fit your lifestyle, whether you’re chasing weekend getaways or living full-time on the road.
From under-bed drawers to magnetic kitchen hacks, every mod you make saves time, reduces clutter, and helps your RV feel more like home. And you don’t need to be a carpenter to get started — many of these ideas require only basic tools, affordable materials, and a bit of weekend effort.
Start small. Tackle one zone at a time. Over time, you’ll build a system that’s uniquely yours — efficient, tidy, and tailored to the way you travel. Just remember: secure all mods for transit, prioritise lightweight materials, and enjoy the creative process.
For more inspiration, check out our guides on DIY van conversions, RV kitchen upgrades, and best tools to carry for RV maintenance.
