Campervan storage ideas

Storing items in your campervan can be challenging, especially if you go on long road trips and need to take lots of things. From clothes and kitchen utensils to food and entertainment items, there are numerous ways in which you can neatly and securely store everything you need in your campervan.

Accessible storage

Before you get started, it's worth thinking about making your storage easily accessible—there's nothing worse than having a nifty storage space that is really hard to get your items in and out of.

Create a plan for where you'd like to add storage to your campervan. Drawing the layout of your campervan will help you envision what space you have available and how you can best use it.

Some things to consider include:

• The dimensions of your existing cupboards and units
• Any 'free space' which is just unused blank space that could be filled with a simple storage solution like a shelf
• The weight of the items you may want to store—anything heavy, like tinned food, should be stored at a lower level
• Identify pre-made storage solutions that you can purchase to save time and labour
• Be aware of your motorhome's overall payload allowance as well as maximum axle weight ratings so you don't overfill it
• Storing more in your campervan can reduce fuel efficiency—so it's still worth packing light

This article shares some innovative campervan storage ideas to help you make the most of your available space.

1. Small campervan storage ideas

Discreet and innovative storage solutions are even more important if you have a small campervan. Having lots of clutter in a compact space can make it feel even smaller, but there are plenty of great storage ideas that can help.

Take advantage of overhead space to get the most out of an area that would otherwise be unused. Add shelves or cupboards towards the ceiling of your caravan, where you can store anything from clothes and bedding to entertainment and kitchen items. Multifunctional furniture is also a great storage option for small campervans, as it helps to utilise space that is already being taken up by furniture. Storage benches are a great example of this and can be crafted to fit a specific space.

2. DIY campervan storage ideas

DIY campervan storage ideas allow you to get creative, put your own stamp on your campervan, and even save you money. One of the best ways to add storage options to your campervan yourself is to ensure every area has a purpose—even awkwardly shaped nooks that may seem impossible to work with. Cupboards and shelves can be crafted to suit all kinds of weird and wonderful spaces; it just takes a little creativity and motivation.

Campervan owners with carpentry skills are definitely at an advantage when building innovative storage spaces. However, fabric covers can work well if sawing wood isn’t your strong point, and materials can be chosen to match your campervan's interior design and theme.

3. Campervan kitchen storage ideas

Storing kitchen items in a campervan can be tricky, as pots, pans, utensils, crockery, and cutlery take up a lot of room. Thankfully, there are plenty of storage items that can help. Some top examples include:

• Stackable pots and pans—Stacking pots and pans neatly on top of each other will save space in your kitchen drawers and cupboards. Also, consider the size and quantity of the pots and pans you’re storing in your campervan. If there are typically only two of you eating, you won’t need loads of pans or large pots that can take up valuable space.
• Cutlery tray—You don’t necessarily need a drawer for cutlery in your campervan kitchen. You could simply buy a cutlery tray that can be put in a cupboard or on a shelf. The tray will keep your cutlery neat and in order without taking up excessive space and can hold other kitchen items, such as a potato peeler or tin opener.
• Magnetic knife holder—If you choose to get one, your cooking knives will fit nicely into your cutlery tray, but a magnetic knife holder is a great alternative. It attaches to the wall, so it doesn’t take up any shelf, surface, or drawer space, and you can choose a size that best suits the number of knives you have to store.
• Spice rack—A spice rack is another convenient campervan kitchen storage option. Like the magnetic knife holder, it can be attached to the wall, so it doesn’t take up valuable space elsewhere. It could also be fixed to the inside of a cupboard door if you wanted to keep it out of sight.
• Storage nets—Storage nets are a great option for campervan kitchens as they provide the perfect solution for displaying fruit and vegetables without taking up cupboard space. They also let you see which fruits and vegetables you have available to eat, which can help avoid food waste.

Explore our article on clever campervan kitchen ideas for more campervan kitchen inspiration, and for inspiration on what to cook, discover campervan cooking tips and recipes.

4. Campervan cupboard storage ideas

Having a selection of campervan cupboards is one of the best ways to neatly store things, and making the most of the available cupboard space is vital. As previously mentioned, cupboards can be built into any spare space in your campervan and are useful for keeping surfaces clear of clutter.

Storage options that fit onto the back of cupboard doors, such as hooks, hangers, and storage bags, can help you make the most of the available space. Stackable boxes or jars enable you to use the whole height of the cupboard. If you’re building your campervan storage, opt for drawers in lower cupboards rather than shelves, as these can be a more efficient use of space.

5. Underbed storage ideas

Utilising the otherwise unused space under your campervan bed is a great way to increase your storage. Packing cubes offer an efficient way to store clothes, towels, and bedding, as you can pack everything compactly. The cubes can then be stored neatly under your bed. Alternatively, you could install drawers under your bed, which can then be used to store a huge range of items, including shoes, sports equipment (such as fishing or cycling gear), board games, and even toiletries if you have little or no bathroom storage.

Boxes are another great option for under-bed storage in your campervan. Choose boxes that fit snugly to maximise the available space. If you can only access one side of your campervan bed, store items you use less often towards the back so you can easily access the things you use more regularly.

6. External storage ideas

We've covered campervan storage ideas for inside, but there's also a world of solutions you can use outside your campervan. You might be stumped at the idea of using the outside of your van for storage, but your roof is where most of the storage action can be had.

If you don't have them already, installing roof racks opens up additional storage space.

Why not invest in some dry bags for extra security and peace of mind? They are easy to pack away and ensure your clothing will stay dry no matter the weather. Not only are they great for storing your clothing inside your roof, but they can also be useful for popping in your backpack for any wet weather adventures—a two-in-one storage solution.

Specialist Campervan Insurance

If you're taking the time to store all of your precious items safely, you may also want to consider specialist campervan insurance to protect your van should the worst happen.

Through Ripe, you can protect your campervan from theft, accidental damage, fire, and flood. You'll also get cover for your equipment and accessories, such as awnings, utensils, and camping equipment, meaning you can cover those items you intend to store.

Find out more information on specialist campervan insurance through Ripe or get a free quote online today.