Clever STORAGE SOLUTIONS for VAN LIFE, SUV and Car Camping!
You know, turning this tiny minivan into a camper has been an absolute blast, but let me tell you, storage has been a real head-scratcher. Figuring out clever ways to stash everything you need can seriously make or break the whole experience. I've spent countless hours tweaking and refining my setup, and I'm super excited to share my best storage hacks with you. From maximizing every inch under the bed to utilizing rooftop and hitch-mounted cargo options, I've got a ton to show you. If you're dreaming of turning your car, van, or SUV into a storage-savvy camper, you're in the right place. Buckle up!
Links to products, devices and gear featured in this video
My Minivan Makeover: A Storage Savvy Camper Adventure
Imagine we've just rolled into camp, ready to set up. Okay, so we're in a parking lot right now, but the concept's the same! Let me walk you through where everything lives in my little mobile home. I've turned every nook and cranny into storage. The passenger door side pockets? Handy wipes. The door pockets? Straps, extra pillowcases, a fire extinguisher, baggies, and paper bags. And this big catch-all space? It's a goldmine! On the seat I've got two 5-gallon plastic totes for clothes,a basket filled with hand sanitizer, pens, tissues, and a wrench for my Starlink setup - and down on the floorboard, two 3-gallon water jugs. Plus, a sleeping bag, sheets, and more of those indispensable pee bottles (don't judge!).
Then there are the window screens, my portable Bluetooth audio player, more straps, and a whole 'junk' area' up front. My temperature sensor, soap, extra straps, bungee cords, silverware, and, of course, my baseball cap. It's a chaotic but organized symphony of stuff!
Moving to the back, safety is my priority. Everything is strapped down for travel. My compost bin, sink, and stove are all secured to the back of my sofa bed setup. My Starlink Mini is tucked away, ready to go. I've also got this massive stowaway cargo carrier on my hatch. It's a game-changer. Inside, I've got two 5-gallon buckets—one for tools and one for paper goods like toilet paper and Kleenex. An outdoor rug, a tarp, a step ladder, a propane generator, and a folding toilet also call this space home.
One of my favorite additions is the stabilizer jack I had welded onto the cargo carrier. It takes the weight off the hitch and keeps everything level. It's a must-have if you're hauling heavy gear. Inside the van, I've got bins of clothes and more storage under the sofa bed. I've used zip ties to connect baskets, creating deep storage for food and other essentials.
Up front on the driver side, I've got an umbrella, a fire extinguisher, a car battery jumper, an air pump, and a code reader. I've also got my trash can, which doubles as a storage spot for change, toiletries, and, yes, more PE bottles. Under the seat, I've got toilet paper, a blanket, and a bag full of grocery bags.
Now, let's talk about setting up camp. First, I get my Starlink out of the way. Then, I move the front seats forward to create space. I lift my countertop, fold it down, and set up the other side. My sink, stove, and compost bin all have their designated spots. The shelf becomes a table, and I've even got storage under the sofa bed.
Inside, I've added vertical storage, a spice rack, and drawers made from fridge freezer bins. My sink box is movable, giving me access to lower the spare tire. At night, the shelf becomes a countertop extension, and my toilet is ready for use. I've even got a hidden microwave compartment!
The side storage is another favorite. I've got cooking utensils, canned goods, and a dust-buster all neatly organized. Everything is wedged in tight, secured with tie wraps and bungee cords. I've also added a paper towel holder, fire alarm, puck lights, and two 12-volt fans.
On the other side, I've got a TV remote holder, headphones, a temperature sensor, a AA battery charger, and my CPAP machine. Food storage, a coffee mug, silverware, and a propane bottle also have their places. I've even got a DC to DC charger mounted here to power my 12 fuse panel.
Moving to the back, I've got my power stations. A 2000-watt Bluetti and a smaller unit for my Starlink and CPAP. I've got clothes, camera gear, and an electric blanket.
Underneath, I've got a 7-gallon water tank, a water pump and hose. I've even got a quick connect for easy water access. And of course, more paper goods!
On the roof, I've got gearboxes and solar panels. Lifting the panels gives me access to my Thule roof box. It's a bit of a process, but it's worth it for the extra storage.
This whole journey has been about maximizing every inch and finding creative solutions. It's been a wild ride, and I'm excited to see where my storage-savvy camper takes me next!