Much of our full-time RVing was in a 26-foot motorhome. The things we needed while traveling and for "normal" life had to fit into this fairly small space.
While I understand there are smaller RVs out there, we still had to learn some tricks to fit everything in.
Reduce your clothes to the minimum by using layers and only keeping the basics.
1. Reduce your stuff
This is the No. 1 rule for a reason. Make sure you understand the difference between "need" and "want."
Don’t buy extra "just in case." And when you buy something (like a new skillet), you need to get rid of something (like the old skillet). Buy small, such as small folding tables. Reduce your clothes to the minimum by using layers and only keeping the basics (like limited colors and a few dress shoes).
2. Find the hidden places in your RV
We have things stored under the front seats, under couches and under drawers. We've also used these hidden places to keep extra money as a sort-of safe.
Fill insides of items like coolers and luggage — my extra dress clothes were stored in a small carry-on. Use the oven to store pans or silverware.
A clip is used to hold the broom in place in this corner.
3. Storage items are your friend
Buy and use storage items designed for both the home and RVs. Hooks are great for hanging things like trash bags and keys. We use shoe racks under the end of the bed. An old refrigerator basket is used in the refrigerator for things like cheeses so you can fill more of the space and the food doesn't shift during travel.
We use Velcro to keep our remotes handy. A clip is used to hold the broom in place. We added wire racks for food and a homemade wooden rack for the DVD player. Ziploc snack bags hold necklaces so they are compact yet don't tangle.
Homemade shelf for DVD player with Velcro holding the remote.
4. A place for everything, and everything in its place
Make sure you put everything back after you use it so you don't have to go looking the next time. This is even more important in an RV since something like a loose pair of scissors can be dangerous while traveling!
One of our best purchases was a simple storage unit, but shoe boxes would work just as well. We filled the drawers with pencils, envelopes, cards, stamps, tape, string, sewing kit, scissors, etc. Whenever we need small desk items like this, we know where to go.
What tricks do you have to store things in your RV?
Ziploc snack bags hold necklaces so they are compact yet don't tangle.
