Creative Campervan Storage Hacks Beyond Vertical Solutions: Smart Ideas for Ultimate Space

Living in a campervan has shown me that everyone raves about going vertical with storage, but the real magic happens when you start thinking beyond those four walls.

The best storage solutions usually hide in plain sight – under steps, behind doors, and in spots you probably never even thought about.

Sure, wall-mounted shelves look cool and get a lot of attention, but in my experience, creative problem-solving leads to way more interesting and practical storage wins.

Your van probably has dozens of untapped storage opportunities that don’t use a single vertical inch.

I’m talking about turning dead space under the bed into organized compartments, making your back doors into storage powerhouses, and using magnetic solutions in places you wouldn’t expect.

These aren’t just storage hacks – they’re space-saving revelations that can totally change how you experience van life.

What really excites me about these outside-the-box ideas is how they free up wall space for windows, art, or just a little breathing room.

Let me walk you through some hidden storage gems I’ve found, from clever drawer systems to external setups that expand your living space without making it feel crowded.

Get ready to see your van in a whole new way.

Key Takeaways

• Hidden spots like under-bed areas and door frames offer huge storage potential without touching your wall space
• Magnetic and hanging solutions can turn overlooked nooks into super functional storage
• External and modular storage systems boost your capacity while keeping your interior comfortable

Rethinking Campervan Storage: Why Go Beyond Vertical?

Most vanlifers start with wall-mounted shelves and overhead cabinets. But in my opinion, the cleverest storage happens when you look for solutions beyond the usual.

The best campervan storage tricks often hide in plain sight or completely change how you use everyday stuff.

The Limits of Vertical Solutions

I used to think vertical storage solved everything. My van had shelves, hooks, and hanging organizers everywhere.

Then I hit my first pothole. Everything crashed down around me.

Weight distribution gets tricky when you pack everything up high. My van started swaying on windy highways, and it was pretty nerve-wracking.

Vertical setups also make things awkward to reach. I found myself climbing over furniture or doing weird stretches just to grab a coffee mug from an overhead cabinet.

Maximizing vertical space is great for lightweight stuff, but heavier gear needs a better plan.

The biggest issue? Vertical storage rarely matches how you actually live. I had perfectly neat shelves that I almost never used because they were just too inconvenient.

Benefits of Innovative Storage Methods

Creative campervan storage ideas are way more than just adding shelves. The real magic happens when storage becomes part of your furniture.

Multi-functional pieces changed my world. My coffee table lifts up to reveal a big storage space, and my bed platform slides out to drawers underneath.

Hidden storage keeps the space looking tidy. Guests never guess how much stuff I’ve actually packed away.

These solutions often cost less than buying extra storage boxes. I built my slide-out pantry system for half the price of store-bought organizers.

Accessibility gets way better. Instead of reaching overhead all the time, I keep things at a comfortable height. My back seriously thanks me for that.

When you keep weight low and centered, driving feels safer and smoother – especially in crosswinds or on mountain roads.

Adapting Storage to Your Campervan Lifestyle

Your storage needs totally depend on how you live in your van. I spent months watching my own routines before I designed my current setup.

If you’re a morning coffee person, you’ll need different storage than someone who loves evening tea. I keep my French press and beans in a pull-out drawer next to my water tank.

When I work remotely, my laptop and chargers get their own custom foam-lined compartment to protect them from bumps in the road.

Weekend warriors pack differently than full-timers. Seasonal storage is a big deal when you’re living in 70 square feet year-round.

I always think about how often I use something. Daily items go in the easiest spots. Emergency gear gets tucked away.

Your campervan storage should change as your adventures do. What works in the desert might not work at the beach or in the mountains.

Hidden Gems: Utilizing Under-Bed and Step Storage

The space under your bed and inside your van’s steps can organize everything from bulky camping gear to your whole wardrobe.

I’ve found these often-overlooked spots can make a cramped van feel surprisingly roomy.

Storing Gear and Essentials Under the Bed

I learned quickly that under-bed storage is your most valuable real estate in van life. My first build wasted this space, and I regretted it every day.

Full-width slide-out drawers changed everything. I installed heavy-duty 150-pound slides that glide smoothly, even when they’re fully loaded. These drawers hold my whole camping setup – sleeping bags, camp chairs, and cooking gear.

For smaller stuff, I love modular crate systems. Clear plastic bins on built-in tracks let me see everything right away. One week they hold groceries, the next week they’re full of tools.

Divided shallow drawers keep my electronics and toiletries sorted. Adjustable dividers stop everything from turning into a jumbled mess on bumpy roads.

Choosing the right hardware matters. Soft-close slides stop rattling, and Baltic birch plywood keeps things light but tough.

Step-Up Drawers and Multi-Use Staircases

My van’s entrance steps hide a whole storage system most people overlook. I built drawers right into each step for shoes, tools, and outdoor gear.

The bottom step holds my heaviest stuff – a toolbox and spare parts. The middle step stores shoes on a ventilated rack, so they don’t stink up the place. The top step has a small first-aid kit and emergency supplies.

Multi-level staircases open up even more options. I’ve seen designs where each step pulls out completely, revealing deep storage underneath. Some van builders even create fold-out workbenches that double as step storage.

Piano hinges on step tops make it easy to lift up and access bigger storage areas. I stash my camp table and folding chairs there – stuff I need often but don’t want in the way.

Reinforcing everything is key. These steps take a beating, so I used marine-grade plywood and stainless steel hardware.

Vacuum Bags and Packing Cubes for Clothing

Space-saving clothing storage totally changed how I pack for long trips. Vacuum bags shrink bulky winter clothes to half their size, so they fit under my bed no problem.

I use colored packing cubes for each type of clothing – blue for work clothes, red for outdoor gear, green for sleepwear. I can find exactly what I need without digging through everything.

Rolling storage bins are perfect for seasonal clothes. I pull out a whole bin, swap summer stuff for winter gear, and slide it back under the bed.

For daily wear, I put in a fold-out clothing rack that collapses when I don’t need it. My shirts and pants stay wrinkle-free, which actually matters if you’re working on the road.

My favorite trick: mesh laundry bags inside storage bins. Dirty clothes go in one, clean clothes in another. Everything stays sorted, even when I’m living out of the van for weeks.

Smart Drawer and Compartment Hacks

Transforming your drawers and compartments with clever dividers and slide-outs can double your storage without a major build.

Simple repurposed containers and pull-out systems turn chaos into organized spaces where everything finally has its place.

Efficient Drawer Dividers for Utilities

Tossing everything into one big drawer is a recipe for frustration. Drawer dividers completely changed my storage game.

My go-to trick is using adjustable bamboo dividers in the kitchen. They expand to fit and keep utensils from sliding around while I drive. For deeper drawers, I use small boxes to make custom sections.

Essential items to separate:

• Cooking utensils and gadgets
• Tools and repair supplies
• Charging cables and electronics
• First aid supplies

Tension rod systems work great for vertical dividers in deep drawers. I slide cutting boards and baking sheets between the rods instead of stacking them.

Making each section the right size matters. Too big and stuff still gets mixed up. Too small and you waste precious space.

Slide-Out Pantries and Pull-Out Tables

There’s something so satisfying about pulling out a hidden pantry that glides smoothly on drawer tracks. I put mine in what used to be wasted space right next to my fridge.

My slide-out pantry holds two weeks’ worth of canned goods and dry ingredients. Full-extension drawer slides rated for at least 100 pounds make all the difference.

This way, I can grab stuff from the back without having to unpack everything in front. It saves time and a lot of frustration.

Pull-out table benefits:

• Extra prep space when cooking
• Laptop workspace that tucks away
• Game table for rainy evenings

I built my pull-out table from a simple wooden board and heavy-duty slides. When extended, it gives me a 24-inch workspace.

When I close it, you’d never guess it’s even there. That hidden feature comes in handy way more often than I expected.

Proper mounting is where the magic happens. I bolted the slides straight to my van’s frame for maximum stability.

If you’re looking for inspiration, smart campervan storage solutions like these can totally change how you use your space.

Repurposed Containers for Small Item Storage

My campervan drawers used to swallow up small items, never to be seen again. Then I started using repurposed containers, and suddenly I could find everything.

Old spice jars are perfect for screws, buttons, and tiny hardware. I peel off the old labels and make new ones with my label maker.

Clear containers let me see what’s inside at a glance. It’s such a simple upgrade, but it makes a big difference.

My favorite repurposed containers:

• Altoids tins for first aid supplies
• Baby food jars for spices and seasonings
• Pill organizers for daily vitamins
• Small mason jars for bathroom items

I try to pick containers that nest together and don’t waste space. Magnetic spice containers (like these) stick to metal surfaces inside drawers and help me use vertical space.

Soft-sided pouches are great for cables and chargers. I grabbed a few clear makeup bags in different sizes and labeled each one.

They squish down when they’re not full and expand when I need them to. It’s a flexible system that keeps things tidy.

Museum putty keeps containers from sliding around while I drive. It’s removable, so I can rearrange whenever I want.

Beyond Walls: Backdoor and External Storage Solutions

When I started looking into external storage, I realized my van had so much potential outside the main living area. Backdoor storage and other external setups can practically double your storage without crowding your living space.

Mounting Organizers on the Backdoor

My back door felt like wasted space until I started treating it like a bonus closet. The flat surface is perfect for all kinds of organizers.

Shoe organizers became my secret weapon. I hung clear plastic ones with lots of pockets on the inside of the back doors.

They hold everything from toiletries to cooking spices and cleaning supplies. It’s wild how much fits in there.

For heavier stuff, I put up metal wire baskets right on the door frame. These are perfect for tools, first aid kits, and outdoor gear I want to grab fast.

Magnetic strips have been a game-changer. I use them for knives, scissors, and metal tools – just double-check they’re secure before you hit the road.

Fold-down tables (like these) that mount to the back door are another favorite. They make an instant outdoor workspace and fold flat when I’m done.

I keep lighter stuff in the upper pockets and heavier things in the lower baskets. That way, the weight stays balanced and nothing feels off while driving.

External Racks and Portable Carts

External storage totally changed my travel game. Hitch-mounted cargo carriers are awesome for bulky gear that just won’t fit inside.

I went for a swing-away design so I can still get to my back doors. Now I stash camping chairs, coolers, and extra water out there without blocking my main entrance.

Roof boxes are my go-to for seasonal gear. I toss winter clothes up there for summer trips and switch it out for beach stuff when I head to the mountains.

For flexibility, I use portable storage carts with wheels. They slide into my hitch carrier and roll out when I get to camp.

They’re perfect for hauling firewood or groceries from the van to my site. I can’t believe I used to lug everything by hand.

Exterior tool tubes under the van hold fishing rods, tent poles, and leveling blocks. Long items finally have a home, and my interior stays clutter-free.

I always check weight limits and lock everything up when I’m away from the van. You never know who might wander by.

Secure Bike and Outdoor Gear Storage

Figuring out how to store bikes and outdoor gear outside took some trial and error. Eventually, I found what works for me.

Rear bike racks that mount to my hitch are my top pick. They hold up to four bikes and swing away so I can open the doors.

I always run cable locks through the frames and wheels, just to be safe. It’s a bit of a hassle, but worth it for peace of mind.

For surfboards and kayaks, I put in roof rack systems with special carriers. Lockable straps keep everything tight on long drives.

External storage boxes are great for helmets, wetsuits, and other gear I don’t want inside. I went with weatherproof roof boxes that lock up securely.

I even set up a gear drying station using retractable clotheslines between my bike rack and bumper. Wet stuff dries outside, so my van doesn’t get musty.

Cargo nets on my rear rack hold lightweight things like beach balls, camping chairs, and inflatable kayaks. They’re surprisingly handy and adjust to whatever I’m carrying.

I always use more than one lock and keep the most valuable items inside overnight. Better safe than sorry, right?

Hanging and Magnetic Hacks for Every Nook

I’ve found the real magic of campervan storage in those weird corners and metal spots nobody thinks to use. Hanging and magnetic tricks turn every forgotten nook into storage gold.

Creative Uses for Hanging Baskets and Wire Baskets

Hanging baskets have saved my sanity more times than I can count. Wire baskets are awesome in the shower area since they drain easily and don’t get moldy.

I love hanging wire baskets from ceiling anchor points. They’re great for produce like onions and potatoes that need airflow.

The mesh design keeps everything visible and uses up that dead space above my head. It’s a little odd at first, but it works.

Kitchen hanging basket ideas:

• Fresh fruit storage near windows
• Dish towel and utensil drying
• Snack organization at kid-friendly heights

I’ve mounted hanging organizers on vertical surfaces to create instant pantries. The trick is finding baskets with hardware that won’t wobble when I’m driving.

Wire baskets also make bathroom storage easy. I hang them from towel bars or hooks for toiletries and cleaning stuff.

Shower Caddies for Kitchens and Bathrooms

Shower caddies aren’t just for showers anymore. I use them all over my van because they handle moisture and movement like champs.

In the kitchen, I’ve stuck corner shower caddies up for spices and cooking oils. The multiple tiers make everything easy to grab while I’m cooking.

Suction cup models work well on smooth cabinet doors. They’re not perfect, but they get the job done.

My go-to caddy placements:

• Behind the sink for dish soap and sponges
• Inside cabinet doors for small containers
• Near the stove for seasonings I use all the time

For bathrooms, over-the-door shower caddies are a lifesaver. They give me storage without needing to drill holes.

The tension-pole style caddies are perfect for tight showers. I can adjust the height and take them out when I want.

Magnetic Hooks and Racks in Unusual Spaces

Magnetic storage changed how I see my van walls. I use heavy-duty magnetic hooks for tools and utensils, and smaller ones for towels and lighter gear.

Turns out, my van has a lot more metal than I realized. Wheel wells, spots behind panels, even up near the ceiling – there’s usually some steel hiding somewhere.

Unexpected magnetic storage spots:

• Inside cabinet doors (if they’re metal-backed)
• Refrigerator sides and back
• Around the driver’s dashboard
• Behind removable panels near utilities

I made my own magnetic spice racks with small containers that have magnetic bottoms. They stick right to any metal surface and don’t budge when I’m driving.

Magnetic knife strips are awesome for kitchen tools, but I use them for scissors and small hand tools, too. When I can see my stuff, I actually use it.

Flexible and Overlooked Spaces: Overhead, Collapsible, and Modular Ideas

Your van has so much hidden storage in spaces that bend, fold, and change with your needs. Some of the best solutions aren’t fixed – they shift to fit whatever’s happening on the road.

Overhead Storage That Isn’t Just Cabinets

I used to think overhead storage just meant more cabinets. Then I started getting creative with the ceiling and found a whole new world of options.

Cargo nets stretched across the van’s curves hold everything from sleeping bags to lightweight chairs. They’re simple, but they make a big difference.

Magnetic strips are a favorite for metal van walls. I stick knives, scissors, and small tools up there where they’re easy to grab but out of the way.

Bungee cords have become my go-to for flexible storage. I zigzag them to create pockets that flex based on what I’m storing.

Hammock-style storage between ceiling ribs is perfect for dirty laundry. It breathes, flexes, and keeps smelly clothes out of the way.

I even rigged up a pulley system for my bike helmet and jackets. One pull, and they disappear up into the ceiling until I need them again.

Collapsible and Stackable Solutions

My van transforms like a puzzle box because I use gear that folds flat when I don’t need it. Collapsible fabric bins are total game-changers – they hold a ton when full, but slide into tiny spaces when empty.

Stackable storage cubes with removable dividers let me tweak my setup every day. Camping gear in the morning, art supplies by afternoon. You get the idea.

I’m a big fan of my nesting cookware set. Five pots turn into one neat stack. I do the same with mixing bowls, measuring cups, and even my camp chairs.

Pop-up laundry hampers hang out behind my driver’s seat when I need them. When I don’t, they fold flat and vanish. No more clothes flying around during bumpy drives.

Vacuum storage bags shrink my winter clothes into shockingly small packages. I can squeeze a whole season’s wardrobe into the space of two t-shirts. Wild.

Modular Furniture and Movable Cubbies

Building furniture that slides, rolls, and reconfigures totally changed my van life. My kitchen counter rolls out on heavy-duty drawer slides, so I get extra workspace when I’m cooking and more floor space when I’m done.

Cube storage systems on wheels let me rearrange my living room in seconds. Movie night? I push them together for a couch. Work day? I split them up for a desk and chair.

I built my bed platform in sections that I can lift out completely. If I remove two pieces, I suddenly have garage space tall enough for my surfboard.

Modular shelving with adjustable heights keeps up with my needs. Tall stuff gets big spaces, small stuff gets its own compartments.

My favorite hack is furniture that serves triple duty. My ottoman stores gear, stacks with its twin to make a table, and slides under my bed when I don’t need it out.

Frequently Asked Questions

I get a lot of questions about storage solutions that go way beyond basic shelving. From maximizing tiny spaces to keeping everything from flying around while driving, I’ve run into plenty of challenges living in my van.

How can I maximize space with innovative storage ideas in my small campervan?

Thinking outside the box is everything in a small van. I use the space inside my wheel wells for storing flat items like cutting boards and table mats.

Magnetic strips on the inside of cabinet doors hold knives, spice jars, and even small tools. They don’t take up any shelf space, which is a huge win.

The area under my van’s floor is prime real estate, too. I put in a small hatch so I can stash camping chairs and outdoor gear I don’t need every day.

I’ve found that creative storage solutions usually mean using every weird nook. The curved walls in my van actually make perfect spots for custom-fitted storage pockets.

What are some creative DIY storage solutions for keeping my campervan organized?

My best DIY hack is repurposing plastic containers with screw-on lids as ceiling storage. I mount them upside down, so I can unscrew them from below and grab stuff easily.

I made sliding storage trays out of wooden crates that pull out all the way. This means I can reach things in the very back without emptying everything up front.

Bungee cord nets are my secret weapon. I stretch them across open spaces to make instant storage for soft things like pillows and blankets.

One DIY solution I’m proud of is my custom spice rack made from test tubes in a wooden holder. It takes up almost no space but keeps a ton of seasonings handy.

I’ve also made flip-down storage panels that look like part of the wall, but open up to reveal secret compartments. They work great in awkward spots where regular storage just won’t fit.

Can you share some practical yet clever ideas for stowing clothes in a campervan?

I swear by vacuum storage bags for seasonal clothes. They compress everything down to a fraction of the original size and fit under my bed perfectly.

My hanging closet rod isn’t mounted high up like most people do. I put it low, so I can use the space above for storage boxes and still hang clothes below.

I use packing cells for organizing clothes by category. One cube for underwear, another for t-shirts, and so on. They stack well and stay organized even when I’m bouncing down a dirt road.

Rolling clothes instead of folding saves a ton of space. I fit twice as many items in the same drawer this way.

I keep one drawer just for dirty clothes with a removable liner bag. When it’s full, I just grab the bag and head to the laundromat.

Are there any space-saving accessories that are must-haves for campervan kitchens?

Collapsible everything has totally changed my kitchen game. My colander, mixing bowls, and even my coffee dripper all fold flat when I’m done with them.

Nesting cookware is a must. My pots, pans, and storage containers all fit inside each other like Russian dolls.

I’m obsessed with my magnetic knife strip and spice containers. They stick to any metal surface and free up precious counter and drawer space.

My pull-out cutting board fits in a slim slot next to my sink. I use it for extra counter space, then slide it away when I’m done.

Multi-purpose items are lifesavers. My big mixing bowl doubles as a serving dish and even a washing basin if I need it.

What’s the best way to utilize the ins and outs of cupboard space in a campervan?

Kitchen drawers work better than cupboards since you can reach everything without digging. But if you have cupboards, use shelf risers and door-mounted storage to get the most out of them.

The back of cupboard doors is goldmine territory. I’ve mounted slim racks there for spices, cleaning supplies, and small tools.

I use clear storage containers so I can see what’s inside without opening everything. Label makers help me keep track of what’s where.

Adjustable shelves let me change up compartments based on what I’m storing. Sometimes I need a tall space for cereal boxes, other times a short space for canned goods.

LED strip lights inside deep cupboards make a huge difference. Being able to see everything means nothing gets lost in the back.

Any tips for securing items safely with storage nets while on the move in a campervan?

Cargo nets across open shelving have saved me from so many disasters. I figured this out after my coffee maker went flying during a sharp turn – what a mess.

I use different mesh sizes for different items. Fine mesh works well for small things like toiletries, and I grab larger mesh for clothes and soft stuff.

Bungee cords with hooks are great for storage boxes without lids. I stretch them across the top and hook them to anchor points I put in myself.

It really helps to make a bunch of attachment points throughout the van. I screwed small eye bolts into spots where I want to secure nets, so I can change things up as needed.

Before I drive off, I do a “shake test.” I rock the van back and forth to spot anything that might need better securing. It’s a little silly, but it works.