6 Best Durable RV Storage Chests For Propane Tanks Nomads Swear By

You’ve seen them rattling around in the back of a truck or precariously bungee-corded to a bumper, and you’ve probably winced. Those propane tanks are the lifeblood of your rig, powering your stove, furnace, and hot water heater. Treating their storage as an afterthought isn’t just risky; it’s a fundamental misunderstanding of life on the road.

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, this site earns from qualifying purchases. Thank you!

Why Secure Propane Storage is Non-Negotiable

Let’s be blunt: an unsecured propane tank is a projectile waiting for an excuse. Every pothole, sharp turn, and sudden stop puts immense stress on whatever is holding it in place. A flimsy plastic box or a couple of aging bungee cords are no match for the constant vibration and jarring forces of the road.

Beyond the immediate physical danger, proper storage is about protecting your investment and ensuring your systems work. A durable, vented, and lockable chest shields your tanks and regulators from corrosive road salt, driving rain, and UV degradation. It also provides a critical layer of security against theft, which is more common than you’d think, especially for easily swappable 20-pound tanks.

This isn’t just about following rules; it’s about respecting the physics and realities of mobile living. A dedicated, well-built storage chest transforms your propane setup from a liability into a reliable, secure asset. It’s one of those foundational upgrades that provides peace of mind on every single mile of your journey.

Dee Zee Red Label: A Versatile Utility Chest

The Dee Zee Red Label series is often the first name that comes up, and for good reason. It hits the sweet spot between affordability, durability, and functionality. Made from non-rusting Brite-Tread aluminum, it’s lightweight enough not to add significant tongue weight but tough enough to handle the rigors of the road.

What makes it a go-to for many nomads is its practicality. The lockable stainless steel paddle handles are easy to operate even with gloves on, and the dampened gas shocks prevent the lid from slamming shut on your hands. It’s not the heaviest-duty box on the market, but it provides a massive upgrade over factory-standard plastic covers. This is the workhorse option for the full-timer who needs solid, reliable performance without a premium price tag.

Think of the Dee Zee as the perfect all-rounder. It’s robust enough for highway travel and well-maintained forest service roads, and it provides a secure, weather-resistant home for your tanks. For a standard travel trailer or fifth-wheel setup, it’s often the most logical and cost-effective choice.

UWS EC10473: Built for Rugged Road Conditions

If your travels frequently take you off the pavement, you need a box that can handle constant vibration and jarring impacts. This is where UWS shines. Their chests are known for one key feature: the patented RigidCore foam-filled lid. This technology drastically reduces flex and warping, ensuring the box remains square and the seal stays tight, even after thousands of miles of washboard roads.

The UWS design philosophy is all about structural integrity. The single-piece aluminum tub and fully welded seams mean there are fewer points of failure. This is critical when your storage box is being subjected to the twisting forces of an uneven campsite or a rough trail. It’s a noticeable step up in rigidity from entry-level boxes.

Choosing the UWS means you’re prioritizing structural strength above all else. It’s for the overlander, the boondocker, the nomad who sees a dirt road as an invitation, not a detour. If you’ve ever had a cheaper box warp or its lid refuse to close properly after a rough trip, you’ll immediately appreciate the UWS difference.

Weather Guard 154-5-01: The Heavy-Duty Pick

Sometimes, you just want the best, no compromises. The Weather Guard chest is that choice. Constructed from heavy-gauge steel with an armor-tuff powder coat finish, this box is an absolute tank. It’s significantly heavier than its aluminum counterparts, which is a consideration for tongue weight, but the tradeoff is unparalleled security and durability.

The real standout feature is the locking mechanism. Weather Guard uses automotive-style rotary latches and a high-security push-button lock that is virtually pry-proof. The weather stripping is also top-tier, creating a seal that’s as close to waterproof as you can get in a utility chest. This isn’t just a box; it’s a vault for your gear.

This level of build quality is for the full-time nomad who depends on their equipment day in and day out, in all conditions. It’s for those who store valuable tools alongside their propane tanks or who frequently park in areas where security is a major concern. The Weather Guard is an investment in buy-it-for-life quality and absolute peace of mind.

CamLocker S72LPCH: Superior Locking Security

While Weather Guard focuses on brute strength, CamLocker’s claim to fame is its ingenious locking mechanism. Instead of traditional latches, it uses rotating "cams" that pull the reinforced lid down tight against the weather seal when you turn the key. This creates an incredibly secure, pry-resistant closure along the entire edge of the box.

Made from heavy-gauge welded aluminum, CamLocker boxes are built for commercial-grade use, which translates perfectly to the demands of full-time RVing. The "low profile" (LP) models are particularly well-suited for A-frame mounting, as they provide storage without obstructing the view from your tow vehicle. The quality of the welds and the overall fit and finish are immediately apparent.

The CamLocker is the choice for the security-conscious RVer. If you’ve ever worried about someone tampering with your propane supply or stealing your tanks, this system offers a level of protection that standard paddle latches simply can’t match. It’s a premium product focused on one thing: keeping what’s inside, inside.

Buyers Products 1702305: A Solid, Reliable Box

Not every nomad needs a fortress mounted on their A-frame. Sometimes you just need a solid, dependable, and affordable solution that gets the job done. The Buyers Products diamond tread aluminum box is exactly that. It offers the corrosion resistance and light weight of aluminum at a price point that is hard to beat.

This box features a reinforced lid and a stainless steel T-handle latch that provides a secure closure. While it may not have the foam-filled lid of a UWS or the advanced locks of a CamLocker, it is a massive improvement over no box at all. It’s a practical, no-frills option that meets the fundamental requirements of safe and secure propane storage. It’s a popular choice for weekend warriors, part-timers, or full-timers on a tighter budget who still want a quality product.

Let’s Go Aero GearBox: Best for Hitch Mounting

What if you don’t have space on your trailer’s A-frame? This is a common problem for van lifers, truck campers, and even some travel trailers with a crowded tongue. The Let’s Go Aero GearBox offers a brilliant alternative by mounting directly into your vehicle’s 2-inch hitch receiver.

This fully enclosed, slide-out cargo carrier is perfectly sized for two 20-pound propane tanks, along with other gear like hoses and leveling blocks. Its key advantage is its location. By placing the tanks at the rear of the vehicle, it frees up valuable space elsewhere. The best models also feature a swing-away design, allowing you to access your van’s back doors or truck’s tailgate without having to unload the entire rack.

The GearBox is a game-changer for specific builds. It’s the ideal solution for Class B vans, expedition trucks, or any rig where forward storage is at a premium. It provides a secure, weather-protected, and properly vented solution in a location that is often underutilized.

Installation Tips & Safety Considerations

Choosing the right box is only half the battle; installing it correctly is what truly ensures safety. Many people make the mistake of simply screwing the box into the plywood floor of their storage bay. This is not enough. The box must be bolted directly to the steel frame of your RV or trailer tongue. Use grade 8 bolts, nuts, and large washers to distribute the load and prevent them from pulling through.

Ventilation is not optional—it’s a critical safety requirement. Propane is heavier than air, so any leak will pool at the bottom of an enclosed space. Your storage chest must have vents at the lowest point to allow any leaked gas to escape safely. Most commercial boxes come with vents, but if you’re adapting a general utility box, you must add them. Drill at least two 1-inch holes at the bottom and cover them with a screen to keep critters out.

Finally, remember to secure the tanks inside the box. The chest stops the tanks from flying off your rig, but you still need to prevent them from tipping over and smashing into each other or the regulator. Use high-quality nylon straps bolted to the interior of the box to hold the tanks firmly in place.

A few key reminders for a safe installation:

• Bolt to the Frame: Never rely on screws into wood. Always through-bolt to the steel chassis.
• Ensure Proper Ventilation: Vents must be at the lowest point of the container.
• Strap Tanks Internally: Secure the tanks inside the box to prevent movement.
• Check for Clearance: Make sure the lid can open fully without hitting your jack or the front of your rig, especially during tight turns.

Ultimately, the best propane storage chest is the one that fits your rig, your travel style, and your budget, while never compromising on safety. It’s a foundational piece of gear that, when chosen and installed correctly, you’ll never have to worry about again. That peace of mind is the real luxury of a well-equipped life on the road.