6 Best Gear Organizers For Exterior Storage Bays For Rvs

Few things disrupt a peaceful weekend getaway faster than the deafening rattle of loose gear or the frustration of digging for a leveling block buried in the back of a dark storage bay. Organizing exterior compartments is less about aesthetic perfection and more about maximizing the limited square footage of a mobile dwelling. Mastering this space transforms a chaotic cavern of equipment into a precision-engineered system that saves time and protects expensive gear.

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MORryde Sliding Cargo Tray: Best for Heavy Gear

The MORryde Sliding Cargo Tray is the gold standard for accessing heavy, cumbersome items like generators, toolboxes, or extra propane tanks. Instead of crawling halfway into a dusty bay to retrieve a heavy object, the tray pulls the entire load out into the sunlight. This mechanical advantage is a game-changer for anyone dealing with back strain or limited reach in deep compartments.

The build quality is rugged enough to handle the constant vibrations of travel, which is essential for heavy-duty hardware. Because it locks securely in both the open and closed positions, there is no risk of the tray sliding out during a steep climb or a sudden stop. Expect to lose a small amount of vertical clearance due to the tray base, so verify the height of your tallest item before installation.

If you carry heavy, specialized equipment that stays in the bay permanently, this tray is an essential investment. It removes the barrier to entry, ensuring that heavy gear actually gets used rather than left behind due to the difficulty of retrieval. For light packers, however, the added weight and cost might be unnecessary.

Sterilite Gasket Box: Best Budget Bins

When it comes to protecting gear from dust, moisture, and road grime, the Sterilite Gasket Box is the undisputed champion of the budget category. The silicone-like gasket in the lid creates a water-resistant seal that standard storage bins simply cannot match. This is crucial for exterior bays, which are notorious for collecting grit kicked up from the road.

The transparent walls allow for an immediate inventory check without having to unstack or open every single container. Because they are stackable and come in standardized sizes, they fit into tight corners far better than mismatched cardboard boxes or shopping bags. For the price, they offer a massive upgrade in organization and cleanliness.

These boxes are perfect for soft goods like linens, extra cables, or small appliances that need protection from the elements. While they are durable, they are not industrial-grade; avoid using them for heavy metal tools that could crack the plastic over time. For the vast majority of RVers, this is the most practical way to segment storage bays effectively.

Gladiator GearWall Panels: Best for Wall Space

Many RV storage bays feature wasted vertical space along the interior walls. Installing Gladiator GearWall panels transforms these blank surfaces into a modular mounting system that keeps items off the floor. By utilizing hooks, baskets, and racks, the wall space becomes the most efficient place to store items like fishing rods, folding chairs, or cordless drills.

The beauty of this system lies in its flexibility; as gear needs change, the accessories can be rearranged in seconds. Because the gear is mounted securely, it stays put during transit rather than sliding around and damaging other items. This setup is particularly effective in taller, “pass-through” bays where floor space is at a premium.

This solution requires some basic DIY proficiency to mount the panels to the sidewalls without puncturing the exterior siding. Ensure you use proper fasteners intended for the thin luan or composite walls common in RV construction. If you are tired of the “pile” method of storage, wall-mounting is the most effective way to reclaim floor space.

Stromberg Carlson Cable Caddy: Best for Hoses

Nothing creates more frustration in an RV bay than a tangled mess of water hoses and power cords. The Stromberg Carlson Cable Caddy provides a designated home for these items, preventing the dreaded “spaghetti bowl” effect. By coiling your hoses onto a dedicated mount, you ensure they remain kink-free and ready for quick deployment at the campsite.

Beyond organization, this caddy keeps the ends of your hoses off the ground and away from potential contaminants. It creates a systematic workflow where you know exactly where your utility items are located at all times. The design is simple, lightweight, and specifically engineered to handle the unique shape and tension of RV utility cables.

Avoid the temptation to stuff hoses into generic bins where they inevitably get twisted and damaged. A dedicated caddy protects the integrity of the hoses, which ultimately extends their lifespan. If you value efficiency and want to minimize setup time, this is an inexpensive but vital organizational tool.

Front Runner Wolf Pack Pro: Most Durable Box

When gear needs to survive the harshest conditions, the Front Runner Wolf Pack Pro stands in a class of its own. These boxes are designed for overlanding, meaning they are built to withstand severe impact, dust, and moisture far beyond what a typical RV bay will encounter. The secure latches and reinforced corners provide peace of mind that your expensive tools or critical gear are protected.

These containers are engineered to stack perfectly, creating a solid block of storage that maximizes limited depth and width. They are incredibly rugged, yet light enough to move easily once loaded. While they represent a higher price point than basic plastic bins, the durability ensures they will outlast the vehicle itself.

This product is for the RVer who carries expensive cameras, sensitive electronics, or high-end tools. If you are tired of replacing cheap bins that shatter or warp after a season of road vibrations, switch to the Wolf Pack Pro. It is the definitive choice for long-term travelers who need gear security as a top priority.

Camco Adjustable Broom Holder: Best for Long Items

Long, thin items like brooms, mops, and awning rods are notorious for rolling around and causing damage inside storage bays. The Camco Adjustable Broom Holder offers a simple, tension-based solution that clips these items firmly to the wall or ceiling. By securing them in a fixed position, you eliminate the noise and potential for scratching during transit.

Installation is straightforward and usually requires only a few screws to mount to the bay frame or wall. The adjustability allows for different diameters of handles, making it a versatile tool for various cleaning implements. It keeps the floor clear, which makes maneuvering other, heavier gear significantly easier.

This is the ultimate “quick win” for any RV organizer. It turns a disorganized corner of loose items into a tidy, professional-looking wall of tools. If you are constantly tripping over a broom or fishing for a lost awning hook, this is the remedy.

How to Choose the Right Organizer for Your Bay

Selecting the right organizer starts with a comprehensive audit of what you actually carry. Categorize your items by frequency of use: seasonal gear belongs at the back or in high-up containers, while utility items like water hoses need to be front-and-center. Measure your bay’s dimensions, accounting for hidden obstructions like wheel wells, plumbing, or electrical wiring.

Think about the physical nature of the items. Heavy metal objects require rigid, durable containers to prevent them from breaking through thin plastic bins. Conversely, soft items like camp chairs or extra blankets can be stored in lighter, breathable bags that conform to odd spaces.

Consider the trade-off between weight and durability. While heavy-duty containers provide excellent protection, they add to your rig’s overall cargo weight. Every pound stored in an exterior bay affects the vehicle’s handling and fuel economy, so prioritize structural integrity only where the value of the contents demands it.

Weight Distribution: A Critical Safety Check

Organizing your bays is also a lesson in physics, as every pound you add impacts the RV’s handling. Improper loading is a leading cause of sway, poor braking, and blown tires. Always aim to keep the heaviest gear centered over the axles and distributed evenly from left to right.

Avoid the common mistake of overloading the rear of the RV, which can lighten the tongue weight and lead to dangerous instability. If you add heavy sliding trays or durable bins, factor that “dead weight” into your total cargo carrying capacity. Periodically check your tire pressure and suspension after loading up for a long trip to ensure the rig is handling as expected.

Use a luggage scale for heavier items if you are near your manufacturer’s cargo limit. Remember that water, fuel, and gear all count toward your Gross Vehicle Weight Rating. Safety always takes precedence over organizational convenience.

Preventing Mold and Moisture in Storage Bays

Exterior bays are exposed to extreme temperature fluctuations, which inevitably lead to condensation. If you pack items into sealed plastic bins while they are damp, mold will form rapidly. Always ensure your gear is bone-dry before storing it away, and consider adding moisture-absorbing desiccant packs to your bins.

Maximize airflow whenever possible. If your bay features ventilation ports, ensure they are not blocked by large, flat items pushed against them. Regularly emptying the bays and wiping down the floor prevents the buildup of dust and grit, which can hold moisture against the vehicle’s structural components.

During long-term storage, leave lids slightly cracked or use moisture-wicking materials inside to prevent stale air from settling. If you notice signs of dampness, address the source of the leak—often found in the bay door seals—immediately. A dry bay is a rust-free bay.

Installation Tips for a Rattle-Free Setup

The road is an unforgiving environment, and anything that isn’t secured will eventually rattle or break. When installing hooks, panels, or mounts, use vibration-dampening washers or heavy-duty outdoor mounting tape alongside screws. A small bit of adhesive felt or foam backing can stop plastic bins from squeaking against metal surfaces.

Tighten all hardware after the first 500 miles of travel, as road vibrations naturally cause fasteners to loosen. If you are drilling into the floor or walls of an RV, use a stud finder or carefully examine the opposite side to avoid drilling into wires or plumbing lines. Taking the extra time to install a “rattle-proof” system pays dividends in quiet travel and reduced maintenance.

Organizing an RV exterior bay is an ongoing process of refinement. Start with the essentials—securing heavy items and managing utilities—then adapt your setup based on how you actually use your space on the road. A well-organized bay doesn’t just look better; it significantly reduces the stress of arrival and departure.