9 Smart Storage Solutions for Organizing Outdoor Gear in a Small Motorhome

Stepping into a small motorhome after a long day on the trail should feel like entering a cozy sanctuary, not navigating an obstacle course of muddy boots and tangled gear. When living or traveling in a compact rig, every square inch of floor space is premium real estate that cannot be wasted on clutter. By implementing smart, rugged storage systems, it is entirely possible to carry all the outdoor equipment needed for adventure without sacrificing the comfort of your living space.

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Maximizing Small Motorhome Storage for Outdoor Gear

Compact motorhomes, especially Class B vans and short Class C rigs, present a unique puzzle for outdoor enthusiasts. Bulky gear like hiking poles, camp chairs, and climbing ropes can easily overrun a small interior if left unchecked. The key to maintaining sanity on the road is dividing your storage strategy into distinct internal and external zones.

External zones handle the dirty, wet, and oversized items that have no business crossing the threshold of your living area. Interior spaces must focus on high-density organization, utilizing vertical surfaces, cabinet undersides, and dead space behind seats. This dual-zone approach ensures that living spaces remain clean, relaxing, and free of tripping hazards.

Furthermore, organizing gear properly is not just about aesthetics; it is a matter of safety and preservation. Unsecured gear can turn into dangerous projectiles during sudden stops, and loose items rubbing together on bumpy roads will quickly wear out. Investing in targeted storage solutions protects both your expensive equipment and your peace of mind.

Bike Rack – Kuat Transfer V2 Platform Hitch Bike Rack

Bicycles are incredibly awkward to store inside a small motorhome, taking up valuable aisle space and leaving a trail of chain grease and road grit. An external hitch-mounted rack is the only logical solution to keep them secure and accessible. A platform-style rack is far superior to hanging racks, as it prevents bikes from swaying and banging into each other or the vehicle’s rear doors.

The Kuat Transfer V2 Platform Hitch Bike Rack stands out as an exceptional choice due to its robust steel construction and flat-foot pedal pivot system. This pedal allows you to tilt the rack down with your foot, even when loaded with bikes, granting instant access to the rear doors of your motorhome. The hook design secures the front wheel without making contact with the bike frame, preventing scratches on expensive paint jobs.

• Weight Capacity: Up to 40 lbs per bike (add-on ramps available for heavier e-bikes)
• Hitch Compatibility: Fits 1.25″ and 2″ receivers
• Security: Includes integrated semi-stealth cable locks

Before purchasing, verify the tongue weight capacity of your motorhome’s hitch receiver. The added length can also affect your rear clearance when driving up steep inclines or driveways. This rack is perfect for active trail riders who prioritize quick access and frame protection, but it is not ideal for those carrying heavy, utility-style cargo e-bikes without upgrading to the heavy-duty version.

Hitch Cargo Carrier – Curt 18153 Basket Cargo Carrier

When interior cabinets are full, a hitch-mounted cargo carrier acts as an invaluable basement garage for your motorhome. It provides a dedicated spot for items that are too dirty, smelly, or wet to bring inside, such as firewood, extra fuel cans, or muddy hiking boots. By moving these utility items to the bumper, you free up prime interior cabinets for clothes and food.

The Curt 18153 Basket Cargo Carrier is a premier choice because of its heavy-duty, carb-steel construction and high 5.5-inch side walls. These tall walls keep your gear securely contained, preventing slip-offs on bumpy gravel roads. The folding shank is a massive space-saver, allowing you to fold the basket up flat against the back of the motorhome when it is not in use.

• Weight Capacity: 500 lbs
• Platform Dimensions: 60″ x 20″ x 5.5″
• Material: Heavy-duty, tubular steel with a durable carbide powder coat

Keep in mind that loading heavy gear far behind the rear axle will affect your departure angle on steep transitions. You also must ensure that your gear does not block the license plate or tail lights, which might require adding auxiliary lights. This carrier is a must-have for campers who need to transport dirty utility gear, but it is less suited for those who frequently park in tight urban spots where rig length is critical.

Roof Box – Yakima SkyBox Carbonite Aerodynamic Cargo Box

Yakima Roof Cargo Carrier, Vehicle Rooftop Hard Shell Travel Storage Box with SKS Lock, SkyBox NX Skinny, 12 Cubic Feet, Black

The roof of a small motorhome is often underutilized space that is perfect for seasonal or lightweight gear. Storing items like skis, extra sleeping pads, or bulky camp chairs overhead keeps them out of the way until needed. A hardshell roof box provides weather-resistant, lockable security that soft bags simply cannot match.

The Yakima SkyBox Carbonite Aerodynamic Cargo Box is the gold standard for overhead storage due to its textured carbonite lid and aerodynamic design. This shape reduces drag and wind noise, which is crucial for maintaining fuel efficiency in high-profile RVs. Its dual-sided opening feature is highly convenient, allowing you to access gear from either the driver or passenger side of the roof.

• Storage Volume: Available in 12 to 21 cubic feet options
• Mounting System: Tool-free, quick-installation mounts compatible with most crossbars
• Security: SKS (Same Key System) locks included

Adding a roof box increases your vehicle’s overall clearance height, requiring extra caution around low bridges, tree branches, and drive-thrus. Accessing the box will also require a sturdy exterior ladder or a telescoping step stool. This product is ideal for long-distance travelers with roof racks who need dry, secure storage for long gear, but it is not recommended for those with physical limitations that make climbing risky.

Storage Bin – Rubbermaid ActionPacker 8-Gallon Organizer

Rubbermaid® ActionPacker® 8 Gal Lockable Storage Box Pack of 4, Outdoor, Industrial, Rugged, Grey and Black

Inside a moving RV, loose items in closets or under-bed compartments will inevitably shift, rattle, and create chaos. Heavy-duty storage bins are essential for grouping similar gear together, making it easy to slide an entire category of equipment out at once. Using rugged, latching boxes ensures that even if a bin tips over on a sharp turn, the contents stay contained.

The Rubbermaid ActionPacker 8-Gallon Organizer is built specifically for tough, mobile environments with its impact-resistant construction. Unlike cheap home-organization bins that crack in freezing temperatures, this box can withstand heavy impacts and extreme weather. The lockable latches close with a satisfying snap, ensuring the lid stays secured even during rough off-road transit.

• Capacity: 8 Gallons (other sizes available)
• Key Feature: Double-walled lid for strength and stackability
• Latch Type: Lockable, heavy-duty latching handles

While highly water-resistant, these bins are not completely submersible, so they should not be left in standing water. The slightly tapered wall design means they do not stack perfectly flush side-by-side, which is a small space trade-off for their extreme durability. This bin is perfect for organizing heavy tools, recovery gear, or camp stoves, but it is overkill for lightweight clothing storage.

Cargo Net – PowerTye 50152 Black Elastic Cargo Net

No matter how well you pack, some gear shapes just do not fit nicely into rigid boxes or cabinets. A cargo net acts as a flexible, dynamic barrier that conforms to irregular shapes, securing them tightly to racks, shelves, or wall alcoves. It prevents bulky but lightweight items like sleeping bags, jackets, or helmets from shifting during transit.

The PowerTye 50152 Black Elastic Cargo Net is a standout accessory because of its thick 5mm latex rubber cord, which retains its tension far longer than standard elastic. It features adjustable ABS plastic hooks that will not scratch your rig’s interior finishes or exterior paint. The tight 2″ x 2″ mesh design prevents smaller items from slipping through the gaps.

• Unstretched Size: 15″ x 15″ (stretches to roughly 30″ x 30″)
• Hook Material: Durable, non-scratch ABS plastic with adjustable sub-hooks
• Cord Thickness: Heavy-duty 5mm elastic latex

Overstretching the net past its design limits for long periods will eventually degrade the elastic core. Keep the net away from sharp metal edges that could fray the outer fabric sheath. This net is perfect for securing loose gear on the dash, in open cubbies, or on hitch trays, but it should never be used as the primary tie-down for heavy, dense loads like generators.

Seat Organizer – OneTigris Tactical Seat Back Organizer

The space behind the driver and front passenger seats is often ignored, yet it is highly accessible while parked. Converting these seat backs into organized storage hubs keeps essential, quick-access gear close at hand. This setup prevents you from having to dig through deep cabinets for small items when stepping out of the rig.

The OneTigris Tactical Seat Back Organizer utilizes a military-grade 1000D nylon backing plate that stands up to heavy wear and tear. Its modular MOLLE webbing allows you to attach custom pouches, holsters, and pockets to fit your exact gear layout. This means you can easily store flashlights, multi-tools, bug spray, maps, and first aid kits right where you can reach them from the side door.

• Material: 1000D Nylon with heavy-duty stitching
• Attachment: Quick-release buckles for easy headrest and seat-bottom mounting
• Customization: Dual horizontal straps for attaching MOLLE-compatible pouches

Make sure your seats have adjustable headrest posts, as this is required for the top strap to mount securely. If your motorhome layout has passenger seats directly behind the front cab, bulky pouches attached to the organizer may limit their knee room. This product is fantastic for solo travelers and couples who want rapid access to tactical and utility gear, but it is less practical for family RVs with tight rear seating.

Compression Sack – Sea to Summit eVent Compression Dry Sack

Soft goods like sleeping bags, winter coats, and spare blankets are notorious space-wasters because they contain a massive amount of trapped air. Compressing these items down to a fraction of their original size frees up a shocking amount of cabinet space. Standard compression bags often trap air inside, making them difficult to compress fully, but a specialized dry sack solves this issue.

The Sea to Summit eVent Compression Dry Sack uses a unique air-permeable fabric base that allows air to be pushed out but prevents water from getting in. This waterproof construction is crucial for keeping your expensive down gear dry, even if stored in a damp exterior bay or a leaky compartment. The four compression straps allow for even, compact squeezing without putting uneven stress on the seams.

• Material: 70D nylon body with an eVent waterproof, breathable base
• Sizes Available: 6L to 30L capacities
• Closure: Roll-top waterproof closure secured with buckle straps

Do not leave high-loft down sleeping bags compressed in these sacks for months on end during storage, as this can permanently damage their insulating warmth. They require a bit of hand strength to roll down and compress tightly, which might be a consideration for some users. This sack is a game-changer for cold-weather campers with limited cabinet space, but it is unnecessary for those who only carry light blankets.

Magnetic Bar – Harbor Freight US General Magnetic Holder

In a small motorhome kitchen or workspace, counter space is a luxury you cannot afford to clutter with loose tools. Utilizing wall space is a classic tiny-living trick, and magnetic holders are the most efficient way to do so. They keep metal items visible and instantly accessible without taking up drawer space.

The Harbor Freight US General Magnetic Holder features an incredibly powerful magnetic pull that ensures heavy metal items stay put, even when bouncing down rough washboard roads. Its steel channel design is highly durable and easy to wipe clean after outdoor use. It holds everything from camp kitchen knives and metal spatulas to screwdrivers and wrench sets securely.

• Length: 18 inches
• Pull Strength: Heavy-duty holding capacity for multiple solid steel tools
• Mounting: Pre-drilled mounting holes for easy installation on wood or metal surfaces

You must mount this holder securely into solid cabinet framing or wall studs using proper screws; adhesive tape will not hold up to the weight of the magnet and tools. Be mindful of mounting it away from sensitive electronics, GPS units, or compasses that could be disrupted by strong magnetic fields. This holder is perfect for handy travelers who want quick tool access, but it is useless for non-magnetic plastic, aluminum, or titanium gear.

Collapsible Tub – Prepworks Collapsible Portable Wash Basin

Having a dedicated basin for cleaning outdoor gear, washing dishes, or catching greywater is a necessity for off-grid camping. However, a standard rigid plastic bucket takes up a massive amount of storage space while serving only one purpose. A high-quality collapsible basin solves this footprint issue completely.

The Prepworks Collapsible Portable Wash Basin is designed with a rigid plastic rim and base connected by a flexible silicone middle wall. This clever design allows the basin to expand to a generous capacity for washing hiking boots or camp dishes, then collapse down to a thickness of under two inches. It easily slides into slim gaps next to your water tanks or behind a cabinet door.

• Expanded Capacity: 8.5 Quarts
• Collapsed Height: Less than 2 inches
• Material: Food-grade, BPA-free plastic and silicone

Over many years of heavy use, the silicone seams can eventually develop wear points if collapsed aggressively or exposed to harsh chemical solvents. Hand washing the basin with mild soap and letting it dry before collapsing will maximize its lifespan. This is an essential tool for dry campers and off-grid boondockers, but it is less critical for those who exclusively stay in RV parks with full hookups and bathhouses.

How to Secure Heavy Outdoor Gear for Safe Transit

Shifting cargo is one of the most common causes of damage and distraction while driving a motorhome. A heavy toolbox or portable generator sliding across the floor during a sharp turn can damage cabinetry, puncture water lines, or startle the driver. The laws of physics do not take a break when you are on vacation, making cargo security a top priority.

Always place your heaviest gear low down and centered in the vehicle, ideally forward of the rear axle to maintain proper handling. Use high-quality ratchet straps anchored to structural tie-down points rather than relying on weak bungee cords. If you are using exterior carriers, double-check that every strap is ratcheted down tight and that nothing can swing or slide.

Before hitting the highway, take a short test drive over a few bumps with the radio off. Listen carefully for any rattles, squeaks, or thumps, which indicate that gear is shifting. Adjusting your tiedowns before a long journey prevents gear damage and ensures a quiet, stress-free drive to your next destination.

Balancing Payload Weight and Space in Small RVs

It is easy to get caught up in the excitement of organizing and forget about the physical limits of your vehicle. Every small motorhome has a strict Cargo Carrying Capacity (CCC) listed on the yellow door jamb sticker. This number represents the maximum weight of all passengers, fresh water, propane, and gear you can safely carry.

Exceeding this weight limit puts dangerous stress on your brakes, suspension, and tires, greatly increasing the risk of a blowout on steep mountain descents. When adding heavy steel accessories like hitch carriers or loaded roof boxes, you must subtract their weight from your overall payload limit. Always weigh your loaded rig at a certified truck scale to ensure you are operating within safe limits.

To maintain a healthy balance, adopt a policy of “one-in, one-out” for your outdoor equipment. Prioritize multi-functional gear and ruthlessly purge items that you have not used on your last three trips. Keeping your rig lightweight not only protects your safety but also improves your fuel economy and reduces wear on your engine.

Conclusion

Organizing a small motorhome requires a thoughtful balance of rugged external hardware and smart interior space savers. By utilizing vertical space, compressing soft goods, and securing heavy gear properly, you can enjoy all your favorite outdoor activities without feeling crowded out of your living space. Implement these storage solutions today to transform your compact rig into a highly efficient, adventure-ready home on wheels.