10 Camper Van Dashboard and Cab Storage Solutions for Full-Time RVers

Struggling with limited space? Organize your rig with these 10 practical camper van dashboard and cab storage solutions for full-time RVers. Read our guide now!

When you live full-time in a camper van, the driver’s cabin often becomes a chaotic dumping ground for sunglasses, charging cords, and maps the second you park. Failing to optimize this front-end zone not only wastes prime real estate but also creates dangerous projectiles when you hit the road. These ten targeted storage solutions will transform your dashboard and cab from a cluttered mess into a streamlined, secure command center.

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

How to Maximize Your Limited Camper Van Cab Space

Reclaiming the front cab of your camper van requires looking at the space through a different lens. When parked, this area is no longer just for driving; it is a transitional living space, an office, or even a dining room. The key to maximizing it lies in utilizing vertical planes and dead zones that standard vehicle layouts ignore. Areas like the sun visors, the empty space above your head, and the door panels are prime candidates for smart storage.

To keep this space functional, you must separate your gear by frequency of use. Items needed while driving—like sunglasses, maps, and charging cables—must remain within arm’s reach of the driver’s seat. Meanwhile, items used only when parked, such as window covers or leveling block controllers, should be tucked away in higher, out-of-the-way compartments.

Weight and noise management are also critical when planning your cab storage. Heavy items stored up high can negatively affect your van’s center of gravity and create safety hazards. Loose plastic items will rattle incessantly on washboard dirt roads, quickly driving you mad. Opt for soft-sided organizers and non-slip liners to keep your drive peaceful and organized.

Sun Visor Organizer – OneTigris Car Visor Organizer

The sun visor is one of the most underutilized vertical surfaces in any camper van cab. A quality visor organizer keeps small, flat essentials instantly accessible without requiring you to look away from the road or dig through a glovebox. It turns a blank flap of plastic into a tactical command panel for your daily paperwork and tools.

The OneTigris Car Visor Organizer stands out because of its rugged 1000D nylon construction and modular versatility. Unlike cheap elastic bands that sag over time, this organizer features a fully adjustable hook-and-loop strap system that wraps securely around almost any standard van visor. It features thick MOLLE webbing, elastic loops, and flat pockets designed to hold your gear tight.

  • Material: 1000D Nylon for extreme wear resistance
  • Storage layout: Multi-pocket design with elastic loops and MOLLE slots
  • Best uses: Storing tire pressure gauges, pocket knives, pens, registration documents, and small flashlights
  • Dimensions: 11.8 inches by 6.3 inches

Before buying, keep in mind that packing this organizer too thick will prevent your sun visor from folding completely flat against the windshield. It can also block the integrated vanity mirror if your van is equipped with one. If you carry heavy tools on the MOLLE loops, the weight might cause an older, worn-out visor to swing down unexpectedly on rough roads.

This product is ideal for organized minimalists and off-road travelers who need immediate access to small tools and registration paperwork. It is not suitable for those looking to store bulky items like thick wallets, charging blocks, or large sunglasses cases.

Dash Track Mount – RAM Mounts Tough-Track Dash Multi-Device

A cluttered dashboard covered in suction cup mounts is a safety hazard and an eyesore. A dedicated dash track system consolidates your navigation devices, phones, and backup camera monitors into a single, rock-solid mounting strip. It clears your windshield of obstructions while keeping your screens exactly where you need them.

The RAM Mounts Tough-Track Dash Multi-Device system is the gold standard for heavy-duty dashboard mounting. Made of high-strength composite materials, this track provides a sleek, low-profile channel that accommodates multiple ball mounts simultaneously. You can easily slide, reposition, and lock your devices in place with a quick twist of a thumb screw.

  • Material: High-strength composite and stainless steel hardware
  • Track length options: Available in various lengths from 7 to 18 inches
  • Compatible mounts: Fits all RAM B-size and C-size track ball bases
  • Best uses: Securing phones, tablets, GPS units, and action cameras in high-vibration environments

Installation of this track usually requires drilling directly into your dashboard plastic, which can be intimidating for some DIYers. You must carefully map out what lies beneath the dashboard surface to avoid damaging factory wiring harnesses or airbag deployment zones. Additionally, the ball mounts and device holders must be purchased separately, which increases the total cost of the system.

This track is perfect for digital nomads, solo navigators, and off-grid explorers who rely on multiple screens for maps and weather tracking. It is not the right choice for casual weekenders or renters who want a damage-free, drill-free mounting solution.

Seatback Organizer – Luno Front Seat Organizer

The back of your driver and passenger seats offers massive vertical storage potential that is often left completely bare. A seatback organizer utilizes this space to keep your living area tidy while keeping essential items within arm’s reach. This is especially useful in vans where the front seats swivel around to face the main cabin.

The Luno Front Seat Organizer is engineered specifically with the rugged demands of vehicle travel in mind. It is constructed from ultra-durable, luggage-grade fabric that resists tearing and is incredibly easy to wipe clean. The organizer features structured pockets that maintain their shape even when packed full, preventing your gear from sagging into your living space.

  • Material: Premium 600D polyester with reinforced backing
  • Attachment style: Heavy-duty adjustable straps for headrests and seat bases
  • Pocket configuration: Mix of mesh pockets, zippered compartments, and insulated bottle holders
  • Best uses: Storing iPads, guidebooks, water bottles, charging cables, and hand sanitizer

If your camper van seats swivel, you must carefully consider the depth of this organizer. Overstuffing the pockets can prevent the seat from rotating smoothly past the B-pillars or the handbrake. You will also need to adjust the lower straps tightly to prevent the organizer from swinging outward when the seat is turned.

This organizer is excellent for full-time van lifers who use their front seats as office chairs or lounging spaces during the day. It is not ideal for layouts where the walkthrough between the cab and the living area is exceptionally tight and easily blocked by protruding pockets.

Console Organizer – Salex Organizers Vehicle Tray

Deep center console bins are notorious for becoming bottomless black holes where coins, keys, and lip balm go to die. Every time you need a gate key or a charging adapter, you end up digging blindly through layers of clutter. A console tray brings order to this chaos by dividing a cavernous bin into functional, tiered levels.

The Salex Organizers Vehicle Tray is a simple, highly effective injection-molded plastic grid that drops directly into your factory console. It creates a sturdy top-level shelf for small, everyday items while leaving the massive lower section open for larger valuables. The fit is incredibly precise, ensuring the tray does not slide or rattle while you drive.

  • Material: High-quality, durable ABS plastic with non-slip rubber mats
  • Fitment: Vehicle-specific designs for major van chassis (Sprinter, Transit, Promaster)
  • Included accessories: Removable rubber coin organizer and grip liners
  • Best uses: Storing loose change, sunglasses, pens, gate clickers, and flash drives

Because these organizers are engineered to fit factory console dimensions exactly, compatibility is highly specific. You must verify your van’s exact make, model, and model year before purchasing, as even a minor mid-generation dashboard refresh can prevent the tray from seating correctly.

This organizer is a must-have for any van owner with a standard factory center console who wants to end the daily frustration of digging for small items. It is useless for vans equipped with custom open walkthroughs or aftermarket floor-mounted heaters that occupy the space between the seats.

Cab Headliner Shelf – Whitetop Adventures Sprinter Shelf

The empty air space directly above the driver and passenger seats is the ultimate hidden storage goldmine in high-roof camper vans. Installing a headliner shelf allows you to utilize this massive, unused volume without sacrificing headroom or blocking your view. It is the single best way to store large, lightweight items that otherwise clutter your living space.

The Whitetop Adventures Sprinter Shelf is a premium, powder-coated aluminum shelf designed to fit seamlessly into the factory geometry of Mercedes Sprinter vans. It is incredibly sturdy, featuring a curved front lip that keeps cargo from sliding backward during steep climbs or sudden acceleration. The black powder coat finish matches the OEM trim beautifully, giving it a professional, factory-installed look.

  • Material: Heavy-duty 5052 aluminum with a textured black powder coat
  • Weight capacity: Holds up to 60 pounds of evenly distributed cargo
  • Installation: Uses existing factory mounting holes; no drilling required for most models
  • Best uses: Storing bulky window covers, sleeping bags, extra blankets, and winter jackets

While installation does not typically require drilling, maneuvering the large metal shelf into the tight cab space can be a challenging two-person job. You must also be mindful of what you store on the shelf; heavy objects can shift and become dangerous if they slide over the front lip during an emergency stop.

This headliner shelf is an essential upgrade for high-roof Sprinter owners who need a dedicated home for bulky cab window covers and bedding. It is not compatible with low-roof or medium-roof vans where headroom is already limited.

Steering Wheel Tray – AutoExec Wheelmate Steering Tray

When parked, the driver’s seat is often the most comfortable seat in the van, but it lacks a functional surface for eating or working. A steering wheel tray temporary converts your steering wheel into an ergonomic desktop or dining table in seconds. It allows you to utilize the driver’s cockpit as a productive workspace without installing permanent, bulky furniture.

The AutoExec Wheelmate Steering Tray is a lightweight, durable tray that slips quickly over the bottom of your steering wheel. It features a dual-sided design: one side is flat for writing or laptop use, while the other features a molded cup holder and a recessed food tray to catch crumbs. The smooth wood-powder composite finish is gentle on leather-wrapped steering wheels.

  • Material: Lightweight, sustainably sourced wood-powder composite
  • Weight: Less than 2 pounds, making it incredibly easy to handle
  • Dimensions: 15 inches wide by 11 inches deep
  • Best uses: Holding a 13-inch laptop, writing in a journal, or eating lunch while parked

This tray is strictly designed for stationary use only; attempting to use it while the vehicle is in motion is extremely dangerous. You must also store it securely while driving so it does not turn into a loose projectile. It is best slipped behind a seatback pocket or stored flat in a drawer.

This product is perfect for solo digital nomads, remote workers, and stealth campers who need a quick, discreet desk space without setting up a full table. It is not suitable for users with oversized aftermarket steering wheel covers that might prevent the tray from slipping over the wheel rim.

Dash Storage Box – VanEssential Sprinter Dash Organizer

Many modern camper vans feature open cubbies and recessed wells on top of the dashboard. While these spaces are convenient, items placed in them tend to slide around, reflect off the windshield, or fly out during tight turns. A structured dash storage box turns these slippery plastic recesses into organized, secure compartments.

The VanEssential Sprinter Dash Organizer is a custom-molded insert designed to sit securely inside the center dashboard bin of modern Mercedes Sprinter vans. It is made from high-density, UV-resistant fabric and features semi-rigid walls that won’t warp under intense windshield heat. The interior is divided into organized slots, complete with zippered pockets and cable pass-throughs.

  • Material: UV-resistant 600D polyester with a rigid foam core
  • Attachment style: Non-slip backing combined with heavy-duty adhesive hook-and-loop strips
  • Key features: Zippered security pocket, mesh dividers, and integrated wire routing
  • Best uses: Organizing charging cords, sunglasses, coins, toll transponders, and notebooks

Extended exposure to direct sunlight through a windshield can cause cheap plastics and fabrics to fade and degrade. While VanEssential uses UV-resistant materials, it is still wise to use a windshield sunshade when parked to protect both the organizer and your gear from extreme cabin temperatures. Additionally, make sure the organizer does not block your windshield defroster vents.

This organizer is a fantastic solution for drivers of modern Sprinters who want to quiet dashboard rattles and keep their charging cables organized. It is not a universal fit and will not work on older vans or alternative chassis like the Ford Transit.

Door Pocket Organizer – Overland Gear Guy Door Pocket

Factory door pockets are typically wide, shallow, and lined with hard, noisy plastic. Items stored in them slide back and forth with every tap of the brakes, creating an irritating distraction. A canvas door pocket organizer tames this space by adding structured, quiet compartments directly to your lower door panels.

The Overland Gear Guy Door Pocket organizer is hand-crafted in the USA from heavy-duty cordura nylon, built to withstand years of hard service. It features a series of snug, padded pockets and zippered pouches designed to hold specific gear items securely against the door. The fabric backing naturally dampens vibrations, silencing the annoying plastic-on-plastic rattles common to factory doors.

  • Material: Dual-layer 1000D Cordura nylon with heavy-duty zippers
  • Mounting method: Attaches securely via self-tapping screws or heavy-duty snap fasteners
  • Storage options: Built-in drink holders, flat map pockets, and zippered gear pouches
  • Best uses: Storing bear spray, flashlights, umbrellas, work gloves, and trash bags

Installation requires screwing directly into your plastic door panels, which permanently alters the vehicle interior. You must also be careful not to overpack the pockets, as bulky items can rub against the van’s rubber door seals or strike the driver’s seat when the door is swung shut.

This rugged organizer is ideal for off-roaders and full-time travelers who need immediate, reliable access to emergency gear right as they step out of the cab. It is not suitable for those who prefer to keep their vehicle completely stock or dislike drilling into factory plastics.

Magnetic Phone Mount – Scosche MagicMount Pro 2 Dash

Modern navigation requires a phone mount that keeps your screen completely stable over thousands of miles of rough highway. Mechanical clamp mounts are often bulky, slow to use, and prone to breaking at the joints. A high-quality magnetic mount offers a minimalist, incredibly strong connection that lets you mount your phone instantly with one hand.

The Scosche MagicMount Pro 2 Dash features extra-powerful neodymium magnets that provide a secure hold, even when driving over severe washboard dirt roads. It features a swivel head that allows you to angle your screen perfectly to avoid windshield glare. The base uses a marine-grade adhesive that bonds securely to textured dashboard plastics without melting in summer heat.

  • Magnet strength: 100% safe, extra-powerful rare-earth neodymium magnets
  • Compatibility: MagSafe compatible out of the box; includes metal plates for non-MagSafe devices
  • Mounting base: Compact, heat-resistant adhesive base
  • Best uses: Securing smartphones and small GPS units for hands-free navigation

To get the strongest bond, you must clean the dashboard surface thoroughly with rubbing alcohol before applying the adhesive base. Keep in mind that the required metal plate can interfere with wireless charging pads if placed incorrectly on the back of your phone.

This mount is perfect for drivers who want a clean, fast, and incredibly reliable way to mount their phone for navigation. It is not strong enough to support large, heavy tablets, which require robust mechanical clamping systems.

Center Storage Bag – Overland Gear Guy Passenger Bag

The open floor space between the driver and passenger seats is a highly valuable transitional zone. In many camper van layouts, however, this area simply becomes a messy pile of shoes, trash, and loose bags. A custom center floor bag fits this footprint perfectly, turning a chaotic walkthrough into an organized storage locker.

The Overland Gear Guy Passenger Bag is a heavy-duty storage console designed to sit flat on the floor between your cab seats. It features a weighted bottom and non-slip materials to keep it from sliding around during sharp turns. The interior is highly customizable, featuring insulated compartments that can act as a cooler or a secure home for camera gear.

  • Material: Water-resistant Cordura nylon with heavy-duty padding
  • Interior layout: Adjustable dividers, mesh pockets, and insulated lining
  • Portability: Features comfortable carry handles for easy removal when cleaning the cab
  • Best uses: Storing road-trip snacks, camera lenses, dog leashes, and trash bags

The primary drawback of a center floor bag is that it blocks the walkthrough path from the front cab to the rear living space. If your layout requires you to frequently scramble between the front seats to get to the kitchen, you will need to constantly step over or move this bag.

This floor bag is excellent for long-distance drivers and travelers with dogs who want easy access to snacks and pet supplies while on the highway. It is not recommended for those with floor-mounted handbrakes or tight layouts that require an entirely clear center aisle.

How to Secure Cab Gear Safely While Driving

Securing your cab gear is not just about organizational neatness; it is a critical safety practice that can save your life in an accident. During a sudden stop at 60 miles per hour, any loose item in your cab—from a heavy metal water bottle to a tablet—becomes a high-velocity projectile. Every storage solution you choose must be evaluated for its ability to hold gear tight under extreme dynamic forces.

To keep your cabin quiet and safe, adopt a strict habit of securing your gear before turning the key. Use elastic webbing, magnetic latches, and zippered compartments to lock down loose items. For open shelves, like headliner shelves, always install a cargo net or a bungee cord barrier to prevent light items from shifting forward during hard braking.

[Pre-Flight Cab Checklist] ├── Clear dashboard of all loose items ├── Zip all seatback and door pocket organizers ├── Secure tablets and phones in locking mounts ├── Clear the center floor walkthrough path └── Verify headliner shelf cargo is behind the safety lip 

Developing a simple “pre-flight” checklist will ensure your cab is always road-ready. Take thirty seconds to scan the dashboard, visors, and center console for loose objects before you shift into drive. By investing in dedicated, secure storage systems and maintaining a tidy cab, you will enjoy a quieter, safer, and far more comfortable journey on the road ahead.

Similar Posts