6 Best RV Slide Out Trays For Easy Gear Access
Maximize your RV storage with our top 6 slide-out tray picks. Discover durable, easy-to-install solutions that make accessing your heavy gear effortless today.
Crawling into the dark, cavernous depths of an RV basement to hunt for a single leveling block is a rite of passage every RVer eventually grows to despise. Installing a slide-out tray transforms that chaotic storage pit into an organized, accessible pantry for your gear. This simple mechanical upgrade isn’t just about convenience; it’s about reclaiming your sanity and protecting your back on the road.
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Why RV Slide Out Trays Are Essential Upgrades
When you’re living out of a mobile dwelling, every square inch of storage is a precious commodity. Without a sliding system, the items shoved to the back of your basement storage become "lost" items—rarely used and difficult to retrieve. A slide-out tray brings the entire contents of your compartment to you, eliminating the need to climb inside or rearrange your entire inventory just to find a tool.
Beyond accessibility, these trays protect your RV’s structural integrity. Constantly reaching deep into a basement bay often leads to leaning on thin storage walls or dragging heavy gear across delicate flooring. By utilizing a tray, you distribute the weight evenly across the chassis frame, ensuring your gear stays secure while you’re in transit.
MORryde Cargo Tray: Best Heavy-Duty Solution
Easily access your truck bed cargo with the MORryde sliding tray. This fully assembled, carpeted tray boasts an 800 lb capacity and installs in minutes without measuring or cutting.
If you are a full-timer carrying heavy tools, generators, or outdoor kitchen equipment, the MORryde Cargo Tray is the gold standard. These trays are built like a tank, featuring high-grade steel and heavy-duty ball-bearing slides that can handle hundreds of pounds without buckling. You’ll notice the difference the moment you pull the handle; the movement is fluid, stable, and surprisingly quiet.
This is the tray for the RVer who hates "flimsy" equipment and wants a one-and-done purchase. It’s an investment, but when you’re hauling a 100-pound portable power station, you’ll be grateful for the over-engineered construction. If your gear load is substantial, look no further; this is the robust workhorse your rig deserves.
Lippert Components Storage Tray: Best Value
Lippert is a ubiquitous name in the RV industry for a reason: they understand the intersection of functionality and affordability. Their storage tray offers a straightforward, no-nonsense design that gets the job done without breaking your budget. It’s perfect for the weekend warrior or the RVer who needs to organize lighter camping gear like chairs, mats, and hoses.
While it may not have the industrial-grade steel of more expensive competitors, the Lippert tray is more than sufficient for standard RV storage needs. It’s easy to install and provides a smooth glide that makes a world of difference compared to static shelving. If you’re looking to maximize your storage efficiency without a massive capital outlay, this is your best starting point.
Stromberg Carlson Tray: Best For Easy Access
Easily transport cargo with the Stromberg Carlson CC250 Trailer Tray. Its durable construction and generous capacity make it ideal for hauling equipment and gear.
The Stromberg Carlson tray stands out because of its focus on user-friendly operation and accessibility. These trays are designed with a low profile, meaning you don’t lose precious vertical clearance in your basement—a common issue with bulkier sliding systems. The locking mechanisms are intuitive, allowing you to extend and retract the tray with minimal effort, even when fully loaded.
This tray is ideal for those who prioritize ease of use above all else. If you have mobility concerns or simply want the most effortless access to your gear, the ergonomic design here is hard to beat. It strikes a perfect balance between durability and user experience, making it a top contender for any rig.
SlideMaster Custom Tray: Best For Precision
Sometimes, an off-the-shelf solution just won’t fit the unique dimensions of a custom van conversion or a specialized fifth-wheel basement. SlideMaster specializes in precision, offering trays that are tailored to your specific measurements. This level of customization ensures that you aren’t wasting a single millimeter of storage space, which is critical in tighter, non-standard compartments.
Choosing a custom solution is a commitment to perfection. While the lead time is longer and the cost is higher, the result is a seamless, factory-finish look that feels like a permanent part of your vehicle. If you’ve spent years perfecting your storage layout and demand a tray that fits perfectly, SlideMaster is the only way to go.
CargoEase Titan Series: Best For Durability
The CargoEase Titan Series is built for those who treat their RV like a mobile workshop. These trays are coated with high-impact materials and feature heavy-duty locking positions that keep the tray secure at multiple intervals. It is designed to withstand the harsh vibrations and road shocks that occur when traveling on rough, off-grid terrain.
If your travels take you off the pavement and onto washboard forest service roads, you need a tray that won’t rattle apart. The Titan Series is built for longevity and extreme conditions, making it an excellent choice for overlanders. It is a premium product, but it’s the right choice if you need gear security that won’t fail you in the backcountry.
TraySafe Locking System: Best For Security
While most trays come with basic latches, the TraySafe system focuses on the integrity of the lock itself. If you store high-value items like camera gear, drones, or expensive tools, you need to know that your tray won’t slide open during a sharp turn or a sudden stop. The locking mechanism on these trays is robust, providing a distinct "click" that offers peace of mind.
Security is about more than just theft prevention; it’s about safety on the road. A tray that accidentally slides open during a maneuver can damage your basement door or shift your center of gravity. For those who prioritize safety and reliable locking, this system is a must-have upgrade.
Measuring Your RV Basement For Perfect Fit
Before you buy, you must measure your compartment with surgical precision. Start by measuring the narrowest point of the door opening, as this is your "choke point" regardless of how much room you have inside. Also, account for the depth of the tray’s frame and the handle mechanism, which will protrude slightly when retracted.
Don’t forget to check for obstructions like gas lines, electrical conduits, or protruding screw heads that could impede the slide’s path. It is often helpful to create a cardboard template of the tray size to visualize how it will sit in your basement. A little time spent measuring now will save you a massive headache during the installation phase.
Essential Tools For Installing Slide Trays
Installing a slide tray is a manageable DIY project, provided you have the right kit. You will definitely need a high-quality cordless drill, a set of metal-rated drill bits, and a socket set for securing the mounting bolts. A level is also non-negotiable; if your tray isn’t perfectly level, it will drift open or closed on its own.
I also recommend having a good supply of self-tapping stainless steel screws and a tube of construction-grade adhesive or sealant for the mounting points. If you’re mounting into the floor, ensure you know exactly what is underneath the floorboard to avoid puncturing a tank or a wire. If you aren’t comfortable drilling into your chassis, don’t hesitate to consult a professional.
Maintenance Tips For Smooth Slide Operation
Even the best slide-out tray requires a bit of love to keep functioning smoothly. At least twice a year, use a dry silicone lubricant on the bearings and tracks—avoid grease-based lubricants, as they tend to attract dust and grit. Grit is the enemy of smooth movement and will eventually grind down your bearings.
Periodically check all mounting bolts to ensure they haven’t loosened from road vibrations. If you notice the tray becoming "sticky" or harder to pull, inspect the tracks for debris or bent metal. A well-maintained slide tray should glide with the push of a finger, and a few minutes of maintenance will keep it that way for years.
Investing in a quality slide-out tray is one of the smartest upgrades you can make for your mobile lifestyle. It turns a frustrating storage space into a highly efficient, organized system that saves you time and physical strain. Choose the option that fits your specific gear load and travel style, and you’ll find that the road ahead is much easier to navigate.
