Organize Interior RV Storage Space
Create an RV Binder to Store Documents, Cabinet & Drawer Inventory
© Elizabeth Borer
Nov 19, 2007
RV Cabinet Storage
When traveling in an RV, whether it is for years or a few days, it is easier to function in a small living
space when it feels and works like home. Here are some ideas.
How to organize a small space such as an RV can sometimes be a tricky task. Knowing the layout of
the unit and keeping images and logs of supplies will save time and energy by not having to dig
through cabinets or flip up seat cushions to find something.
Create an RV Binder
When traveling away from home, having the necessary documents on hand will help RVers avoid
stress and frustration in the case of an emergency or when trying to keep a fully stocked trailer or
motorhome. Keeping everything organized in a 3-ring binder will make the information easy to find
and refer to when needed.
Items to keep in an RV binder include:
* packing/clothing checklist
* food/grocery checklist
* supply checklist
* maintenance receipts
* insurance information
* maps
* campground reservations and contact details
* activity flyers
* emergency phone numbers
* a drawing of interior spaces
* inventory list of onboard supplies
Sketch or Print a Layout of Interior Spaces
It doesn't take an artist to get a general idea of how the inside of an RV is set up. The important thing
is having a picture to reference when organizing, not the quality of the drawing itself. Having drawings
of multiple areas will keep each layout clear and to the point.
2 primary drawings to have in the binder include:
* a layout zoning the purpose or primary use of the space such as: cooking, sleeping, dining,
bathing, or lounging. When a space is designated to meet a certain need, supplies for that zone can
be stored in or near the area. Simple examples are toiletries and towels in the bathroom cabinets and
blankets and pillows in the cabinets closest to the beds.
* a drawing of the design of lower and upper cabinets and drawers - including spaces below seating
areas. This task may take up to 3 separate sketches of upper, lower and hidden storage. This
process is comparable to recreating the floor plan on the manufacturer's website or sales flyer - if
possible, print out multiple copies of the online manufacturer's image to use for reference instead of
drawing by hand.
Inventory Supplies
Now that the sketches are complete and placed in the binder, it is time to make a log of what is in
each cabinet, how much of each, and a running list of what is needed. For example:
Kitchen Cabinet #1
* 6 dinner size plates
* 6 soup/cereal bowls
* 4 coffee mugs
* 6 drinking glasses
**Add to "buy list" small cups for kids
This list is helpful when the time comes to store the RV for long periods of time, or for when the rig
has not been used consistently in a given season. Continue this for each zone of the RV making sure
to keep supplies nearest to the area in which they will be used. To make the most of usable space,
buy double duty products such as all purpose cleaners for the kitchen and bath, or come up with
creative ways to use everyday items - zipper bags not only make convenient and disposable food
storage, they are also great for marinating meats or as a pastry bag!
Place all finished logs and other important documents into an appropriately sized 3-ring binder and
keep it inside the trailer or motorhome where it can be easily referenced.
Divide the existing closet space for maximum efficiency. Consider a rod
doubler or a hanging bag, depending on whether you need more room
for hanging or folded clothes. Include a portable laundry solution that
can fold down when not in use.
doubler or a hanging bag, depending on whether you need more room
for hanging or folded clothes. Include a portable laundry solution that
can fold down when not in use.
Use repositionable adhesive hooks that won't damage your walls
whenever possible to hold towels and robes in the bathroom, utensils
in the kitchen, clothing in the bedroom, etc.
whenever possible to hold towels and robes in the bathroom, utensils
in the kitchen, clothing in the bedroom, etc.
Look for hanging organization solutions wherever you have free wall
space. A hanging mesh organizer can be used in the shower stall and
outside the shower to hold toiletries and makeup – and it doesn't take
up any counter space.
space. A hanging mesh organizer can be used in the shower stall and
outside the shower to hold toiletries and makeup – and it doesn't take
up any counter space.
Maximize cabinet space by adding a freestanding drawer unit that you
can slide into the opening. After removing the existing shelves, a
drawer solution such as elfa® will create even more storage space.
And, as an added bonus, you can remove the Drawers and use them
to carry items like table linens and games when you arrive at your
destination. The Drawers can be secured with a bungee cord while the
vehicle is in motion.
can slide into the opening. After removing the existing shelves, a
drawer solution such as elfa® will create even more storage space.
And, as an added bonus, you can remove the Drawers and use them
to carry items like table linens and games when you arrive at your
destination. The Drawers can be secured with a bungee cord while the
vehicle is in motion.
Make every inch of storage space as efficient as possible. Line
drawers and shelves with nonslip liners to prevent items from sliding
while you're on the road. Use stacking bins or shelves to divide cabinet
or cubby space and to further help prevent items from shifting.
drawers and shelves with nonslip liners to prevent items from sliding
while you're on the road. Use stacking bins or shelves to divide cabinet
or cubby space and to further help prevent items from shifting.
RV Storage
