Living full-time in an RV presents unique organizational challenges that require smart, space-saving solutions to maintain a comfortable and efficient living environment. From managing kitchen spaces to maximizing storage in tiny nooks, here are my best tips for RV living full-time organization.
As you dive deeper into this article, you’ll discover innovative ways to utilize every inch of your RV, ensuring that everything has its place.
Learn how to transform your living space with multi-use furniture and creative storage solutions that not only save space but also enhance your living experience. By the end of this article, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to make your RV feel like a spacious and well-organized home, with a special tip that might just change the way you think about RV living forever.
So here are my . . .
RV living full-time RV organization tips
1. Utilize Over-Cabinet Baskets to Maximize Unused Space Above Cabinets
Using over-cabinet baskets is a smart way to tap into the often overlooked space above kitchen and bathroom cabinets in your RV.
These baskets can be easily attached and are perfect for storing items you don’t frequently use, such as seasonal kitchen tools or extra bath supplies, keeping them out of the way yet accessible.
This approach not only helps keep your countertops and cabinets clutter-free but also makes it easier to see and organize everything you own. Implementing this tip ensures that every inch of your living space is utilized efficiently, contributing significantly to a tidy and organized RV environment.
2. Utilize Hidden Storage in Furniture to Maximize Living Space
Utilizing hidden storage in furniture is essential for maximizing space in an RV. Opt for beds with storage compartments beneath them. These spaces are perfect for stowing away seasonal clothing or extra bedding.
Sofas and ottomans with built-in storage also offer discreet options for organizing everyday items. They help keep your RV clutter-free while ensuring essentials are within easy reach.
Such smart furniture choices expand your storage options significantly. This approach keeps your living environment both tidy and spacious, enhancing your comfort on the road.
3. Include a Vanity for Storage to Organize Personal Items
Including a vanity in your RV is a smart way to organize personal items. A vanity provides a dedicated space for grooming products, jewelry, and other small essentials. This keeps countertops clear and items neatly arranged in one spot.
You can use the drawers to sort items by type or frequency of use. This makes it easier to find what you need quickly, especially when you’re on the move. With a vanity, your morning routine becomes more streamlined, freeing up time and reducing clutter in your living space.
4. Maximize Bedroom Storage Space Under Beds and in Closets
Maximizing bedroom storage space under beds and in closets is crucial in an RV. Utilize bed frames with built-in drawers or space for bins underneath for items like clothes and linens. This keeps your essentials out of sight and organized.
For closets, install hanging organizers or shelves to use vertical space efficiently. These can hold shoes, accessories, and smaller clothing items. Adjustable shelves or rods can help customize the storage to fit your needs, making the most of every inch in your RV bedroom.
5. Create Multi-Use Areas for Dining and Working
Creating multi-use areas for dining and working in an RV maximizes your living space. Use a foldable or extendable table that can serve as both a dining area and a workspace. This flexibility allows for easy transition between meals and activities like school work or remote work.
Opt for chairs that can be easily moved or stacked when not in use. This keeps the area versatile and open for other uses throughout the day. By effectively using furniture that serves dual purposes, you make the most of limited space, keeping your RV organized and functional.
6. Incorporate Kitchen Storage for Utensils and Supplies
Incorporating kitchen storage for utensils and supplies in an RV is essential for maintaining an organized and functional cooking area. Use magnetic strips to hang knives and other metal utensils, saving drawer space for other items. Install hooks underneath cabinets to hold mugs and utensils, keeping countertops clear.
Consider using over-the-door organizers inside pantry doors for spices and small containers. Drawer dividers can also help keep cooking tools neatly separated and easy to find. By implementing these storage solutions, you can ensure every kitchen item has a designated place, making cooking and cleanup much more efficient in your limited RV space.
7. Use Collapsible Kitchen Gadgets to Save Space
Using collapsible kitchen gadgets is a smart way to save space in your RV’s kitchen. Opt for items like collapsible colanders, bowls, measuring cups, and dish racks. These gadgets can be expanded for use and then easily folded down to store in small drawers or cabinets.
This space-saving approach is particularly effective in the compact kitchen of an RV, where every inch of storage counts. By choosing collapsible items, you maintain the functionality of a full kitchen without sacrificing valuable space, making cooking and cleaning in your RV easier and more organized.
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8. Lazy Susan for Easy Access in Cabinets
Installing a Lazy Susan in your RV cabinets can significantly enhance accessibility and organization. This rotating tray makes it easy to reach items stored in the back of cabinets without having to remove everything in front. It’s especially useful in deep corners, where it can be difficult to access pots, pans, or food items.
By using a Lazy Susan, you can keep your kitchen supplies tidy and visible, reducing clutter and the frustration of digging through cramped spaces. This simple addition to your RV kitchen setup helps utilize every available inch more effectively, making cooking and storage much more manageable.
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9. Can Dispenser for Efficient Food Storage
Using a can dispenser in your RV can greatly improve the efficiency of your food storage. It organizes canned goods in a way that allows you to easily see and access what you have, which is especially helpful in the confined space of an RV. The dispenser works by stacking cans on an inclined plane so that when one is removed from the bottom, the others roll down into place.
This setup not only saves space but also helps in managing inventory, ensuring older cans are used first and reducing the chance of food going to waste. A can dispenser can be placed in a cabinet or pantry, making it a simple yet effective solution to keep your kitchen organized and your cans in order.
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10. Sweater Organizer for Wardrobe Management
Using a sweater organizer in your RV helps manage wardrobe space efficiently.
This type of organizer separates sweaters, shirts, and other bulky items, keeping them neatly folded and accessible. It can slide into a closet shelf or hang vertically, maximizing vertical space and reducing clutter.
A sweater organizer helps prevent wrinkles and makes it easier to find what you need quickly without rummaging through piles of clothes. By compartmentalizing your clothing, you save time and keep your living space tidy, essential for the limited storage capacity in an RV.
11. Magazine Holder for Organizing Reading Materials
Using a magazine holder is an excellent way to organize reading materials in your RV. This simple tool keeps magazines, books, and newspapers tidy and easily accessible. You can place the holder in a common area or mount it on a wall to save space.
A magazine holder not only organizes but also helps preserve the condition of your reading materials by preventing them from being scattered or damaged. This organizational solution is ideal for maintaining a neat and orderly living space, especially in the compact environment of an RV.
12. Nesting Cookware to Minimize Cupboard Clutter
Using nesting cookware is a smart way to minimize cupboard clutter in your RV.
These sets typically include pots, pans, and lids that fit neatly into each other, optimizing storage space in your kitchen. This design not only saves valuable cupboard area but also makes it easier to keep your cooking essentials organized and accessible.
By choosing nesting cookware, you reduce the hassle of digging through disorganized piles of pots and pans, allowing for a smoother cooking experience. It’s an ideal solution for maintaining order in the confined space of an RV, helping you enjoy your cooking without the clutter.
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13. Stackable Containers for Food and Miscellaneous Storage
Using stackable containers is an effective way to organize food and miscellaneous items in your RV.
These containers come in various sizes and can be stacked on top of each other, maximizing vertical storage space in your cabinets or fridge. This system not only keeps your items neatly organized but also makes it easy to see what you have, reducing waste and saving time when you’re looking for specific ingredients or supplies.
Stackable containers are especially useful in an RV’s limited space, helping you maintain order and cleanliness. They are also great for keeping food fresh and preventing spills during travel.
14. In-Cabinet Shelves to Double Storage Space
Adding in-cabinet shelves is a clever way to double the storage space inside your RV’s cabinets. These shelves can be easily installed and allow you to organize items on multiple levels within a single cabinet. This makes it easier to access what you need without having to remove everything just to reach items at the back.
By using these additional shelves, you can efficiently use the vertical space that often goes wasted in standard cabinets. They’re perfect for storing kitchen supplies, clothing, or bathroom necessities, helping keep your RV tidy and organized.
15. Tension Rods for Additional Hanging Storage
Tension rods are an excellent tool for adding extra hanging storage in an RV.
Easily adjustable, they can be fitted in various spaces without needing screws or nails, making them perfect for temporary setups. You can use them in closets to hang clothes or in cabinets to suspend cooking utensils or cleaning supplies, maximizing vertical storage areas.
Tension rods are versatile and can be relocated or adjusted as your storage needs change, making them an ideal solution for maintaining organization in the confined space of an RV.
16. IKEA TRONES for Shoe and Small Item Storage
IKEA TRONES are great for organizing shoes and small items in an RV. These compact, versatile cabinets can be mounted on any wall, making them perfect for limited spaces. They help keep your RV tidy by storing shoes vertically, freeing up floor space for other uses.
Each TRONES unit can also hold accessories like hats and gloves, keeping them accessible but out of the way. Their sleek design ensures they don’t overwhelm the small interior of an RV, and they can be used in multiples to expand storage as needed. This simple solution helps maintain organization and cleanliness, making RV living more comfortable.
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17. Over-the-Door Shoe Organizer for Footwear and Accessories
Using an over-the-door shoe organizer is a smart way to save space and keep footwear and accessories organized in an RV. These organizers hang easily on any door, turning unused space into a convenient storage area. They have multiple pockets that can hold shoes, belts, scarves, and other small items, keeping them neat and accessible.
This type of organizer is especially useful in an RV, where floor space is limited. By storing items vertically, it helps to keep the living area uncluttered and organized. Additionally, over-the-door organizers are easy to install and move, making them a flexible option for RV living.
18. Hanging Pocket Organizer for Keeping Small Items Accessible
A hanging pocket organizer is ideal for keeping small items accessible in an RV.
This organizer can be hung on walls or doors, offering a convenient way to store and sort items like utensils, craft supplies, or toiletries. Each pocket allows you to see and grab what you need quickly, eliminating the need to search through drawers or cabinets.
This simple storage solution is particularly valuable in the confined space of an RV, helping to keep surfaces clear and items organized. With everything in view and each item in its place, it reduces clutter and maximizes living space efficiently.
19. Fruit Basket to Keep Produce Fresh and Visible
Using a fruit basket in your RV is a fantastic way to keep produce fresh and visible. This storage method allows air to circulate around fruits and vegetables, reducing spoilage and keeping them fresher longer. By placing the basket in a visible area, you can easily see what you have, which encourages healthier eating habits and reduces food waste.
A fruit basket also adds a decorative touch to your RV, bringing a sense of homeliness and nature inside.
It’s a simple, effective solution that enhances both the functionality and aesthetics of your living space, making it easier to grab a healthy snack anytime.
20. Command Hooks and Strips for Temporary Mounting and Hanging
Command hooks and strips are incredibly useful for temporary mounting and hanging in an RV. These tools allow you to hang items like coats, towels, and decor without damaging the walls. They’re perfect for RV living because they offer a strong hold while being easy to remove, leaving no residue or marks behind.
This flexibility is essential in an RV, where space is at a premium and surfaces need to remain undamaged. With command hooks and strips, you can efficiently utilize vertical space to organize and decorate, making your RV feel more like home.
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21. Stuffed Animal Over-the-Door Organizer to Keep Children’s Toys Organized
A stuffed animal hammock is an excellent solution for keeping children’s stuffies and toys organized in an RV. This space-saving storage option can be hung in corners or along walls, providing a dedicated spot for plush toys. The hammock helps to clear play areas and sleeping spaces of clutter while making it easy for kids to find and put away their toys.
This simple addition not only organizes toys but also decorates the children’s area, making the RV feel more personalized and cozy. It’s an ideal way to maintain order and keep toys in sight, yet out of the way.
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22. DIY Hanging Jars for Storing Small Essentials
DIY hanging jars are a clever and creative way to store small essentials in an RV. By securing jars under shelves or cabinets, you can keep items like screws, buttons, or spices organized and within easy reach. This method uses vertical space effectively, which is especially valuable in the compact quarters of an RV.
The jars can be attached with clamps, wire, or even strong adhesive hooks, depending on weight and wall strength. This DIY solution not only helps keep small items neatly organized but also adds a touch of personal style to your RV’s interior.
23. Storage Pillows for Hidden Keepsakes
Storage pillows are a fantastic way to keep keepsakes hidden and organized in an RV.
These pillows come with built-in compartments that are perfect for storing small items like jewelry, important documents, or sentimental trinkets. This clever storage solution not only helps save space but also keeps valuables out of sight, adding an extra layer of security.
Using storage pillows allows you to utilize everyday items as dual-purpose elements, enhancing functionality without sacrificing comfort or style. They are especially useful in the limited space of an RV, where maintaining order and making the most of every inch is crucial.
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24. Bedside Caddy for Nighttime Necessities
A bedside caddy is an essential organizational tool for RV living, perfect for keeping nighttime necessities within easy reach.
It slips between the mattress and bed frame or hangs from the side, providing convenient pockets for items like books, phones, glasses, and remote controls. This simple addition helps keep the sleeping area clutter-free and organized, ensuring everything you need is handy when you settle in for the night.
Using a bedside caddy maximizes limited space and enhances comfort by keeping essentials tidy and accessible.
25. Foldable Furniture for Versatile Room Use
Foldable furniture is perfect for versatile room use in an RV. Foldable chairs, tables, and beds can be stored when not in use, saving valuable space. This flexibility allows you to reconfigure your living area as needed. By using foldable furniture, you maintain an organized environment, making the RV more functional and comfortable.
This adaptability is key to maximizing space and keeping everything tidy.
Foldable furniture is essential for versatile room use in an RV. Chairs, tables, and even beds that fold flat can easily be tucked away when not in use, opening up the area for other activities. This versatility is crucial in an RV’s compact space, allowing for multiple room configurations depending on your daily needs.
Opting for foldable furniture also helps in maintaining a tidy, organized environment, making living in a small space more comfortable and practical.
26. Under-Sink Organizer for Bathroom Supplies
Using an under-sink organizer for bathroom supplies is a smart way to keep your RV tidy. These organizers fit neatly under the sink, making use of otherwise wasted space. They help store toiletries, cleaning products, and other essentials in an orderly manner.
Adjustable shelves and drawers can accommodate items of various sizes, ensuring everything has its place. This not only keeps the bathroom clutter-free but also makes it easier to find what you need quickly. By maximizing under-sink space, you enhance the functionality and organization of your RV bathroom, making it a more pleasant and efficient living area.
27. Wall-Mounted Spice Rack for Easy Cooking
A wall-mounted spice rack is a great addition to your RV kitchen for easy cooking. It keeps spices organized and within reach, freeing up cabinet space for other essentials. This setup helps you quickly find the spices you need while cooking, making meal preparation more efficient.
Mount the spice rack on a kitchen wall or inside a cabinet door to save space. With spices visible and accessible, you can maintain an orderly kitchen and enhance your cooking experience. This small change can significantly improve the functionality and organization of your RV kitchen.
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Final Thoughts
Organizing your RV for full-time living can make a huge difference in your daily comfort and efficiency.
By applying the 27 tips we’ve covered, from utilizing vertical space with hanging storage to maximizing under-bed areas, you can transform a cramped space into a tidy and functional home.
Remember, the key to successful RV organization is consistency and creativity—keep refining your space based on your living experiences. These strategies are not just about saving space—they’re about enhancing your lifestyle on the road.
So, take these tips, tailor them to your needs, and enjoy a more organized, spacious RV living environment.