Storage in a travel trailer is like playing a game of 3D Tetris—but with dirt, weather, and weekend excitement added in. After years of pulling into campgrounds, setting up in the rain, or chasing the sun to make s’mores before bed, our storage system has evolved. It is no longer about “fitting everything in”—it is about packing for convenience, access, and how your setup really happens.
If you are new to RV life or just looking to streamline your packing game, here is our family-tested travel trailer storage checklist—with context for why each item earns its place on the list.
🧰 1. The Toolbox (AKA: The Go Box for Fixes)
This is essential. If something breaks—and it will—you do not want to be 20 miles from the nearest hardware store. My toolbox lives in the camper and includes:
- Gorilla Glue & Duct Tape: Because camping is 80% fun, 20% creative problem-solving.
- Fuses: A blown fuse is a common issue. Keep spares in various sizes.
- Work Gloves: For setup, dirty hookups, or firewood duty.
- Hammer, Wrenches, Socket Set, Screwdrivers: For everything from stabilizers to loose screws.
- Electrical Tape, Wire Nuts, Wire Cutters: Useful for minor power repairs or securing wires.
- Flashlight: Campsites get dark. A headlamp is even better.
- WD-40: Squeaky steps or stuck parts? This stuff’s magic.
Pack yours with spare tools from your garage—it does not need to be fancy, just functional.
🚚 2. Driver-Side Storage = Setup Zone
My storage system changed when I realized I was packing based on what fit, not what I needed first. Now I load by order of use, and the setup starts as soon as we park.
- LevelMate PRO: Mounted and ready. Leveling is job one.
- Wheel Chocks: Stored in the bed of my truck, easy to grab once we’re parked.
- Water, Sewer, and Electrical Bins: These live in bins on the driver side storage bay or the truck bed—because you always hook up on that side. Having everything pre-packed in totes cuts setup time and keeps things tidy.
🛏️ 3. Under-Bed Storage = Soft Stuff + Seasonal Fun
Like many travel trailers, our biggest storage area is under the bed. It is deep, a little awkward, but perfect for bulky or infrequently accessed gear.
- Dirty Laundry Basket: Hidden, out of the way, and easy to grab when it is full.
- Water/Beach Toys: Think noodles, goggles, splash balls.
- Fishing Poles: Ours are mounted neatly—check out our YouTube video here for a look at how we did it.
This area is best for things you use once you are settled—not part of your fast setup sequence.
🚪 4. Passenger-Side Storage = Grab-and-Go Goodies
This side is all about quick access. It is the social side of your trailer—the door side—and you will want easy reach to the fun stuff.
- S’mores Utensils: No one wants to dig for roasting sticks.
- Fire Starter Kits: Packaged and dry, with matches or a torch.
- Fan/Bug Zapper: For evenings on the picnic table when the bugs are winning.
- Kids’ Toys, Yard Games, Lanterns: This is your hangout kit.
Store these in bins that slide out easily. Label them if you are into that kind of organization.
✅ Bonus Tips:
- Label your bins: Color code or tape labels help everyone know what’s where.
- Rotate by season: Take out the water toys and add flannel blankets as fall approaches.
- Keep weight in mind: Store heavier gear low and centered over the axles to avoid sway or balance issues.
