Choosing a new motorhome from Couplands and driving away for your holidays can be exhilarating, offering you the freedom to travel while enjoying all of the comforts of home. However, just like back at home, it’s very important to be tidy and organised – perhaps even more so in a motorhome.
Space is naturally more limited, so by staying on top of managing it efficiently you can make sure you’re in a comfortable living environment, free from mess. Without a strategic approach to storage, clutter can quickly accumulate, which will make your motorhome interior feel cramped and unliveable.
In this edition of our blog we detail some cost-effective storage solutions so that you can really make the most of your motorhome's interior space.
Motorhome Kitchen Storage
- Overhead storage: Make the most of the limited space above your kitchen area by making efficient use of the overhead cabinets or shelves (if there are any). They can be used to store lighter items (eg. spices, sauces and utensils). You could even install bungee cords and hooks to secure jars, ensuring they don’t move around while you’re driving. Use stackable plastic tubs and boxes (available at every homeware shop) to store things like breakfast cereal, rice, pasta, biscuits etc. Magnetic strips can be installed to hold knives and other metal utensils secure.
- Sink and hob covers: When you’re not using the sink or the hob, cover them to create additional counter space for food prep. In some motorhome models you will find that there is already something along these useful lines already built-in. Covers can be custom-made or purchased to fit, with this simple addition transforming your kitchen and providing you with a much more versatile worktop space.
Motorhome Bedroom Storage
- Vacuum-seal bags: A really smart way to increase your usable space is to store your items of clothing that are not in daily use – and vacuum-seal bags are ideal. They compress bulky items stored in them by removing the air, which saves a considerable amount of space. Because they are literally air-tight, vacuum-seal bags also offer your clothes maximum protection from moisture and pests. They’re also great for storing bedding etc.
- Hanging organisers: Use hanging organisers inside the wardrobe or on the back of doors for items like shoes, hats and accessories. There are several different types of hanging organiser, including clear PVC pockets which let you see what’s inside. This type of organiser is also very useful in the bathroom or kitchen of your motorhome, to store toiletries or utensils.
- Drawer dividers: Getting your drawers organised with dividers for items like socks, underwear and smaller clothing items like t-shirts is a way to keep them separated and easy to find. Collapsible drawer organisers are particularly useful as they can be packed away when not in use. Dividers are also useful for organising kitchen utensils or bathroom items.
Motorhome Bathroom Storage
- Roll towels: The traditional method of sorting out a towel for storage when it’s not in use is to fold it (sometimes multiples times). Instead of doing this, roll instead to save space. Rolled towels can be easily stored in baskets or arranged on shelves. This method not only saves space but it also stops the towels from becoming creased and wrinkled.
- Toiletry bags: Use compact, hanging toiletry bags for all of your bathroom essentials. These bags can be easily hung on hooks or stored in cabinets, and using them will keep your items easily accessible as well as organised. Using toiletry bags with multiple compartments will enable you to separate different items.
- Magnetic strips: Installing magnetic strips inside the bathroom cabinet will provide a smart way to hold metal grooming tools such as tweezers and nail clippers. They won’t get lost and you will free up space.
Other bits and pieces
- Velcro: Attach Velcro strips to items which you frequently use, and (tidily, of course) to a certain area or areas on the walls of your motorhome. This will give you a great way to keep remote controls, torches, chargers and other small items within very easy reach. Velcro strips can also be used to secure loose items to surfaces when you you’re travelling.
- Elastic shelving: Use elastic cords to create a simple but very effective book holder on walls or the inside of cabinet doors. This will keep books secure and easily accessible without taking up valuable worktop or table space in the motorhome. Elastic shelving can also hold your magazines, maps and travel guides.
- Charging stations: Designate a specific area for charging digital devices. Use a multi-port USB charger and keep cables organised with cable clips or a small drawer system. This will help you avoid the clutter of tangled cords, and ensures all devices will be charged up and ready to roll when required. Consider installing a charging station near a seating area so that the device can still be used, if necessary, while it is charging.
General storage considerations
- Overhead and underfoot: Consider using the available overhead storage space in your motorhome for your more lightweight items and the under-floor storage (if there is any) for heavier or less frequently used items. This simple rule of distribution can help balance the weight of your motorhome as well as making items more conveniently accessible. Overhead cabinets are great for storing clothing, bedding and kitchen supplies. Under-floor compartments are for things like tools and outdoor gear.
- External storage: Some motorhomes have external storage options - roof racks and garage areas. These should be utilised to the full if necessary, as they are ideal for bulky items like sports equipment and extra luggage. Roof racks and garages can hold bikes or camping gear, tools and supplies.
Maximising the storage capacity of your motorhome requires a bit of creativity, alot of organisation and some strategic planning. By putting the clever storage solutions we’ve mentioned in this blog in place, you can truly make the most of the relatively compact space offered by a motorhome when compared to your actual home. You can enjoy a well organised and highly functional living environment that is still a comfortable and pleasant place to be. Whether you’re hitting the road for a weekend or setting off on a much longer adventure, consider Couplands for a great choice of new and used vehicles – and our storage tips will help you stay on top of your space.
