Living in an RV is an art form.

Anyone who’s ever tried to stack pots and pans in a tiny kitchen or fold a mountain of laundry into a single drawer knows what I’m talking about. But organizing an RV?

That’s next-level. It’s about maximizing every square inch, finding clever ways to make things fit, and still having enough room to actually live comfortably.

Over the years, I’ve learned a few unconventional approaches and hacks that have made RV life feel less like a puzzle and more like home.

Let’s talk about organizing your RV—not just so it works, but so it works for you.

Start With What You Actually Use

One of the biggest mistakes I made when I started RVing was bringing too much stuff.

I crammed every cabinet and storage bin with things I might need: extra blankets, duplicate kitchen gadgets, and a “just-in-case” toolbox that weighed more than I care to admit.

After a while, I noticed a pattern: I was only using the same 20% of what I brought. Everything else just sat there, getting in the way.

That’s when I started practicing the “one-touch rule.” If something didn’t get used in a month, it was donated or stored elsewhere.

It was liberating—and my RV suddenly felt twice as big.

The key is this: if you’re not using it, it doesn’t deserve the space.

Think Vertically, Not Just Horizontally

Space in an RV is limited, but the walls? They’re your new best friend. Hooks, racks, and magnetic strips are game-changers.

• Magnetic Knife Strips: I mounted one in the kitchen for my knives, and another near the entry for metal keys and tools. It keeps things accessible without taking up counter or drawer space.
• Over-the-Door Organizers: These work wonders in bathrooms and closets. I’ve used them to store everything from toiletries to shoes to cleaning supplies.
• Wall-Mounted Baskets: Lightweight baskets screwed into the walls hold fruit, snacks, or even rolled-up towels. They’re not just functional—they add a touch of personality to your space.

I’ve also seen RVers use pegboards for hanging everything from utensils to small plants. It’s functional and gives your space a creative edge.

Embrace Collapsible and Multi-Purpose Items

RV life is no place for one-hit wonders. Everything you bring should earn its keep. My absolute favorites?

• Collapsible Kitchen Gear: Bowls, strainers, and even a dish rack that fold flat are lifesavers. They take up almost no space when not in use.
• Multi-Purpose Furniture: My ottoman doubles as a storage box. My dining table converts into a workspace. Even my bed has hidden storage underneath.
• Stackable Bins: They’re perfect for everything from pantry items to clothes. Stack them in cabinets, under seats, or even in the shower when it’s not in use.

It’s all about making the most of what little space you have without sacrificing functionality.

Conquer the Clutter with Labels and Zones

Let’s face it—clutter is the enemy. And in a small space, it can take over fast. That’s where zoning comes in.

I like to think of my RV as a grid. Every area has a purpose, and everything within that area serves it. The kitchen, for instance, only holds kitchen-related items.

The bedroom doesn’t double as an overflow closet. When everything has a designated home, it’s easier to stay organized.

Labeling bins, drawers, and shelves keeps things even more manageable.

It might sound obsessive, but trust me—when you’re searching for a charging cable in the middle of the night, you’ll thank yourself.

The Hidden Storage Spots You’re Probably Missing

RV manufacturers love to hide storage in plain sight. Over time, I’ve discovered a few secret spots that are easy to overlook:

• Under Dinette Seats: These are gold mines for storing bulky items like blankets, seasonal clothes, or extra cookware.
• Inside Cabinet Doors: I added adhesive hooks and small bins to the insides of cabinet doors to hold spices, utensils, and cleaning rags.
• In the Shower: When it’s not in use, the shower can double as storage. I keep a few waterproof bins in there for extra supplies.

Even the smallest spaces—like the gap above the fridge or under the couch—can become usable with the right storage solutions.

Rotate Seasonally

One of the most underrated tricks for RV living is rotating your belongings based on the season.

I learned this the hard way after hauling around a snow shovel through three states in summer.

Now, I keep a few vacuum-sealed bags for off-season items. During winter, summer clothes and gear get packed away.

When the weather warms up, the heavy coats and blankets go into storage. It’s a simple way to keep your RV feeling uncluttered and fresh.

Know When to Reset

Even with the best systems in place, things can spiral out of control. Every few months, I do a “reset.”

I go through every cabinet, drawer, and storage bin to see what’s still serving a purpose.

It’s a quick way to declutter and make sure I’m only carrying what I really need.

Plus, it gives me a chance to reorganize and experiment with new setups.

What worked six months ago might not work now, especially if I’ve added new hobbies or gear.

Organizing an RV isn’t just about making things fit; it’s about creating a space that feels like home.

When everything has its place—and you’re not constantly battling clutter—it’s amazing how much more enjoyable the journey becomes.

So stack those bins, hang those hooks, and embrace the art of small-space living. You’ll be amazed at how big your RV can feel.