Vanlife Tips - Maximizing Space

Living in a van requires smart organization and the ability to maximize every inch of space. These tips will help you create a functional and comfortable home on wheels.

1. Vertical Storage is Your Best Friend

When floor space is limited, think up! Utilizing vertical space not only keeps items off the ground but also makes them easily accessible.

• Shelving and Cabinets: Install lightweight shelves or overhead cabinets. Open shelving can look great, but secured cabinets will prevent items from falling out while driving.
• Door and Wall Organizers: Use mesh pockets, shoe organizers, or hanging cloth storage on the back of doors or mounted to interior walls.

2. Multi-Functional Furniture

Every piece of furniture should serve at least two purposes. This is the cornerstone of efficient van design.

• Beds that Convert: A dinette that transforms into a bed, or a couch that pulls out, saves valuable floor space during the day.
• Bench Seating with Storage: Ensure any seating area has storage built into the base. This is an ideal place for linens, tools, or bulkier items.
• Table Solutions: Install a swivel or collapsible table. A Lagun table mount is a popular choice for its flexibility.

Item	Primary Function	Secondary Function
Bench	Seating	Storage for clothes and gear
Convertible Bed	Sleeping	Dining area/Couch
Folding Countertop	Food Prep	Desk/Workspace

3. Smart Kitchen Organization

The kitchen often contains the most items, making organization essential.

• Drawer Dividers: Use adjustable dividers in drawers to keep cutlery, spices, and cooking utensils from shifting and rattling.
• Magnetic Strips: Mount magnetic knife strips for secure and space-saving storage of knives and metal utensils.
• Collapsible Items: Invest in collapsible pots, strainers, and bowls. They take up significantly less space than their rigid counterparts.

4. Utilizing Under-Utilized Areas

Look for hidden spaces in your van that can be converted into storage.

• Wheel Well Covers: Custom-build covers for your wheel wells that double as benches or steps.
• Ceiling Nets: Install a cargo net near the ceiling for lightweight items like towels, jackets, or laundry.
• Bed Storage: The space underneath your main bed platform is often the largest storage area, typically accessed from the rear doors. This is perfect for bikes, climbing gear, or larger bins. We recommend you start by organizing this large space with storage bins that you can easily pull out.

5. The Power of Hooks

Never underestimate the utility of simple hooks.

• Wall Hooks: Use adhesive or screw-in hooks for keys, jackets, and backpacks.
• S-Hooks: Hang S-hooks from rods or open shelving to hold mugs, dishcloths, or cooking tools.
• Shower Caddies: Use a caddy with suction cups in the "wet" area of your van to hold toiletries.