Running out of space in a van isn’t just annoying—it makes daily life harder and can turn a small problem into a big one when you can’t find what you need. After five years of living in one, I’ve learned that a few deliberate habits and the right gear make a huge difference. Here are 10 storage and space management tips, plus specific products that have worked for me. We may earn a commission if you buy through our links—see our affiliate disclosure.
1. Use collapsible storage bins
When you’re not carrying extra gear, collapsible crates or bins fold flat so they don’t waste space. When you need them—groceries, laundry, tools—they give you clear zones and stop things sliding around. Look for ones that are sturdy when open and pack down thin.
Pick: Collapsible storage crates — stack when full, flatten when empty. Check price →
2. Add over-door or hanging organisers
The back of the sliding door or cab bulkhead is often unused. A slim over-door organiser (shoes, small items) or a hanging pocket panel turns that vertical space into storage without eating floor or counter space.
Pick: Over-door organiser — pockets for toiletries, keys, torches, first-aid. Check price →
3. Use tension rods inside cupboards
Tension rods inside a tall cupboard or under the sink create an extra “shelf” for sprays, bottles, or small boxes. No drilling, and you can move or remove them when you change the layout.
Pick: Adjustable tension rods — pack of two or three so you can layer. Check price →
4. Divide drawers with small organisers
One big drawer becomes a mess; divided sections keep cutlery, tools, and small bits easy to find. Drawer inserts or small organisers are cheap and make the space feel intentional.
Pick: Drawer dividers / organisers — mix of sizes for kitchen and utility drawers. Check price →
5. Compress bedding and clothes with vacuum bags
Bulky duvets and spare clothes shrink down with vacuum bags. You don’t need a vacuum cleaner—many work with a hand pump or by rolling. Great for seasonal gear you only need sometimes.
Pick: Vacuum compression bags — various sizes for bedding and wardrobe. Check price →
6. Mount knives and utensils on the wall
A magnetic knife strip or a rail with hooks frees drawer space and keeps knives and utensils visible and quick to grab. Fits on the side of a cabinet or above the “kitchen” area.
Pick: Magnetic knife strip — strong hold, no holes if you use adhesive. Check price →
7. Add shelf risers in cupboards
Shelf risers (tiered stands) double the usable height inside a cupboard. Tins, jars, and boxes sit on two levels so you can see and reach everything without a deep, messy pile.
Pick: Shelf risers / tiered organisers — one or two per cupboard. Check price →
8. Use under-bed or under-seat storage boxes
The space under the bed or bench is prime real estate. Flat, slide-out boxes keep bedding, shoes, or tools tidy and out of the way but still accessible.
Pick: Under-bed storage boxes — low profile, with or without wheels. Check price →
9. Install net pockets or cargo nets
Nets on the wall or behind the front seats hold soft items—blankets, coats, shopping bags—without taking floor or shelf space. They’re flexible and easy to reposition.
Pick: Car cargo net / storage pockets — stretchy nets or pocket panels. Check price →
10. Use removable adhesive hooks
Command-style or strong adhesive hooks give you hanging points for keys, tea towels, small bags, or cables. No drilling, and you can move them when you change the layout.
Pick: Removable adhesive hooks — various sizes and weights. Check price →
Start with one or two
You don’t need to do everything at once. Pick the two or three tips that fix your biggest pain points—whether that’s kitchen chaos, clothes everywhere, or tools and cables—and add products as you go. Small, consistent improvements make a van feel much more liveable.
If you’ve got a storage hack that’s worked for you, I’d love to hear it. For more van life tips and honest gear reviews, subscribe to the newsletter.