15 RV Hacks That Make Life on the Road Easier

RV Living Hacks That Make Life on the Road Easier

Over the years we’ve picked up a lot of useful tips and tricks that make RV life easier and more enjoyable. If you’re new to RVing or thinking about trying the RV lifestyle, these 15 hacks can help make your travels more comfortable and convenient.

1. Use tension rods for extra storage space. One of the biggest challenges of RV living is lack of storage space. Install tension rods in your shower, closet, and other unused nooks to hang bins, bags, and baskets for things like toiletries, clothes, shoes, and pantry items.
2. Keep the outside organized too. Hang a shoe organizer on the back of your RV to store hoses, extension cords, cleaning supplies, and other items you need when set up at a site. Use magnetic strips and hooks to hold grills, chairs, and outdoor mats against the exterior wall.
3. Maximize fridge space. Store condiments and jars on the inside of the fridge door and use can organizers and lazy susans to better organize the shelves. Only keep a few days’ worth of fresh foods like produce and leftovers to leave room for pre-made and frozen items.
4. Use your sinks for extra counter space. Place cutting boards over your sinks when prepping meals to maximize your tiny kitchen’s counter space. For extra draining area, set a dish drying rack inside a sink basin.
5. Hang a trash can under sinks. Secure a small trash bag to the plumbing underneath your sinks to catch scraps and create a built-in garbage bin. No more getting up constantly to throw stuff away!
6. Create a command center. Use a magnetic white board or clipboard by the door to keep track of supplies, jot down reminders, and post important info like camping reservation numbers.
7. Add built-in shelving. Install extra shelves, cabinets, and cubbies wherever you can for things like shoes, toiletries, pots and pans, and pantry goods. Over-the-cabinet organizers are great for creating extra storage overhead too.
8. Use space under furniture. Place storage bins under benches, beds, and dinette seats to utilize all the hidden nooks in your RV. Even slide-out trays under couches can hold books, blankets, and more.
9. Get creative with lighting. Use battery-powered puck lights inside cabinets and closets and install motion-sensor lights in dim hallways for easy visibility at night without turning on overhead lights that may disturb others.
10. Make a mud room. Hang an outdoor rug on the entrance door so it functions as a doormat when opened. Place a bench and shoe storage here to help keep dirt and grime contained in one area.
11. Maximize outdoor space. A portable fire pit, hanging hammock, and outdoor rug are great ways to extend your living area. Have designated spaces for dirty gear/shoes and outdoor cooking.
12. Protect your water hose. Use foam pipe insulation around your fresh water hose to help avoid cracking in extreme temps. For drinking water hoses, opt for FDA-approved “drinking water safe” labeled hoses.
13. Prevent tank odor buildup. Add water softener or purifier to gray and black tanks monthly to control odor and help break down waste. Also use enzyme treatments and black tank deodorizers regularly.
14. Create DIY blackout shades. If curtains don’t block light well, use foam boards covered in black fabric or reflective insulating bubble wrap to make custom blackout window treatments.
15. Join RV clubs and groups. Connect with other RVers online and in-person to get insider tips and recommendations for campsites, routes, mods, gear, and maintenance based on personal experience. It’s an invaluable resource!

Trying even a few of these useful hacks can make a big difference in RV living. Simple organizational tools, customized storage solutions, and space-saving setups help ensure your tiny home on wheels feels comfortable and livable long-term. Plus connecting with the RV community provides endless wisdom from seasoned nomads. Hit the road prepared with these road-tested tips and tricks!