Katie and Pierce
Living in an RV means making the most of limited space, especially in the kitchen. These organization solutions can transform even the smallest kitchen into a functional cooking space.
Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a full timer, these ideas will help maximize kitchen storage and keep everything in its place.
1. Blank Wall Storage Options
Don’t overlook those small blank wall spaces in the kitchen! Even a wall that’s just two feet wide can become valuable storage space.
Install small racks or shelves on these empty walls to hold spices, canned goods, or fresh food storage. Look for spots at the end of cabinets or other unused vertical surfaces.
2. Magnetic Storage
Most RVs have metal surfaces like vent hoods, fridges, and microwaves that can become instant storage spots.
Use magnetic spice tins on the vent hood, magnetic hooks for utensils, or magnetic knife strips. This storage method keeps frequently used items within easy reach without taking up precious counter or cabinet space.
3. Under Shelf Storage
The space under shelves is often wasted, but it’s perfect for hanging items.
Try under shelf bins for fruits or vegetables, cup holders for coffee mugs, wine glass racks, or even K cup holders. These attachments make use of otherwise empty space and keep items separated and accessible.
4. Cabinet Door Organizers
The insides of cabinet doors offer hidden storage potential. Hang organizers for cutting boards, foil, wrap, or plastic bags.
Install a paper towel holder on the inside of a cabinet door to keep counters clear. Make sure to measure carefully before buying over door organizers, as some are too big for cabinet doors.
5. Multi Purpose Bins That Stack
Bins that can serve multiple purposes are essential in tiny RV kitchens. Look for stackable containers that can hold everything from picnic supplies to coffee and tea.
These bins help compartmentalize cabinet contents, preventing avalanches when opening the door and making it easier to pull out exactly what’s needed.
6. Wall Racks
Wall mounted racks are perfect for holding wraps, foils, or other kitchen necessities. These can be attached to any available wall space and keep frequently used items organized and visible.
Look for narrow racks that won’t protrude too far into limited space.
7. Vertical Cabinet Space
RV cabinets often have a lot of unused vertical space. Instead of stacking items on top of each other, think about ways to store things side by side using the full height of the cabinet.
This prevents having to unstack everything to reach items at the bottom and makes better use of cabinet dimensions.
8. Stacking Shelves
Add instant vertical storage inside cabinets with stacking shelves. These create additional levels inside existing cabinets, doubling or even tripling storage space.
Look for folding versions that can be stored flat when not needed, saving space while giving flexibility.
9. Drawer Dividers & Sliding Organizers
Keep drawers organized with dividers that prevent items from sliding around during travel. Sliding organizers that use the vertical space in deeper drawers are especially helpful, letting you store twice as much in the same drawer.
Adjustable dividers work best to customize the space for specific needs.
10. Tension Rods & Velcro
RV kitchens need special attention to keep items from shifting during travel. Tension rods are perfect for this, as they can be placed across cabinets to hold items in place.
Wood grain tension rods are available to match cabinets. Other securing methods include velcro for countertop items or bungee cords for larger storage areas.
11. Cork Board And Tacks Inside Cabinet Doors
Add cork tiles to the inside of cabinet doors to create a handy spot for hanging measuring spoons, measuring cups, or other lightweight tools.
This makes frequently used items easily accessible while cooking and prevents them from getting lost in drawers or tangled together.
12. Cabinet Top Hanging Storage
Don’t waste the space at the top of cabinets. Install hooks on the ceiling of cabinets to hang mugs, measuring cups, or even pot lids.
This makes use of otherwise empty space and keeps items from nesting together, making them easier to grab when needed.
13. Uniform Food Storage Containers
Switch to a single type of stackable food storage container with interchangeable lids. This eliminates the frustration of searching for matching lids and containers.
Clear containers like deli cups in different sizes but with the same lid size are perfect for this. They can store leftovers or dry goods like flour, sugar, and beans.
14. Slide Out Cabinet Racks
Hard to reach areas in deep cabinets become usable with slide out racks. These pull out drawers make it easy to access items stored at the back of cabinets, especially under sinks or stoves.
Some can even be attached directly to cabinet doors for a seamless look.
15. Pan And Baking Sheet Vertical Storage
Store pans, baking sheets, cutting boards, and even plates vertically instead of stacking them. This makes each item easy to grab without having to move others, and it often takes up less space.
Look for racks specifically designed to hold these items upright and separated.
16. Extra Cabinet Shelves
Add shelves inside tall cabinets to divide the space more efficiently. Store bought wire shelves or homemade shelves from scrap wood both work well.
This simple addition can double or triple storage capacity by eliminating wasted vertical space.
17. Expandable Tension Shelves
For a no tools solution, try expandable tension shelves that fit securely between cabinet walls. These adjustable shelves can be installed without drilling and removed without damage, making them perfect for renters or those who don’t want permanent modifications.
18. Ceiling Or Wall Mounted Pot Racks
Free up cabinet space by hanging pots and pans from ceiling or wall mounted racks. This keeps cookware easily accessible while opening up storage for other items.
Be sure to secure items well for travel days to prevent them from swinging or falling.
19. Create A Custom Pantry In Unused Space
Look for unused wall spaces that could become custom pantry areas. Sometimes RVs have empty walls that can be transformed into storage by adding shelves and doors.
This creates new storage space where none existed before, significantly expanding kitchen capacity.
