Why You Need Pop-Up Camper Storage Solutions

Pop-up campers are a great way to get out and explore the world, but they can be a little tricky when it comes to storage. Whether you're looking to store your camper at home or on the road, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Firstly, let's talk about storing your camper when it's not in use. If you have the space, you can keep it in your driveway or garage, but be sure to check with your HOA as some have restrictions on this. Keeping your camper covered is important, especially if it's outside, but make sure you use a breathable cover to allow for air circulation. This will help protect your camper from the elements and prevent mould and mildew from forming.

Now, what about when you're on the road? The good news is that pop-up campers offer a lot of storage options. You can utilise the space under the dinette and benches, and even add shelves or plastic drawers to maximise your storage capacity. Keeping your camper organised and clutter-free will make your trips more enjoyable, so it's worth investing in some storage solutions.

Some other tips for on-the-road storage include making use of your TV (tow vehicle) for food and clothing storage, using a roof rack or basket for extra gear, and keeping heavy items towards the front of the camper to distribute weight evenly.

Clothing and laundry storage

Pop-up campers are a great way to travel with your family, but they can be a little tricky to organize. Here are some tips for clothing and laundry storage to make your next trip a little easier.

Clothing Storage

Each person should have their own plastic 3-drawer "dresser" to store their clothes. Sterilite 4-drawer carts are a good option, but you'll need to remove the lid and one of the small drawers so that they fit in the camper. The top drawer can be used for underwear and socks, the middle drawer for shirts and jackets, and the bottom drawer for pants, shorts, and pyjamas. Pack enough clothes for five days and plan to visit a laundromat during longer trips.

Laundry Storage

Use a pop-up hamper with handles to store dirty clothes. These can be kept in the kitchen area, except when using the heater. Pop-up hampers with mesh sides are ideal as they can be shaken to remove dirt and sand. They also often come with a smaller hamper that can be used for shoes. Keep the shoe hamper outside the camper unless the weather is bad.

Kitchen and food storage

• Utilize plastic drawers and bins to maximize the space in your camper. You can measure your counter space and come up with the right sizes for your pop-up. Stack 2 bins to create 6 drawers for clothing (one drawer per person and a spare for guests) on the other counter. To keep them stable, use velcro to hold them together.
• Use small baskets or bins to hold utensils, paper products, plastic products, bags, and other frequently used supplies. These can be stored in a cabinet under the counter during travel and then pulled out and placed on the counter once you set up camp.
• Install hooks in the ceiling of the camper to hang extra storage. You can hang an organizer by each bed for phones, keys, books, and other small personal items. You can also hang a pop-up hamper for dirty laundry.
• Keep the bulk of your food, along with paper items like plates, in the middle bench seating. Use metal or woven baskets to help keep things confined to their spaces. Try to keep like items together, such as paper plates, plastic cutlery, and cups.
• Use plastic storage bins to organize dry foods, sundries, and other camping essentials. You can stock these bins before each trip and keep them on the floor of the pop-up during travel. Then, place them on the counters once you set up camp.
• If you have a "kitchen" cabinet, utilize this space for more food items and kitchen supplies. You can use plastic storage baskets or metal farmhouse baskets to organize spices, oils, measuring cups, plastic storage bags, foil, dog treats, and scrubber pads for washing dishes.
• If you have a stove or sink area, you can use the counter space for a shower caddy, mini garbage can, and paper towels. You can also utilize the cabinet space under the sink for a pop-up dish drying rack, cutting boards, and a container for dish soap and sponges.
• If you have a convection oven or other small appliances, you can store them in the bench seating storage area.
• For bath towels, washcloths, and kitchen towels, you can use a three-drawer rubbermaid storage unit or a metal, collapsible dog kennel with a piece of plywood on top.
• To make the most of your space, consider utilizing overhead storage and installing shelves in the bayside or cabinet areas.

Camper storage options

Camper storage is a tricky business. Space is at a premium, and it's important to make the most of it. Here are some options for storing your camper and making the most of the space inside.

Storing Your Camper

When it comes to storing your camper, you have a few options:

• Driveway or street parking: If you have the space, you can park your camper in your driveway or on the street. This option is free but consider the size of your camper, any HOA restrictions, and the fact that it will be exposed to the elements.
• Garage: If you have a two-car garage, you may be able to store your camper there. This provides weather protection and heightened security, but make sure your garage is big enough—most two-car garages are 24’ x 24’ or 24’ x 30.
• RV self-storage facility: If you don't have the space at home or want added security and protection from the elements, consider renting a space at a dedicated self-storage facility. These facilities are designed to house RVs, campers, and trailers of all shapes and sizes.

Now, let's talk about making the most of the space inside your camper. Here are some tips and tricks to maximize storage:

• Plastic drawers: Many people opt for plastic drawers to store clothing and other items. You can find these at stores like Target or Amazon. Remove the lid and one small drawer, and you'll have three drawers that fit perfectly between the long cabinet and dinette.
• Kitchen and food storage: Utilize the space in your long cabinet. You can store games, sunblock, bug spray, laundry supplies, and camper repair items here. Pots, pans, collapsible bowls, and other small cooking items can go in the drawers.
• Bathroom and toiletry storage: Install tension rod shelving above the cassette toilet cabinet, and use small plastic drawers for each family member's toiletries. You can also use little baskets from the dollar store to hold things like toothbrushes and cotton swabs.
• Bedding: When it comes to bedding, some people leave it on the beds, while others remove it and store it in large Ziploc bags or space-saver bags. If you're travelling between sites, you can leave the sheets on but take the comforters off, folding them lengthwise and tucking them between items for padding.
• Outdoor gear: Chairs, tables, grills, and other outdoor gear can be stored under the dinette or benches, or in a storage bin at the front of the camper.
• Food storage: Food can be stored in the camper kitchen, but many people opt to keep it in the tow vehicle, especially when camping in bear country. Use plastic drawers or baskets to organize dry goods, and keep refrigerated items in ice chests.

Camper maintenance

General Maintenance Tips:

• Check the battery charge and recharge or replace it if necessary.
• Change the oil every 3,000 to 4,000 miles or once a year to prevent engine wear.
• Inspect and change the air, fuel, coolant, and hydraulic filters regularly.
• Keep the roof covered to protect it from UV rays and harsh weather.
• Clean the roof regularly to prevent leaves and grime buildup.
• Check for leaks, especially around slide-outs, vents, and the AC unit.
• Clean and dry the awning after each use, then store it rolled up.
• Inspect and lubricate slide-out seals and seams to prevent leaks.
• Check and tighten wheel lug nuts before each trip.
• Maintain tire pressure and clean and protect tires from UV degradation.
• Service brakes and lubricate wheel bearings.
• Winterize your camper by draining water, applying antifreeze, and covering vents.

Pop-Up Camper-Specific Maintenance:

• Clean the canvas or vinyl sides of your pop-up camper. Remove dust and debris, and gently scrub with a bleach-free cleaner if needed.
• Renew the waterproof coating on the canvas annually or as required.
• Condition the vinyl surfaces of your pop-up camper to keep them pliable and prevent cracking.
• Inspect and grease the roof lift system, including the crank, cable, and cable spool.

Monthly Maintenance:

• Check exterior sealants on the body and roof.
• Run the generator for at least two hours.
• Top up batteries with distilled water.
• Inspect and replace any cracked vent lids, caps, or skylights.
• Lubricate locks, leveling jacks, and step hinges.

Annual Maintenance:

• Repack bearings and service brakes, including wheel bearings and brake drums.
• Inspect propane tanks.
• Re-seal key areas of the camper.
• Maintain AC, furnace, and hot water heater systems.
• Check safety equipment, including fire extinguishers, smoke alarms, and CO2 detectors.

Camper security

When it comes to storing your pop-up camper, there are several options available to you. Each has its own pros and cons, so it's important to consider your specific situation and choose the option that best suits your needs. Here are some tips to help keep your camper secure, regardless of where you choose to store it:

• Use a breathable cover: If you don't have the option to store your camper inside, consider investing in a breathable cover like the Camco Pop-Up Cover. This will protect your camper from the elements without trapping moisture inside.
• Store it level or slightly tilted: Storing your camper level can lead to snow accumulation, especially if you live in an area with heavy snowfall. Consider tilting it slightly to prevent snow from building up and putting pressure on the tires.
• Use jack or blocks for tires: Using a jack or blocks to raise the tires slightly can relieve pressure and protect them from sinking into the ground.
• Protect against rodents and insects: Keeping a few mothballs inside the camper can help deter rodents and mice. Seal off any small holes or openings that might provide access, and remove all food items and propane to avoid attracting pests.
• Cover the tires: Covering your tires can protect them from sunlight, UV rays, and mice bites.
• Use moisture-absorbing products: To prevent moisture buildup inside the camper, use products like Damp Rid to keep the interior dry and prevent mold and mildew.
• Keep it clean and dry: Always clean your camper before storing it, and make sure the canvas is completely dry to prevent mold and mildew.
• Store the battery separately: Batteries can lose charge over time, even in storage. Store your battery separately and check it regularly, recharging it whenever necessary.
• Regularly inspect and maintain your camper: Even when it's in storage, it's important to check on your camper regularly. Inspect the interior and exterior for any signs of damage and address any issues promptly.
• Winterize properly: If you're storing your camper during the winter, be sure to winterize it properly. This includes draining all water tanks and plumbing, cleaning the interior and exterior, removing food from the refrigerator, and lubricating moving parts.

By following these tips, you can help ensure that your pop-up camper remains secure and well-maintained during storage, whether it's in your driveway, garage, or at a dedicated storage facility.

Frequently asked questions