In a compact space like a minivan, organization is everything. Every inch matters. Here is a quick overview of how I organize my gear in my Sienna camper.
No Roof Box
I skipped the rooftop cargo box: my roof is dedicated to solar panels, some ferries have height restrictions, and extra drag means lower fuel efficiency and more noise. Everything has to fit inside.
Three Storage Categories
Some storage becomes inaccessible when the bed is set up, so I sort everything by how often and when I need it.
Immediate. Must-haves within arm’s reach: drinking water and LED lights in the rear side compartments, snacks in the over-fridge storage, and clothes in rotation on a hanging organizer and clothes rack above the front seats.
Essential. Items I need often, but not at night, like non-perishable food and backup clothing. The under-bed storage is my main hub: it’s accessible from inside, so I don’t step out in the rain, and its dividers are removable. My 8-piece packing cube set cost $24 CAD plus tax and keeps clothes sorted.
Long-term. Rarely used items and resupplies go in the trunk under the bed, which has plenty of room with the back-row seats removed: a 27-gallon tote with my barbecue, emergency gas stove and shower kit, a Costco-size water pack, camping chairs, and boxes for food, vegetables and fruit.
Built-In Compartments
I also use every built-in compartment: the glove box, center console, door pockets and the space behind the front seats.
Quick Facts
- Vehicle: Toyota Sienna minivan
- Roof: solar panels only, no cargo box
- System: Immediate, Essential and Long-term categories
- Main hub: under-bed storage, reachable from inside
- Long-term: trunk under the bed
- Packing cubes: 8-piece set, $24 CAD plus tax
Next up, Episode 12: Cooking Appliances. I cover the electric cooking appliances I use and why, how I fit my cookware into the cooking module drawer, and my travel-friendly coffee maker.
← Episode 10: Tents | Full build story | Episode 12: Cooking Appliances →
