One of the greatest challenges when embarking on an off-road adventure in a compact vehicle is finding enough storage space for all the gear you need. Whether it’s tools, camping equipment, or recovery gear, packing everything into a smaller vehicle can feel like a game of Tetris. However, with smart planning and the right products, you can maximize your vehicle’s storage without sacrificing comfort or accessibility.
And while the function and form of compact vehicles like
Toyota Tacoma, 4Runner,
Jeep Wrangler,
Ford Bronco, and others make for the perfect rally, these tips will help you pack in everything you need on the road.
1.
Utilize Multi-Mount Panels (MMPs) for Interior OrganizationOne of the best ways to maximize storage without overcrowding the interior of your vehicle is to use Desert Does It’s Multi-Mount Panels (MMPs). These versatile storage solutions allow you to mount your essential gear in easy-to-reach locations, keeping your vehicle organized and clutter-free.
- Mount gear vertically: By utilizing unused vertical space on the backs of seats or along the interior walls of your vehicle, MMPs help you keep items like radios, fire extinguishers, and tools off the floor, leaving more room for larger gear.
- Secure smaller items: Whether it’s a first aid kit, flashlight, or multi-tool, MMPs keep small but essential items organized and ready to grab without taking up valuable cargo space.
- Customizable layout: MMPs allow you to arrange your gear according to your needs. Whether you’re an overlander with recovery gear or a camper with kitchen tools, MMPs keep everything in place and easily accessible.
With MMPs, you can use every available inch of space while keeping your gear neatly stored and easy to access.
2. Roof Racks for Bulky Gear
For larger items like tents, extra fuel, or camping gear, roof racks are essential for compact off-road vehicles. By utilizing the roof, you free up interior space for other important items. Roof racks are perfect for carrying:
- Roof-top tents: Leave more space inside your vehicle by installing a roof-top tent, providing shelter without taking up interior cargo room.
- Spare tires: Don’t waste valuable space inside your vehicle storing a bulky spare tire when you can mount it on your roof.
- Extra fuel and water: Auxiliary fuel cans and water containers can easily be mounted on the roof rack, keeping essential liquids stored safely out of the way.
3. Under-Seat Storage Solutions
Compact vehicles often have underutilized space beneath the seats. This area is perfect for storing smaller items that you may not need as frequently but still want to have on hand.
Desert Does It Air Compressor Mounts are designed to make use of this space by allowing you to safely store your air compressor under the seat, ensuring that it's out of the way but accessible when needed.
Beyond air compressors, the space under the seat can be used to store items like: Tire repair kits, Toolboxes, Emergency blankets. By keeping your air compressor or other tools under the seat, you can save valuable trunk space for larger or more frequently used items.
4. Seat Jackers: Elevate for Extra Space
Not only do Seat Jackers from Desert Does It improve your comfort by lifting the front of your seat, but they also help you gain more space under your seat. By lifting the seat slightly, you create additional room underneath for storing compact gear like: First aid kits, Small electronics, Inverters or power banks
Seat Jackers ensure that the space under your seat is maximized, providing both comfort and utility without taking up extra room.
5. Drawer Systems for Organized Cargo Areas
If your compact off-road vehicle has a rear cargo area, installing a drawer system can be a great way to add organized storage without sacrificing accessibility. Drawer systems are custom-fitted to your vehicle and provide easy access to items like cooking gear, camping supplies, and recovery equipment.
- Organization: Keep your cargo area tidy by having dedicated compartments for different types of gear.
- Accessibility: Slide-out drawers make it easy to access what you need without unpacking everything.
- Security: Many drawer systems are lockable, adding an extra layer of security for your valuable equipment when you're away from your vehicle.
- Combine with MMPs: Use Desert Does It’s Multi-Mount Panels alongside a drawer system for even more accessible storage. Mount smaller tools or fire extinguishers on the panels, while the larger gear goes in the drawers.
6. Tailgate Storage Solutions
Tailgate-mounted storage boxes or panels can provide additional space for tools and gear without taking up room inside your vehicle. Tailgate solutions are great for storing items you need quick access to, such as: Tire deflators, Tow straps, Recovery boards. These can be combined with Desert Does It’s MMPs for maximum organization, ensuring that your off-road gear is always within reach.
7. Portable Cargo Bags and Nets
For flexible storage solutions, cargo bags and nets are great options. These can be attached to the roof rack or inside the vehicle to hold gear that doesn’t have a permanent spot. When not in use, they can be easily folded and stored, making them ideal for trips where storage needs vary.
8. Consolidate Gear to Minimize Bulk
When space is at a premium, consider consolidating your gear to minimize bulk. For example:
- Use multi-tools instead of carrying individual tools.
- Pack collapsible items like water containers, cooking gear, or buckets to save space when not in use.
- Invest in portable power stations to replace larger, bulkier gear like multiple chargers or inverters.
- By focusing on multi-purpose and collapsible gear, you can maximize the utility of each item while keeping your storage needs minimal.
Maximizing storage in a compact off-road vehicle is all about using space wisely and ensuring that your essential gear is organized and accessible. Before your next off-road expedition, visit Desert Does It to explore their range of products that will help you make the most of every inch of your compact off-roader. Whether you’re driving a Toyota Tacoma, Jeep Wrangler, or Ford Bronco, Desert Does It has the perfect solutions to optimize your storage and enhance your off-road experience.
