Clean Up Your Pass-Through Storage: Easy Tips to Maximize Space in Your RV

We took everything out and vacuumed with a shop vac to get it all clean and ready for a fresh start!

Clean Up Your Pass-Through Storage: Easy Tips to Maximize Space in Your RV

It’s no secret—RV life is all about making the most of small spaces. And one of the most overlooked (and often messy) storage areas? The pass-through compartment. That big ol’ space under your rig is a goldmine for storage, but if you’re anything like us, it can also turn into a chaotic black hole of random gear.

Here’s how to clean it up, organize it, and actually make it work for you.


Empty and ready to repack with less clutter!

1. Start With a Clean Slate

First things first—pull everything out. Yes, everything. Lay it all out on a tarp or picnic table and take a quick inventory. You’ll probably find stuff you forgot you even had. If it’s broken, unused, or hasn’t seen the light of day in over a year—let it go. That space is prime real estate!


2. Group Like Items Together

Think: camping chairs, outdoor cooking gear, leveling blocks, tools, hoses, etc. Grouping items by use makes it easier to find what you need fast—especially during setup and teardown.


We went through every box, tub and container and decided what we could combine and toss.  It left us with more space and less clutter!

3. Use Bins and Storage Bags

Clear bins, mesh bags, and soft-sided totes work wonders in a pass-through. Not only do they keep things neat, but they also make it easier to slide things in and out. Label the bins for quick grab-and-go access. Bonus points if you can color-code them!


4. Utilize Vertical Space

Don’t just think floor space—use stackable bins, hanging organizers, or even DIY shelves to make the most of the height. We installed a few command hooks and bungee cords to hold extension cords and smaller tools upright.


Everything to set up rests right here and is easily accessible when we get to the campground!

5. Create a “Setup Essentials” Zone

We keep one bin right at the front of the pass-through with all of our setup gear: chocks, gloves, water pressure regulator, surge protector—you name it. It’s the stuff we grab first every time we arrive at a site, and it saves us time not digging around for it.  Our RV Caddy does just that and keeps everything at our fingertips!


6. Toss in Some Moisture Control

To keep things fresh and prevent mildew, toss in a few moisture absorber packs or DampRid containers. Especially helpful in humid climates or after rainy weekends.


Our large RV Caddy easily pulls out for us to have everything in one place for set up and take down.  

7. Revisit and Refresh Each Season

Make it a habit to give your pass-through a once-over at the beginning of each season. Rotate out any seasonal gear (like patio heaters or beach umbrellas), check for damage, and re-organize anything that’s gotten out of place.


This may not look better, but trust me.  This is far more manageable than what we had before!

Final Thoughts

A tidy pass-through isn’t just about looks—it saves you time, stress, and even money. When you know what you have and where it is, you won’t be buying duplicates or scrambling for tools in the dark.

Have you tackled your pass-through storage recently? Drop your favorite tips or must-have organizers in the comments—we’re always looking for new ideas to stay organized on the road!

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