Motorhomes, with their promise of adventure and freedom, often face a common challenge: limited storage. While the interior offers ample space for living, many owners find themselves wishing for more room to stow away gear, tools, and other essentials. Fortunately, the undercarriage offers a significant, often untapped, storage solution. This guide explores the nuances of motorhome undercarriage storage, covering everything from what you can store to how to best organize and protect your belongings.
What Can I Store Under My Motorhome?
This is a question many prospective and current RV owners ask. The answer largely depends on your motorhome's specific design and the type of storage compartments available. However, here are some common items safely stored in the undercarriage:
- Seasonal Gear: Storing items like camping chairs, tables, outdoor games, and extra blankets under the RV frees up valuable interior space, especially during seasonal trips.
- Tools and Maintenance Supplies: Keeping essential tools, spare parts, leveling blocks, and other maintenance items readily accessible in the undercarriage is incredibly convenient.
- Recovery Equipment: Items such as wheel chocks, tow straps, and a basic tool kit for roadside repairs are best kept within easy reach in the undercarriage.
- Recreational Equipment: Depending on available space, you might be able to store items like bicycles, kayaks (carefully secured!), or even smaller sporting goods equipment under your RV.
- Bulkier Items: Items that don't necessarily need to be readily accessible can also be stored here, freeing up space elsewhere. Think holiday decorations, extra bedding, or even off-season clothing.
Important Note: Always check your motorhome's owner's manual for weight limits and restrictions on undercarriage storage. Exceeding these limits can affect handling, stability, and potentially damage your vehicle.
How Much Weight Can I Put Under My Motorhome?
The weight capacity of your motorhome's undercarriage storage varies significantly depending on the manufacturer, model, and year of your RV. Never exceed the manufacturer's recommended weight limit. This information is crucial for safe and legal operation. You can typically find this information in your owner's manual or on a sticker located inside the storage compartment itself. Overloading the undercarriage can lead to handling problems, tire damage, and even structural damage to your motorhome.
How Do I Organize Undercarriage Storage?
Effective organization is key to maximizing the utility of your motorhome's undercarriage storage. Consider these tips:
- Utilize Storage Bins: Plastic storage bins with lids are perfect for keeping items dry, organized, and easily accessible. Label each bin clearly for quick identification.
- Use Tie-Down Straps: Secure heavier items to prevent them from shifting during travel. This is crucial for safety and to prevent damage to your belongings.
- Install Shelving: Some motorhomes offer the option to install shelving units within the undercarriage compartments, dramatically improving organization.
- Utilize Vertical Space: Think strategically about how you stack and arrange items to maximize the available vertical space.
What Are the Best Ways to Protect Items Stored Underneath?
Protecting your belongings from the elements is essential for preserving their condition.
- Waterproof Containers: Always use waterproof or water-resistant containers for storing items that could be damaged by moisture.
- Moisture Absorbers: Placing desiccant packs inside storage bins can help absorb moisture and prevent mold or mildew.
- Proper Ventilation: Ensure that your storage compartments have adequate ventilation to prevent moisture buildup.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when using motorhome undercarriage storage?
- Overloading: The most common mistake is exceeding the weight limits of the undercarriage storage. This can severely affect your motorhome's handling and stability. Always check your owner's manual.
- Improper Securing: Failing to secure items properly can lead to damage to both your belongings and your RV during travel.
- Ignoring Weather Protection: Neglecting to protect items from moisture can lead to damage, mildew, and mold.
By understanding the capabilities and limitations of your motorhome's undercarriage storage and following these guidelines, you can maximize your storage space, keep your belongings safe, and enjoy more comfortable and organized adventures on the road. Remember to always consult your owner’s manual for specific recommendations and weight limits.
