Make your RV feel bigger with these simple hacks

Outdoor adventures, epic landscapes and the freedom to pack up and hit the open road whenever the urge calls are undoubtedly some of the benefits to owning an RV. That said, despite the vast size of Australia’s backyard, many RV owners can find themselves feeling cramped – particularly in the winter months. If this rings true for you, here are some tips and tricks to help your home on wheels feel bigger and more spacious.

Pack the essentials 

First things first, while it may be tempting to pack everything but the kitchen sink, you need to be mindful of what you’re bringing on board. Take the time to assess your gear and only keep the essentials. Just because you have the space doesn’t mean you need to fill it to the brim. After all, one of the highlights of travelling in an RV is the minimalist lifestyle.

Keep track of what you’re using, and if something hasn’t been used for a few months or on your last couple of trips, get rid of it. If you’ve owned an RV for a few years, allocate ‘clear out days’ to keep on top of it. The more frequently you declutter, the easier it’ll be.

Utilise storage solutions 

Most RVs are designed with nifty storage solutions, but you can always do more to help keep your space tidy and organised. Get creative with hanging storage, use adhesive hooks and hangers to mount objects like iPads or jackets, and keep your kitchen pantry organised with trays and racks.

Make your walls light and bright 

Light-coloured walls and furnishings can create an illusion of a bigger space. Opt for white or light-toned colours like yellow, pink, grey or beige. If your RV is big enough to separate the living room from the sleeping area, you could always keep your bedroom slightly darker to create that cosy feel. It’s not just the wall colour that can help create the feeling of openness. Think about opting for lighter-coloured cabinets, furniture and decor. Even better, try matching your walls with the ceiling. 

Keep your walls reasonably clear

As tempting as it is to cover your RV with prints, photographs, or adhesive hooks, it’s not the best idea if you’re looking to maximise space. Sure, the hooks will help with storage, but there’s definitely a line between helping to create space and feeling like you’re being closed in by hanging jackets and towels. Once you’ve got your walls nice and light, make sure a good portion of the walls are on show to ensure the space feels bigger.

Except for mirrors!

One thing you do really want on your walls is a mirror or two. I recommend installing one big mirror and potentially a couple of smaller ones around your RV. These will reflect natural light and make your space feel a lot bigger. Plus, while you might not care about looking in the mirror while you’re out and about, it’s a lot easier than walking to the nearest toilet block to do your hair or give yourself a quick check-over.

Create an outdoor living space 

Extend your living space beyond the confines of your RV by creating an outdoor lounge area. Set up folding chairs and a table to relax outside, eat meals and take in the scenery. This might be a little more challenging in the winter months, which is where a good awning with decent side covers comes in. If the temperature isn’t too cold, keep your door and windows open to add to that sense of openness. You’ll likely be parked up somewhere with plenty of fresh air, so make the most of it.

Hopefully, these tips will help your RV feel more comfortable and spacious. Remember, organisation, smart storage solutions, and a minimalist approach are key to maximising your space.