💪 Tidy Up Your Trail Life: How to Build a DIY Gear Storage System That Actually Works

In this post, we’ll walk you through how to create your own custom system for organizing your camping and outdoor gear — with a few cozy touches, space-saving hacks, and product suggestions that’ll help streamline your setup.

🧹 Step 1: Assess and Sort

Before you build anything, lay out all your gear and group it by category:

• Shelter (tents, hammocks, tarps)

• Sleep system (bags, pads, quilts)

• Cooking (stoves, utensils, pots)

• Clothing

• Safety & tools

• Extras (luxuries, games, etc.)

Pro Tip: Use durable, see-through storage bins or soft gear cubes.

🟩 Try: Nomatic Packing Cubes (Set of 3) or Rubbermaid Stackable Plastic Storage Containers (set of 4)

🪚 Step 2: Choose a Storage Zone

Where will your gear live? Ideal zones include:

• Garage wall

• Closet with high shelves

• Under-bed pull-out bins

• Shed or van storage if you're mobile

Wild & Cozy Idea:
Use a pegboard wall to hang lightweight gear like headlamps, cookware, and trail tools.

🔗 Shop: Wall Control Metal Pegboard

🔨 Step 3: Build Your System

DIY Option:

• Shelves: Build a 3-tier shelf using plywood and 2x4s or

• Use Homedant's 5 Tier Utility Shelving

• Hooks and Rails: Hang backpacks, camp chairs, and trekking poles

• Clear Bins: Label each bin by category

📝 Pro tip: Paint or stain wood for a cozy look, or add curtain panels if it’s in a visible spot.

Not-So-DIY Option:

• ALPS Mountaineering Roll-Up Table for temporary setups

• CX 5-Tier Heavy Duty Plastic Storage Shelving Unit – sustainable and easy-to-install

🧼 Step 4: Keep It Clean & Cozy

• Use cedar blocks or lavender sachets in bins to keep things fresh

• Add a rug or mat for a “gear maintenance zone”

• Keep a laundry bag nearby for worn gear

✅ Final Checklist

Here's a quick checklist to help you build your gear storage system:

1. Sort gear by category (shelter, sleep, cook, clothing, tools, extras)

2. Choose your storage zone (garage, closet, van, etc.)

3. Pick your storage method (bins, pegboards, shelves)

4. Add labels for clarity and quick access

5. Include cozy extras (lavender sachets, rugs, lighting)

6. Keep a grab-and-go bag or shelf for spontaneous adventures

7. Store tools and repair items in one easy-to-access spot

8. Keep a laundry or wet gear bin nearby

Wrap-Up

A great gear storage system doesn’t just make your garage or storage area look better — it makes your life easier. Whether you’re heading out for a quick micro-adventure or planning a two-week expedition, having an organized, accessible system means less stress, fewer forgotten items, and more trail time.

🪵 Your next adventure begins at home — with a little wood, a few bins, and some thoughtful tweaks.