Written By: Holly Frush
When my husband and I first purchased our 2022 Pleasure-Way Plateau TS, we quickly realized that van life is not just about mechanics or tools, it is about comfort, organization, and creating a space that truly feels like home on the road. These are not screwdrivers or wrenches, but little upgrades that make RV travel easier, cozier, and more enjoyable. While I naturally approach van aesthetics as an interior designer, these are small items that can make a big difference that both of us appreciate when on the road.
- Stainless Steel Sink Protector + Expandable Sink Caddy
Protecting the sink was one of the first lessons we learned. A stainless sink grid is a simple upgrade that keeps the sink bottom safe from scratches and dents. Pair it with an expandable caddy for sponges, soap, or even use it to rinse veggies. Together, these two small additions make the kitchen sink far more functional and organized.
2. Over-the-Door Hanging Organizer
Creating storage where none exists is always a win in a small space. This four-pocket hanging organizer instantly creates “pantry space”. It slips neatly over the closet door, holds everyday items, and still allows the door to close smoothly keeping food and essentials organized while freeing up precious counter space.
BONUS Must-Have: Add a rechargeable motion-sensor closet light (as seen in photo). These undercabinet-style lights are magnetic, easy to install, and turn on automatically when you open the door making it so much easier to see everything inside.
3. Wall-Mounted Shower Dispensers
In the bathroom, every inch of space matters. These wall-mounted dispensers for shampoo, conditioner, and body wash keep bottles off the counter and out of the way, making it easier to move around while showering. The no-drill version attaches with strong Velcro and pops off easily for refills. It not only saves space but also adds a touch of hotel-style convenience that makes van life feel more comfortable.
4. Cordless Rechargeable LED Lamps
As an interior designer, I know how much lighting can make or break a space. It sets the mood, creates warmth and can completely change how a room feels. These small, touch-on/touch-off rechargeable lamps create a cozy glow that feels more like home than overhead lights. We keep a pair Velcroed in place for travel by the sofa, then set them on the counter or even outside on a picnic table at night. I love having a tiny version by the bathroom sink as a soft night-light. Practical, portable, and a little luxury that makes our van feel warm and welcoming.
5. Trash Tube
A good trash solution is essential, and this one is a total game changer. The Radius Outfitters tube hangs neatly behind the passenger seat, with durable construction and a lid that keeps odors away. We have never had a problem with smell. It is easy to line with a bag, simple to access from the front seats, and sturdy enough to hold up to daily use. The large size gets us through several days! Not the cheapest option, but absolutely worth it for the convenience and quality.
6. Charcuterie Container
Healthy road-trip snacking is easy with this clever Fancy Panz charcuterie container . The charcuterie insert keeps nutritious snacks organized and has extra space underneath for ice packs as needed for outside . It conveniently fits into the refrigerator perfectly without taking up too much room. Ideal for pulling over at a rest stop to enjoy a picnic-style break. This little item has helped us completely avoid fast food stops. A small change that not only organizes snacks but also supports a healthier, more intentional way of eating on the road.
7. Cupholder Phone Mount with Flexible Gooseneck
This is one of those items we did not even think about until our first trip and now we cannot imagine traveling without it. A cupholder phone mount keeps a cell phone steady, visible, and hands-free, which makes driving so much safer and less stressful. The sturdy flexible gooseneck is the game changer you can twist it toward the driver, angle it toward the passenger, or adjust it on the fly. It is such a simple gadget, but it instantly made our road trips smoother and more enjoyable.
8. Bedside Organizer Hack
Tiny but mighty, this little organizer from High Road has been a game changer at bedtime. It is actually designed as a car phone holder with pockets and hooks, but we hung it from the back seatbelt loop right above the bed. Now there is a handy spot for glasses, the remote, a flashlight, or anything else you want within reach. It is inexpensive, takes up no space, and solves the problem of losing essentials in the cracks one of those “why didn’t we think of this sooner?” finds.
9. Multi-Use Car Organizer with Cooler Compartment
It took a few tries to get it right, but this car organizer has become our favorite solution for the space between the front seats and it has been the best fit. It slides perfectly between the driver and passenger seats; you know that tricky little space beneath the cup holders. It has a sturdy lid that can double as a little tabletop and is perfect for snacks or even holding our JBL speaker. Inside, it has two cooler-style compartments (great for snacks or drinks, though we use it more for general storage), plus cupholders, tissue space, and side mesh pockets for essentials like sanitizer and pens. Lightweight, portable, and scratch-resistant, it is one of those organizers that earns its keep every single trip.
10. Nylon Laundry Bag
Last but not least on the list, one of the most useful items I never knew we would need is a simple large nylon drawstring laundry bag. We actually have several just in case. It may not sound glamourous, but it keeps dirty clothes and damp towels contained and it tucks easily into the overhead bin. When the bed is up it also stores our comforter out of the way. After beach days or washing the dog in the outdoor shower, wet towels have a place to go when we have no time to dry them out. A tiny inexpensive item that truly makes all the difference and we would never travel without.
After pulling this list together, I realized these ten little things are really less about “stuff” and more about how they make van travel feel. None of them are mechanical or flashy, but every single one has made our Pleasure-Way feel more comfortable, functional, and like a true home on wheels. I hope this helps anyone new to their van skip a little bit of the trial-and-error we went through. These little finds may not be heavy-duty gear, but they make our travels smoother and far more enjoyable. My husband and I sometimes joke that I am “interiors” and he is “exteriors,” borrowing a phrase from Below Deck, but the truth is we both love the difference these touches make in our routine when on the road. The best part? You can find every item on Amazon, ready to help make your travels streamlined, stress-free and a little extraordinary.