3. Heavy-Duty Slide-Out Cargo Drawer
The space underneath a fixed platform bed, often referred to as the “garage” in van builds, is the largest storage area in a camper van. However, accessing items stored deep in the back of this space can be a physical challenge, requiring you to crawl inside or unpack half of your gear. A heavy-duty DIY slide-out cargo drawer solves this problem by bringing your entire gear inventory directly to you at the pull of a handle.
Building a slide-out tray requires a sheet of thick plywood, heavy-duty drawer slides rated for at least 250 to 500 pounds, and a secure locking latch mechanism. Construct a shallow, sturdy wooden box that fits the length of your garage space. Mount the heavy-duty slides to the van floor or bed framing, and attach the box. This drawer is perfect for storing bulky outdoor gear, camp chairs, stoves, toolboxes, and sports equipment. When you open the rear doors of your van, you can effortlessly slide the entire drawer out to access your gear, saving your back and keeping your garage meticulously organized.