Rear cargo chaos? Try these 4WD storage fixes

If there’s one area in your 4WD that can go from organised to chaotic in a heartbeat, it’s the rear cargo space. Whether you’re planning a weekend away or a month-long expedition, how you store your gear can make a huge difference to your experience. From drawers and duffel bags to custom shelving and fridge slides, there’s a solution for every setup and every budget.

Here’s your ultimate guide to getting the most out of your rear cargo space, the pros and cons of each option, and who’s selling what in Australia.

#1. Drawer systems

Drawer systems are one of the most popular storage solutions for the rear of a 4WD. Designed to maximise space and access, they’re typically made from steel, aluminium, or composite materials and come in a wide range of configurations.

Pros:

• Organisation: Everything has its place – tools, recovery gear, cooking essentials.
• Security: Lockable drawers deter opportunistic thieves.
• Accessibility: No need to unpack everything to find what you need.
• Custom options: Fit your drawers around your fridge, water tank, or electricals.

Cons:

• Cost: Quality drawer systems can be expensive.
• Weight: Adds considerable weight to your setup.
• Permanence: Fixed systems reduce flexibility if you use your 4WD for other tasks.

#2. Fridge slides and drop-downs

If you’ve got a 12V fridge in your rig, a fridge slide is almost essential. Drop-down fridge slides make access easier when mounted up high.

Pros:

• Easy access: Slide out and grab a cold drink or ingredients.
• Secure: Keeps fridge locked in place when driving.
• Drop-downs: Reduce strain, especially in tall 4WDs.

Cons:

• Cost: Quality slides don’t come cheap.
• Weight: Adds to your payload.
• Space: Takes up room in your storage plan.

#3. Cargo barriers

Cargo barriers are steel mesh dividers that sit behind the rear seats, keeping gear from flying forward in an accident or during heavy braking.

Pros:

• Safety: Protects occupants from shifting gear.
• Structure: Allows you to stack gear higher without risking collapse.
• Integration: Works well with drawer systems and shelving.

Cons:

• Permanent: Installation often requires drilling or the use of brackets.
• Reduces flexibility: Limits the use of folding rear seats.
• Access: Harder to retrieve items directly behind the barrier.

#4. Storage boxes & tubs

Storage tubs and boxes come in all shapes and sizes, from clear plastic tubs from Bunnings to indestructible Pelican and ZARGES aluminium cases.

Pros:

• Flexible: Easily reconfigure your layout based on the trip.
• Cost-effective: Great for budget-conscious travellers.
• Water-resistant options: Ideal for wet or dusty environments.

Cons:

• Stacking: Getting to the bottom box can be a pain.
• Security: Easy to remove (and steal) from your vehicle.
• Rattle: Can be noisy unless secured or foam-lined.

#5. Custom shelving and racks

DIY shelving or professional modular racking systems let you turn your cargo area into a mini workshop, kitchen, or pantry.

Pros:

• Tailored setups: Design around your gear and lifestyle.
• Efficient use of vertical space: Stack without the mess.
• Great for tradies or tourers: Especially in canopy setups.

Cons:

• Installation: Can be time-consuming or require fabrication.
• Weight: Steel or timber adds bulk.
• Permanence: Not easily removable between trips.

#6. Duffel bags and soft storage

Duffel bags, roll-top sacks, and soft-sided organisers are a favourite for many campers thanks to their simplicity and ease of use.

Pros:

• Lightweight: Won’t impact your GVM.
• Flexible: Squish into awkward spaces.
• Easy to carry: Great when moving between camp and vehicle.

Cons:

• Lack of structure: Can be hard to keep organised.
• Durability varies: Cheaper options wear out fast.
• No security: Easy to swipe from an open vehicle.

#7. Ute tray & canopy solutions

Utes offer the ultimate flexibility for storage with tray-back systems, gullwing canopies, and modular drawer/kitchen setups.

Pros:

• Massive capacity: More room for gear and water/fuel storage.
• Versatile setups: Dual-purpose for work and play.
• Custom builds: Tailor your rig to your exact needs.

Cons:

• Cost: Premium canopy fit-outs aren’t cheap.
• Weight: Can quickly eat into your GVM.
• Security: Requires robust locks and attention to dust/water sealing.

Tips for choosing the right setup

Think modularity

Where possible, build a setup that can be adjusted depending on the trip, whether it’s a weekend camp, a fishing trip, or an extended remote touring experience.

Weight vs function

Always consider the impact of added weight on your Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM). Lighter doesn’t always mean better, but every kilo counts.

Test and evolve

Start simple and add as you go. You’ll quickly learn what works for your style of travel.

Budget smartly

You don’t need to drop $10K on the perfect setup. A few well-placed boxes, a fridge slide, and a solid duffel can do wonders.

Who sells what?

Brand	Drawers	Fridge Slides	Cargo Barriers	Boxes & Tubs	Custom Shelves	Soft Storage	Tray & Canopy
4WD Interiors	🟢		🟢				🟢
ARB	🟢		🟢				🟢
BlackWolf						🟢
Boab Off-road		🟢
BCF							🟢
Bunnings				🟢	🟢
Clearview		🟢
Crashpad Gear						🟢
Drifta	🟢			🟢	🟢
Expedition134				🟢
Front Runner				🟢
Ironman	🟢			🟢		🟢	🟢
Kaon	🟢		🟢		🟢
Kings		🟢
Milford			🟢
MSA 4×4	🟢	🟢	🟢			🟢
MW Toolboxes							🟢
Navigator						🟢
Norweld							🟢
Offroad Systems	🟢	🟢					🟢
Outback Customs							🟢
Pelican				🟢
RV Storage Solutions	🟢	🟢	🟢		🟢
Snowys						🟢
T.C Boxes						🟢	🟢
Underkover						🟢
Zarges				🟢

Final thoughts

A well-organised rear cargo area makes every trip more enjoyable. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a full-time traveller, having the right combination of storage solutions ensures your gear is secure, accessible, and out of the way. Take your time, plan your layout, and don’t be afraid to mix and match. After all, the best storage system is the one that suits your adventure style.

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