Clever 4WD storage ideas: How to use every bit of dead space

We all know that space is at a premium when you’re loading up your 4WD for a big trip. Whether you’re heading out for a weekend escape or tackling a remote track for weeks on end, the ability to cleverly stash gear in otherwise wasted nooks can make a world of difference. In this part of our 4WD Storage Ideas Series, we explore the dead zones in your rig and how to bring them to life.

Under-seat storage is hidden but handy

The space under your front and rear seats is often underutilised but offers the perfect spot for small, essential items you want to keep close.

What to stash:

• Recovery gloves
• Tyre repair kit
• First-aid kit
• UHF handpiece
• Small tool roll

Pros:

• Easily accessible
• Keeps clutter off the floor
• Hidden from prying eyes

Cons:

• Limited space
• Can be dusty or grimy
• Can rattle if not packed well

Hot tip:

Look for purpose-built under-seat storage boxes or DIY a solution using canvas zip bags or plastic ammo crates. Some vehicles even have factory trays or bins that just need a clean-up to be useful.

Behind the rear seats is a forgotten vertical space

That narrow gap between the back of the rear seats in a dual-cab or rear cargo barrier often goes unused.

What to stash:

• Fire extinguisher
• Tyre repair kit
• Small compressor
• Emergency beacon (PLB or EPIRB)
• Spare tools
• Second battery

Pros:

• Easy to access from the rear
• Utilises dead vertical space
• Great for flat or long items

Cons:

• Limited thickness
• Can be awkward to retrieve items if packed tightly
• Not suited to bulky gear

Hot tip:

Install a fire extinguisher bracket or mounting panel to keep emergency gear secure and easy to reach. Molle panels can be a great addition here for clipping pouches and gear.

Press delete on your rear seat to make way for adventure

If you rarely carry passengers, removing your rear seats opens up an enormous amount of space for customised storage.

What to stash:

• Fridge or freezer
• 12V power station
• Battery box or inverter
• Large storage drawers
• Camera gear or drone kits

Pros:

• Significant gain in usable space
• Ideal for long-distance touring
• Customisable to suit your load

Cons:

• Not legal in all states/territories if seats are permanently removed
• Reduces flexibility for passengers
• It can be expensive to set up properly

Hot tip:

Go with a modular drawer or platform system so the area can still be repurposed if needed. Some tourers even integrate water tanks and air compressors here.

Dash pods are front and centre convenience

Your dashboard is prime real estate, yet many rigs come with a flat surface or a useless tray. A dash pod or organiser can change that.

What to stash:

• Sunglasses
• UHF controller
• Mobile phone
• Maps or notepad
• Pen and marker

Pros:

• Super handy for daily use
• Keeps high-use gear in arm’s reach
• Great for quick-drop items when driving

Cons:

• Can create glare on the windscreen
• Easy to clutter
• May not suit all dash layouts

Hot tip:

Consider dash organisers that stick down with Velcro or 3M adhesive and are designed for off-road conditions, so they don’t bounce loose on corrugations.

The rear footwell can hide water tanks and storage bins

The footwells behind the front seats often go underused, especially when there are no rear passengers. It’s the perfect spot for low-profile water tanks, storage boxes, or battery setups.

What to stash:

• 20–40L water tanks
• Dual battery box
• Toolboxes
• Dry food containers

Pros:

• Keeps weight low
• Hidden when covered
• Perfect for heavy or bulky gear

Cons:

• Reduces passenger comfort
• Must be secured properly
• Can be awkward to access

Hot tip:

Look for form-fitted water tanks that sit flush with the floor. Brands like Boab or Custom Alloy Solutions produce tanks designed specifically for footwells.

A rear roof shelf is perfect for light gear

The ceiling above your cargo area or rear seats in a dual-cab is often completely dead space. A rear roof shelf is the perfect solution.

What to stash:

• Soft duffel bags
• Lightweight sleeping gear
• Jackets
• Paper maps and guidebooks

Pros:

• Keeps gear out of the way
• Perfect for bulky but light items
• Great use of otherwise unused space

Cons:

• Can block rear visibility
• Adds weight high in the vehicle
• Needs secure installation
• Can’t carry passengers

Hot tip:

Go with a steel or aluminium shelf that bolts to existing factory mounts. Add cargo netting underneath to create a sling for bonus storage.

Seat back organisers turn seats into storage

The back of your front seats is prime real estate. With a good seat back organiser, you can store dozens of items within easy reach.

What to stash:

• Kids’ activities
• Tablet or iPad
• Snacks
• Wet wipes
• Flashlights or multitools

Pros:

• Keeps gear tidy and off the floor
• Perfect for families
• Quick access to high-use items

Cons:

• Can be annoying if overpacked
• Adds clutter to the cabin
• May get in the way of rear passengers

Hot tip:

Look for heavy-duty canvas organisers with zippered pockets and adjustable straps. Molle-compatible panels are great for off-roaders.

Inside door pockets and panels are slim but effective

Most door panels have built-in pockets, but you can expand on these by adding Velcro-backed pouches or replacing panels with thicker custom versions.

What to stash:

• Bug spray
• Sunscreen
• Wet wipes
• Tissues or sanitiser
• Maps or notebooks

Pros:

• Easy to access from inside or outside
• Keeps small items organised
• Doesn’t take up other storage space

Cons:

• Limited space
• Can rattle or fall out if not secure
• Subject to heat and UV damage

Hot tip:

Use soft pouches or padded bags to minimise door vibration noise and avoid storing anything heavy that could become a missile in the event of a crash.

Get a roof console for overhead storage

Your 4WD’s roof space above the front seats often goes to waste. Installing a roof console can provide a neat and secure place to store essential gear while keeping it out of the way, yet within arm’s reach.

What to stash:

• UHF radio or controller
• Maps and permits
• Sunglasses
• Logbook or trip diary
• Headtorch or small torch

Pros:

• Keeps gear high and off flat surfaces
• Perfect for radios and electronics
• Easy access for the driver and passenger

Cons:

• Adds weight up high
• Can reduce headroom in some vehicles
• Might need professional installation for electrical components

Hot tip:

Choose a roof console that includes built-in LED lighting and pre-cut mounts for your UHF and gauges. For vehicles with airbags, make sure the unit is airbag-compatible and doesn’t obstruct deployment zones.

Get flipside functionality on your tailgate

Open your tailgate and you’ll often see a big blank space. Enter the tailgate panel mod or storage table.

What to stash:

• Cooking utensils
• Folding table
• Recovery kit
• First-aid gear

Pros:

• Accessible when camping
• Dual-purpose (e.g. cutting board + storage)
• Great for overlanders

Cons:

• Needs modification or drilling
• Adds rear weight
• Can rattle or squeak on corrugations

Hot tip:

Combine a drop-down table with internal storage for an ultra-functional setup. Some kits also include light mounts and drink holders.

Final thoughts

When it comes to touring in your 4WD, space equals freedom. Making the most of dead areas in your rig not only keeps your gear organised and secure but also helps reduce weight, avoid clutter, and maintain a balanced centre of gravity. From under the seats to the roof lining and even inside the footwells, there’s no shortage of creative ways to expand your storage without sacrificing comfort.

Just remember: whatever storage solution you choose, ensure it’s safe, secure, and legal. A well-packed 4WD is a safer, more enjoyable vehicle to travel in and if done right, you’ll be amazed just how much extra gear you can carry without the bulk.

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Glenn Marshall