Enhancing storage in your Coleman Lantern 17B or 17R travel trailer is essential for maintaining an organized and comfortable living space during your adventures. Here are some practical solutions to maximize your storage capacity.
The Coleman Lantern 17B and 17R are both compact trailers, but they store gear a little differently. The 17B is a single-bunk layout that sleeps up to five, so vertical storage, bunk-area storage, and keeping everyday items contained matters more. The 17R is a rear-bath layout that sleeps up to three, and the official specs also list a 60x74 queen bed with underbed storage and a wardrobe for hanging storage, so it usually works better with under-bed bins, cabinet organizers, and clothing storage. Both floorplans also list full pass-through storage as a standard feature, which gives you a good base for larger outdoor gear.
Under Bed storage solutions
This is one of the best places to start because both the current 17B and 17R official floorplan pages list a 60x74 queen bed with underbed storage, so this area is already one of the most useful built-in storage zones in the trailer.
The space beneath your bed offers significant storage potential. To utilize this area effectively:
Install Hinged Bed Frames: This modification allows easy access to the under-bed area, making it convenient to store and retrieve items
Install Hinged Bed Frames: This modification allows easy access to the under-bed area, making it convenient to store and retrieve items
Use Sliding Drawers or Bins: Incorporate pull-out drawers or storage bins to organize belongings systematically
Vacuum-Sealed Bags: Store bulky items like blankets or seasonal clothing in vacuum-sealed bags to save space and protect them from moisture
Bunk Bed storage enhancements
This section matters most for 17B owners, since the 17B is the single-bunk floorplan and sleeps up to five, so the bunk area usually ends up doing double duty for both sleeping and storage.
If your model includes bunk beds, the space beneath can be optimized for additional storage. Our recommendation on Amazon is a good option if you want more of a built-in drawer feel under the bunk.
Under-Bunk Storage Bins: Utilize bins with wheels for easy access to stored items
Under-Bunk Storage Bins: Utilize bins with wheels for easy access to stored items
Custom Pull-Out Drawers: Design drawers to fit under the bunks, providing organized compartments for various belongings
Fabric Organizers: Employ fabric storage solutions for lightweight items, ensuring easy access and organization.
Overhead cabinet optimization
Both current floorplans list upgraded drawer sides and bottoms plus a wardrobe for hanging storage, so cabinet and closet organization is worth doing early if you want the trailer to stay easy to live in.
Maximize the utility of overhead cabinets by:
Installing Shelf Dividers: Create additional layers within cabinets to utilize vertical space efficiently.
Installing Shelf Dividers: Create additional layers within cabinets to utilize vertical space efficiently.
Adding Adhesive Hooks or Baskets: Attach hooks or small baskets inside cabinet doors to hold utensils, keys, or other small items.
Using Clear Storage Containers: Organize items in clear bins to easily identify contents and maintain order.
If you are also improving comfort inside the trailer, this pairs well with our Best Mattresses for the Coleman Lantern 17B / 17R and Curtains and Blinds for the Coleman Lantern 17B / 17R pages.
Exterior storage compartment access
Before adding more outside storage, it is worth thinking about weight and balance. The current official specs list carrying capacity at 1,229 lb for the 17B and 1,239 lb for the 17R, with hitch weights of 398 lb and 368 lb. Heavy gear should stay low, packed securely, and as close to the axle area as possible so the trailer stays easier and safer to tow.
Enhance exterior storage by:
Adding External Storage Doors: Install additional access points to underutilized spaces, such as beneath the lower bunk, to store larger items like camping gear
Adding External Storage Doors: Install additional access points to underutilized spaces, such as beneath the lower bunk, to store larger items like camping gear
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Installing Rear-Mounted Cargo Racks: Consider adding a cargo rack to transport bikes or additional gear securely
Utilizing Waterproof Storage Bins: Protect outdoor equipment by storing them in waterproof containers in exterior compartments
Multi-Functional Furniture
Incorporate furniture that serves dual purposes to save space
Ottomans with Storage: Use ottomans that open up to store items like shoes or blankets
Ottomans with Storage: Use ottomans that open up to store items like shoes or blankets
Benches with Hidden Compartments: Opt for seating options that provide storage beneath the cushions
Folding Tables with Storage: Select tables that offer storage space for small kitchen items or tools
Wall Mounted Storage Solutions
Utilize wall space to keep essentials within reach
Shower organizer: Attach shower organizers to walls for storing toiletries, spices, or other small items
Roof Racks: Install a sturdy roof rack to carry items like kayaks or additional luggage
Adhesive Wall Caddies or Hanging Baskets: Use lightweight wall-mounted storage for small everyday items like charging cords, remotes, flashlights, or toiletries without taking up counter space.
Ensure Even Weight Distribution: Properly balance the load to maintain vehicle stability during travel.
Creative Storage Hacks
Implement innovative solutions to maximize space
Over-the-Door Organizers: Hang organizers on doors to store items like toiletries or accessories
Over-the-Door Organizers: Hang organizers on doors to store items like toiletries or accessories
Foldable Laundry Baskets: Use collapsible baskets that can be easily stored when not in use
Velcro Straps: Secure loose items like remote controls or cords to prevent clutter.
If you are still setting your trailer up for the season, you may also want to read our First Trip Checklist for the Coleman Lantern 17B / 17R, Must Have Coleman Lantern 17B / 17R Upgrades, and Coleman 17B / 17R Owner Resources pages for more setup and organization ideas.
By adopting these storage solutions, you can significantly enhance the functionality and organization of your Coleman Lantern 17B or 17R, ensuring a more comfortable and enjoyable travel experience.