Packing Tips?

4 posts / 0 new
Last post
Sunfish
Sunfish's picture
Offline
Last seen: 5 days 22 hours ago
Joined: 08/14/2020 - 21:47
Packing Tips?

What tips do you have for packing and storing things in Scamps?  We have storage problems in our 16 ft Deluxe.  Mainly, we pack enough for two weeks on a two-day trip.  My partner hates the shape, small size, and lack of depth of the cabinets.  The ones above the rear bed are underused. The ones under the big bed and dinette seat are not used.  We keep the back dinette down as a bed so it is not handy to get into those storage areas.  They probably should be for things not needed often.  The front closet and shelf are sort of catch-alls.  I have succeeded in keeping the floor fairly clear for walking.  We put carry-on bags under the bed and take them in when we reach our family's or friend's homes. The most critical thing is that I made a cat litter box that fits under the bed.  I found the perfect size plastic storage container that fits under the bed, can be easily moved to the SUV or house, and is large enough for a 19 pound cat.  It also has an important testing function.  If we can smell it in the morning, we probably don't have Covid!     

RamRod
Offline
Last seen: 1 year 1 week ago
Joined: 01/26/2016 - 22:01
Using Your Space

First of all, everyone has different needs when you're out and about.  We're "reformed" backpackers, so we already figured out how to take only as much as you need; but even with that, we fill every bit of storage space in our Scamp 16, layout 4.  My first thought is that you MUST figure out how to use all that storage you're not using now.  Secondly, from our backpacking experience you need to pack for two days and let that do for two weeks, not the other way around.  We actually pack enough underwear, sox, etc. for a week and I find that pretty much all I wear, even when it gets chilly, is a couple pair of shorts and a few T-shirts.  Of course, we have some outerwear for cold and wet, but it packs up pretty small.  We use the laundry at the campground or venture into town if needed.

You're on the right track with your cat litter adaptation.  Just keep looking for things that might be helpful and small.  I browse WalMart and Krogers even, but also places like Lowe's or Home Depot.  With a need firmly in mind, we've frequently come up with a fairly elegant solution.

One example is that our "spare" shoes were always in the floor.  We found a narrow mesh hanging shoe "rack" that fits on the narrow wall next to our door.  Holds our rain shoes, extra walking shoes, flip-flops, and still room for a flashlight, my small level, and some insect repellent.  

Keep an open mind and try to imagine how to use things perhaps meant for another use.

 

Greg A
Greg A's picture
Offline
Last seen: 1 day 11 hours ago
SOI-AdministratorLifetime Member
Joined: 11/02/2013 - 20:45
Don't use-Don't bring

Full-timers when they first start out bring way too much stuff and their caveat is that if they haven't used it in 30 days they get rid of it. This can be applied to weekend camping as well. Don't use something for several trips remove it from the pack list. Also, if something  is a maybe once and awhile, but can be had at Walmart, etc. and there is one near where your camping, eliminate it.

Our Trailers:
2015 19 Escape

Buying or Selling Molded FG Trailers:

Fiberglass-RV-4Sale

gwhaile@comcast.net
gwhaile@comcast.net's picture
Offline
Last seen: 2 years 3 months ago
Joined: 11/03/2015 - 10:30
After 10 trips

After 10 trips youll discover you do not need half the stuff you originally packed.   My moto has been pack less and if needed stop at Walmart for what you missed.   Also get a portable rubber tool chest from the hardward store with a towable / push handle.  Keep all your tools and hardware / hoses / tanks/ ropes/ chalks / etc it in.  you can put it on the floor of the Scamp while towing or keep it in the back of your tow vehicle.   Less is best.

gwhaile