How To Organize And Store All Types Of Outdoor Gear
Keeping your outdoor gear in order can be a real challenge, especially when your garage or shed doubles as a storage space for everything else. Between tools, bikes, tents, and garden supplies, it doesn't take much for things to feel cluttered. Here's how to bring order to the chaos and make your gear easier to find and maintain.
Store by Frequency, Not Just Type
Instead of grouping all similar items together, think about how often you use them. Keep your most-used gear at chest height and/or closer to the entrance. Things you only reach for once or twice a year can go in less convenient corners or up on higher shelves. That way, you're not constantly moving things around just to get to your basics. For example, if we're looking at lawn tools, keep your lawnmower up front, but your aerator at the back.
Keep a "Ready-to-Go" Section
Designate a small area specifically for packed and prepared gear. This could be a loaded camping bin, a pre-stocked hiking backpack, or your go-to set of garden tools. The idea is to skip the packing process when you're ready to head out or start a task. Refill or restock it after every use. It reduces stress, saves time, and helps prevent forgetting something important during rushed moments.
Use In-Between Spaces
There's a lot of storage potential between studs, behind doors, and even under shelves. Install slim baskets or hang items in these gaps instead of letting them go unused. Items like gloves, headlamps, ropes, or foldable tarps fit well here. This helps reduce visual clutter, which can be overwhelming, while still keeping things accessible. They’re ideal for things that often get misplaced or clutter up flat surfaces.
Rotate Gear Seasonally, But Really Do It
Many people talk about rotating their gear for the seasons but rarely follow through. You should, though, it makes a huge difference. Make it a short, scheduled task at the start of each season: bring forward what you'll be using and store the rest further back or higher up. It’s a good moment to check for damage, clean items, and take inventory of what you actually have (or need). This also helps limit how much you’re managing at once, making everything feel lighter and more manageable.
Use Low-Touch Storage for Backup Items
There's probably gear you don’t use much but still want to keep, things like spares, loaners, or bulk items. Instead of giving them prime space, wrap and store these in harder-to-reach areas like rafters, crawl spaces, or ceiling racks. Use basic labels but don’t over-organize them if it's not needed. This frees up valuable real estate for what really matters while still keeping these items safe for when you do need them.
Keep a Visual Guide Inside the Door
If you have a regular setup or are willing to fully organize everything so you can do this, try mounting a simple, visual layout of your garage or shed on the inside of the door. Mark what goes where, including bins and storage areas. If you share the space with others or just want to save yourself time searching, a quick glance at this map can keep things from drifting out of order or being forgotten in the mess. It also helps you remember where seasonal or rarely used items are tucked away.
Let the Floor Breathe
Avoid lining every edge of your garage or shed with gear or storage bins. Leave a bit of breathing room around the base of the walls. This helps with air flow and reduces the chance of moisture building up against your gear. It also gives you a clearer view of what's being stored and makes cleanup easier. Being able to freely walk around will immediately make your space feel much more open.
You don't need a complete overhaul to store your outdoor gear better—just a few changes in how you think about space and what you actually use. The key is keeping things flexible and thoughtful. As the seasons change or your routines shift, check in on your system and adjust it without guilt. A good storage setup is one that helps you live more easily, not just store more stuff.