Storage guidance requested

[1L19]

Ok so I have this big, new lovely vehicle with nothing in it. I'm starting to get tool and recovery kits together but I don't have much so far. Currently my options are, throw it all in cardboard box or have the GF carry it. I've started doing some reading here and there but it's overwhelming. Sometimes it's just better to ask the experts so let me describe my problem.

• Currently I have a small amount of things to carry but that's going to grow
• There are tie downs and such in the back but I'm not that familiar with them
• I would like some sort of modular system that could grow as my storage needs grow
• Obviously light, easy to secure, easy to clean and not insanely expensive are all good

All I would need is some recommended product names/manufacturers and I'll be off and running. Anything more would be most welcome. Any suggestions regarding a DIY solution would be lovely.

Thank you!

 

[kirk]

What are you leaning toward? Box type storage, or Molle panels you can mount to?

 

[1L19]

What are you leaning toward? Box type storage, or Molle panels you can mount to?

I really don't know to be honest. I didn't know what a "molle panel" was until you just said it. I have to admit they look a little tricky but it seems that if they are empty they take up no space vs a box that is always there. Ideally I'd like to be able to have a small amount of storage or a larger amount based on activity. If the boxes are just load and go rather than being "mounted" in the vehicle that might be good as well.

What do you use kirk?

 

[Brunnie]

I use these:
Storage Bin
They are stackable, and "grab-n-go" for me. I keep often used items in them, yet can unload the bins and store them in the garage on shelves and things stay clean.

 

[Richard]

I bought this from Amazon. Has done a good job for me.

 

[jsexton]

i've had good luck with these

RIDGID 22 in. Pro Gear Small Parts Organizer, Black 221735 - The Home Depot

This black RIDGID 22 in. organizer box is made with durable, high-impact resin and constructed to last. It offers heavy-duty metal latches and features an integrated water seal to protect against water

www.homedepot.com

they have other sizes that all lock together too

I also built a rack for it.

jsexton's 07

Hey guys, I thought I had a build thread over here too, but apparently I do not. I'm not new, but haven't posted here much - you will probably see more of me around here. I've met a handful of the Sr. Members here at runs, looking forward to getting to know the rest of you! Username: jsexton...

www.xterranation.org

A handful of people have made their own racks out of hitch baskets from harbor freight that would work well enough.

 

[TerryD]

I started with these Sterelite totes from Walmart. They nest really well so they don't slide off and cause a Jenga style collapse when you open the hatch. Plus there are lots of sizes available so they're pretty versatile.





Then last year I had a carpenter buddy help build these.

 

[JeffPro4x]

i've had good luck with these

RIDGID 22 in. Pro Gear Small Parts Organizer, Black 221735 - The Home Depot

This black RIDGID 22 in. organizer box is made with durable, high-impact resin and constructed to last. It offers heavy-duty metal latches and features an integrated water seal to protect against water

www.homedepot.com

they have other sizes that all lock together too

I also built a rack for it.

jsexton's 07

Hey guys, I thought I had a build thread over here too, but apparently I do not. I'm not new, but haven't posted here much - you will probably see more of me around here. I've met a handful of the Sr. Members here at runs, looking forward to getting to know the rest of you! Username: jsexton...

www.xterranation.org

A handful of people have made their own racks out of hitch baskets from harbor freight that would work well enough.

This the same setup I run. Tools in the ridgid boxes, spare parts and fluids in 2 8gallon action packers under the rack

 

[meisanerd]

I'm looking at taking a bunch of scrap wood I've got lying around, and building a cargo organizer that I can lock down to the utilitracks in the back, so I can easily add/remove it when necessary.

My current solution is to basically keep the anchors mounted in the utilitrack, and use tie straps or bungie cords to keep things tied down.

 

[outback97]

@jsexton @JeffPro4x I was just in Home Depot this morning looking at those Ridgid cases. They look nice but the lid was really thick, with a blow molded panel that seemed hollow behind it. Can you pull that panel out of there? It looks like it's wasting quite a lot of the interior volume.

 

[JeffPro4x]

@jsexton @JeffPro4x I was just in Home Depot this morning looking at those Ridgid cases. They look nice but the lid was really thick, with a blow molded panel that seemed hollow behind it. Can you pull that panel out of there? It looks like it's wasting quite a lot of the interior volume.

Never looked.i have one with a broken latch that I can experiment on later

 

[jsexton]

@jsexton @JeffPro4x I was just in Home Depot this morning looking at those Ridgid cases. They look nice but the lid was really thick, with a blow molded panel that seemed hollow behind it. Can you pull that panel out of there? It looks like it's wasting quite a lot of the interior volume.

yes, I pull mine out. Frees up a lot of space

 

[Zack.]

I’ve got a couple of these with an assortment of screwdrivers, wrenches, pliers, coilover spanners, etc. under the rear seats, along with a breaker bar and hatchet. Then a 3/8 socket set under the front seats. Probably need to be more thoughtful/deliberate about what’s in the toolboxes though, I kinda just threw a bunch of stuff in there when I got them.

 

[outback97]

yes, I pull mine out. Frees up a lot of space

That's great to know, thanks. I was wondering if it was hollow behind there or if there was a reinforcing grid that would need to be cut out.

@1L19 I like the Action Packer 8GL totes for storage because they work so well to use for sleeping in the back of the Xterra when camping. They're not the absolute most efficient use of space because of the slanted sides, but they're such a perfect fit that I overlook that.

For other gear I have also liked the Husky tool bags from Home Depot.

Husky 3-Piece Tool Bag Combo (12 in., 15 in. and 18 in.)-HD60258-TH-FD - The Home Depot

The Husky 18 in., 15 in. and 12 in. Tool Bag Combo features 3 zippered top tool bags constructed of 600 D, water-resistant material. The 18 in. Tool Bag also features a shoulder strap. All 3 items combined

www.homedepot.com

 

[jsexton]

That's great to know, thanks. I was wondering if it was hollow behind there or if there was a reinforcing grid that would need to be cut out.

@1L19 I like the Action Packer 8GL totes for storage because they work so well to use for sleeping in the back of the Xterra when camping. They're not the absolute most efficient use of space because of the slanted sides, but they're such a perfect fit that I overlook that.

For other gear I have also liked the Husky tool bags from Home Depot.

Husky 3-Piece Tool Bag Combo (12 in., 15 in. and 18 in.)-HD60258-TH-FD - The Home Depot

The Husky 18 in., 15 in. and 12 in. Tool Bag Combo features 3 zippered top tool bags constructed of 600 D, water-resistant material. The 18 in. Tool Bag also features a shoulder strap. All 3 items combined

www.homedepot.com

I'll take a picture later tonight and post it so you can see.

 

[1L19]

That's great to know, thanks. I was wondering if it was hollow behind there or if there was a reinforcing grid that would need to be cut out.

@1L19 I like the Action Packer 8GL totes for storage because they work so well to use for sleeping in the back of the Xterra when camping. They're not the absolute most efficient use of space because of the slanted sides, but they're such a perfect fit that I overlook that.

For other gear I have also liked the Husky tool bags from Home Depot.

Husky 3-Piece Tool Bag Combo (12 in., 15 in. and 18 in.)-HD60258-TH-FD - The Home Depot

The Husky 18 in., 15 in. and 12 in. Tool Bag Combo features 3 zippered top tool bags constructed of 600 D, water-resistant material. The 18 in. Tool Bag also features a shoulder strap. All 3 items combined

www.homedepot.com

Is this the right item? - https://www.walmart.com/ip/RUBBERMAID-8-Gallon-Action-Packer-Lockable-Storage-Box/689561395

I am absolutely planning on sleeping in the back am currently trying to figure out how to take advantage of the nine extra inches that exist between the end of the solid floor and the arm rest. Are you just speaking of pushing them together and laying on top? Do you have pad of some sort?

Thank you!

 

[JeffPro4x]

Woof. Action packers are up to $35?????? I think mine we like $12. And I found another at a goodwill store for $1

 

[1L19]

I use these:
Storage Bin
They are stackable, and "grab-n-go" for me. I keep often used items in them, yet can unload the bins and store them in the garage on shelves and things stay clean.

Thank you Brunnie I put them on my list. Besides.... STEELER COLORS BABY!

 

[1L19]

I bought this from Amazon. Has done a good job for me.

Ok sir I'm interested but could you give me the product name or link perhaps? Thank you!

 

[jsexton]

That's great to know, thanks. I was wondering if it was hollow behind there or if there was a reinforcing grid that would need to be cut out.

@1L19 I like the Action Packer 8GL totes for storage because they work so well to use for sleeping in the back of the Xterra when camping. They're not the absolute most efficient use of space because of the slanted sides, but they're such a perfect fit that I overlook that.

For other gear I have also liked the Husky tool bags from Home Depot.

Husky 3-Piece Tool Bag Combo (12 in., 15 in. and 18 in.)-HD60258-TH-FD - The Home Depot

The Husky 18 in., 15 in. and 12 in. Tool Bag Combo features 3 zippered top tool bags constructed of 600 D, water-resistant material. The 18 in. Tool Bag also features a shoulder strap. All 3 items combined

www.homedepot.com

I also have a few of the husky tool bags (I believe the small) and I like them. One for recovery equipment (soft shackles, recovery ring, tree strap, etc), one with a spare alternator wrapped in a blanket, one with my impacts.

 

[1L19]

I started with these Sterelite totes from Walmart. They nest really well so they don't slide off and cause a Jenga style collapse when you open the hatch. Plus there are lots of sizes available so they're pretty versatile.


View attachment 17539


Then last year I had a carpenter buddy help build these.

View attachment 17540

Can you pull that whole box out without taking it apart? Just curious as it looks quite handy.

 

[outback97]

Is this the right item? - https://www.walmart.com/ip/RUBBERMAID-8-Gallon-Action-Packer-Lockable-Storage-Box/689561395

I am absolutely planning on sleeping in the back am currently trying to figure out how to take advantage of the nine extra inches that exist between the end of the solid floor and the arm rest. Are you just speaking of pushing them together and laying on top? Do you have pad of some sort?

Thank you!

Remove rear seat bottom. Slide passenger seat forward. Fold down rear seat back. Place 8 gl tote in rear seat footwell. Enjoy 6’8” flat sleeping surface with your camping pad of choice.

 

[TerryD]

Can you pull that whole box out without taking it apart? Just curious as it looks quite handy.

You'd have to use a hoist but it could be done. All my tools and recovery gear is in it. I'm going to be pulling it to stain and then bolting it down this spring. It does kind of limit the things you can do with the Xterra but for the most part it hasn't been an issue. I have a full size pickup for anything that I need more room for. And a trailer if that isn't enough.

 

[1L19]

Yes I'm adding a request for information but if anyone has tie down solutions. straps, bungie cords or anything I'd love to know. Thank you!

 

[jsexton]

to get the panel out, use a flat head and pry where the indents are. There are 5 total - 1 on each side, 3 across the bottom. Lift up from the bottom.

 

[Richard]

Ok sir I'm interested but could you give me the product name or link perhaps? Thank you!

Amazon.com: Starling's Car Trunk Organizer - Durable Storage SUV Cargo Organizer Adjustable, Blue : Everything Else

Amazon.com: Starling's Car Trunk Organizer - Durable Storage SUV Cargo Organizer Adjustable, Blue : Everything Else

www.amazon.com

 

[xyoverland]

Yes I'm adding a request for information but if anyone has tie down solutions. straps, bungie cords or anything I'd love to know. Thank you!

I recently got Frontrunner Stratchits (a bungee and cam strap hybrid) and they were probably too expensive but they’re great.

 

[Prime]

yes, I pull mine out. Frees up a lot of space

That's what she said?

 

[jsexton]

That's what she said?

I was laughing about that after I posted it

 

[1L19]

View attachment 17555

Remove rear seat bottom. Slide passenger seat forward. Fold down rear seat back. Place 8 gl tote in rear seat footwell. Enjoy 6’8” flat sleeping surface with your camping pad of choice.

Thank you sir for leading me down a good and solid path. Delivery complete!

 

[xyoverland]

This is my current load. Left action packer has recovery gear, bottle jack, etc. Right one has tools, tape, air compressor, and a few other things.

The green thing on the right is my awning room I was too lazy to move for the picture.

Orange bag is bungees and straps, and black backpack has shorts, shirt, rain jacket, towel, and TP.

Net up top has hammocks and straps as well as inflatable pillows.

Molle panel has lots of 550 cord and connectors, collapsible shovel/pick, straps, tape, velcro roll, emergency water filter, ferro rod, and mosquito nets.

Left lower pocket has bug spray and sunblock, flip flops, and broom with dustpan. Lower right has a 14w solar panel (for phones) and light covers.

In the hidden compartment I have a tarp, tire repair kit, and jumper cables.

 

[1L19]

View attachment 17607
This is my current load. Left action packer has recovery gear, bottle jack, etc. Right one has tools, tape, air compressor, and a few other things.

The green thing on the right is my awning room I was too lazy to move for the picture.

Orange bag is bungees and straps, and black backpack has shorts, shirt, rain jacket, towel, and TP.

Net up top has hammocks and straps as well as inflatable pillows.

Molle panel has lots of 550 cord and connectors, collapsible shovel/pick, straps, tape, velcro roll, emergency water filter, ferro rod, and mosquito nets.

Left lower pocket has bug spray and sunblock, flip flops, and broom with dustpan. Lower right has a 14w solar panel (for phones) and light covers.

In the hidden compartment I have a tarp, tire repair kit, and jumper cables.

Thank you for the details and I've already stolen some for myself. The most inspirational though... are the paper towel and tape dispensers. That's what I'm talking about!

 

[Lazerrred]

Thanks to 1L19 to start this thread and all others for the cool & simple ideas. LOL, I use mine basically as a truck (back seats out) and my two labs have the pretty much the whole area. I too am liking the molIe on drivers rear glass and the paper towel /tape/ whatever else hanger. I do have maxtrax and Midway folding shooters mat that fit behind my DIY metal “dog screen”. I use the mat for, both shooting and sleeping. Recovery ropes & gear in the rear lift up area, and use gun cases and back packs for whatever I’m gonna do. I used to do a fair amount of USPSA pistol and 3 gun competitions until the COVID scourge hit. Hope it’s over now so maybe we can get back to some normality.

 

[XTERRA2FISH]

Anyone tried the front runner wolf pack boxes? They seem small but i just ordered 3 for fishing gear and misc tools