I think rig organization is something I'm always working on. I've read Marie Kondo's book, and I officially can fold underwear now.
The best way for me to organize my jeep is to get out on as many trips as possible and when I get home, write down a list of things that were NOT well organized and work on that for my next trip.
Some things I've picked up over time, in no particular order, and just top of mind stuff:
1. if you're packing tools, a soft tool bag that rolls up is a great way to reduce space and keep tools organized. I have a bucket boss tool roll (home depot) that does the trick. If I had to do it all over again, I'd get the Blue Ridge tool bag:
Tool Bag
2. I organize things into kits that are organized by function: first aid kit, toiletry kit, poop kit, medicine/toiletries for my kids, etc. I try to keep as much in my jeep at all times to reduce the amount of packing/unpacking.
3. First aid kit should be easiest to get to, and well marked. Fire extinguisher should also be easy to get to, especially in relation to where you are cooking.
4. I tend to have things set up to quickly get to water and to boil water quickly. My day doesn't really start until I get to my first coffee.
5. Always have a place for trash (trasharoo or other outside trash bag, cabin trash bag, etc).
6. I have a roof top tent so I like to keep my clothes and anything else I want to bring up into the RTT in one bag (books, pen/paper, lights, etc).
But more practically, while at Overland Expo I got some great tips from Dan Grec (
www.theroadchoseme.com):
1. Always make sure the things you use most often are easiest to get to. For example: Dan keeps sunscreen under/by drivers side seat so it's always there when getting in and out. Recovery gear that's not often used can be packed in a bit, lower and less accessible if you're not planning on using it frequently, YMMV. Water is something you will use very frequently so it should be easy to get to.
2. Only bring what you really need and will use. (If it's not safety/recover gear and you continue to not use something, evaluate if it should keep going out on trips with you. )
3. Be mindful of where the weight is on your vehicle, store heavy tools that you won't use often as low as possible in your jeep to keep the center of gravity down load.
Lastly, I'm always interested in meeting other overlanders and seeing how they organize things. I've never met a more open and friendly group of folk, and there's so much to learn just by meeting up with others and comparing set ups and what works and what doesn't.
I'm sure others will chime in with some time proven tips as well.
Hope that helps!
Jason
