Small Space Living Hacks: How Our Family of Six Thrives in a Camper
When you picture homesteading, you probably imagine wide-open spaces, sprawling gardens, and a farmhouse bursting with rustic charm. While that vision is part of our dream, the reality right now looks a little different. My name is Deian, and I’m a homesteading mom of four. Our family recently moved to 24 acres in Virginia, where we’re building our dream homestead. But for now? We’re living in a camper. Yes, a camper—all six of us. And while it’s not always easy, we’ve found ways to make it work, stay organized, and even thrive in this small space.
If you’re a mom trying to make the most of a small home, or if you’ve ever wondered how people manage to live tiny, this post is for you. I’m sharing the tips, tricks, and Small Space Living Hacks that help us keep our camper functional, cozy, and ready for homesteading adventures. Let’s dive in!
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The Kitchen: Making the Most of Every Inch
The kitchen is the heart of any home, and that doesn’t change just because your home is on wheels. With six people to feed, our camper kitchen needs to be as efficient as possible. Here are some Small Space Living Hacks that have saved our sanity:
1. Bulk Buying, Small-Space Storage
We try to buy in bulk whenever possible because it saves money and reduces trips to the store. But where do we put it all? For items like cereal, we transfer them into plastic containers. These containers not only keep food fresher for longer but also stack neatly in our cabinets without wasting precious space. When the cabinets fill up, we use creative storage solutions, like under-bed compartments, to hold overflow items like canned goods and dry pantry staples.
2. Dual-Purpose Appliances
One of the best decisions we made was replacing the camper’s built-in stove and oven with a multi-functional appliance. We use an Insta Omni Plus oven and air fryer combo, paired with an induction cooktop. These appliances take up less space and allow us to cook nearly anything we need. The only downside is that we have to put them away when not in use—a small price to pay for countertop space.
3. Smart Meal Prep
Living in a camper has taught me to simplify our cooking routine. We stick to ingredient-based meals, which means stocking up on staples like flour, beans, rice, and sugar in five-gallon buckets. These buckets are tucked into storage benches, ensuring we’re ready to whip up meals from scratch without cluttering the kitchen.
If you’re struggling with a tiny kitchen, remember this: organization is everything. Find containers that fit your space, keep frequently used items within reach, and don’t be afraid to think outside the (tiny) box.
Kitchen Must-Haves
Instant Omni Plus
Induction Cooktop
Cookware Set
Dutch Oven
Storage Solutions: Creativity Is Key
Storage can be the biggest challenge in small-space living, but it’s also the area where you can let your creativity shine. Here are some of our favorite Small Space Living Hacks for keeping everything organized:
1. Maximize Hidden Storage
One of the camper’s best features is our bed, which lifts to reveal a large storage compartment underneath. We use this space for canned goods, bulk items, and even seasonal gear like gloves and hats. It’s not the most glamorous setup, but it gets the job done.
2. Multi-Functional Furniture
When we moved into the camper, we removed the dinette and couch to create more usable space. In their place, we added Ikea cabinets that double as benches. One bench holds kitchen utensils, and the other stores food in those trusty five-gallon buckets. These benches are not only practical but also give us seating and a place to keep things tidy.
3. Hooks and Hanging Storage
With limited cabinet space, we’ve had to get creative with walls and doors. Hooks are our go-to solution for hanging coats, sweaters, and even pots and pans. Recently, I moved my dress clothes to hooks on the back of our bedroom door. It’s unconventional but works perfectly for now.
4. Rotating Seasonal Items
Living in a small space means we can’t keep everything out all the time. For example, we store snow pants and extra winter gear in a tub that stays in the car when not in use. Rotating seasonal items helps keep clutter at bay and ensures the camper feels less chaotic.
The key to successful storage in small spaces is to constantly evaluate and adjust. Trial and error are part of the process, and what works today might change as your needs evolve.
Storage Hacks
Food Storage Buckets
Trofast Bench
Trofast Bins
Over the Door Hooks
Cleaning and Maintaining a Small Space
One of the benefits of small-space living is that cleaning doesn’t take as long. However, with six people in a camper, messes can pile up fast. Here are some Small Space Living Hacks to keep things tidy:
1. Quick Cleanups
In a small space, even a few items out of place can make the entire area feel messy. We’ve made it a habit to clean as we go. Whether it’s washing dishes immediately after meals or putting away toys before starting a new activity, these quick cleanups prevent clutter from overwhelming us.
2. Use Natural Cleaners
We try to live as naturally as possible, even in the camper. One of our favorite cleaners is homemade thieves cleaner. It works on nearly every surface, smells amazing, and is free from harsh chemicals—a win-win for a small space.
3. Simplify Laundry
With limited storage for clothing, we’ve pared down our wardrobes to essentials. This makes laundry easier to manage and ensures we’re not overwhelmed by piles of clothes. Plus, smaller wardrobes encourage us to stay on top of laundry, which is a must in tight quarters.
4. Keep Floors Clear
Vacuuming is a breeze when you have a small space, and we rely on our Dyson for quick cleanups. Keeping the floors clear not only makes the space feel larger but also ensures we’re ready to tackle dirt and crumbs as soon as they appear.
By focusing on daily habits and using natural products, we’ve been able to maintain a clean and welcoming environment, even in a camper.
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Making It Homey: Creating Comfort in a Camper
Just because we’re living in a camper doesn’t mean we’ve given up on making it feel like home. In fact, one of the most important Small Space Living Hacks is creating a space that feels cozy and inviting.
1. Personal Touches
We’ve added shelves to display meaningful items like family photos and keepsakes. Recently, we placed our dog Ruben’s ashes alongside my mom’s, giving the space a heartfelt connection. Little touches like these remind us that home is about the people (and pets) we love, not the size of the space.
2. Kid-Friendly Zones
With four kids, it’s essential to have spaces they can call their own. We’ve designated a cabinet for their snacks and a basket for their games. These small areas help them feel included and keep their belongings organized.
3. Flexible Spaces
Our camper has been remodeled several times to suit our needs. For example, we turned an Ikea cabinet into a bench with hidden storage and made room for my work clothes by using hooks and the back of doors. Flexibility is key when making a small space work for a large family.
4. Natural Living
We continue to prioritize natural living, from the cookware we use (hello, cast iron!) to the foods we eat. Being intentional about these choices helps us stay connected to our homesteading goals, even in a camper.
Remember, creating a homey space doesn’t require a big budget or a big house. It’s about filling your space with love, memories, and the things that matter most to you.
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You Can Homestead Anywhere
Living in a camper with a family of six might not be our forever plan, but it’s part of our journey. Along the way, we’ve discovered countless Small Space Living Hacks that make this season of life not only manageable but meaningful. From smart storage solutions to creating a homey atmosphere, we’ve learned that small-space living is all about creativity, flexibility, and intentionality.
If you’re a mom navigating a small home or dreaming of a simpler life, take heart: you can make it work. Whether you’re in a camper, an apartment, or a tiny house, you have the power to create a space that reflects your values and meets your family’s needs. And if you ever need inspiration, know that we’re here, cheering you on from our little camper in Virginia.
Got your own small-space tips or questions about our homesteading journey? Drop a comment below or check out our free resources for more ideas. Together, we can embrace the beauty of small spaces and big dreams.