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A 4WD drawer system is a versatile storage solution for off-road vehicles, providing convenience and safety when travelling on rough terrain. However, whether or not you need one depends on what equipment and supplies you want to carry with you and what adventures you like to go on.
This article will explore 4WD storage systems, the different options available, and their benefits and drawbacks. Then, you can decide if you need one for your 4×4.
What Are 4×4 Storage Drawer Systems?
A 4×4 storage drawer system can be essential for any day or multi-day trip in your off-road vehicle. These organisation systems can be bought or custom-built and typically have shelves and drawers that help securely store and organise your off-road gear.
It includes camping essentials like cookware, tents, and generators, as well as tools and spare parts for breakdowns. Without a system, we often resort to bins, crates, and boxes, making it hard to find what you need when you need it. Such containers also become a safety issue when bouncing around on rough terrain.
Storage systems are great for 4x4s but also for those who live the van life, whether your van is 4×4 or not. They can even be used for travelling in motorhomes, no matter which class of motorhome you have.
What Types of 4×4 Storage Drawers Are Available?
There are many different options available. Storage drawers are a common one. These typically have two drawers underneath a false floor and slide out so you can store smaller items underneath and larger items on top.
Another system is simply a false floor without the drawers, which can be made at any height you wish so you can store heavy items underneath the floor and lighter items on top. You can also do multiple levels of shelves for more vertical storage.
Another storage option is to install roof racks and place bins on top. The drawback is that heavy items can be hard to get off and on, and the extra wind drag on the highway can be noisy and less fuel-efficient.
The final option is a canopy on the back of a truck, which will give you plenty of storage space, especially if you install a drawer and shelf system. However, be sure to check your vehicle’s weight limits.
If you don’t want the added weight, you can also simply store your items in sturdy storage cases. The drawback of these is that they can roll around in the back, and when you have lots of items and need to stack bins, finding what you need can become rather inconvenient.
What Are the Benefits of a 4WD Drawer System?
Organisation and Easy Access
You can organise all of your items, making it much easier to find what you need when you need it. Rather than moving bins and crates around and searching through them, the shelves and drawers mean you can store smaller items in drawers or bins that are much easier to access while storing tents or coolers in the larger storage areas, also with easy access.
Safety
Loose items in the back of a 4WD vehicle can become a real safety hazard, especially when travelling on rough terrain. Storage systems can keep those items safe and secure so they don’t get damaged while protecting the vehicle’s occupants from being hit by flying objects in case of bumps or accidents.
Security
You can keep expensive cameras, electronics, or other items tucked away where people cannot see what you have.
Versatility
Since you can buy multiple configurations or build your own, it is a versatile way to store everything. You can purchase single or double-drawer systems and buy or build horizontal or vertical shelves of any height, depending on your needs.
The vertical height is essential if you want to pack larger items like coolers or your EcoFlow Smart Generator and still have room above it to store your tents, sleeping bags, etc. Horizontal shelves are great for stacking planks, tents, or other long and thin items.
Just remember, if you choose to build your own, make sure you factor in the weight your vehicle is designed to carry and that it follows the Australian Design Rules to ensure safety and insurance coverage in the event of an accident.
What Are the Drawbacks of 4WD Drawer Systems?
Do 4WD Drawer Systems Add a Lot of Additional Weight?
Yes, 4WD drawer systems add weight to your vehicle, especially those made of heavier metals like steel or wood. Some systems can weigh 70kg or more. Lightweight aluminium options are available, but they typically cost more.
Many people opt for a false floor system to reduce weight, which adds less weight but still gives you a shelf for some added organisation. If you build a false floor, you can customise the height to fit your EcoFlow DELTA 2 MAX generator underneath the floor with other large, heavier items and put lighter-weight items on top.
Alternatively, suppose you have minimal space or are already reaching your maximum weight. In that case, you can also use an EcoFlow 800w Alternator Charger to charge your devices while you drive much quicker and more efficiently than without. Then, you don’t have to worry about relying on your battery while parked and risk getting stuck in the bush waiting for a jump start.
Combining an EcoFlow portable power station with 800W alternator charging provides an outstanding 4wd dual battery system.
Another option for those who don’t require as much power is the compact and lightweight EcoFlow RIVER 2 Pro, with plenty of power to charge electronic devices, run speakers, LED lights, and even small kitchen appliances.
Is a 4WD Drawer System Worth It for Your 4×4?
These systems’ safety, security, and organisation make them well worth the investment. However, you must consider your vehicle’s maximum weight limit, the system’s weight, and the weight of the contents you carry, as these may limit what you can install.
Final Thoughts
4WD storage systems are great for those who like to off-road or camp in style. With some careful planning of what you need to carry and how much weight your particular vehicle is designed for, you can buy or build a system that will make your off-road lifestyle convenient, organised, safe, and secure.
Then, you will have plenty of room to store all your camping essentials while still allowing easy access to everything when needed. For instance, a shelf allows easy access to your EcoFlow DELTA 2 MAX, which can charge your electronic devices, run LED lights, and even run an air conditioner or kitchen appliances for the ultimate in convenience and comfort!