Running Out of Space? 5 Truck Bed Storage Ideas

Who doesn’t like a clean and clutter-free pickup? There’s just something about seeing a well-organized truck bed that is just so pleasing to the eye. But if you’re like most truck owners, your truck bed storage setup could probably use some major help. Between daily trips to the job site, outdoor adventures and last-minute outings, things can get pretty messy back there.

If you spend more time digging for your tools and equipment than you do actually using them, it may be time to rethink your truck bed organization. Here are five truck bed storage ideas that are guaranteed to keep everything neat, clean and contained.

1. Truck Bed Swing Case

Never heard of a swing case? Don’t worry! A lot of pickup owners aren’t familiar with this amazing little toolbox. A truck bed swing case is essentially a hard case storage unit that sits near the tailgate. It swings out for easy access and takes up little of your precious bed space. You can use it to store all your small essentials: tools, jumper cables, straps, LED flashlights, etc.

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Most swing cases are super simple to remove, so you can take the entire thing with you to a job site or to your garage. You can also install one on each side of your truck for maximum storage. Just be aware that if you decide to get two swing cases, you probably won’t be able to swing both open at the same time due to some overlap between the two cases.

Tip: If you’re going to be keeping valuable gear in your swing case, don’t forget to buy a lock for it!

2. Bed Extender

One of the biggest benefits of owning a pickup truck is that it can haul just about anything–from landscaping tools to kayaks and everything in-between. But sometimes, you may find yourself wishing that your truck bed had a little more room to haul longer loads like boards and ladders.

That’s when a truck bed extender can be incredibly useful. Truck bed extenders mount to your truck and provide a safe extension while still keeping your cargo secure. You’ll get just a few extra feet to haul longer loads without running the risk of your cargo falling out of your truck during transport.

3. Mounted Cargo Cases

If you transport valuable equipment in your truck bed, a couple of heavy-duty cargo cases are a must-have for your next trip. Pelican’s ultra-protective cargo cases are lockable, weather-resistant and can be securely attached to your truck bed for worry-free travel.

Our cargo cases can also attach to your rooftop cargo carrier. So if you’re running low on truck bed space, you can simply load your valuable gear on your rooftop to maximize your truck’s carrying capacity.

4. Cargo Bar

If your large, bulky items have ever gotten damaged during transport, then you can probably see why the cargo bar was created. Cargo bars feature long tubes made from steel or high-strength aluminum and rubber feet that are placed between the sidewalls of the truck. They’re designed to keep loads of all sizes from shifting around when you come to a sudden stop or make a sharp turn.

Not only are cargo bars easy to use and install, they’re also a super affordable truck bed storage idea, with prices ranging anywhere from $20 to $100. You can also buy cargo bags as a truck bed accessory, which are handy for preventing groceries and other small loads from rolling around your truck bed.

5. Truck Bed Slide Out System

Tired of crawling around in your truck bed to grab your tools and gear? A truck bed slide out system solves that problem by giving you easy access to your truck bed space. While truck bed slide out systems come in many different forms and setups, most do the same thing—that is, they slide out like a drawer so you can easily reach items from the back of your truck bed.

The one downside to truck bed slides is that they can be pretty expensive. If you want to save money, consider making your own truck bed slide to fit your pickup.

Truck Bed Organization Made Simple

Pickup trucks are one of the most versatile vehicles you can get. But its greatest benefit—hauling large loads—is also a recipe for clutter and mess. With these truck bed storage ideas, you can keep your tools, equipment and supplies organized and right where you need them at all times.