How to Secure Food in an RV Refrigerator While Traveling

1. Use Tension Bars or Spring Rods

A popular method RV travelers swear by is using tension bars or spring rods. These bars are great for keeping items secure on shelves, preventing them from sliding or shifting while you’re on the road.

• How it works: Place a tension bar horizontally between the fridge walls or across the shelves. This creates a barrier to keep your items from moving.
• Where to find them: You can easily find them in the home goods section of stores like Walmart, or online through retailers like Amazon.

**Tip**: Some RVers recommend using spring-loaded rods, which are adjustable and can be placed inside the fridge to ensure everything stays in place.

2. Organize with Clear Plastic Bins

For a more structured approach, consider organizing your fridge using clear plastic bins. These are especially helpful for smaller items like snacks, condiments, or produce.

• Why it works: Bins prevent items from rolling around and allow you to easily find what you're looking for.
• How to use: Stack your bins inside the fridge, grouping similar items together. This also makes it easier to take things out without a mess when you arrive at your destination.

**Tip**: Opt for stackable bins to maximize space and keep everything organized.

3. Lock the Fridge Door

One of the simplest yet most effective ways to prevent your fridge from opening mid-trip is to secure the fridge door itself.

• How it works: Many RV fridges come with locks on the outside. If yours doesn’t have a built-in lock, you can purchase a fridge lock or use other methods like velcro strips or a childproof latch.
• Where to find them: Look for RV-specific fridge locks or browse through baby-proofing sections in stores.

**Tip**: In some cases, adding a bungee cord to keep the door tightly closed can be an effective low-cost solution.

4. Utilize Shelf Clips or Adjustable Bars

For an additional layer of security, shelf clips can be a game-changer. These clips help keep shelves from tipping or shifting during travel, making sure that all your stored food stays in place.

• How it works: Place the clips on the edges of shelves or along the door to hold items securely.
• Where to find them: Many RV accessory stores, as well as Walmart, carry these clips. They’re typically sold in the RV section.

**Tip**: Double spring bars can also be used in conjunction with shelf clips to ensure nothing moves inside the fridge.

5. Pack Smart and Secure with Rubber Shelf Mats

To minimize shifting, make use of rubber shelf mats. These mats not only help keep items in place but also provide a non-slip surface, reducing the chances of a mess.

• Why it works: Rubber mats act like a cushion, preventing items from sliding around.
• How to use: Place the mats at the bottom of shelves and on the fridge floor, then pack your items strategically, placing heavier items at the bottom.

**Tip**: Combining rubber mats with tight packing ensures everything stays put and prevents spillage.

6. Prepare and Pack in Tupperware

To avoid spills and messes, it's a good idea to prep meals ahead of time and store them in Tupperware containers. Not only will this help keep your food fresh, but the containers also act as an additional layer of security inside your fridge.

• How it works: By using stackable containers, you can organize your food efficiently while making the most of your fridge space.
• Where to find them: Tupperware or similar brands can be found at most stores, and you can opt for containers that lock tightly.

**Tip**: Pre-packaged food in Tupperware helps keep everything contained and reduces the risk of items spilling out during travel.

Final Thoughts

Securing food in your RV fridge doesn’t have to be a challenge. By utilizing tension bars, plastic bins, fridge locks, and other clever tricks, you can keep your food safe and your fridge organized while you’re on the road.

As you prepare for your next adventure, be sure to pack strategically, secure your fridge properly, and enjoy your journey knowing that your food will stay fresh and in place.