As you’re cruising down the highway, you look at your travel trailer and think, “I don’t know how much longer I can live like this!” You may even ask yourself, “Why do I even own this thing?”
If you’re like most people, your travel trailer is your home away from home. And just like your regular home, you want it to be comfortable, stylish, and inviting.
Decorating a travel trailer
While decorating can take time, making a few changes can really transform the feel of your trailer in no time at all. Check out these 20 tips for decorating your travel trailer:
1. Decorate with a Wallpaper
The idea of wallpaper in a travel trailer may seem overkill, but there are many great patterns available for this space that will give your home a more finished look.
One of the benefits of using wallpaper on the walls is that you can always change it up when you want to switch things up! You might even consider matching the design with some other accents in your trailer.
2. String some lights around the ceiling
Add some string lights around the ceiling of your trailer if you don’t have any. You’ll be surprised how much light they actually provide – just be sure not to hang them too close, or they’ll get hot and melt something!
It’s also a good idea to find out what type of bulbs are best suited for use inside the trailer before hanging them. Check with your local hardware store before buying anything online.
3. Cover those ugly window blinds
Are you still rocking those old-school window coverings? Stop now and invest in some curtains. There are so many different styles available these days, including sheer curtains, which allow natural light to filter through while providing privacy from outside viewers.
If you’re looking for an inexpensive option, try cutting an old bed sheet into panels and hemming each side. Hang one panel across the top of the window and another across the bottom to create a cool effect.
4. Paint small objects (or big ones) white
You can easily add some personality to your trailer by painting any small items white. Anything from picture frames, clocks, chairs, etc., can instantly be transformed with this easy update.
Painting bigger items, such as tables and beds, is a little trickier since you need to tape off the edges. But you can either do it yourself or hire someone else to do it for you.
Be sure to paint everything with a primer first, then paint all sides evenly. Let dry completely before removing the masking tape; otherwise, you could mess up your freshly painted surfaces.
If you’re working on larger pieces, use chalk paint instead of latex paint to achieve a distressed look. Just remember to sand and seal after the project is complete!
5. Upcycle furniture
Don’t waste money buying new furniture for your tiny trailer home! There are plenty of ways to spruce up existing pieces without breaking the bank. Start by stripping the old finish, sanding the wood down, and priming.
Choose a modern paint color to match your decorating style. Give everything two coats of paint, letting it dry thoroughly between coats. Afterward, distress the edges with steel wool.
You can purchase some of the supplies at your local hardware store, and once you’ve assembled your supplies, it should only take a few hours to do the whole job.
6. Create shelving units
Installing shelving units is a fantastic way to make your trailer feel more spacious. You can fill them with books, plants, or anything else you want! To build a shelf system, measure the distance between the floor and ceiling of your trailer in inches. Subtract your desired height of the shelves from this number.
Now, you’ll know the width and length of boards you’ll need to cut. Once you’ve measured your board, cut it in half and paint it before assembling your shelf unit. As for shelf decorators, you can use jars to store some of your favorite souvenirs.
Place them on the shelf and label them for easy identification. You can use anything from old cookie tins to recycled wine bottles. If you’re feeling ambitious, start a collection and see where it takes you!
7. Get creative with storage solutions
If you’re lucky enough to own a larger trailer, try adding a pantry or cupboard in an unused corner of the trailer. You can use this space to store food, dishes, or anything else you need.
You can also put a bookcase against one of the walls to maximize your living space. This will allow you to display your favorite knickknacks and curiosities.
8. Add artwork to your walls
Artwork can bring life to your trailer! If you want your trailer to feel cozy, look for artwork that evokes that feeling. If you want your trailer to look hip, pick out pieces of art in a color palette you love.
If you’re going for a traditional look, choose framed prints in an appropriate size. If you are trying to create a vintage vibe, try old photos of your family or friends.
You can also paint your favorite quotes on the wall, like this famous line from Oscar Wilde: If you want to live a happy life, tie it to a goal. This quote is especially appropriate for travelers. The options are endless when it comes to art!
9. Put in some plants and greenery
Bring the outdoors inside with some houseplants! Fill those awkward corners with plants for some much-needed color and curb appeal. A good rule of thumb is to have one plant per square foot.
But remember not to overcrowd; if there’s not enough sunlight, they won’t thrive. You might also want to consider indoor plants that help freshen the air. These plants can remove chemicals and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from the air.
One of the best plants for removing formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene is Dracaena marginata or Red-edge Dracaena.
If you’re looking for a low-maintenance option, succulents are great! They’re ideal for travel trailers because they require little to no water.
10. Add mirrors to the bathroom and bedroom
The first thing to do is decide whether you want a full-length or vanity mirror. It all depends on the layout of your trailer and what will be most convenient for you.
Full-length mirrors take up quite a bit of space but can provide the best light for makeup application. Vanity mirrors offer more lighting than full-length ones but don’t let you see your entire body at once. Plus, you’ll need to get a smaller mirror to hang on the back of the door.
11. Keep things clean with shower curtains
Shower curtains are essential in every trailer! Whether traveling or living full-time, shower curtains will keep your bathroom from getting too dirty.
Just remember to put something underneath if your trailer has a linoleum floor. Curtain liners can be expensive, but they’re worth it. They won’t fade as quickly as cheaper options, and they’ll make your bathroom look brand new again. If you want something even more affordable, consider canvas shower curtains!
12. Get a pop of color with pillows and throws
You can add color to your travel trailer in several ways, from throw pillows on your couch to an area rug. It’s a good idea to use a neutral or white couch so that you can mix in whatever colors you like for your pillows and throws.
Choose a colorful rug or splashy pillow if you want to avoid redecorating. You can also experiment with different patterns and textures as long as they go together.
DIY projects are a great way to save money and show off your personality if you’re working with a strict budget.
13. Install a ceiling fan or two
Many travel trailers come with a ceiling fan or two, but if yours doesn’t have one, you’ll want to ensure you get one. You’ll use it year-round for both cooling and heating purposes.
If you’re looking for a way to save money on heating, just turn your ceiling fan on high when you go to bed. Even on low, it can provide plenty of air circulation that will help keep things cool at night.
14. Cover your couch with a durable and easy-to-clean fabric
Many people find they want to change the upholstery on their couches, but this can be costly. Luckily, there are other ways to get a fresh new look without having to reupholster your furniture.
If you’re willing to spend a little time and effort, try making your own slipcovers! It’s not hard to sew a fitted slipcover from simple pieces of fabric. You’ll need a sewing machine, needle and thread, some heavy-duty staples, and about five hours of your time.
15. Put in a DVD player
Travel trailers usually come with TVs, but not always DVD players. So if you love watching movies while traveling (who doesn’t?), make sure to install one before you head out on the road.
This is especially important if you plan on using your TV screen as a computer monitor. If you already have a DVD player, it’ll probably work for your needs.
But if you want to play games or watch a Blu-Ray movie, you might want to invest in a more expensive model. Another option is to buy a small flat-screen TV and hook it up to your computer or gaming system.
16. Hang wicker baskets on the walls for storage
Instead of putting clothes and towels on your countertop, hang a few wicker baskets on your wall. This will free up space, and you can also store smaller items in them. If you’re worried about them falling, use screws to attach them to your trailer.
You could also use your wicker baskets for decor. Fill them with decorative items or throw in some fresh-cut flowers. It’s also a good idea to have at least one basket dedicated strictly to the clothes you wear while traveling.
This way, if you stay in a hotel, you’ll have somewhere safe to put your dirty clothes.
17. Flameless candles are perfect for your home away from home
Flameless candles can really set the mood and make your travel trailer feel like a true home. They are a great alternative to traditional candles because you don’t have to worry about burning your place down.
Plus, you won’t ruin your curtains if you forget to blow them out. However, they are not a complete replacement for real candles. If you want to set a romantic atmosphere or cook with food-scented candles, then traditional ones are the way to go.
18. Peel and stick floor tiles to cover your floors
If you’ve been dreaming of a custom floor, but are on a tight budget, think about covering your floors with peel and stick tiles. These tiles give off a seamless look and can be changed easily.
There are even peel and stick tile options that mimic wood flooring, so you won’t have to settle for anything less than what you really want. The only drawback is that these tiles can’t handle heavy use, so they’re best for occasional foot traffic.
If you want something that will last, consider installing vinyl or linoleum.
19. Adhere a rug to the floor with carpet tape
For many travelers, the thing they miss most about their homes is the feeling of walking barefoot on a soft rug. One solution is to create your own by adhering a rug to the floor with carpet tape.
You can do this by cutting a large piece of rug and taping it down in one section of your trailer. If you want to do the whole room, you’ll have to cut and tape several smaller areas together.
20. Finally, hang a welcome mat to greet your guests.
Most people don’t realize how much an uninviting doorway can deter visitors. To remedy this, just pick up a cheap mat and put it outside your door.
Not only does it make your trailer seem welcoming, but if you keep a mat inside, you’ll save yourself from tracking dirt and debris into your clean trailer.
Conclusion
Though you may be limited on space, there are plenty of ways to make your travel trailer feel like home. By adding personal touches and décor that reflect your style, you can create a space that is both comfortable and stylish. With a little creativity, your travel trailer can be a true oasis on the open road.
