One thing that I’ve been researching and trying to figure out for a while is a better storage system for the back of the 4runner. When camping/exploring we’ve just been using storage bins. I like the practicality of just loading up the bins of equipment that we need but it does make it a pain when they are stacked and lashed to get what we want out quickly without the whole cargo area turning into a mess. So after looking through many threads and ideas this is what I came up with for now based on the following requirements.
1) Low enough height to be able to still put the dog crate, cooler and travel bins/suitcases on top. I lose about 6” already with the 3rd row.
2) Modularity: I needed the storage to be easily removable, and to be split so that we could put one 3rd row seat up at a time, and even potentially stack the storage boxes.
3) Secure attachment points.
As of now we are using under-the-bed storage bins from the container store that fit snugly in each section with about 6” of space to be able to put things that I want to easily access (towels, diaper changer, picnic blanket, etc.). One bin is filled with my paired down recovery equipment, emergency kit and tools. The other is filled with basic camping supplies, lights/flashlights.
The two storage sections are attached to the factory hooks with d-rings and then attached to each other with bolts and wingnuts, which allow it to work as one solid piece. To split them so we can use one of the 3rd row I just unhook one of the sides and unscrew it from the other section. I can take the system in and out of the truck or change it into the ½ section in less than 10 minutes.
Final step was I cut and attached an old Indoor/Outdoor carpet we had at our back door to create a softer surface on top of the wood boxes.
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