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How to Keep Your Vehicle Organized for Sports Season (and Survive the Chaos!)

Writer's picture: Jackie HavelJackie Havel

Sports season is here, and if you're a parent with active kids, you know what that means—endless road trips, snack wrappers piling up in your car, and, if you live where it snows - wet gear and bulky winter clothing. Staying organized on the go may seem impossible. Still, you can reclaim your vehicle (and sanity) with simple strategies.


Here are some tips (and links) to keep the mess under control and your vehicle ready for the next big game:


Contain Wet and Muddy Gear

Wet boots, snow-covered mittens, and muddy cleats can damage your car's interior. Instead of letting these items soak your floors, try one of the options below.

Tip: Store wet and muddy gear in a collapsible plastic laundry basket or mesh bag. Line the bottom with an old towel to absorb moisture and prevent odors. Once you're home, take the bin straight to the mudroom or laundry area for easy unloading and drying.


Tame the Winter Bulk

When traveling with multiple kids, bulky winter gear can quickly take over your car. Instead of letting coats and snow pants pile up in the back seat, create a system to keep everything organized.

  • Tip: Use a pop-up laundry basket or a large tote bag to corral winter items like coats, snow pants, and extra gloves. Assign each child a color-coded reusable shopping bag or drawstring bag for personal items. When it's time to suit up, everything is easy to grab.


Create a Small Central Garbage Solution

Snack wrappers, empty water bottles, and napkins often end up on the floor. Designate a small garbage bin for your car to keep trash in check.

  • Tip

    • Closed top: Use a plastic cereal container with a flip-top lid lined with a small garbage bag. It's compact, spill-proof, and easy to empty at the gas station or when you get home. Keep it within reach in the front or middle row for easy access.

    • Open top: I used a battery box for the garbage can in my vehicle. I love that it's an open top with a large base that helps it not topple over. Here is a link to something similar: https://amzn.to/4iqXYVV


Utilize Seatback and Trunk Organizers

When you're juggling snacks, water bottles, extra clothes, and first-aid kits, it's easy for things to get lost. Use organizers to make the most of your car's space.

  • Tip:

    • Attach a seatback organizer to the back of the front seats for holding water bottles, snacks, tissues, and small toys.

    • Use stackable bins or a collapsible trunk organizer to separate gear like balls, helmets, or blankets in the trunk.


Pack an "On-the-Go Essentials Kit"

A long day at the rink, gym, or field can bring unexpected spills, muddy shoes, and even minor scrapes. Pack a kit to handle whatever the day throws your way.

  • What to Include:

    • Wet wipes and hand sanitizer

    • A small first-aid kit

    • Travel-sized deodorizer spray

    • Plastic grocery bags for dirty clothes or extra trash


Set Clear Expectations

Getting the kids involved is key to keeping things tidy. Teach them to put their gear in the designated spots and toss the trash in the garbage bin. Making clean-up a family effort can reduce stress and help your system stay in place.


Final Thoughts

Staying organized during sports season doesn't have to be a losing battle. Creating designated spots for wet gear, bulky winter clothing, and trash lets you keep your car clean and clutter-free, no matter how hectic the schedule gets. With some planning and simple tools, you'll be ready to tackle the season easily—and maybe even enjoy the ride!

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