On-Site Storage

Until very recently, we have transported all of our gear in a 5' x 8' rental trailer and have used clear, hard plastic boxes and a chest of plastic drawers to hold all of our "stuff". We are now using a mini-van and have condensed the "stuff" from the drawers into toolboxes and reduced the number of clear, hard plastic boxes that we take by also condensing those contents.

You're on the right track with the Rubbermaid idea but having clear lids and sides makes a huge difference.

What to you take to get all your stuff to a comp? Van, truck and utility trailer, truck and smoker?

Organization is key and you will learn something from each comp you do. What works for us is 4 plastic bins, 1 for wood, 1 for foil pans (so they dont get damaged and stay clean), 1 for small kitchen food items (spices, salt, pepper, juices, sauces, rubs), and 1 for lighting and decorations. These bins get emptied other than the foil bin and then we use an empty bin for safely storing our turn in boxes. Then we have 1 of those 3 drawer bins with clear plastic drawers for kicthen utinsels, foil, Ziplock backs and plastic wrap. Each drawer and bin has a label for easy ID and finally I have a 2 page check list grouped by storage area for each and every item we bring.

We've gotten it down to such a science after 3 comps this year, that it it takes little time for me to get a list together for what is needed for the next comp. Good Luck!