Hatchback cars are popular for their versatile cargo space and access through the rear hatch door. However, the boxy interior can quickly turn into a jumbled mess without proper organization. That’s where cargo management accessories come in. They help maximize usable space, neatly contain gear, and prevent items from shifting around.
A variety of clever products are available to help organize the cargo area of a hatchback. Cargo nets and dividers secure objects in place and create separate storage zones. Cargo liners protect the floor and walls from damage. Storage bags and boxes neatly contain loose items. Straps hold large objects steady. Coolers and warmers keep perishables at optimal temperature during transport. Vacuums help keep the interior clean. Portable organizers provide specialized storage.
With the right accessories, hatchback owners can safely transport all types of cargo while maintaining a tidy, organized interior. The increased practicality helps justify the hatchback’s smaller footprint. Cargo management accessories are an inexpensive way to enhance the utility of a hatchback for daily use and road trips.
Cargo Nets
Cargo nets are one of the most useful accessories for securing items in the hatchback storage area. They come in a variety of styles, with bungee nets and mesh nets being two popular options.
Bungee nets 1 use elastic cords to create a web-like net that can stretch to hold cargo in place. These are great for irregularly shaped items that might slip through a standard mesh net. The elastic cords absorb shock and keep items from shifting around.
Mesh nets 2 have an open weave made of durable nylon or polyester. They allow you to see what’s being stored while keeping items contained. Mesh nets are a good choice when you need ventilation and air circulation around cargo.
Both bungee and mesh nets come in different sizes to customize coverage in the back storage area. They can attach via built-in hooks, clips, or anchors that fit around the backs of rear seats.
Cargo Liners
Cargo liners are a great way to protect the interior of your hatchback and customize the look. Made from durable materials like rubber, plastic, or thermoplastic elastomers, cargo liners fit precisely in your cargo area and help prevent scratches, spills, and damage.
Popular options like the Husky Liners Weatherbeater are custom molded to match the exact contours of your hatchback’s cargo space. They feature raised edges to contain spills and debris, keeping your carpeting protected. The textured finish also helps stop items from sliding around.
For a sleek, luxurious look, consider a custom-fit cargo liner like those from Canvasback. These liners come in one-piece and have a rich, carpeted finish. The material is also waterproof and stain-resistant to handle messes while complementing your interior.
With various color options available, cargo liners allow you to customize the look of your cargo area. Whether you need heavy-duty protection or want an upscale appearance, cargo liners are an essential accessory to keep your hatchback’s interior in pristine condition.
Cargo Bars/Dividers
Cargo bars and dividers are an excellent accessory for hatchback cars to create separate storage sections in your cargo area. By dividing up the available space, you can organize and secure items to prevent them from sliding around.
Look for cargo bars and dividers that are specifically designed to fit the dimensions of your hatchback. They should install securely, often attaching to existing anchor points. Dividers that fold down when not needed offer versatility.
Opt for heavy-duty steel or aluminum bars that can hold gear and supplies in place. Interior cargo dividers with mesh netting panels add extra security while still allowing you to see contents. Waterproof canvas divider bags attach to the bars to create tidy storage compartments.
Cargo bars let you segment the cargo area into smaller sections that make the most of the available space. Use them to separate dirty gear from clean items, tools from recreational equipment, or create zones for various supplies. Dividers are indispensable for keeping cargo contained and stable.
Storage Bags/Boxes
Collapsible storage bags and boxes are a convenient way to organize cargo in your hatchback. They come in a variety of sizes to accommodate different items. Collapsible boxes with lids are great for containing loose items like tools, sports equipment, and camping gear. Storage bags are useful for compressing soft items like blankets and clothing to save space. Look for storage solutions made of durable materials with straps or handles for easy transport.
Collapsible fabric popup bags maximize space when expanded but fold down small when not in use. They often feature exterior pockets and straps to hold items in place. Plastic storage bins are sturdier and allow you to stack items vertically. Mesh bags allow you to easily identify contents while maintaining breathability. Hard shell plastic containers are waterproof and protect fragile items.
Measure your cargo area before purchasing to ensure the storage solutions will fit. It’s ideal to get a variety of sizes for small, medium, and large items. Some bags and boxes are designed specifically for hatchback cargo areas with custom dimensions. With the right storage accessories, you can keep your hatchback cargo area neat, organized, and clutter-free.
Luggage Straps
Luggage straps are an essential accessory for securing belongings in a hatchback. They come in a variety of styles, lengths, and weight limits to accommodate different cargo. Luggage straps work by attaching to tie-down hooks or anchor points within the cargo area and stretching over luggage or other items to hold them securely in place. This prevents belongings from sliding around or tipping over during transport. Quality straps are made of durable nylon or polyester webbing and have a ratcheting mechanism for adjusting tension. Most feature hooks on each end for attachment, while some have Velcro-style attachments for wrapping around cylindrical items. Choosing straps with a high weight limit, such as 1,000 lbs or more, ensures a strong hold for heavier luggage and gear. Using two straps in an X-pattern across the load provides optimal stabilization. Proper use of luggage straps allows safe transport of items in the hatch area and prevention of damage. Some top strap options to consider for hatchbacks are the Rhino-Rack Retreat Straps, Yakima LockNLoad Straps, and the Horizon Spider Webbings (Amazon.com: Car Roof Straps). With quality luggage straps installed, hatchback owners can transport luggage, sports equipment, tools, and more with total confidence.
Cooler/Warmer
A cooler/warmer is an essential accessory for hatchback cars to maintain the temperature of food and drinks while on the road. Small portable electric coolers allow you to keep contents cool or warm using your car’s 12V power outlet (Wagan, 2022). Models like the Wagan EL6214 offer both cooling and warming functions in a compact 14L capacity powered by your car’s 12V DC power source. They can heat up contents to 149°F or cool down to 32°F below ambient temperature. This allows you to enjoy cold drinks and freshly heated food no matter where your travels take you.
These thermoelectric coolers don’t require ice and are much more versatile than just an ice chest. You can use it as a warmer for soup, baby bottles, or keeping food at safe temperatures. The small footprint is perfect for hatchback cargo areas without taking up valuable space. Dual temperature zones allow simultaneous cooling and warming. With proper placement and ventilation, a quality electric cooler/warmer is a hatchback’s best friend for road trips, camping, and adventures.
Vacuum
A car vacuum accessory is a great way to conveniently clean up dirt, debris, and crumbs inside your hatchback. Car vacuums allow you to vacuum up messes right in your vehicle without having to find a wall outlet. Most car vacuums are cordless, rechargeable, and compact so they can easily be stored in your cargo area. Many feature attachments like crevice tools, brushes, and extenders to help you reach around and under seats. Some car vacuums are bagless which makes it easy to empty the dirt cup when needed.
Look for an automotive vacuum that is strong enough to pick up dust, sand, pet hair, etc. but quiet so it doesn’t overwhelm you in the enclosed vehicle space. It should also work well on different surfaces like carpet, upholstery, and plastic. A car vacuum is great for quick cleanup of kid and pet messes so your cargo area stays neat. You can vacuum up dirt right away before it gets ground into the carpets and fabric. Regular quick cleaning with a portable car vacuum will keep the interior looking and feeling clean.
Portable Organizers
Portable organizers are handy accessories that allow you to customize storage configurations. They typically feature movable dividers so you can adjust compartments to fit your cargo. Popular options include collapsible fabric organizers with multiple pockets. These make it easy to separate items while optimizing space. Consider the Drive Auto Car Trunk Organizer, which has adjustable velcro dividers. For a budget buy, Home- It collapsible fabric trunk organizers have movable panels and outer zipper pockets.
Rigid portable organizers with removable bins offer durable customizable storage. The Orient Automotive supply organizer has a lid and removable plastic bins to keep items from shifting. Customize the layout to fit your needs. These portable options allow you to pack and organize your cargo efficiently while saving space.
Conclusion
For many hatchback drivers, properly managing cargo is key to enjoying your vehicle. Hatchbacks provide versatility and cargo space, but that space needs to be organized for maximum efficiency. By considering cargo nets, liners, bars, storage bags and boxes, straps, coolers/warmers, vacuums, and organizers, you can transform your hatchback into an organizational masterpiece. A few simple accessories can make all the difference in allowing you to securely transport your gear while keeping it neat, tidy, and damage-free. Don’t underestimate the importance of cargo management! A organized cargo area means less headaches on the road.
