This Budget-Friendly Table From IKEA Is A Stylish RV Space-Saving Hack
We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.
There's a reason minimalism is a popular lifestyle trend among full-time RV lifers — life on the road can get pretty cramped. And when square footage is that sacred, finding furniture that pulls double (or triple) duty is like striking gold. For your RV dining area, IKEA's PINNTORP gateleg table just might be the unsung hero of the RV world. At just over 26 inches long when folded down, it works beautifully as a small work station or sideboard. But swing up its foldable extension, and you've suddenly got a full-fledged dining table that is nearly 49 inches long and seats up to four. Whether you're making new friends at a national park or boondocking solo in the desert, this table adapts to your needs without hogging floor space.
It's also surprisingly cute. The solid pine tabletop, white trim, and modern silhouette don't scream "budget furniture." Instead, it adds a clean, Scandinavian vibe that can easily be dressed up with a table runner or some fresh flowers.
And for RVers trying to stick to a budget, the price is a perk — at around $230, it's far more affordable than most custom-built options designed for tiny spaces. Lightweight but solid, collapsible and multi-functional — the PINNTORP is everything you want from an RV table. IKEA also offers some accessories to match, such as its FIXA stick-on floor protectors ($1.99), which are recommended to prevent scratches to the floor.
More clever ways to stretch your RV space
If you've carved out a cozy corner with your PINNTORP table, it's time to build around it. A smart seating hack can open up room in your cramped RV: Try incorporating storage into your permanent seating options. An ottoman bench like this one from Storagebud can offer seating and storage space in one. For extra seating, try adding a few stackable or folding stools that tuck neatly underneath when not in use. IKEA also offers a range of slim-profile chairs that fold flat and can be hung on a wall-mounted rack or behind a closet door when not in use.
Above the table, a collapsible wall shelf (these Ravinte folding shelf brackets are handy) or pegboard can hold utensils, work supplies, or decor, giving your dining nook double duty as a workstation or craft space. If you're working remotely, the PINNTORP transitions easily into a desk, and a hanging file folder system (like this one from Godery) nearby can help organize paper clutter without taking up extra space.
The beauty of this setup is the flexibility of flipping between uses (dining room, office, coffee station, record player setup — the possibilities are endless) without having to lug out a folding table or reorganize half your RV. With a few well-placed pieces and a little ingenuity, you can turn even the tightest floor plan into a layout that works for you. Here are some more easy and creative tips that will make your RV feel more like a home.