5 Small-Space Ideas for a 2-Bathroom RV: Creative, practical layouts and styling tips from a 10+ year interior designer for maximizing two bathrooms in tight RV layouts

I once had a client insist we fit a shower, tub, washer and a sauna in a 20-foot RV bathroom — I laughed, sketched, cried, then learned something important: small spaces force creativity. That experience (and a near-disaster with a swinging bathroom door) taught me that a 2 bathroom RV can feel luxurious if you design with purpose. Small spaces can spark big ideas, and I’ll share five practical inspirations I’ve used on real projects to make two bathrooms work beautifully in an RV.

1. Stack functions with wet/dry zoning

My favorite trick is to separate wet zones (shower/toilet) from dry zones (vanity/storage). It makes two small bathrooms feel like one integrated system — one can be a shower-focused wet room while the other keeps grooming and storage. The upside is faster turnaround when multiple people need the space; the challenge is plumbing planning and ventilation. In one project I swapped a swinging door for a sliding pocket door and gained elbow room instantly — simple and budget-friendly.

save pin

2. Use compact, multi-functional fixtures

Compact toilets, corner sinks, and fold-down vanities are lifesavers in RV bathrooms. I often specify a wall-hung sink with an integrated shelf so you get counter space without a bulky cabinet. The benefit is clear: more floor area and easier cleaning. The downside is slightly higher cost for custom or caravan-rated pieces, but the payoff in usability is worth it.

save pin

3. Create visual space with light and mirrors

Mirrors and layered lighting trick the eye — a full-width mirror above a narrow vanity and LED strips in the shower make even tiny bathrooms feel roomy. On one remodel I added reflective tiles in the secondary bathroom and it instantly felt less claustrophobic. Lighting upgrades are affordable and have big impact, though you must balance brightness with battery/inverter capacity in the RV.

save pin

4. Smart storage: think vertical and hidden

Use recessed medicine cabinets, over-door organizers, and niche shelves in showers to keep clutter down. I like shallow cabinetry above the toilet and a slim pull-out linen tower where space allows. The advantage is staying organized without bulky furniture; the trade-off is careful measurement and potentially custom carpentry for odd RV dimensions. When possible, choose modular pieces that can be reconfigured as needs change.

save pin

5. Plan layouts around privacy and flow

Two bathrooms let you assign one for quick use and one for longer routines. Orient doors so they don’t collide and use translucent partitions to preserve light while keeping privacy. In a recent job I repositioned a door swing and added a frosted glass panel to separate sleeping and bathing zones — it cost a bit more but solved a constant annoyance. This approach improves daily flow and household harmony, especially on trips.

If you want to sketch layout options quickly, I often bring clients to tools like the 3D floor planner to visualize changes in real time. Later in the process, using a kitchen layout planner concept helps when plumbing or shared systems need coordination.

save pin

FAQ

Q: Is a two-bathroom RV practical for couples? A: Absolutely — two bathrooms reduce morning traffic jams and add resale value; just plan plumbing and venting carefully.

Q: How much extra weight does a second bathroom add? A: It varies by fixtures and materials, but compact RV-rated components minimize weight; always check your vehicle’s GVWR.

Q: Are full showers feasible in both bathrooms? A: Yes, but you may choose one full shower and one wet-room or cassette shower to save space and plumbing complexity.

Q: What's the best flooring for RV bathrooms? A: Waterproof, slip-resistant vinyl plank or marine-grade laminate are durable and lightweight.

Q: Do I need special plumbing for two bathrooms in an RV? A: You’ll need to plan freshwater and gray/black water routing and possibly upgrade pumps; consult an RV-certified plumber for exact specs. For authoritative guidance on plumbing and vehicle limits, refer to RV industry resources like the Recreational Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA).

Q: How can I add luxury touches without big cost? A: Swap hardware, add LED lighting, and install a heated towel rack or a water-efficient showerhead for small luxuries with reasonable budgets.

Q: Will adding two bathrooms lower storage space? A: It can, unless you prioritize vertical and hidden storage solutions and use multifunctional fixtures.

Q: Where can I experiment with different 2-bath layouts myself? A: Try an interactive room planner to map measurements and test door swings before committing to changes.

save pin