Here is a super basic setup that I have really liked:
That certainly is the idea. A rig with a full swing up door would need something that would allow the door to be opened.. You're lucky enough to have tailgate, and top window.. Lucky
Greg, now that I have time I can go through my packing system. It's not nearly as extensive as some that i've read, but it works for now.
First off, I remove the bottom seats from teh rear bench. This is 4 bolts in the 4runner, and the Xterra has quick release latches for removeal.
All of my recovery gear goes into a smallish duffle bag. This includes, tow strap, gloves, D-rings, jumper cables, BFH. This bag sits immediately behind the front seats.
My tool box sits beneath the recovery bag. This tool box is maybe an 80 pieces including sockets, combination wrenches and so on.
I've found that NATO or Scepter fuel cans fit perfectly between the front seats, and the folded rear backs, if that makes sense. I might have one of those on a weekend trip, and two if a full trip. I've never had a problem with leakage or fumes... That is, except for one time when I used one of kurt Scepters that had a cracked lid.. Even then, not a big issue.
In the rear trunk of the Xterra I have a tarp, a big thick blanket for repairs and such, tire iron, LED worklight, crowbar, bottleneck jack, big flashlight, and whatever else I can fit in there.
I have a loose tool bag with random wrenches, pliers, and so on, that sits in one of the side storage compartments. Next to that is a fire extinguisher. Behind those are paper towels. There is a bungee that secures the extinguisher from tipping over. This bungee has two waterproof bags clipped to it that hold one, loads of bungees, straps and so on; and two, extra warm clothes.
At this point in packing I have the entire rear of the Xterra completely open and free for my containers. I have one large Action Packer, and one small Action Packer. The large box generally holds the odd items like Hi-Lift base, random large akward tools, massive 12v search light, garbage bags, z-ties, just loads of the more random stuff.. The small Action Packer holds all of my dry food, and so far has been absolutely perfect in its size.
I'll throw in the average size cooler, and continue to dream about having a fridge. These three are ratchet strapped down and secured tight. Around those i'll throw a campchair, sleeping pad, sleeping bag, and a backpack incase hiking takes place.
I think I might replace the big Action Packer with another small one since the Xterra has so much more useable storage spaces than the 4runner did.
-Jason