ᐅ Does the drone fit in the Kallax – any experience?

Hello everyone,

I am planning to store my drone in an IKEA Kallax shelf to keep it protected while still having quick access. However, I don’t know the exact dimensions of the most common drone models, nor how much space is actually needed for accessories and carrying cases.

Perhaps someone here owns a drone (e.g., DJI Mavic Air, Phantom, or similar) and can share from experience whether it fits well into a Kallax unit? I am specifically referring to the classic 33x33 cm (13x13 inches) compartment. Does the drone, including propeller guards or a carrying case, fit inside, or would larger units be necessary?

I would appreciate tips on optimal storage, space requirements, and any recommendations for better alternatives.

Thanks in advance!

LUBOMAU schrieb:
I am planning to store my drone in an IKEA Kallax shelf to keep it protected but still easily accessible.

This is an interesting approach, but it’s important to consider that the Kallax compartment dimensions of 33 x 33 cm (13 x 13 inches) are quite limited when trying to fit the drone along with accessories and possibly a carrying case.

LUBOMAU schrieb:
Does the drone fit in there including the propeller guard or carrying case, or do you need to look for larger compartments?

It would be helpful to know the exact measurements and height of the drone. For example, the DJI Mavic Air measures approximately 25 x 18 cm (10 x 7 inches) when unfolded and even less when folded. However, height is also a factor, as some cases can be significantly taller.

I recommend measuring your drone plus case and comparing these dimensions with 33 x 33 x 39 cm (13 x 13 x 15 inches), which are the internal dimensions of a Kallax compartment. If the case is too tall, you might want to consider using a separate container or another storage solution.

Additionally, it’s important to check whether the shelf is deep enough to allow proper airflow if you plan to use the drone multiple times in a row without unpacking it each time—or whether unpacking and storing will be too inconvenient.

What are your experiences with using and storing drones in furniture units like the Kallax?

BLAKEO schrieb:
For example, the DJI Mavic Air measures about 25 x 18 cm (10 x 7 inches) when unfolded, even less when folded.

That’s correct, the Mavic Air is quite compact. A Kallax compartment is 33 x 33 cm (13 x 13 inches) wide and deep, but you also need to consider the height – which is about 39 cm (15 inches). Usually, not only the drone but also the carrying case fits well inside.

I personally have a DJI Mavic Pro and store it in such a compartment – including a hard case and battery box. It works, but the compartments are a bit tight, so you have to slightly push the case in from the side with some care.

It’s important that the drone is switched off and well packed, as these compartments don’t provide shock protection. For some protection, I invest in foam padding or softer inserts.

However, if you have larger drones, such as the Phantom series, the Kallax compartment will likely not be sufficient, since these drones and their carrying solutions are significantly bigger.

My advice: measure your drone, add the case, and then compare it with the compartment dimensions. For compact devices like the Mavic Air or Pro, it works, but for larger models, it usually doesn’t.

I would like to point out that while the exact fit is crucial for storage in a Kallax cube, practical usability should not be overlooked.

A short quote from @BEMAU seemed appropriate here:

BEMAU schrieb:
For compact devices like the Mavic Air or Pro, it works, but for larger devices, rather not.

In general, it’s easy to miscalculate if you only consider the dimensions and don’t take the factor of “frequent use” into account. The drone should be easy to take off the shelf without having to clear the entire cube. Personally, I see 33x33 cm (13x13 inches) compartments more as storage space than for daily access.

Also, ventilation is quite important. The places where the drone is stored should be well ventilated, as LiPo batteries can release heat after flying.

Overall, an interesting idea, but for me personally, a dedicated transport case or a separate cabinet with appropriate compartments is more suitable.

Finally, a question for the thread starter: How often do you plan to take the drone off the shelf? For occasional storage, the Kallax is definitely sufficient.

CORYGAU schrieb:
How often do you plan to take the drone off the shelf?

That’s a good point. I use the drone fairly regularly, sometimes twice a week, and want to be able to access it with minimal effort. I’ve considered adding shelves or drawers to the Kallax unit to improve handling.

BEMAU schrieb:
That works for compact devices like the Mavic Air or Pro, but is less suitable for larger models.

I have a DJI Mavic Air, so that sounds promising. My main concern wasn’t so much the width or depth, but how to safely and securely fit the case into this compartment without damaging the drone.

Do you have recommendations for special inserts or padding for the Kallax unit that can be added affordably? Also, any tips on organizing multiple accessories (charger, remote control, spare batteries) would be helpful – I want to avoid needing separate boxes for everything and making the shelf look overcrowded.

Thanks for the input so far!