Covering device for storage compartments

The cover device for stowage compartments (1) especially inside motor vehicles has a cover element, retaining and guiding means and a locking device for the cover element. The cover element is constructed as a flat, one-piece sliding cover (2) which is guided to move in and out in a flat pocket-like casing and is lockable by a locking mechanism in at least the extended position. The cover is formed as a plate which may be rigid or flexible. The casing consists of two walls with a small space in between and which are connected on three of the four edges.