Curtains in your RV or camper do more than just look pretty. They keep nosy neighbors from peeking in while you’re changing clothes, and they add a touch of home to your home-on-wheels. Finding the right curtains can be tricky in small spaces that bounce down highways and back roads, but good curtains make your camping life so much better.
Here are some awesome ideas from fellow campers to inspire your own!
Materials Guide
Choosing the right fabric for your RV curtains makes a big difference in function and longevity. Cotton feels homey and comes in countless patterns, breathes well in hot weather, and gives a soft look. The downside is it can fade in strong sunlight and might shrink if not pre-washed.
Polyester has become a go-to fabric because it resists water, dries quickly, fights wrinkles, and stands up to sun exposure better than natural fibers. Modern polyester blends can look and feel almost like cotton but with much less maintenance.
Thermal fabrics have special backings that block heat in summer and cold in winter. These insulating properties can make a huge difference in comfort and energy use, especially for full-time RVers. While they cost more upfront, thermal curtains often pay for themselves in saved heating and cooling.
Outdoor fabrics like Sunbrella resist fading, mold, and mildew, making them smart choices for campers in humid areas or for RVs that sit unused for long periods.
DIY Curtain Ideas
You don’t need to be a sewing expert to make your own RV curtains. Fabric glue and iron-on hem tape work great for making no-sew curtains that look store-bought. Old bed sheets can become beautiful curtains with just a few simple steps.
Some campers use tablecloths, shower curtains, or even pretty scarves as window coverings. These items are often the perfect size for RV windows and come in fun patterns.
Smart Solutions for Common RV Curtain Challenges
RV life means thinking about space all the time. Try tension rods that don’t need drilling, or magnetic curtains that snap into place. Some clever campers use curtains not just for windows but as room dividers or to hide storage areas.
Thick curtains can keep heat in during cold nights and block sun on hot days. Blackout fabric helps you sleep when campgrounds keep their lights on all night. Look for fabrics that dry quickly and don’t hold odors.
Hardware Options
The right hardware can make or break your RV curtain setup. Tension rods remain popular because they require no permanent changes to your RV walls. For smaller windows and lightweight curtains, basic tension rods work fine, but look for ones with rubber tips that grip well on bumpy roads.
Spring pressure rods offer more stability than standard tension rods and can support heavier fabrics without sagging. They install just as easily but provide more holding power, which matters when your home is constantly in motion.
Magnetic curtain hardware works well on metal RV walls, allowing rods and hooks to hold surprisingly well without making holes. This gives you flexibility to change curtain placement without leaving evidence behind.
Ceiling track systems allow curtains to glide smoothly while taking up minimal space. They’re perfect for creating room dividers or for windows where wall mounting isn’t practical. Some tracks even curve to follow the contours of RV walls.
Budget-Friendly Options
You don’t need to spend a lot on nice RV curtains. Big box stores have ready-made curtains in standard sizes that often work in campers. Check thrift shops for vintage curtains with charm at tiny prices.
If you want curtains made just for RVs, watch for sales at camping supply stores or online RV shops. Many RV owners sell their gently used curtains when they change their decor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Not measuring properly tops the list of common errors. RV windows rarely match standard home window sizes. Taking careful measurements of both the window opening and surrounding obstacles saves headaches later.
Forgetting about window cranks, latches, and emergency exit handles creates problems after installation. These mechanisms need to remain accessible, but curtains that don’t account for them end up bunched awkwardly.
Weight considerations matter more in an RV than in a house. Heavy curtains add unnecessary weight that affects fuel efficiency. Additionally, heavy curtains require stronger hardware that might damage RV walls.
Many campers forget to secure their curtains for travel days, leading to fallen rods and tangled messes. Simple tie-backs or clips that hold curtains in place while driving save time and prevent damage.
Choosing difficult-to-clean fabrics creates ongoing headaches. Camping life involves dust, campfire smoke, and sometimes mildew from condensation. Fabrics that can be easily removed and machine washed make life much simpler.
Conclusion
The right curtains make your RV feel cozy, private, and truly yours. Your curtains frame the views of mountains, beaches, forests, and deserts as you travel. With a little creativity, you can have curtains that work well and look great without spending a fortune.