From managing sunlight and temperature to ensuring privacy in tight quarters, curtains in a recreational vehicle are more than decorative—they’re functional. Here’s a complete guide to choosing the right RV curtains for your rolling home.
1. Understand Your Needs
Before choosing the material or style, define what functions your curtains need to serve:
- Privacy: Especially if you camp in crowded parks or urban locations
- Light Control: Essential for better sleep and protecting your RV's interior
- Thermal Insulation: Helps regulate indoor temperature, especially with single-pane RV windows
- Aesthetics: Enhances the homey feel of a small space
If your RV has multiple areas (e.g., sleeping, dining, driving), you may need different types of curtains for different purposes.
2. Measure Every Window Carefully
Unlike standard home windows, RV windows vary greatly in shape and size. Measure both:
Height and width of each window (add extra for fullness if desired)
- Mounting space above and around the window (for rods or tracks)
Don’t forget skylights, windshields, or rear entry curtains. A good rule of thumb is to customize where possible—off-the-shelf sizes may not fit perfectly.
3. Choose the Right Fabric
Lightweight fabrics are often preferred for RVs to avoid excess bulk. Here are some top options:
- Blackout fabric: Great for bedrooms and heat protection
- Thermal-lined polyester: Ideal for insulation
- Cotton blends: Breathable and easy to clean
- Sheers: For daytime privacy and soft natural light
Pro Tip: Use layered curtains—blackout + sheer—for flexible light control.
4. Match Your Interior Style
RV interiors can range from rustic wood cabins to sleek, modern vibes. Consider curtains that:
- Blend with cabinetry or wall color
- Add pops of color to neutral spaces
- Feature patterns or textures to add visual interest without clutter
Earth tones, soft grays, and marine blues are popular for RVs due to their calming and clean look.
5. Installation Methods That Work in RVs
You may not want to drill into your RV walls or windows. Luckily, there are alternatives:
- Tension rods: Easy to install and remove without damage
- Velcro strips: Great for covering odd-shaped windows
- Magnetic mounts: Ideal for quick curtain swaps
- Snap fasteners: Secure the curtain bottom for driving days
Make sure your setup withstands movement, vibrations, and travel days.
6. Easy Maintenance Is Key
Choose materials that:
- Are machine washable or wipe-clean
- Don’t wrinkle easily
- Can withstand sun exposure without fading
Many RV owners opt for dark colors or patterned curtains to hide dirt and wear.
7. Where to Shop for RV Curtains
While many home décor stores offer window treatments, you may want to check:
- RV specialty shops
- Online platforms with custom sizing (e.g., hugmoomcurtain.com)
- Etsy or local tailors for custom handmade curtains
Final Thoughts
The right RV curtains make a huge difference in comfort, style, and energy efficiency. Whether you're a full-time vanlifer or a weekend warrior, investing in well-fitted, functional window coverings transforms your RV into a true home on wheels.