8 Best Curtains for Your RV

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Privacy is important while you are traveling in an RV- you will no doubt be staying at potentially crowded RV parks and some curtains may be all you need in order to have a good time!

But RVs are not often equipped with curtains, so how can you best install some for yourself? While the great outdoors are the best part of RV travel, having some furnishings that promote insulation and comfort while inside your RV are necessary too.

If you are looking for more information about RV curtains, we’ve got a helpful guide here for you! But if you just want to skip ahead and see what products made the list you can check out our favorites here:

Let’s get started!

What to Consider When Buying Curtains for Your RV

Before you start shopping for curtains for your RV, there are a few things that you should consider first. Whether you are looking for curtains that are fashionable and functional, or want them to provide more insulation inside of your RV, here are some tips before you shop. 

RV Window Size

The hardest part about finding curtains for your RV has to be considering the average size of RV windows. Given that RVs are much smaller than residential homes, it is sometimes difficult to find curtains that fit your specific window.

Just like it is very important for any RV owner to own a multimeter, you should also own a reliable measuring tape. I highly recommend taking the time to measure all of your windows inside of your RV if you plan on installing curtains.

Depending on the age, make, and model of your rig, you may be looking at some odd and inconsistent measurements when it comes time to shop for your curtains. I know my vintage rig had so many windows that I used a single panel for three different areas!

Just keep in mind that your measurements will be key during this process. Shopping for RV curtains isn’t exactly something that people do very often, and most manufacturers simply make curtains for residential homes and window sizes. 

The overall height and width of RV windows rarely matches up to a normal set of curtains, especially if you are looking to purchase blackout curtains. However, with a bit of adjustment, you shouldn’t have too much trouble making any pair of curtains work inside of your rig! 

Wondering what else you should own as an RV owner besides a measuring tape? Keep a bubble level on hand, especially if you own a travel trailer and are wondering why it is shaking. 

Number of Windows You Want Covered

Many RVs are designed to let the outdoors in, especially some of these Class C RVs made especially for boondocking. When you want to hit the road, it is lovely to do so in an RV that is nice and bright both inside and out. 

With that in mind, some RVs may have far more windows than others. It is ultimately up to you to decide how many of these windows you want covered. However, the more windows you cover, the better chance you will have at maintaining an even temperature inside of your rig. 

You will likely not have to purchase the exact number of curtains to match each window like you would at home. Many RV windows are far more narrow or smaller than residential windows, and you may only need a single panel to cover an entire RV window. 

However, curtains look best when they are laid side-by-side with a natural break in the center. You may not be interested in having a single panel on a single window, and may instead opt for multiple panels per RV window.

Whatever you decide to do, just keep in mind how many windows there are in your RV and how many you want covered. For example, you may leave the kitchen window uncovered because it may not hinder your overall RV experience. 

Speaking of RV kitchens, are you looking for an RV fridge upgrade? Check out our list of some of the top RV fridges that run on solar power today. 

Insulating Properties

One of the best perks of installing curtains in your RV is something that not many people think of. There are many curtains on the market these days that promote better insulation, especially inside of an RV.

Unless you purchased one of the best RVs made for winter weather, you may not know what to do about the cold if you are new to camping in the winter seasons. Many RVs are made with better installation, especially the newer they are.

However, sometimes it still isn’t enough to make it through the coldest months of the year. You don’t need to put the RV away when it comes time for winter. You may just need to consider purchasing some RV curtains!

Depending on the type of curtain you purchase, this small layer of fabric can do wonders for keeping the interior of your RV at a consistent temperature. This is also the case in summer months, especially with blackout curtains.

Blackout curtains are designed to keep the harsh rays of the sun out of your rig or residential home. Having these curtains installed means that your RV will stay cooler, even in harsh summer months.

While having a reliable and efficient RV AC is a must in summer time, purchasing blackout curtains that fit over each of your RV windows can also be beneficial. It could make more of a difference than you think!

Color and Pattern

Having the option to install curtains after you make your RV purchase can be exciting, mainly from an interior design perspective. Considering what color and pattern you want on your curtains before making your final purchase is important.

It’s not really a secret that RVs are ugly, both inside and out, for many reasons. However, this doesn’t mean that they have to stay this way! You don’t need to completely remodel the interior of your rig in order to make it look more like home. 

Hanging up curtain rods that match your RV finishes, whether it be stainless steel or satin black, can help you tie in your new curtains with your existing interior design. Most factory designed RV upholstery ends up looking pretty beige, so what can you do about that? 

You can always purchase curtains that match your overall interior design, no matter how beige it may be. Or you can choose to broaden the overall color scheme and look of the inside of your RV.

For example, if you have recently purchased an attractive aluminum travel trailer that has a very vintage vibe, you may consider curtains that look as if they belong in a similar era. Curtains are easy to change out and test in an RV setting, so be sure to have fun with it! 

Budget

While installing curtains in your RV isn’t a very high expense in the grand scheme of RV renovations, your budget should still be something that you keep in mind for this particular project.

The average price of curtains varies, especially if you are considering any light blocking or otherwise insulating options. However, most single panels cost anywhere from $10 to $30 a panel.

You should also consider the cost of curtain rods as well, though these are easy to find at second hand shops or in bulk for less money. If you only have a small and lightweight toy hauler with a few windows, this definitely isn’t a project that will break the bank. 

You can always consider making your own RV curtains, especially if you have a sewing machine and are familiar with sewing projects in general. You can even hand stitch curtains, but this can be time-consuming for many people. 

Weight

Weight is always something that an RV owner should keep in mind, whether it be time to tow your travel trailer or simply knowing how much you can safely pack with you. Curtains will not weigh very much, but the weight of them may be something you want to keep in mind. 

Some RVs are Simply Built better than others. If you are installing curtain rods and curtains inside of your RV, the weight of whatever fabric you choose can lead to damage to your walls. This is usually caused by the weight pulling down on your curtain rods.

While this may not be an issue for all of you, it can be an issue for RVs built with thin wooden walls. You may find that the weight of your curtains end up pulling your curtain rods down and even out of the walls!

Just like you should know how much weight your RV roof can hold, you should know how much weight your RV walls can hold. There may be fewer studs available for proper hanging in your RV, so this is something you should keep in mind. 

Ability to Clean

Having the option to machine wash your RV curtains can be beneficial to many RV owners. For example, having a curtain residing in your kitchen may lead to trapped smells and potentially grease or other liquids on the fabric. 

Many curtains are machine washable these days, but this may be important to keep in mind while you are shopping so that you don’t purchase curtains that are non washable or even dry clean only.

Accidents happen, and RVs can get messier than you think. Whether you plan on cleaning your curtains in your residential home or even in your washer dryer combo inside of your RV, having the ability to wash your curtains may come in handy. 

Privacy Offered

There are so many different styles of curtains on the market today, especially if you consider making curtains yourself. However, how many of these various fabric options actually offer you the privacy you need while you are camping? 

Having RV curtains that offer you the maximum amount of privacy possible is usually appealing to many RVers. Camping and otherwise traveling on the road can leave you feeling watched or otherwise not alone, depending on the campsite or RV park you stay in. 

Purchasing a travel trailer that’s perfect for couples can also mean purchasing some sort of privacy curtain or other fabric window covering. However, depending on the RV you purchase, you may find that curtains are redundant given your RV blinds.

If you have blinds in your RV, you may get away with purchasing curtains that are otherwise sheer or less private than light blocking options or dark fabric curtains. However, privacy is always key when you have neighbors that are less than 10 feet away! 

Ease of Installation

Curtains should not be something that are difficult to install, especially on a small scale like in an RV. However, considering the very many options available for purchase on the market today, you may want to find the easiest to install curtain possible.

This can be especially true if you plan on removing your curtains regularly to wash or otherwise clean them. You may consider curtains that have buttons or snaps rather than needing to remove the entire curtain rod in order to get them down. 

While curtains won’t be nearly as difficult to install as some brand new RV tank heaters, there are different options to consider when it comes time to hang them up or remove them. Something to keep in mind as you shop! 

The 8 Best Curtains for Your RV

Feeling confident about your RV curtain needs and wants? Let’s take a look at some of the 8 best curtains for your RV, no matter your personal needs, style, and budget!

Best Overall: NICETOWN Thermal Insulated Grommet Blackout Curtains

Given that these curtains are top rated on Amazon with close to 100,000 reviews, why shouldn’t you try them out in your RV? NICETOWN is one of the leading manufacturers of curtains online these days, especially if you are looking for thermal qualities.

Coming in 13 unique sizes and 34 fantastic color options, you will have a wide variety of options to choose from when it comes time to cover your RV windows. All of these sizes and colors come with high quality, wide silver grommets on top.

These grommets are useful for ease of spreading across a curtain rod, or removal when it comes time to clean or exchange your curtains. While these curtains are wrinkle resistant, they are also machine washable too!

The quality of these curtains appeals to many homeowners and RVers, especially given their three-layer light blocking technology. Many fabric curtains consist of a single layer, but these light blocking beauties are designed with insulation in mind.

Not only are these curtains soft to the touch and available in many stylish colors, they are built to block the sun almost completely. Claiming to take care of 85%-95% of direct sunlight depending on the color curtain you purchase, you may like these for their blackout capabilities.

These curtains are also reasonably priced too, especially for two panels. While the cost will vary depending on the size and color you end up choosing, these classic panels will suit a variety of RVers seeking thermal curtains for both privacy and function.

You can read the thousands of reviews and pick a color on Amazon by clicking here.

 

Shortest Length: XTMYI RV Curtains/Blinds/Camper Window Shade

Looking for a curtain that you don’t have to alter or cut in order to make it fit? Check out these shorter styled curtains from XTMYI. The best part about these curtains besides their approachable size? They are waterproof.

These curtains are built for RV living, especially given their waterproof capabilities. If you are looking for curtains that can be placed elsewhere in your RV, such as underneath a bathroom vanity, you should check these out.

These curtains are also available in 11 colors and 3 compact sizes so that you can best match your unique RV windows. They come finished along the top in a simple stitching or the option to use ring clips, rather than a grommet look.

There are even more perks to these curtains, including their ability to block light and add more insulation to your home. These curtains claim to have partial blackout abilities, which means your RV will be completely private when you have your curtains drawn.

This brand offers other styles of short curtains as well, including a variety of textures and linens. While the other options may not offer as much thermal capabilities as this one, you will most likely have good luck finding a curtain that suits your interior design style!

You can check out all of XTMYI's curtain options on Amazon by clicking here.

 

Most Stylish: Tollpiz Floral Short White Sheer Tier Curtains

If style is more your preference over thermal blackout curtains, check out these patterned curtains from Tollpiz. While the design is primarily floral, these sheer curtains may add a sense of elegance and luxury to your RV.

Available in 8 sizes and 4 attractive colors, these curtains are built for both residential and RV living. You may have to hem the bottom of these curtains to fit any shorter RV windows, so that is something to keep in mind.

You can either hang these using curtain clips or on a curtain rod, given their simple stitching along the top. These curtains are extremely lightweight so that they won’t weigh down a curtain rod or curtain clip very much.

While these curtains look sheer and are made of see through linen, they do offer some semblance of privacy when hung up. The flower and vine pattern can help mask what is happening in the interior of your RV.

However, if you are looking for a curtain that blocks more light, I would suggest purchasing these along with another style of thermal curtain set underneath these. These curtains are lightweight enough to be disturbed by breezes!

However, the embroidery and detail found in these curtains can help your RV feel more like home. The unique colors can bring any interior design to life, and you can even machine wash these curtains on a gentle cycle! 

You can learn more about these curtains on Amazon by clicking here.

 

Most Insulating: RYB HOME Short Curtains Gray Half Window Curtains

If maintaining an ideal interior heat or cool temperature is key to you while you are RVing, you need to consider these thermal curtains from RYB HOME. These are designed as blackout curtains, meaning any and all sunlight or cool air will be blocked from seeping in through your windows.

There should be a length and color that suits your rig, what with 9 sizes and 14 stylish color options to choose from. Every single panel is made with triple woven polyester that is easy to wash, resists wrinkles, and blocks sunlight.

You can get these curtains with easy to move grommets or a simple stitching along the top. The main thing to consider about these curtains is their overall weight, especially if you purchase the grommet option. They may be too heavy for simpler curtain rods!

However, the trade off of purchasing heavier curtains is that you will be getting the light blocking capabilities you desire. Your privacy will never be in question if you decide to go with these panels.

RYB HOME also offers sound blocking curtains, which can be an even bigger plus while you are camping. Imagine waking up on a chilly morning and not having to worry about losing heat through your single pane RV windows- and you can’t hear your neighbors either!

You can learn all about these curtains and consider purchasing them on Amazon by clicking here.

 

Perfect for an RV Kitchen: Elegant Linens Cotton Kitchen Curtain

If you are a fan of gingham in your kitchen, check out these 100% cotton curtains from Elegant Linens. Well made, easy to set up, and cute as a button, you can make your RV feel more like home- so long as your home has a bit of a country chic vibe!

Available in three stylish checkerboard colors, this kitchen curtain set is exactly what it says it is: a whole set! It includes two short panels and one even shorter valance curtain, perfect for hanging over an RV kitchen sink.

You can easily separate these curtains so that your entire RV kitchen looks pleasantly furnished. These curtains are entirely machine washable as well, and dry quickly given their cotton construction. You won’t have to worry about getting these curtains dirty.

These are designed in use with a curtain rod, as they have an attractive ruffle along the top. Using curtain hooks would eliminate this stylistic choice, so that is something to consider if you aren’t planning on installing a more traditional curtain rod in your RV.

Resistant to wrinkles and patterned, these curtains are useful for blocking direct rays, but they still allow filtered sunlight into your RV. You will also have a certain level of privacy given the overall lining and thickness of the fabric.

While these curtains may not suit your exact style, they may be just what you have been looking for in your RV kitchen! You can read the reviews and check out these unique patterned curtains by clicking here.

 

Easiest to Clean: HLC.ME Abbey Semi Sheer Cafe Curtain

These curtains will be perfect for those of you looking for something easy to clean, as well as private but still allowing some light to enter your RV. Manufactured by HLC.ME, these cafe curtains may be what you need to finish off your interior design!

Available in three sizes and five colors, you can choose a more simple beige or gray color for your RV so that it doesn’t distract from the living space. Sometimes all you need is a curtain that blends in, and that’s what you’ll get with these!

They are semi-sheer, meaning you will have some light entering your rig if you hang up these curtains. They will still have the ability to offer you privacy, however, while you still have the chance to enjoy the light from the great outdoors.

You can steam, iron, or machine wash these textured and faux linen panels, making them among the easiest to clean on this list. They are finished with attractive grommets as well that are machine washable.

The main drawback to these curtains besides their simplicity is their potential to be not private enough. You may find that you need more privacy from these curtains, especially during the day. However, the attractive texture and muted tones may suit your lifestyle otherwise!

You can check out these curtains in more detail by looking at their Amazon listing here.

 

Best on a Budget: Home Collection 2 Panels 100% Blackout Curtain Set

Finding budget friendly RV furnishings is a must from time to time, especially when it comes to finishing touches like curtains. If you are sticking to a budget, check out this two panel set from Home Collection.

Just because you are on a budget doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your own personal interior design style. These curtains are available in a wide variety of colors and two sizes- both sizes are short so that they can fit just about any RV window!

When I say many colors, I mean many colors – 17 of them to be exact! You won’t have to sacrifice your desire for blackout curtains or thermal curtains either. These short and colorful beauties can block almost 90% of sunlight from entering your RV.

These curtains are also soft to the touch, having been made out of microfiber materials. That doesn’t mean they are difficult to clean either- just make sure to machine wash in cold water and tumble dry low.

What’s the catch with these budget friendly curtains? There isn’t too much of one. There is a stylish rod pocket, or you can clip up these lightweight curtains using curtain clips. The main downside may be the size of these- they might be too small if you want to cover a wall of RV windows!

Decide for yourself and check out these curtains in more detail by clicking here.

 

Best for Privacy: NICETOWN Blackout Roman Shades Curtains 

One of the more unique choices on this list, these blackout shades from NICETOWN are different from the other blackout shades on this list. If you are looking for the ultimate control over your rig’s privacy, check out what makes these curtains so cool.

Available in only two sizes but 14 colors, these curtains have the ability to operate as Roman shades do. This essentially means that they have included tie options along the bottom so that you can tie up your curtains at whatever length you like!

This can be beneficial for oddly sized RV windows, or for those of you that want only a bit of light to come in through the bottom portion while leaving the top half of the curtain drawn. You have full control, just like you would if you had blinds!

These curtains also have blackout and thermal effects, which means you don’t have to sacrifice the interior temperature of your rig. No matter the color, you can expect to block at least 85% of any direct sunlight or cold air coming through.

Finished in attractive grommets, you can easily hang up or remove these curtains when it comes time to clean them. And they are machine washable and wrinkle resistant. You can even expect these curtains to reduce some noise from outside as well!

The main catch here is that these panels are a bit more heavy and expensive than others. They may also be too long for every RV. However, they are unique and customizable, as well as thermal curtains, so they may end up ticking enough of your boxes.

Read the reviews for these curtains on Amazon by clicking here.

 

Pros and Cons of RV Curtains

Wondering what else there is to consider about purchasing curtains for your RV? Here are even more things to think about, in the form of a helpful pros and cons list. 

Pro: Privacy in a Crowded RV Park or Campsite

The number one pro to installing curtains in your RV? Having the option of additional privacy inside of your camper or travel trailer. Curtains can maximize your sense of aloneness, even when you have neighbors parked right next door.

You can always purchase curtains that feel less private than others, such as curtains made of sheer or lace material. However, you can also purchase curtains with privacy in mind, especially if your RV doesn’t have blinds installed. 

If you are shopping for an RV rental on either Outdoorsy or RVShare, keeping an eye out for curtains may be a good idea. Having an RV while you are camping is better than a tent in terms of privacy, but only if there are coverings on the windows! 

Con: May Block Too Much Light

Some RV curtains have the ability to offer you privacy and also block just the right amount of light so that you still notice the sun as it rises. But what about curtains that have the potential of blocking too much light?

This may not be a concern for all of you, but natural light is very important to me, especially as someone who lives full time in an RV and close to nature. Blackout curtains or other light-blocking curtains always make me feel detached from the outside world.

If you are used to living with blackout curtains, this may end up being your preference of curtain to use inside of your RV. However, many people RV to feel closer to nature and the natural world at large. Curtains may not have the intended effect that you want in the end! 

Pro: Helps with Insulation During Hot and Cold Months

One of the main perks that comes with installing curtains inside of your RV is the option to have your overall insulation in mind. RV blinds are less likely to block cold air or the heat from the sun. Curtains can help with this. 

While you should still make sure your RV underbelly insulation is the best it can be, installing curtains may be a good idea if you plan on RVing year-round or during peak months of either hot or cold weather. The difference that curtains can make may surprise you! 

Con: Many Curtains Don’t Match RV Aesthetics

The differences between residential furnishings and RV furnishings can be shocking. However, while you are shopping for curtains, most of these are built with residential decor in mind rather than RV decor. 

This usually translates to curtains that don’t quite match your RV’s overall aesthetic. If you are simply looking for the practical benefits of installing curtains, you won’t necessarily have to worry about this con.

However if your goal is to install curtains that match your RV and help with the overall look and feel of your interior design, you may find many curtains lacking. Check out some of the best luxury travel trailers on the market today for some interior design tips.

Pro: May Contribute to Your RV Feeling Like Home

Many RVs don’t exactly look like home on the inside, especially if you have purchased a used or otherwise older RV. However, installing curtains and choosing ones that suit your personal style may help make your home on wheels feel more like a true home.

Whether you are choosing to travel for a brief period of time or full time, curtains can have an astounding effect on the overall interior design of your RV. Given that most RVs occupy a very small footprint, making a slight change such as this can be all the difference you need.

Even if you are just looking to purchase an RV built for solo travel, considering curtains and curtain rods may be both a practical and charming interior design choice. 

Con: Curtains Can Feel Redundant if You Have RV Blinds

Does your travel trailer, motorhome, or fifth wheel already have RV blinds installed on every window? If so, you may find that curtains feel redundant and unnecessary inside of your rig.

This can be especially true if your RV blinds are top-of-the-line and capable of blocking harmful UV rays. Unless you are looking for an aesthetic choice rather than a practical one, investing the money in curtains when you already have blinds may be silly. 

Pro: An Affordable Light Blocking Solution

Speaking of RV blinds, this is often a far more expensive option when it comes time to cover your RV windows. Purchasing curtains and curtain rods will almost always be less expensive in the end.

This is good to consider, especially if you have purchased a used RV that did not come with any window furnishings. Know that you can achieve the privacy you are hoping for as well as furnish your new rig comfortably with a small budget! 

Con: May Have to Install Curtain Rods

While installing curtains is oftentimes still easier than installing blinds, you may be feeling like having to install curtain rods feels a bit more daunting than it should. This can be especially true if you don’t exactly have the strongest of RV walls.

However, there are many options when it comes time to hang a curtain rod, including using hangers that don’t require you to drill into your delicate RV interior. I understand your trepidation about drilling holes into the wall of your new and classy diesel Class C!

Pro: You Can Have Fun Making Your Own Curtains

If you find that none of the options on this list are satisfying either your budget, personal style, or insulation needs, you may find that making your own curtains ends up being the best option for you.

Sewing curtains can be a quick and simple afternoon project, whether or not you have a sewing machine. You can easily purchase a few yards of fabric and sew the curtains to whatever size you wish, especially if you have unique and awkwardly sized RV windows.

My current trailer has curtains that I sewed by hand installed inside. The option to choose whatever fabric I wanted broadened my own interior design horizons. You can always sew a pattern or cuter fabric on top of an existing curtain as well! 

FAQ for The Best Curtains for Your RV

Still have questions about the best curtains for your RV and why it might be a good decision for you? Here are some frequently asked questions, all about this important piece of RV interior design. 

How Often Should I Clean My RV Curtains?

This will depend on how often you use your RV and how dirty the curtains get over time. You may find that cleaning your RV curtains happens more often if you have children inside of your RV or if you have recently purchased a Class C made for dogs. 

Many RV owners choose to wash their RV curtains when it comes time to store their RV for the winter or off season. This ensures that the curtains are clean and fresh the next time you want to hit the road! Speaking of storage, check out some of our best RV covers here. 

How Do I Install Curtains in My RV?

Installing curtains in your RV is easier than you think. Most people choose to use a simple, lightweight curtain rod above each of their RV windows. These are designed so that you can easily slip on a fabric curtain and move it throughout the day.

However, you can also simply hook curtains above your RV windows with adhesive and removable hooks or thumb tacks. If you are worried about drilling into your RV walls, this is a less invasive option to try. 

What Type of RV Curtain Do I Need?

The type of RV curtain that you need depends on what you alternately want your curtains to be used for. You could choose RV curtains simply for the style, which means they will probably not be the most private or light blocking.

You can choose RV curtains based on their ability to further insulate the inside of your rig, leading to more efficient use of your heating and air conditioning system. Or perhaps you are only considering RV curtains for privacy purposes.

With all of this in mind, it is up to you to determine what type of RV curtain you need. If you already have blinds installed inside of your RV, you may want to consider a curtain that is more stylish than functional. 

Can I Make My Own RV Curtains?

You can easily make your own RV curtains, with or without a sewing machine! While a sewing machine will help speed up the process, you can always hand sew your own RV curtains with very little effort.

All you need to do is make some sort of closure that the curtain rod can go through. This can be accomplished with fabric glue just as easily as it can be accomplished with a thread and needle setup. 

You don’t even necessarily have to sew your curtain fabric in any particular way. If you just plan on tacking up your fabric over your RV window, you can simply do that! Just make sure you know the size of your RV window so that you buy enough fabric to completely cover it. 

Final Thoughts

Finding some attractive and practical curtains for your RV doesn’t have to be a chore. You can easily install RV curtains in less than an hour, and there are plenty of options on this list made to suit any RV! You can have more privacy the next time you go camping, no problem.