Whether you're stealth camping in the city or soaking in the stars at a DOC site, a good curtain setup is one of the most important parts of your campervan. Curtains offer more than just privacy — they control temperature, block light, and make your camper feel more like home. Just like a well-designed campervan shower or portable toilet, the right curtains can significantly enhance your van life experience.
In this guide, we cover the best materials and installation options for DIY campervan curtains, plus where in New Zealand to buy premade campervan curtains, including Vanlifer's own roll-up and universal curtain sets.
Why Campervan Curtains Matter
Campervan curtains aren't just about blocking out prying eyes. A well-designed curtain setup will:
- Improve thermal insulation (keep heat in during winter, reflect it out in summer)
- Block sunlight for better sleep or screen use
- Enhance stealth by covering interior lights and movement
- Create separate spaces for sleeping, storage, or changing
- Improve acoustics by dampening echo and road noise
- Aid in moisture control, especially important in compact spaces with a campervan shower
Curtains are particularly important in New Zealand where overnight temperatures can swing dramatically, especially in alpine or coastal regions. They work hand in hand with other amenities like a water heater or instant hot water system to ensure comfort in your mobile home.
Types of Campervan Curtains
1. Roll-Up Campervan Curtains
- Best for: Quick access, clean aesthetic, compact campervans
- Pros: Tidy look, easy to use, minimal mounting
- Cons: Offers less insulation unless lined
Vanlifer® offers pre-sewn roll-up curtains for NZ campervans. These attach with tabs or clips and roll neatly above the window — ideal for daily drivers or stealth setups.
2. Track-Mounted Campervan Curtains
- Best for: Full window coverage and custom fit-outs
- Pros: Smooth slide, tailored look
- Cons: More complex install. Can rattle while driving
These are a popular option for luxury, large van conversions based on the Mercedes Sprinter, Ford transit and LDV Deliver 9.
3. Magnetic or Snap-On Campervan Window Covers
- Best for: Rear and front windows
- Pros: Fast install, easy removal
- Cons: Limited van compatibility, expensive, limited insulation properties, storage required when not in use
Similar to windscreen sunshades, these rigid or semi-rigid magnetic campervan window covers are common in Australia and New Zealand. Some brands like Living in a Bubble offer versions with reflective exteriors and blackout interiors for stealth and insulation.
However, they are currently only available for the VW Transporter, Toyota Hiace, Sprinter, and Transit.
4. Velcro Campervan Curtains
- Best for: Budget campervan builds, temporary partitions
- Pros: Easy to install, no tools required
- Cons: The tape can peel in heat or humidity
These curtains are often used to divide the cab from the living space or to cover odd-shaped windows. They can also be useful for creating a private space for a campervan toilet or shower cubicle.
5. Shower Curtains
- Best for: Multi-purpose use, especially in vans with a wet bath
- Pros: Moisture-resistant, easy to clean, can double as window coverings
- Cons: May lack insulation properties of dedicated curtains
A shower curtain can be a versatile addition to your van, serving both as a privacy screen for your campervan shower and as a window covering when needed.
Best Fabrics for Campervan Curtains
The fabric you choose for your campervan curtains affects not only how they look but also how they perform in New Zealand's changing climate:
|
Material |
Pros |
Cons |
|
Blackout polyester |
Total darkness, heat blocking |
Can feel synthetic |
|
Cotton canvas |
Natural look, washable |
Requires lining for insulation |
|
Thermal-lined fabric |
Great insulation, quieter interior |
Heavier |
|
Reflectix or foil bubble wrap (DIY lining) |
Excellent thermal performance |
Unattractive |
|
Recycled wool or felt |
Eco-friendly, breathable |
Limited availability |
Vanlifer's universal campervan curtain kits use durable blackout fabric paired with neutral linings for a clean look and effective privacy. When choosing fabrics, consider their ability to aid in moisture control, especially if you have a campervan shower or outdoor shower setup.
How to Measure for Campervan Curtains
The right dimensions improve curtain functionality:
- Measure window width (edge to edge, with a bit of overlap)
- Measure height (top mount point to bottom sill or desired drop)
- Add 10–20% width for curtain fullness
- Adjust to accommodate your mounting method (rollup, track, magnet, snap-on or Velcro)
Remember to account for any shower tray or campervan toilet installations that might affect curtain placement.
How to Install Campervan Curtains
|
Mount Type |
Tools Needed |
Best For |
|
Rollup |
Screwdriver, drill |
Permanent campervan conversions |
|
Track |
Drill, screws, level |
Custom look and fit |
|
Magnetic / Snap-On |
Snap kit, drill or rivets |
Rigid magnetic window covers |
|
Velcro |
Scissors, adhesive |
Lightweight removable curtains |
|
Adhesive tabs/hooks |
No tools |
Temporary van builds and renters |
Pro tip: Use internal plywood strips to spread the load on thin metal surfaces to avoid damaging your van walls or penetrating wiring that often runs between interior panels and the van skin. This is especially important when installing fixtures like a shower mixer or water storage system.
Where to Buy Campervan Curtains in New Zealand
There are very limited options within New Zealand:
1. Vanlifer Campervan Curtain Sets
- Vanlifer ® Roll-Up Curtains – ideal for minimal stealth builds or daily drivers
- Vanlifer Universal Curtain Set – a full blackout solution that fits most common vans in NZ
2. Buying from Overseas
- For example, from "Living in a Bubble" in Australia
3. Having Curtains Custom-Made
- Contact an automotive upholstery shop
- Costs typically range from $500 to $1,200+
4. Make Your Own Campervan Curtains
- Use thermal or blackout fabric from local sewing or curtain shops
- Add linings like Reflectix or wool felt for extra insulation
- Pair with Velcro, snap kits, or tracks for mounting
Consider using moisture-resistant fabrics if your curtains will be near your campervan shower or outdoor shower area.
Tips for Stealth Campervan Curtains
- Use dark outer-facing fabric (black or charcoal) to reduce streetlight reflection
- Block all light leaks — even electronics can expose your presence
- Use thermal window covers for windows and a blackout cab divider
- Avoid shiny materials or visible gaps
- Consider how your curtain setup complements other stealth features like a hidden bathroom or concealed water storage
"Living in a Bubble" style blackout covers are ideal for urban stealth or campervans parked on public streets.
Campervan Curtain FAQs
Can I use normal house curtains in a campervan? Yes, but they will obviously require resizing and a blackout lining. Most will require treatment for mildew and they will not offer good insulation.
What fabric is best for campervan curtains? Blackout polyester or thermal-lined canvas. Consider moisture-resistant options if near a campervan shower.
Are curtains better than blinds for vans? Yes — they offer better thermal control, reduce rattling, and allow more flexible layouts.
Do curtains reduce condensation in vans? Curtains reduce radiant cooling, but can trap moisture. Ideally, your van should have at least some passive ventilation that is usable at night. This is especially important if you have a campervan shower or portable toilet inside.
How much do campervan curtains cost?
- Vanlifer® Curtain kits: from $99
- DIY materials: $100–$300
- Custom: $500–$1,200+
How can I manage moisture in my campervan bathroom? Good ventilation is key. Use moisture-resistant curtains, ensure proper greywater disposal, and consider a dehumidifier for moisture control.
Vanlifer ® Curtain Kits Final Take: Choosing the Right Campervan Curtain Setup in NZ
A great curtain setup transforms your van from a vehicle into a cosy, private, and temperature-controlled home. Whether you're after simplicity or full blackout comfort, the right campervan curtain solution can elevate your New Zealand road trip experience.
Vanlifer offers two options:
- Roll-Up Curtain Kit — sleek, minimal, great for stealth
- Universal Curtain Kit — full blackout coverage for most vans
For anything else, go custom or DIY. With the right fabric and a bit of Kiwi ingenuity, you can build a campervan curtain setup that's stylish, practical, and road-trip ready. Don't forget to consider how your curtain choices integrate with other van essentials like your campervan toilet, shower cubicle, or water heater setup to create a cohesive and comfortable living space.