Last Updated on April 12, 2023
Do you find it difficult to get a good night’s sleep when camping? If so, you’re not alone. One of the biggest challenges for people when sleeping in a camper is dealing with the light, especially in summer.
Windows can be a major source of light pollution, preventing you from getting a good night’s sleep. So you may wonder how to blackout camper windows. The most common solution is to use blackout curtains or blinds.
You may don’t have them, or maybe you’re looking for a more temporary solution. Here we will share some simple tips that will help blackout your camper windows and allow you to get the rest you need while on your camping trip.
Tips on How to Blackout Camper Windows Quickly
You love spending time outdoors camping. But if you’re not used to sleeping in a tent, the first night can be a bit of a challenge. One of the biggest problems is that the windows let in too much light.
The light from outside can make it difficult to fall asleep, and once you’re finally asleep, the slightest movement can wake you up again. So how do you blackout camper windows? Here are our top tips:
Method 01. RV Blackout Window Curtains:
Blackout curtains are designed to block out light from all the windows. They are very effective and can be used as blackout window covers. Here are the steps to install:
Step 01. Measure the size of your camper window frame.
Step 02. Cut a piece of fabric that’s slightly larger than the window frame.
Step 03. Use duct tape without sewing the curtain fabric to the top of the camper or rv window. It is preferable to avoid sewing involved in this process.
Step 04. Hang this rv window shade curtain from a rod or string.
Method 02: Aluminum Foil:
You can also use aluminum foil as a window treatment to blackout your camper van windows. This is a pretty effective method, but it’s not the most attractive. Here’s how to do it:
Step 01. The first step is to measure the window and cut a piece of foil that is slightly larger than the window.
Step 02. Next, you want to smooth out any wrinkles or creases in the foil so that it sits neatly over the window. Once your foil is in place, use tape or another adhesive to secure it in place.
You can also use Velcro strips or other removable fasteners if you don’t want to damage your van with permanent adhesives.
Step 03: Apply an insulating layer such as bubble wrap, foam board, or another material over the foil before taping it down. When done properly, your camper screen should be completely blacked out and ready for a good night’s sleep.
Method 03. Cardboard:
Cardboard is another cheap and effective way to blackout camper windows. The steps are similar to the aluminum foil method:
Step 01. The first step is to cut out your desired window size from sturdy cardboard material. It’s important to choose a piece of cardboard that won’t easily tear or bend under pressure, as this will affect the quality and effectiveness of your blackout.
Step 02. Once you’ve cut out your window shape, you’ll need to attach it to the outside of your camper using tape or glue. This step can be tricky, as you don’t want the cardboard to become loose or indented and interfere with light absorption.
Step 03. After you’ve mounted the cardboard window piece, you’ll need to apply black spray paint or cloth paper over the entire surface area in order to entirely block any incoming light.
Method 04. Blinds and Window Shades:
If you own a camper, you know how important it is to have blackout shades for the windows. In addition to keeping out the sun, they also provide privacy and security.
And if you’re a light sleeper and don’t allow light to enter your camper van in winter, a blind is a great solution. It can also help to block out noise from outside.
But what if you don’t have blackout shades for your camper windows? You can use cheap blinds. Here are easy steps to turn your ordinary window blinds into blackout shades.
Step 01. First, close the blinds all the way so that the slats are pointing downwards. Use black duct tape or another type of opaque tape to secure the blinds in place. Be sure to cover all of the seams where the slats meet, as well as the edges of the blinds.
Step 02. Once you’ve taped up the blackout blinds, use a spray bottle to mist them with water. The moisture will help to block out light and noise further.
Step 03. Finally, hang some heavy curtains over the windows for extra insulation. With these simple steps, you’ll be able to enjoy all the benefits of rv shades without having to buy new ones.
Method 05. Tarpaulin:
There are many reasons you might want to black out the windows of your camper van. Whether you’re trying to shade from the sun on a hot day or block prying eyes from seeing inside, the tarpaulin or garbage bag can help. Here are four easy steps to follow:
Step 01. Cut the tarpaulin or bag to size. You’ll need one piece for each window, plus a few extra inches on all sides.
Step 02. Clean the window surface with soapy water and allow it to dry completely. This will help the tarpaulin or bag adhere better.
Step 03. Apply double-sided tape around the perimeter of the window. Be sure to use a tape that is designed for outdoor use.
Step 04. Press the tarpaulin or bag onto the window, being careful to smooth out any wrinkles or bubbles. For added security, you can also staple or tie it in place. It covers you from the sun while you sleep.
Method 06: Black Window Cover Film:
When it comes to outfitting your camper for a comfortable, enjoyable camping experience, don’t overlook the importance of window film. It protects your skin from harmful UV rays, but it also helps to keep the interior of your camper cool and comfortable on hot days.
There are several key steps to blackout camping windows using black window film.
Step 01. Start by cleaning the surface of the window and removing any debris or dirt. Then, measure out the window and cut the window film to fit based on these measurements. Ensure to use a sharp substrate with clean edges for cutting, such as a utility knife or an Exacto knife.
Step 02. Apply the film to the window, making sure that you carefully smooth out any wrinkles as you go. Allow time for the film to bond with the surface of the window before completing your blackout installation.
Step 03. Test out your blackout windows in different lighting conditions to ensure that they are truly dark and effective at blocking out light from outside. By following these simple steps, you can enjoy all the benefits of blackout windows in your camper.
Method 07. Pillows:
If you’re like me, you love the great outdoors, but you also enjoy a good night’s sleep. Unfortunately, camping can often mean sacrificing one for the other. Bright sunshine peeking through your camper windows can make it difficult to get a restful night’s sleep.
Choose pillows that are large enough to cover the entire window. If you’re using standard pillowcases, you may need two or three pillows per window.
Next, place the pillows in front of the window, making sure that they are secure and will not slip during the night.
Method 08. Sheets:
One way to block this light and get some much-needed rest is by using sheets specifically designed for blackout camper windows. These sheets have a special reflective coating on them, which is specially designed to prevent both sunlight and moonlight from passing through.
In addition, these sheets are usually quite thick and made from high-quality materials. Therefore, they will effectively block ambient noise. Whether you’re camping at the beach or in the mountains, blacking out camper windows will ensure you get a restful night’s sleep.
Method 09. Towels:
You could use a set of fluffy towels to cover your windows at night. These easy-to-find and lightweight materials are great for blocking out the light, making them an ideal choice for campers on a budget.
Method 10. Carpet:
However, if you want to take your window shades to the next level, consider using an extra piece of the carpet instead. This thicker material can help you achieve complete darkness inside your camper.
Plus, if your blinds ever become dirty or stained, they are simple and inexpensive to replace compared to carpets or rugs.
FAQs:
1: Does Reflectix Work When Covered?
The simple answer is no. Reflectix is not an efficient way to insulate your home when covered. Its material is not dense enough to provide a good barrier against heat loss, and it cannot reflect heat into your home the way other insulation materials do.
2: Is Reflectix Safe for RV Windows?
A: It is not completely safe because it does not have a fire rating and can off-gas. Reflectix can cause windows to heat up and crack in extreme heat. In cooler weather, it will cause condensation.
3: What Can I Use to Insulate My RV Windows?
There are a variety of different materials that can be used to insulate RV windows. The most common option is foam insulation, which is readily available at most home improvement stores. Another material that can be used for travel trailer window insulation is bubble wrap.
4: How Do You Block a Sun Window Without Curtains?
One way is to use blackout blinds or shades. Blackout blinds and shades are made of a thick, opaque material that will not allow any light to pass through. Another way to block light from a sun window is to use a piece of cardboard or foam board.
Conclusion:
Getting a good night’s sleep while on vacation is crucial to having a good time. You don’t want to spend your time away from home feeling exhausted. If you know how to blackout camper windows, you can ensure that you’ll get the restful sleep you need.
Blackout camper windows is a window treatment that can be done in a few minutes. With these tips, you can enjoy your vacation without worry. Apply these steps the next time you take your camper out and enjoy a good night’s sleep.
If you have any questions or tips of your own, please share them in the comments below. And don’t forget to share this post with your friends who are planning a camping trip.
