Road tripping in a RV, also known as a recreational vehicle, caravan, or camper, is one of the quintessential American pastimes. However, if you have ever ridden long distances in one, you know it can get a little cramped, especially if you’re traveling in a group. There are several ways you can use magnets to maximize the space and make your RV more welcoming.

Magnetic Surfaces

Magnetize tables and cupboards for secure storage. When traveling on bumpy roads and rougher terrain, you can keep cups, plates and other light-weight dishware upright on countertops and other surfaces. There are a couple different ways that you can magnetize surfaces. You can paint them with magnetic paint or attach metal sheeting in select areas.

Magnetic Door Latch

If you really want to secure items in cupboards, it may be simpler to add magnetic door latches to cupboard doors. Magnetic latches can help keep doors closed and secure when the RV is in movement. In order to create your own set of door latches, you need some small strong magnets, preferably ones with countersink, screws and a drill. To learn more about how to create your own magnetic latches for doors, check out our DIY guide here.

Living on wheels can also leave you missing the little things more common in homes or traditional living space. There are several ways magnets can help you decorate a RV to make it feel “more like home”. One way is to spruce it up with pictures and colorful decor. The problem with campers and motor homes is that the motion can cause hanging items to fall down.

Hook Magnets and DIY Banners

Whether you are in a RV or home, a banner is a cheap and easy-to-make decoration. Simply grab some colorful pieces of fabric or paper and cut them up into same-size triangle shapes. Attach all of your triangles together with some string. Then put a few hook magnets on the walls of your RV. Above the sleeping space or dining area are good places to put a banner.

Magnetic Curtain Rods and Hangers

Closet space is a luxury in most RVs. With some magnets and a few other supplies, you can create your own place to hang clothes. You can magnetize the bathroom door or the ceiling, attach a strong hook magnet, and place a few clothes hangers on top of it.

Also, RVs aren’t known for providing much privacy. You can hang a curtain by attaching a rod to some strong neodymium magnets, or you can simply use hook magnets again to hold the curtain in place. Not only will it provide some privacy, but it adds a home-like touch.

Some newer RVs may have magnetic latches and other features, but some older models probably don’t. There are tons of creative DIYs and ways that magnets can help make traveling in an RV more comfortable and snug. What are some other ways that magnets can be used for RV travel?

Photo by Ildar Sagdejev