Whether you’re embarking on late-summer road trips, gearing up for cozy fall camping, or living the van life all year round, RV and van travel offers the freedom to go wherever the road takes you, with all the comforts of home. However, with limited space and a lot of motion, keeping your camper or conversion van tidy can be a challenge. That’s where magnets come in.

Neodymium magnets are strong, compact, and incredibly versatile, making them one of the most underrated tools for RV and van life organization. Whether you're looking to add storage, hang decor, or secure items while in motion, a few well-placed magnets can make your mobile living space more functional and more personalized. 

Here are five practical ways to use magnets in your RV, camper, or van build.

1. Create Magnetic Surfaces for Storage & Stability

 

Magnetic surfaces can help stabilize lightweight items like cups, bowls, and toiletries. Use magnetic paint on tables or countertops for a smooth, low-profile solution, or install thin steel sheets under your tabletop and use small disc magnets to hold items in place.

Try This Magnet: ½" x ⅛" Neodymium Disc Magnets – strong enough to anchor cups, spice tins, or soap dishes without bulk.

2. Add DIY Magnetic Cabinet Latches

 

Cabinet doors flying open on a mountain road? Secure your storage with discreet magnetic latches. They’re especially useful in older RVs and DIY van builds that lack modern hardware.

What you’ll need:

  • Small neodymium countersunk magnets 
  • Screws and a drill 
  • Metal strike plates or washers 

Try This Magnet: ½" x ½" x ¼" Countersunk Block Magnet – compact and strong, great for cabinet doors or fold-down tables.

Want a full tutorial? Check out our DIY guide for building magnetic door latches.

3. Use Hook Magnets for Hanging & Organization

 

Wall space is limited in RVs and vans, so take advantage of metal surfaces like the fridge, door, or shelving unit. Magnetic hooks are perfect for hanging everything from dish towels and keys to jackets and bags.

Try This Magnet: 25 lb Magnetic Hook – reliable for everyday essentials, and easy to move without drilling.

Pro Tip: Hang a reusable grocery bag or laundry bag from a hook magnet by the door—it’ll make day-to-day organization much simpler.

4. Personalize Your Space with Removable Magnetic Decor

 

Van life is about freedom, but that doesn’t mean you can’t add your own cozy touches. Use magnets to hang seasonal banners, art prints, or fairy lights without damaging the wall.

How to decorate:

  • Make a DIY banner with paper or fabric triangles and string. 
  • Use Magnetic Hooks or Disc Magnets to attach it above your bed or kitchen setup. 

Try This Magnet: Colorful Plastic Coated Disc Magnets – lightweight, fun, and easy to coordinate with your decor.

Bonus idea: Stick a galvanized steel panel to one wall and turn it into a magnetic photo display. Change out prints or postcards as you travel.

5. Hang Curtains or Create Privacy Zones with Magnetic Rods

Privacy is key when you’re parked at a campground or urban spot. Magnetic curtain rods are a great way to hang dividers or blackout curtains, especially if you don’t want to drill into your van’s interior.

What you need:

  • Strong neodymium magnets with hooks or countersunk mounting 
  • A lightweight curtain rod or tension rod 
  • Curtains or blackout fabric 

Try This Magnet: 1/2" x 1/4" Countersunk Ring Magnet – use two to support a rod across a van door or sleeping area.

Van life and RV travel are all about maximizing your space. With a few strong magnets and a bit of creativity, you can streamline your storage, reduce clutter, and customize your living space with minimal tools and no permanent changes required. 

If you’re concerned about magnets leaving marks or chipping paint, use our plastic-coated magnets. 

Find Even More Magnets

We have a huge selection of magnets, so be sure to look through them to find the perfect options for your specific needs.  While you’re at it, check out our blog for an extensive library of magnet-related articles.

 

Finally, subscribe to our monthly newsletter! You’ll be among the first to receive notifications about our latest blogs and discounts for our latest magnet deals. 

 

If you need additional help or have questions, contact us!

 

Safety Warning: Children should not be allowed to play with neodymium magnets as they can be dangerous. Small magnets pose a choking hazard and should never be swallowed or inserted into any part of the body.

 

Magnets can be dangerous. Neodymium magnets, especially, must be handled with care to avoid personal injury and damage to the magnets. Fingers and other body parts can get severely pinched between two attracting magnets. Bones can be broken by larger magnets. Visit our Magnet Safety page to learn more.