How to Get the Most Privacy in your Caravan

If the thought of a lack of privacy is stopping you from enjoying the feeling and experiences that only escaping in your caravan can bring, maybe it is time to think again. For some people, when it comes to heading off in their caravan, they may feel a sudden loss of privacy that we so often take for granted at home in a domestic setting. The idea of being clearly visible to other caravanners during your stay at a campsite should not hold you back from creating ever lasting memories, nor should you have to compromise on your privacy. There are options available to help you maintain an optimal level of privacy. Let’s take a look.

Getting the right layout-  If you are in the process of shopping around for a new or second hand caravan, it is important to consider the layout of your van in relation to how you like to use your space, as well as who else you will be travelling with.

For example, the location of your caravan’s bedroom, bathroom and your vans door will greatly impact on your privacy. There is no right or wrong layout, this will change for everyone, but it is important to consider how you use these spaces. Such as if you like to take day naps, you probably don’t want your bedroom close to the door as you may get interrupted anytime someone comes in and out of the door, as well as being affected by any outside noise. Another aspect to consider is where your bathroom (if you have one) opens up to- ie: into the bedroom or the kitchen.

Your setup and your level of self sufficiency- Everyone is different. Some people love using public facilities such as the rec room, BBQ area or amenities as they find this to be a social aspect that allows them to chat and make friends with other travellers. On the other hand, some people don’t like the  possible lack of cleanliness side of things, or would just like to have a little peace and quiet either first thing in the morning before their day starts or at the end of a long day of driving or exploring. If this sounds like you, then you will want to fit out your van with appliances and accessories that will allow you to be as self sufficient as possible. This may include installing a cassette toilet and washing machine so you don’t have to rely on public amenities. Additionally, how your kitchen has been equipped, your solar and battery setup and even if you have a TV, will all impact on the number of times you may need to venture outside of your van.

 Covering Up- In terms of covering up there are a couple of different ways to do this. Internally you can make use of tinted windows, blinds and curtains, the same as if you were in a house or apartment. This can also double as offering protection to your inside furnishing from UV damage.

If your van has an awning, the simplest way to add some privacy to your setup is to use a privacy screen. You can attach these along the sides and or the length of the awning giving you control over the level of added privacy you desire. It is important to note that you do need to know which type of awning you have (roll out or box awning) as the privacy screens are not universally compatible.

Additional Living Spaces- Similar to the use of a privacy screen, you can look at expanding your living space with an annexe. Choosing an annexe is a more costly avenue to take compared to privacy screens but if you plan on using regularly, like any of your accessories, it is an investment well worth taking. An annexe will provide you with a more closed in area that also has the convenience of windows and doors which will give you greater control and protection when it comes to the elements including wind, temperature and insects. If you have a roll out awning you can easily add on a Coast awning. If you have a Fiamma awning, Fiamma has a range of privacy rooms available to suit. If you don’t have an awning, fear not, PurpleLine have their Orbit Air range of annexes that provide an easy, lightweight yet durable addition to any setup.

Privacy concerns should not be what is holding you back from exploring this great country of ours. Reinforce your caravan with the level of privacy measures that will best suit you, your budget and most importantly your travel style so that your caravanning experience can be as comfortable and as private as you like.


DISCLAIMER* Please note, this advice is general in nature and we strongly recommend consulting the product manual and where relevant, a professional installer.


Leave a comment

Comments have to be approved before showing up