10 Best DIY Overhead Storage Net Materials for Camper Vans

Every square inch of a camper van counts, but the vast expanse of the ceiling is often completely wasted or poorly utilized. Installing an overhead storage net turns empty vertical space into a highly functional holding zone for jackets, bedding, and lightweight gear. Choosing the right material for this DIY project ensures your gear stays secured against the ceiling instead of sagging into your living space while driving down washboard roads.

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Key Factors for Selecting Van Ceiling Net Materials

Overhead storage in a mobile environment faces forces that static home storage never encounters. As a van twists along curvy mountain passes or vibrates over gravel, anything stored overhead will shift, push, and pull against its enclosure. Selecting the right material requires balancing elasticity—which allows the net to expand around bulky items—with structural rigidity, which keeps the net from sagging down into your headspace when fully loaded.

Material composition also dictates how well your setup survives the harsh environment of a metal van roof. During peak summer, ceiling temperatures can easily exceed 140°F, causing cheap plastics and low-grade rubbers to degrade, lose their stretch, or become sticky. Look for UV-stabilized materials like polyester or marine-grade nylon, which resist dry rot and maintain their tension over years of exposure to sunlight pouring through the windshield.

Finally, consider how the net anchors to your van’s framing. Rigid mesh fabrics require solid perimeter framing or tracks to remain taut, while elastic shock cords can hook directly onto simple eyelets or L-track studs. Your choice of material must align with your existing ceiling build—whether you are mounting to exposed metal ribs, wood tongue-and-groove paneling, or fabric-wrapped plywood panels.

Cargo Netting – Powertye 50125 Elastic Cargo Net

A pre-made elastic cargo net is the fastest way to add overhead storage without weaving your own webbing or sewing custom mesh pockets. The Powertye 50125 Elastic Cargo Net acts as a flexible canopy, stretching effortlessly over bulky items like sleeping bags, winter coats, and pillows while holding them firmly against the ceiling. It bridges the gap between raw DIY materials and ready-to-use convenience by offering structured, tight-knit grid spacing that keeps smaller items from slipping through.

This specific net stands out because it utilizes 4.4mm thick latex rubber cord wrapped in a durable nylon jacket, ensuring it retains its memory and elasticity far longer than cheap synthetic rubber alternatives. The 15-inch by 30-inch footprint is the perfect scale for typical van ceiling joists, stretching up to 30 inches by 45 inches when fully extended. It features heavy-duty adjustable ABS plastic hooks that won’t scratch your wood ceiling panels or metal ribs, and these hooks can be subbed out for carabiners or direct bolt-downs if a permanent mount is preferred.

• Dimensions: 15″ x 30″ (stretches to 30″ x 45″)
• Grid Size: 2″ x 2″ tight mesh pattern
• Material: Natural latex rubber core with UV-resistant nylon jacket
• Best for: Storing bulky bedding, camp blankets, and winter clothing overhead

Before buying, note that because this is a highly elastic net, putting heavy, dense items like canned food or toolboxes in it will cause it to sag into your living space. This product is ideal for DIYers wanting a quick, tool-free installation using existing anchor points, but it is not suitable for those looking to store heavy gear or maintain a completely flush, modern aesthetic when the net is empty.

Elastic Shock Cord – Sgt Knots Dacron Polyester Cord

SGT KNOTS Marine Grade Bungee Cord - 100% Elastic Cord, Dacron Polyester Bungee Shock Cord for DIY, Tie Downs, Commercial Uses | 1/4" x 50 ft, Black

When pre-made cargo nets do not fit the specific dimensions of a custom van layout, raw elastic shock cord allows you to weave a custom-fit overhead barrier. This raw material lets you dictate the exact grid spacing, tension level, and attachment points for a personalized storage solution. The Sgt Knots Dacron Polyester Shock Cord is the gold standard for this task because of its superior resistance to harsh environmental conditions.

Unlike standard nylon-jacketed bungee cords that degrade under UV light and high cabin temperatures, this cord features a marine-grade Dacron polyester jacket. Polyester offers exceptional abrasion resistance and maintains its elasticity even after years of baking directly under a hot metal van roof. The inner core consists of first-run, top-quality rubber strands that provide consistent, reliable tension, preventing the sag common in cheap hardware store bungees.

• Diameter options: 1/8″, 3/16″, 1/4″ (1/4″ recommended for ceiling grids)
• Jacket material: UV and moisture-resistant Dacron polyester
• Core: 100% natural rubber latex strands
• Best for: Custom-woven ceiling nets, tensioning side-pocket barriers, and secure gear tie-downs

Weaving your own net with raw shock cord requires a clear plan, secure anchor points, and solid knotting skills like the double-overhand or bowline to maintain tension. This material is perfect for the hands-on DIYer who wants a tailored, professional-looking grid over an odd-shaped bed platform or cab-over space, but it requires significantly more installation time than pre-made options.

Flat Nylon Webbing – Country Brook Design Heavy Webbing

If you need to store heavier gear overhead—such as camp chairs, recovery tracks, or extra window covers—elastic materials simply will not hold up. Flat nylon webbing provides a completely rigid, non-stretch cargo grid that keeps heavy items pinned securely against the ceiling without any risk of sagging. The Country Brook Design Heavy Nylon Webbing delivers the perfect balance of massive tensile strength and workable flexibility for DIY weavers.

This 1-inch wide webbing boasts a tensile strength of 4,200 pounds, meaning it will easily handle any gear you can fit into a van ceiling. The tight, heavy weave gives it a premium semi-gloss look that elevates the aesthetic of a modern van interior, while its smooth texture prevents it from snagging on delicate fabrics like down sleeping bags. It cuts easily with scissors and can be heat-sealed with a simple lighter to prevent fraying at the connection points.

• Width: 1 inch (standard for custom cargo nets)
• Tensile Strength: 4,200 lbs
• Material: 100% heavy-duty nylon
• Best for: Rigid overhead cargo grids, heavy gear retention, and ceiling-mounted strap loops

Because nylon expands slightly when exposed to high humidity, you must install this webbing under high tension or use adjustable heavy-duty cam buckles. This product is best for van builders who want a rugged, industrial aesthetic and need to secure heavy or bulky gear, but it is not ideal for those who prefer the quick, “throw-and-go” access that elastic netting provides.

Heavy Utility Mesh – Seattle Fabrics Coated Mesh

Woven grids and bungee networks are excellent for large items, but they allow small items like headlamps, charging cords, or socks to slip through the gaps. Heavy utility mesh acts as a solid-yet-breathable barrier, creating a hammock-like ceiling pocket that securely contains items of any size. Seattle Fabrics Coated Mesh is a premium, vinyl-coated polyester material that offers the structure and breathability needed to prevent mold and mildew in damp van environments.

This heavy-duty mesh features a robust 1000-denier polyester base coated in liquid vinyl, making it highly resistant to punctures, tearing, and fraying. The open-weave design allows air to circulate freely through the stored gear, ensuring wet towels or damp hiking clothes dry out instead of rotting in a musty pocket. It remains stiff enough to resist drooping when empty, maintaining a clean, integrated look against your van’s ceiling panels.

• Material: Vinyl-coated polyester mesh (approx. 10 oz per square yard)
• Breathability: High airflow open-weave pattern
• Durability: UV, mildew, and chlorine resistant
• Best for: Large pocket-style ceiling hammocks, shoe organizers, and wet-gear storage

To use this material successfully, you will need a heavy-duty sewing machine equipped with a denim or leather needle, as well as bias tape to finish the raw edges. It is the absolute best choice for custom-sewed ceiling pockets over a bed or kitchen galley, but it is not a “quick-fix” product and requires basic upholstery sewing skills to install properly.

Ceiling Storage Net – Organice Car Ceiling Cargo Net

Kaskawise SUV Car Ceiling Cargo Net Pocket,35.4"x23.6" Double-Layer Mesh Car Roof Storage Organizer for Ford,F150,Jeep,Honda CRV,RAV4,Van Organizers and Storage,Camping Accessories

For those who want a fully functional overhead storage solution without the hassle of sewing, cutting, or drilling, a pre-fabricated double-layer mesh pocket is the perfect shortcut. The Organice Car Ceiling Cargo Net suspends directly from existing overhead grab handles or roof-mounted tie-down points using adjustable heavy-duty straps. It provides a dual-layer storage pouch that zips shut, keeping your belongings completely contained even when driving over rough, unpaved terrain.

The standout feature of this net is its double-layer mesh design with a high-quality zipper closure, which prevents items from shifting around or falling out during sudden stops. Constructed from durable, lightweight polyester mesh, it is designed to hold soft goods like jackets, pillows, and extra blankets flat against the ceiling, maintaining maximum headroom. The adjustable strap buckles allow you to fine-tune the tension across the width of your van, minimizing sag in the center.

• Dimensions: 31″ x 21″ (adjustable strap length)
• Closure: Heavy-duty zipper
• Material: Double-layer breathable polyester mesh
• Best for: Holding extra pillows, lightweight jackets, and sleeping bags flat against the roof

Keep in mind that this net is designed to anchor to four grab handles, which are common in passenger vans but may not exist in a custom cargo van build. If your van does not have grab handles, you will need to install four heavy-duty eyelets or L-track studs to anchor the straps. This is a brilliant, budget-friendly option for weekend warriors and camper conversions that retain the factory interior trim.

Bungee Cargo Net – Gladiator Cargo Gear Safe T Net

Standard elastic bungees often fail when asked to hold heavy camper van essentials like camp tables, heavy bedding, or folding chairs against the ceiling. The Gladiator Cargo Gear Safe T Net combines the flexibility of a cargo net with the absolute strength of an industrial tie-down strap. By integrating heavy-duty ripstop mesh with structural webbing, it prevents any possibility of load shifting while keeping cargo completely secure.

This net stands out because it utilizes weatherproofed, ripstop mesh reinforced with solid webbing straps rated for massive loads. The hardware is high-grade steel, and the integrated grommet attachment points let you bolt or clip it directly into your van’s structural ribs or L-track system. It provides a flat, secure barrier that distributes tension evenly, preventing the localized sagging common in cheap, thin-cord bungees.

• Material: Heavy-duty ripstop mesh with integrated webbing reinforcement
• Hardware: Triple-connection brass grommets and steel attachment hooks
• Certifications: Industrial load rated
• Best for: Large camper van ceilings, securing heavy/bulky gear, and rear garage area partitions

Due to its heavy-duty materials, this net is significantly heavier and bulkier than standard nylon options, making it overkill for storing just a few jackets or lightweight pillows. It is the premier choice for adventure vans carrying serious gear overhead, but those seeking a minimalist, low-profile storage pocket should look toward lighter mesh alternatives.

Nylon Paracord – Atwood Rope MFG 550 Paracord

For DIYers who want to meticulously craft a custom ceiling net without the weight of heavy webbing, authentic paracord is an exceptional choice. It allows you to design custom-knotted macrame-style or diamond-mesh grids tailored exactly to your van’s ceiling contour. Atwood Rope MFG 550 Paracord offers the precise blend of high tensile strength, rot resistance, and flexibility needed to weave a lightweight, permanent overhead barrier.

This genuine Type III paracord features a 7-strand nylon core surrounded by a 32-strand braided sheath, giving it a breaking strength of 550 pounds. It is naturally resistant to mold, mildew, and UV rays, which is critical for handling the moisture-laden air that gathers near a van’s ceiling during cold nights. The thin profile allows you to create dense, intricate weaves that hold small items securely while maintaining a clean, minimalist aesthetic.

• Tensile Strength: 550 lbs
• Diameter: 5/32″ (approx. 4mm)
• Construction: 7-strand nylon core with 32-strand outer sheath
• Best for: Custom-woven diamond mesh nets, structural perimeter lines, and lightweight gear tie-downs

While incredibly strong, nylon paracord has virtually no elastic stretch, meaning you must build tension directly into your mounting points or use tensioners (like micro cam-cleats) to keep the net taut. This material is perfect for patient DIYers who enjoy the crafting process and want an ultra-custom, highly durable net, but it is not suited for anyone looking for a quick or elasticated storage solution.

Phifertex Mesh Fabric – Phifertex Standard Vinyl Mesh

If you are aiming for a high-end, professional van build-out that looks like it came from a custom conversion shop, standard sagging bungees will not do. Phifertex Standard Vinyl Mesh is a premium, designer-grade mesh fabric that offers exceptional dimensional stability, meaning it holds its shape perfectly and will not stretch or sag over time. It is the go-to material for creating sleek, flush-mount ceiling pockets and sleek overhead barriers.

Woven from vinyl-coated polyester yarns, Phifertex is infused with Microban antimicrobial protection, which prevents the growth of mold, mildew, and odor-causing bacteria—a common issue in small, closed van cabins. The mesh is incredibly tough, resisting rips, punctures, and chlorine/salt exposure, which makes it ideal for coastal road trips. Its stiff, semi-rigid nature ensures that even when the pockets are empty, they lie completely flat and taut against the ceiling.

• Material: Vinyl-coated polyester mesh (approx. 11.3 oz per square yard)
• Openness Factor: Approximately 25% (excellent visibility and airflow)
• Special Features: Microban antimicrobial protection, UV stable
• Best for: High-end flush ceiling pockets, cabinet door backing, and heavy-duty window screens

Because Phifertex is a premium, semi-rigid fabric, it cannot be gathered or bunched like softer meshes; it must be sewn with clean, flat seams and hemmed with high-quality thread. It is the ultimate choice for perfectionists who want a clean, modern interior design that matches their custom cabinetry, but it requires a sewing machine and a bit of upholstery know-how to install successfully.

Stretch Netting Pocket – Custom Accessories 73111 Net

Huge, full-ceiling cargo nets are great for bulky gear, but they can make a small camper van feel cramped if they hang too low. Small, localized stretch netting pockets provide targeted overhead storage in specific zones, such as directly over the pillows in your sleeping platform or next to the kitchen galley. The Custom Accessories 73111 Net is a compact, highly elastic pocket that mounts flush against any solid surface, providing a secure home for your phone, glasses, or book.

This pocket features a highly elastic mesh netting bound by a thick, resilient elastic border that keeps the top opening shut when not in use. It comes with simple, integrated mounting tabs, allowing you to screw or bolt it directly into plywood ceiling panels, cabinet bottoms, or upholstered walls. The small footprint means you can place multiple pockets throughout your van to keep your most critical daily items organized and within arm’s reach.

• Material: High-stretch nylon mesh with elastic border
• Mounting style: Screw-in tabs (hardware included)
• Best for: Localized bedside storage, phone/wallet holding zones, and cabinet-side pockets

Note that these small pockets are designed only for lightweight, compact personal items and cannot support bulky blankets or heavy camp gear. They are the ideal addition for solo travelers or couples who need to de-clutter their sleeping space with simple, drill-and-forget pockets, but they will not serve as a primary gear storage solution.

Aluminum L-Track – US Cargo Control L-Track Rail

No matter how premium your netting material is, it is only as reliable as the anchor points holding it to the ceiling. US Cargo Control L-Track Rail provides a heavy-duty, highly adjustable foundation that allows you to easily mount, tension, and reposition your overhead nets. Commonly used in the aerospace and transport industries, this aluminum track turns your ceiling into a modular anchoring system.

Machined from 6061-T6 aluminum, these low-profile tracks feature pre-drilled mounting holes that align perfectly with the metal ribs or ceiling joists of most camper vans. Once installed, they accept single-stud fittings, threaded studs, or spring-loaded clips that can be slid and locked into place every inch along the track. This modularity means you can tighten or loosen your ceiling net’s tension on the fly, or quickly swap out a lightweight mesh pocket for heavy-duty tie-down straps when your storage needs change.

• Material: 6061-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum
• Profile: Low-profile, surface-mounted rail
• Compatibility: Accepts all standard L-track fittings and studs
• Best for: Providing adjustable anchor points for ceiling nets, gear tie-downs, and overhead cabinet mounts

Installing L-track requires a solid mechanical connection directly into the van’s steel frame or heavy structural framing, as screwing it into thin plywood panels can cause it to pull free under load. It represents a more significant initial investment in both cost and installation effort, but it is the absolute best choice for camper vans that require professional-grade, rattle-free adjustability.

How to Securely Tension Overhead Storage Netting

Achieving the perfect tension in an overhead net is a delicate balancing act that prevents two common failures: a sagging net that hits you in the head, and an over-tensioned net that tears out its mounting screws. To avoid these issues, start by mapping your anchor points slightly wider than the resting dimensions of the netting. This slight outward pull pre-tensions the material, ensuring it stays flush with the ceiling panels when empty.

For adjustable setups, incorporate plastic shock cord locks or marine-grade cam cleats at the corners of your net. These hardware components allow you to manually pull the perimeter cord tight as the material naturally stretches over time, or loosen the tension when you need to stuff thick winter jackets into the pocket. If you are using non-stretch webbing or heavy utility mesh, using adjustable quick-release side-squeeze buckles or small tensioning straps provides the necessary leverage to keep the fabric taut.

Finally, always anchor your hardware into structural elements—such as metal ribs, plywood framing, or L-track rails—rather than thin ceiling paneling. When a net is loaded with gear and subjected to the vibrations of the road, the downward force increases exponentially. Distributing the load across multiple secure anchor points ensures your DIY overhead storage net remains safe, quiet, and perfectly functional for miles to come.

Selecting the right material for your DIY overhead storage net ultimately depends on whether you need the quick flexibility of elastic cord or the structured durability of rigid mesh fabrics. By matching your material choice to your van’s layout and structural mounting points, you can reclaim valuable ceiling space and keep your gear neatly organized. With a securely tensioned overhead net in place, your camper van will feel more spacious, organized, and ready for the open road.