6 Best Magnetic Curtains for RV Easy Access That Nomads Swear By
RV nomads favor magnetic curtains for hands-free access. We review the top 6 models that keep bugs out and make life on the road more convenient.
You’re balancing a full armload of groceries, trying to nudge the flimsy RV screen door latch with your elbow without dropping the eggs. We’ve all been there, fumbling with a door that feels more like an obstacle than an entrance. A magnetic screen door transforms that daily frustration into a seamless, hands-free transition between your rig and the great outdoors.
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, this site earns from qualifying purchases. Thank you!
Why Magnetic Screens are an RV Game-Changer
The standard sliding screen door on most RVs is a notorious point of failure. The plastic latches break, the tracks get clogged with dirt, and they constantly need realignment. They are a clumsy solution to a simple problem: letting air in while keeping bugs out.
A magnetic screen curtain completely sidesteps these issues. It hangs from your doorframe with adhesive strips or tacks, creating a simple, walk-through barrier. The center seam is lined with magnets that automatically snap shut behind you, providing a bug-proof seal without any mechanical parts to break or jam. This is especially useful when you’re carrying gear, cooking outside, or just want to move freely.
Beyond pure function, these screens change how you live in your space. They blur the line between inside and out, encouraging better airflow and making your rig feel larger and more connected to your surroundings. It’s a small upgrade that delivers a huge improvement in daily quality of life on the road.
Flux Phenom Magnetic Screen: A Nomad Favorite
When you see a product on rig after rig, it’s usually for a good reason. The Flux Phenom screen is a common sight in campgrounds because it’s built to withstand the rigors of full-time travel. Its heavy-duty polyester mesh and reinforced top seam prevent the tearing and fraying that plague cheaper models.
What truly sets it apart is the quality of its components. The magnets are strong and sewn directly into the seam, ensuring a quick, solid closure every time. This is critical at dusk when mosquitos are most active. The installation uses a full-frame, hook-and-loop strip, which provides a much more secure and gap-free fit than screens that use just a few adhesive tabs.
While it costs a bit more than budget options, the investment pays off in longevity. You’re buying a screen that will likely last for several seasons, not one you’ll be replacing halfway through a trip. For full-timers, the durability of the Flux Phenom makes it a clear winner.
MAGZO Screens: Ideal for Custom RV Doorways
RVs, vans, and skoolies are notorious for having non-standard door sizes. This is where MAGZO shines. They offer an enormous range of sizes, making it possible to find a near-perfect fit for almost any rig, which is the single most important factor for an effective bug screen.
Getting the right size isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about function. A screen that’s too short leaves a gap for critters at the bottom, while one that’s too long bunches up and won’t close properly. MAGZO’s extensive size chart lets you order a screen that hangs with the perfect amount of slack to ensure the magnets connect cleanly every time.
They also frequently offer different materials, such as tougher fiberglass mesh, which is a significant upgrade over standard polyester for those with pets or in high-wind areas. If you’ve struggled to find a screen for your unique doorway, MAGZO is almost certainly your best bet.
Apalus Bug Screen: Simple and Effective Design
Keep tiny insects like no-see-ums out with this 20x20 mesh bug screen. Its tight weave blocks small pests while maintaining airflow and visibility for your windows, doors, and patios.
Sometimes, you just need a product that does its job reliably without any fuss. The Apalus Bug Screen is exactly that. It’s a well-regarded option that focuses on getting the basics right: a decent quality mesh, well-spaced magnets, and a straightforward installation process.
This screen is a great middle-ground choice. It’s more durable than the ultra-cheap options but more affordable than the premium, heavy-duty models. For weekend warriors or seasonal travelers, the Apalus provides excellent performance and value, effectively keeping bugs out and letting the breeze in.
Its simplicity is its strength. There are no complex features, just a solid screen that works as advertised. It’s an ideal choice for someone new to magnetic screens who wants to try the concept without a big initial investment.
AUGO Magnetic Screen: Affordable Bug Protection
Living on the road means watching your budget, and the AUGO Magnetic Screen delivers reliable bug protection without breaking the bank. It’s one of the most popular affordable options, proving you don’t need to spend a lot to enjoy hands-free access to your RV.
The main tradeoff here is long-term durability. The mesh and stitching may not hold up to the constant sun, wind, and use that a full-timer puts it through. However, for a seasonal camper or someone who just needs a solution for a single long trip, it’s a fantastic value.
Think of it as a highly effective, semi-disposable solution. It will absolutely get you through a season or two of keeping the bugs at bay. For the price, the AUGO screen offers unbeatable convenience and is a massive upgrade over a broken or non-existent factory screen door.
Sentry Screens: The Pet-Friendly Magnetic Door
Pets and standard screen doors are a recipe for disaster. A dog’s claws or a cat’s desire to get outside can shred a flimsy mesh in seconds. Sentry Screens, and other brands marketed as "pet-friendly," address this head-on with a tougher, more resilient mesh.
These screens use a vinyl-coated material that is significantly more resistant to tearing and scratching. The magnets are often weighted slightly differently, allowing a pet to easily nudge their way through without the screen getting stuck on them, yet it still closes securely behind them. This gives your furry companions the freedom to go in and out, reducing their stress and yours.
The peace of mind is invaluable. You aren’t constantly worried about coming back to a shredded screen and a rig full of flies. If you travel with pets, investing in a screen specifically designed to handle them is not a luxury; it’s a necessity for a harmonious life in a small space.
Pure Garden Screen for Hands-Free Walk-Through
Protect your garden with this durable, fine mesh netting. Its UV-resistant HDPE material effectively shields plants from pests while allowing air, water, and light to pass through. Easily cut to size for any garden application.
The Pure Garden screen is another widely available and often very affordable option, reminiscent of the original "As Seen on TV" models that popularized this product. Its primary focus is on the convenience of a hands-free, walk-through entrance, and at that, it excels.
This is the perfect screen for situations where convenience is the top priority. If you’re constantly moving between your outdoor kitchen and your indoor fridge, or carrying laundry back and forth, the ease of just walking through can’t be beaten. It provides a basic level of bug protection that is adequate for many situations.
However, be realistic about its limitations. The mesh is typically lighter, and the magnets may not be as powerful as those on more expensive models. In a heavy breeze, it might blow open. It’s best suited for casual use or in a more protected entryway, but for a simple, low-cost convenience upgrade, it’s a solid choice.
Installing and Maintaining Your RV Screen Door
A magnetic screen is only as good as its installation. Rushing this process is the number one reason people get frustrated. The most critical step is to measure the door frame where the screen will actually mount, not the old door or the opening itself.
Once you have the right size, preparation is key. Clean the door frame surface with rubbing alcohol to remove any dirt, wax, or oils. This ensures the adhesive on the hook-and-loop strips gets a strong bond. Apply the strips to the frame and press firmly, then let them cure for at least a few hours—or even overnight—before hanging the weight of the screen on them. When you attach the screen, make sure it has a little slack. If it’s pulled perfectly taut, the magnets in the middle won’t be able to reach each other to close.
Maintenance is simple. Every few months, check the adhesive strips to ensure they are still secure, especially after big temperature changes. You can clean the mesh with a damp cloth and mild soap. Taking a few minutes to install it correctly and check on it occasionally will ensure your screen lasts for many seasons to come.
Choosing a magnetic screen isn’t just about keeping bugs out; it’s about making your RV life easier, more open, and more enjoyable. By matching the right screen to your rig’s specific needs—whether that’s a custom size, pet-proof durability, or a budget-friendly price—you’re investing in a smoother, more comfortable life on the road.
