DIY Reflectix Window Covers for Car Camping

One of the first things I recommend getting if you want to camp out of your SUV, hatchback, or Minivan is some window covers, and I thought I would share how easy it is to make your own Reflectix window covers. 

I have been using "window socks" for my last few years of car camping, even back when I was camping in my Prius. They work great when you want some air flow, and they can be used on different makes of vehicles. However, they are not insulative and are transparent; sometimes you want a little extra privacy. Furthermore, you have to get out of the car to put window socks up, which isn't ideal when you are stealth camping. After a few failed experiments with fabric curtains, I decided it was time to upgrade. 

Benefits of Reflectix 

-Materials for homemade Reflectix are easy to get. I got mine in the home insulation department of Menards. 

-Reflectix helps insulate your car in the winter, keeping your body heat inside the vehicle and extending the range of temperatures you can safely camp in.

-Reflectix can reflect heat out of your car so that the interior doesn't heat up as fast in the sun. If you plan to use these for cooling, you can increase the effect by using light colors in your vehicle interior. 

-It is opaque, so it can create a great sense of privacy. You can also set them up without leaving your vehicle. 

Cons of Reflectix

-To fit snugly in your windows, Reflectix material has to be cut custom to your vehicle. So, if you change vehicles, you need to craft a fresh set.

How to Make DYI Reflectix Window Covers

1. gather supplies. You will need a good set of scissors and a roll of Reflectix. Make sure you measure how tall you need your roll to be before you begin.

2. With the help of a partner, hold up an unrolled section to the window so that the bottom is resting inside your window, as it would if you were using it as a window cover. 

3. Carefully snip off the excess material from the top and sides, a little at a time, to fit snuggly inside the window. Go slowly, since it is easier to cut away than it is to re-attach. Some people might prefer to make a template from newspaper or cardboard, but we found this slow-and-steady method works just as well. 

4. As a finishing touch you might want to add some kind of edging to your window covers to make them look professional and finished. Don't make edging from duct tape! A lot of people do this, but the adhesive can melt when your car gets hot. Instead, use non-adhesive bias tape from a local craft store and sew it onto your covers. As a bonus, it comes in all kinds of fun colors!

5. You might also want to paint your window covers to work better for the season you like to camp it. Making the outside black will help black out your windows in winter. Making the inside white might slightly prevent some heat in summer. You can also sew fabric to the Reflectix if you want a more polished or long lasting result.