This Clever Car Camping Essential Offers Privacy While Keeping Pesky Insects Outside

We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.

Ventilation can be a big issue for car campers, especially if you're hunkering down for the night in a hot or humid area. Crack the windows at night, and you'll get refreshing airflow. Leave them shut, and you may wake up sweaty and uncomfortable. But there's an obvious tradeoff: open windows invite mosquitoes, gnats, no-see-ums, and other buzzing intruders into your sleeping space. That's why bug window screens should be on your car camping checklist.

These mesh panels cover your car's windows, creating a breathable barrier that lets in fresh air while keeping pests out. They're portable, easy to use, and take up little space in your already-cramped car. Some campers choose to make their own, and there are different variations on the market, too. Some stretch over standard car windows, others are affixed with magnets, and campers can also choose one with additional features like cover for rainy days.

In addition to keeping the critters out, screens also offer privacy, something car campers often overlook until they're parked near other people. The mesh blurs the view in while letting you see out easily, transforming your vehicle into a cozy nighttime nook so you can sleep comfortably when camping. For car campers, this simple piece of gear can make a vehicle feel more like home.

Purpose-made screens like The Skeeter Beater, often recommended in RV and car camping forums, are praised for being durable and easy to use. One camper, u/gschoppe, wrote on Reddit: "If you want to maximize airflow and minimize darkening, your best bet is probably skeeter beaters. They're pricy, but definitely better for airflow and light than the nylon sunscreens are." They come in a variety of colors and sizes, including panel-sized screens for larger openings.

A primary plus for the Skeeter Beater is that they're meant to be used without blocking the door from opening and closing. Skeeter Beater window screen prices range from $34.95 to $54.95 on average, with larger panel screens going up to $169.95. The company also sells accessories like sunroof screens, magnetic hooks, extra magnets, and nylon storage bags.

"Skeeter Beaters are the best thing since sliced bread," one reviewer said on the company's website. "We can now draw fresh air in with without even no see um's getting in." The screens are meant to help blur the inside of your vehicle from prying eyes during overnight stays. Those perks of comfort and privacy makes them a go-to choice for many seasoned travelers.

There are also a number of solutions you can find on Amazon. Window screens that stretch over your window, like this two-pack stretch mesh car window screen, sell at a lower price point (around $14 for two). Just be sure to check the measurements, as not all screens will fit all makes and models. Campers concerned about protection from the rain could also get something like this Roadie SUV window tent, which comes with a retractable awning to prevent the screen from getting soaked. Hatchback owners could also consider a kit that includes the tailgate, like this 5-piece screen set from Yahenda.

DIY versions are also popular. Many campers take fine mesh fabric or mosquito netting and sew or glue in magnets around the edges, creating a flexible cover that attaches to the metal frames of the door. It's cheap, easy to repair, and adaptable to different car models. Another great idea came from u/Count-per-minute: "I bought an indoor bug net for a Queen size bed. I carefully tucked the fabric into my headliner and it worked great. I could open /close windows, turn ignition and even keep my dog covered!!!"

To get the most out of bug screens, install them as soon as you set up camp, keep your door closed as much as possible, and store them flat or rolled to avoid tears when not in use. These portable screens add comfort, protect against pests, and give you the freedom to sleep with the windows open under the stars. Keeping a DIY bug repellent with your camping gear offers an extra layer of protection without stinking up the car with a chemical smell. For more ideas, check out these genius hacks to keep bugs away while camping.