Magnets for Camper and Caravan Construction
Short answer: in a camper, caravan or van conversion, you use magnets for cabinet doors that need to stay closed while driving, removable wall and ceiling panels, mosquito nets, curtains and blackout blinds, and for lights or cables. Inside, you use disc magnets or magnets with a countersunk hole; outside on the bodywork, use rubber-coated pot magnets that won't damage the paintwork. Due to condensation, it is best to choose epoxy-coated or plastic-coated magnets.
Which magnet for which application?
| Application | Recommendation | Holding force (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Cabinet door that must stay closed while driving | 2 epoxy-coated disc magnets Ø10 x 5 mm, glued in | 2.7 kg each |
| Removable panel (service point, cables) | magnets with a countersunk hole + counter-magnet | 2 – 5 kg per corner |
| Mosquito net, curtain, blackout blind | thin epoxy block magnets 30 x 15 x 2 mm, sewn in or glued | 3.5 kg each |
| Lamp, hook or cable on a steel roof or wall | rubber-coated pot magnet Ø31 – Ø43 mm | 5 – 14 kg |
| Outside: awning, sign, antenna cable on the bodywork | rubber-coated pot magnet with wire or hook | depending on size |
Order directly for your camper
- Cabinet door that must stay closed while driving: 2 x epoxy-coated disc magnet Ø10 x 5 mm (approx. 2.7 kg each). The epoxy coating offers better protection against condensation than a standard nickel-plated magnet.
- Mosquito net, curtain or blackout blind: epoxy-coated block magnet 30 x 15 x 2 mm (approx. 3.5 kg), thin enough to sew in or glue.
- Cable or lamp on a steel roof or wall: rubber-coated pot magnet Ø31 mm with cable attachment; the rubber layer protects the paintwork.
- Hook on a steel wall or bodywork: rubber-coated hook magnet Ø43 mm.
What to consider in a camper?
- Vibrations: while driving, vibrations can cause cabinet doors to open. Choose 2 to 3 times the strength required at home, and add a mechanical lock for heavy doors.
- Condensation and moisture: NiCuNi can rust in a cold camper. Use epoxy or plastic, or glue the magnet in completely. See can magnets be used outside?
- Heat: behind a skylight in the sun, temperatures can exceed 80 °C. See magnet at high temperatures.
- Surface: polyester and aluminium walls are not magnetic. In such cases, use two magnets or a steel backing plate.
- Paintwork: always use a rubber-coated version outside on the vehicle, never a bare pot magnet.
Frequently asked questions
Which magnet keeps a cabinet door closed in a moving camper?
For a light door, two epoxy-coated disc magnets Ø10 x 5 mm (approx. 2.7 kg each). For a door with dishes behind it, add a mechanical latch.
Can a magnet stay attached to the bodywork while driving?
Yes, for light items, with a large rubber-coated pot magnet. Do not use magnets for heavy loads or items that could pose a danger if they come loose.
Read also
- How do you mount a magnet?
- Which pot magnet should you choose?
- Magnets for cable management
- Magnets for boat and yacht building
Need help? Use the Magnet Advisor or contact us.
