Van Life Gear

Bug Screen for Sprinter Van: My Installation Story and Review

September 18, 2024

Disclosure:Some of the links in this article may be affiliate links, which can provide compensation to me at no cost to you if you decide to purchase. This site is not intended to provide financial advice and is for entertainment only.

Living off-grid in warmer climates like Mexico has its perks, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. One of the biggest? Keeping out insects while maintaining airflow. My 2006 Pleasureway was designed with screens on a few small windows, but the best ventilation comes from the large rear and side doors. If you have ever camped in Mexico, you know that flies are everywhere. Meanwhile, the place I spend my summers is next to a beautiful river—prime mosquito territory. Abug screen for Sprinter vanlife is an absolute necessity for me.

Bug screen for sprinter van image of it from the inside looking out

Choosing the Right Bug Screen for My Sprinter Van

Ordering anything while traveling in Mexico, especially from Amazon, can be tricky. My search criteria included a shipping timeline that fit into my one-month stay at an RV park. Of course, sizing was also crucial. If you are paying extra for shipping, measuring accurately is key—returns are not an option when you're in Mexico with no fixed address.

Some screens mount on the outside of the door, but I wanted something that fit inside the frame so I could close the door when needed. Finding accessories for an older model Sprinter like my 2006 Pleasureway is tough. After hours of research here is what I chose:

For the Sliding Side Door:

Check Amazon US Pricing

Check Amazon CANADA pricing

For my hightop rear door:

Check Amazon US Pricing

Check Amazon Canada Pricing

Installation and First Impressions

Shipping was faster than expected—my package arrived before I did! The screen came well-packaged in a carrying case, with extra magnets for a better fit. Right away, I could tell it was well-made, though only time would tell how durable it really was.

On particularly hot days, pairing this bug screen with aportable fanmakes a world of difference. I’ve reviewed my favoriteportable fan for camping, which keeps my van cool even when temperatures soar.

The Challenge with Magnets

One issue became apparent quickly: the magnets were not as strong as I had hoped. Abug screen for Sprinter vandoors needs to stay in place, even with dogs and humans constantly going in and out. A snug fit is essential, and in my case, the slightly imperfect fit meant that some magnets did not hold as securely as I wanted.

I considered using strong Velcro for the top edge and installing the extra magnets that came with the package. However, within a few days, I realized I would prefer a permanent mounting system.

The screen has a three-way zipper closure, which turned out to be a blessing in disguise. Given the weaker magnets, a magnetic closure alone would not have worked well. The zipper ensures the screen stays in place while keeping out flies and mosquitoes.

If you are dealing with other unwelcome guests in your van—like rodents—check outmy guide on how to repel rats and mice.

Installation Process

Installing mybug screen for Sprinter vandoors was straightforward, even without included instructions. Here is how I did it:

Unpack and Lay Out the Screen– Spread the screen flat to understand how it will fit your van.

Position the Screen– Hold it up to the door and adjust placement. I found that moving the zipper opening higher made it easier to use.

Secure Under the Door Curtain– I slid the top edge under my van’s existing door curtain and used the original screws for stability.

Fit Under the Trim Piece– By unscrewing the trim slightly and tucking in the screen, I created a more secure mount.

One Year Later: Is It Still Working?

Yes! A year later, mybug screen for Sprinter vanlife is still holding up well. Despite daily use, heavy winds, and countless in-and-out trips with my dogs, it remains in great shape.

Post-Installation Review

Ease of Use:After adjusting the installation, the screen stays closed reliably.

Effectiveness:Even during windy days, it keeps bugs out.

Ventilation & Light:Great airflow, though it darkens the interior slightly.

Bonus:Provides extra privacy, even with the door wide open.

If you're planning to camp in Baja, where the flies can be relentless, check outLos Barriles free campingfor tips on great spots to park overnight. There were no flies at this spot!

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

image of a bug screen for sprinter van from the outside looking in

I highly recommend abug screen for Sprinter vanowners, especially those in bug-heavy areas. If you plan to purchase one, make sure to measure your door frame precisely. Depending on your van's design, you may need to modify the installation for a perfect fit.

For me, this screen has become a permanent part of my van setup. It is one of the simplest upgrades I have made, but it has had a huge impact on my comfort. Whether I am battling flies in Mexico or mosquitoes by the river in the summer, my van remains bug-free and well-ventilated—exactly how I want it!

And if you're running an air conditioner in your RV, using asoft start for RV ACcan make powering it up smoother and more efficient.

Here are some quick and easy links for the items discussed above:

Sliding Side door:

Amazon Canada here

Amazon US here

Rear Door:

Amazon US here

Amazon Canada here

Free camping tips, gear reviews and real van life advice in your inbox

Written by a solo woman who has been living full-time on the road since 2009. No spam, just the real stuff.