How to Use Camping Cargo Nets Like a Pro: Tips for First-Time Adventurers

There’s nothing like hitting the road for a weekend of camping, hiking, or off-grid exploring. But if your gear is bouncing around your truck bed or sliding across your SUV’s roof rack, your trip can go sideways—fast.

That’s where camping cargo nets come in. For first-time adventurers, they’re one of the most underrated essentials for keeping your gear secure, organized, and road-ready.

🔗 Shop Camping Cargo Nets

👉 Explore Gladiator’s Camping & Overland Nets

🧰 How to Use a Camping Cargo Net Like a Pro

✅ 1. Choose the Right Size Net for Your Setup

Measure your cargo space before buying. You want a net that fully covers your load,  Gladiator Cargo Nets offer size charts to help you match the net to your:

• Truck bed

• Roof basket

• Hitch carrier

• Trailer

✅ 2. Secure It with Anchor Points or Built-In Hardware

Make sure you use all available tie-down points on your vehicle or rack. Gladiator nets come with the hardware included , making it easy to get a snug, safe fit.

Avoid:

• Stretching bungees too far

• Attaching to weak or loose points

• Leaving gaps that allow gear to shift

✅ 3. Load Heavier Items First, Lighter on Top

This helps balance your gear. Stack like this:

• Bottom: Coolers, firewood, water tanks

• Middle: Tents, chairs, duffel bags

• Top: Sleeping bags, camp pads, light bins

Then throw the net evenly across the load and adjust tension as needed.

✅ 4. Use the Net Inside Your Vehicle Too

Camping cargo nets aren’t just for the outside of your rig. Use smaller ones inside your SUV or van to:

• Contain sleeping bags or camp pillows

• Keep dry food or cookware in place

• Separate clean gear from dirty gear

👉 Bonus: They’re great for road trip organization and quick access while you travel.

✅ 5. Choose a Net Built for the Elements

Camping means exposure to dust, mud, sun, rain, you name it. Avoid cheap nets that break down or fray after one trip. Look for:

• UV-resistant materials

• Heavy-duty mesh or reinforced webbing

• Load ratings that match your gear weight

• DOT compliance (if you’re hauling on highways)

Gladiator Cargo Nets are built for real-world abuse and tested by off-roaders, campers, and contractors alike.

FAQs for First-Time Campers

Q: Can I use the same cargo net on my truck bed and roof rack?
Yes—if the net is the right size for both. Some campers keep multiple nets for different setups.

Q: Are camping cargo nets waterproof?

Most cargo nets are not fully waterproof, but Gladiator offers waterproof net options designed to keep your gear protected from rain, mud, and moisture. Our waterproof cargo nets feature sealed seams and heavy-duty, coated mesh ideal for harsh weather and all-season camping.

Q: What if my vehicle doesn’t have tie-down points?
Use an aftermarket roof basket, rack, or trailer with integrated anchors. Or, install removable anchors inside your cargo area.

Q: Do you offer custom cargo nets?

Yes, of course! In our warehouse, we have a custom shop. Nets can be made in different colors, shapes, sizes, and attachments