Figuring out the best RV awning lights really comes down to how you camp, your power situation, and the kind of vibe you're going for. After years of testing and seeing what works, I can tell you that for most folks, LED strip lights are the best all-around choice. They’re just incredibly versatile, you can dial in the brightness, and installation isn't too bad. But if you’re all about boondocking and want something you can throw up in seconds, you can't go wrong with solar-powered rope or string lights.
Your Quick Guide to the Best RV Awning Lights
Your RV's awning is so much more than just a canopy to keep the rain off; it’s the heart of your campsite, your outdoor living room. The right lighting is what turns that dark patch of grass into a functional and welcoming patio. It’s what lets you extend your living space long after the sun dips below the horizon, making your site safer, more comfortable, and the perfect spot for making memories.
Think of your awning as your front porch. Just like at home, the lighting sets the whole mood. You can create a cozy, warm glow for a quiet evening with a good book, or you can light it up for a festive cookout with campground neighbors. Good lighting is also a huge safety factor, helping you see the steps, avoid tripping over the dog's leash, and actually see if that burger on the grill is cooked through.
Why Choosing the Right Lights Matters
Picking the best RV awning lights is about more than just what looks cool. There are some real practical things to think about that will make or break your camping experience.
Your choice impacts:
- Energy Consumption: How much juice will the lights pull from your RV's 12V battery system? For boondockers, every amp-hour counts.
- Installation Effort: Are you up for a permanent, hardwired project, or do you need something you can quickly clip on and take down each trip?
- Durability: Let's face it, these lights need to be tough. They have to survive constant road vibrations, gusty winds that snap your awning, downpours, and being rolled up and unrolled hundreds of times.
- Functionality: Do you need bright, white light for tasks like packing up gear at night, or are you after a soft, colored glow for just kicking back and relaxing?
The goal is to find a lighting solution that just fits how you use your RV. A full-timer who stays put for months might want a slick, permanent system. The weekend warrior, on the other hand, is going to value something portable and dead simple to set up.
RV Awning Light Options at a Glance
To get you started, I've put together this quick comparison of the most popular types of RV awning lights. Use it to find the perfect match for your rig and camping style before we get into the nitty-gritty of each option.
RV Awning Light Options at a Glance
| Light Type | Brightness & Vibe | Power Source | Installation Ease | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LED Strip Lights | Bright, even, customizable color & dimming | 12V Hardwired | Moderate | All-around use, modern look, and creating specific moods. |
| Rope Lights | Soft, ambient, and flexible | 12V Plug-in or Solar | Easy | Defining spaces, pathway lighting, and festive atmospheres. |
| Puck Lights | Focused, directional task lighting | Battery or 12V | Easy to Moderate | Illuminating specific areas like grills or outdoor kitchens. |
| Solar String Lights | Decorative, warm, and gentle | Solar | Very Easy | Boondocking, eco-friendly setups, and adding a charming touch. |
| Integrated Lights | Seamless, built-in, and convenient | 12V Hardwired | Difficult (Pro) | New RVs or full awning replacements for a factory finish. |
Each of these has its pros and cons, which we'll break down next. The key is matching the light's features to what you actually need when you're out there on the road.
Illuminating Your Awning Light Options
Stepping into the world of RV awning lights can feel a bit like walking down the lighting aisle at a home improvement store—the options are endless. To pick the right one, you have to think past the product description and really picture how each style will work on your rig. It's just like lighting a backyard patio; you need different fixtures for different jobs, from bright, functional light to a soft, relaxing glow.
And there are more choices now than ever. The RV awnings market has exploded, valued at around $1.2 billion in 2024. As more folks hit the road, the demand for slick accessories like awning lights has grown right alongside it. You can find more details about these market trends and see why so many cool new products are hitting the shelves.
LED Strip Lights: The Modern All-Rounder
There's a good reason LED strip lights are the go-to for so many RVers. Think of them as built-in architectural lighting for your camper. They mount directly to the awning's roller tube or right on the side of your rig, creating a clean, seamless line of light that looks like it came straight from the factory.
This style gives you a beautiful, even wash of light across your whole patio area, getting rid of those weird, harsh shadows you get from single-bulb lights. It’s perfect for everything from general ambiance to task lighting. A lot of kits even come with a remote, letting you dim the brightness or change colors—go from bright white for grilling to a warm amber when you're kicking back with a drink.
- Pros: Sleek, modern look; provides even, widespread light; often comes with dimming and color-changing options.
- Cons: Installation can be a bit more involved, usually needing a permanent 12V hookup; cheap adhesive can give up in hot or cold weather.
- Best for: RVers who want a permanent, professional-looking setup that’s versatile enough for any mood or task.
Puck Lights: The Mini Spotlights
Where strip lights create a broad wash, puck lights are your mini spotlights. These little circular lights are designed to throw focused beams on specific zones. You can stick a few under the awning to light up your grill, the picnic table, or just the area by the steps so you don't trip in the dark.
Because they’re so targeted, puck lights are fantastic when you need clear visibility for a task without lighting up the whole campsite. Many are battery-powered and attach with magnets or strong adhesive, which makes them a breeze to install and move around whenever you need to.
Think of it this way: if an LED strip is your living room's overhead light, puck lights are the reading lamps you place exactly where you need them. They add functional light to key areas without contributing to light pollution.
Rope Lights: The Flexible Decorator
Rope lights are that perfect blend of practical and decorative. They're encased in a tough, flexible plastic tube that makes them super durable and weatherproof. You can bend and shape them to fit just about anywhere—run them along the edge of your awning, outline your outdoor rug, or even wrap them around a tree for a festive vibe.
They give off a softer, more diffused glow than LED strips, which is ideal for creating a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Installation is usually a piece of cake, with most kits just using simple mounting clips. That flexibility has made them a long-time favorite for RVers who love to personalize their campsite.
Solar String Lights: The Off-Grid Champion
For the absolute easiest, most eco-friendly setup, you can't beat solar string lights. These are a dream for boondockers or anyone who’d rather not tap into their RV’s 12V system. Just stake the little solar panel in a sunny spot during the day, and the lights pop on automatically when the sun goes down.
They won’t give you the high-intensity brightness you need for cooking a steak, but they’re champs at creating a charming, almost magical atmosphere. From classic Edison bulbs to tiny, whimsical fairy lights, solar options let you add a ton of personality to your site with zero effort and zero drain on your house batteries.
- Pros: Insanely easy to set up and take down; no wiring or battery drain; perfect for a decorative, ambient glow.
- Cons: Brightness is totally dependent on how much sun you got that day; not really suitable for task lighting; light can be inconsistent.
- Best for: Boondockers, weekend warriors, and anyone who wants a simple, decorative touch without any installation headaches.
Choosing Your Awning Light Power Source
Just as important as the type of light you pick is figuring out how you’re going to power it. The right choice really comes down to your personal camping style, how comfortable you are with a little electrical work, and how permanent you want the whole setup to be.
Think of it like this: you can install permanent, built-in ceiling lights at home, or you can just plug in a floor lamp. Both light up the room, but they meet different needs. Your decision for the RV will boil down to three main options: a hardwired 12V system, a simple 12V plug-in, or completely independent solar or battery-powered lights.
The 12V Hardwired System
A 12V hardwired setup is the "permanent home fixture" of RV awning lighting. I've done this on a few of my rigs, and it involves connecting your lights directly into your RV's 12-volt electrical system. Most people just tap into an existing circuit, like the porch light. The end result is a super clean, professional-looking installation with no wires dangling down the side of your RV.
This is hands-down the best option if you're after that seamless, factory-installed appearance. With a hardwired system, your lights are typically controlled by a dedicated switch right inside your RV, which is incredibly convenient. It’s a true "set it and forget it" solution, perfect for full-timers or anyone who wants their lights to feel like an integrated part of their camper.
The only catch? This method requires a bit more technical skill. You'll need some basic tools like a drill, wire strippers, and connectors, plus a little confidence working with your RV’s low-voltage wiring.
Key Takeaway: Hardwiring is the way to go for a permanent, clean installation that operates just like any other light in your RV. It’s my top choice for anyone who values convenience and a polished look over portability.
The 12V Plug-In Option
If the thought of drilling holes in your RV makes you a little nervous, the 12V plug-in option is your "versatile floor lamp." This approach strikes a fantastic balance between solid performance and dead-simple installation. Instead of wiring directly into a circuit, these lights just plug into an existing 12V accessory outlet on the outside of your RV.
A lot of modern RVs already have these outlets, making it a true plug-and-play solution. You get the same reliable power and bright light as a hardwired system, but without making any permanent changes to your rig. This makes it a great choice for weekend campers or folks who might want to move their lights around later.
The main downside is dealing with the power cord. You'll want to secure it neatly so it's not a tripping hazard or just looks messy, but a few adhesive clips usually solve that problem in minutes.
Solar and Battery-Powered Freedom
For ultimate off-grid flexibility, solar and battery-powered lights are the undisputed champions. These setups are completely self-contained and don't need any connection to your RV's electrical system. For boondockers like me who are always trying to conserve every last amp in our house batteries, this is a total game-changer.
- Solar Lights: These are the easiest of all. Just stick the little solar panel somewhere it can get sun during the day, and the lights pop on automatically when it gets dark. They're perfect for creating some nice, ambient lighting with zero effort.
- Battery-Powered Lights: Options like rechargeable puck lights or string lights that run on standard batteries give you complete freedom. You can hang them, stick them, or move them wherever you need a splash of light, no wires attached.
These power sources are fantastic for setting a cozy mood, but they usually don't pack the same bright punch as a 12V system. If you spend a lot of time off-grid, pairing a robust solar setup with the right power storage is everything. For a deeper dive, check out our guide on the best RV batteries for boondocking to really get your rig dialed in for energy independence.
Decoding Light Specs: Lumens, Kelvin, and IP Ratings
When you’re shopping for RV awning lights, the product descriptions can feel like they’re written in another language. You’ll see terms like lumens, Kelvin, and IP ratings thrown around, but what do they really mean for your campsite?
Getting a handle on these key specs is the secret to choosing lights that perform exactly how you need them to. It's the difference between a perfectly lit outdoor kitchen and a dim, frustrating setup. Let's break down what these numbers actually mean in the real world.
Lumens: How Bright Is Bright Enough?
First up is lumens (lm), which is simply a measure of brightness. Forget about watts—that just tells you how much energy a light uses, not how much light it actually puts out. With today's super-efficient LEDs, lumens are the only number that really matters for brightness.
Think of it on a practical scale for your campsite. A light strip pushing 200-400 lumens is perfect for creating a soft, ambient glow. It’s enough to see your drink and navigate around your chair without ruining that cozy campfire vibe.
But when it's time to get things done, like grilling burgers or packing up gear after dark, you’ll want something much more powerful. Look for lights in the 800-1200 lumen range. This level of brightness gives you clear, functional light so you can actually see what you're doing.
Kelvin: Setting The Mood With Color Temperature
Next is Kelvin (K), which measures the color temperature of the light. This has nothing to do with how bright the light is and everything to do with the feel or mood it creates.
- Warm White (2700K – 3000K): This is the color of a classic incandescent bulb or a glowing campfire. It’s warm, cozy, and inviting—perfect for relaxing evenings.
- Neutral or Natural White (3500K – 4500K): This light is less yellow and more balanced. It's a great all-purpose choice that feels natural without being too harsh on the eyes.
- Cool White or Daylight (5000K – 6500K): This light is crisp, bright, and has a slightly bluish tint that mimics natural daylight. It’s what you want for task lighting because it helps you see fine details.
Your choice here directly impacts your campsite's atmosphere. A warm 2700K light is perfect for unwinding with a book, while a cool 5000K is what you want over your outdoor kitchen. Many of the best RV awning lights now offer adjustable color temperatures, giving you the best of both worlds.
IP Ratings: Weatherproofing Your Lights
Finally, let's talk about IP ratings. This is arguably the most important spec for any piece of gear you mount on the outside of your RV. The IP (Ingress Protection) rating tells you exactly how well the light is sealed against dust and water. It’s always followed by two numbers.
- The First Number (Solids): This digit, from 0 to 6, rates protection against solid objects like dust and dirt. For RV life, you want a 6, which means the light is completely dust-tight. No grit is getting in there.
- The Second Number (Liquids): This digit, from 0 to 8, rates protection against water. This is the big one for lights that will be exposed to rain, wind, and washing.
For any RV awning lights, you should be looking for a minimum rating of IP65. An IP65 rating means the light is dust-tight and can handle jets of water from any direction—more than enough for a surprise rainstorm. For maximum durability, an IP67 rating is even better, as it means the light can be temporarily dunked in water and survive.
When you're exploring different power options for your lights, especially portable or battery-operated setups, it's helpful to understand the role of various batteries. For example, learning about 1.2 volt rechargeable batteries can be a huge benefit. You can also find a wide range of other electrical components and essential RV parts to make sure your entire system is ready for the road.
Recommended Light Specs for Common RV Activities
Matching your light's brightness and color to the task at hand is key to getting the best outdoor experience. Use this table as a quick guide to find the right specs for what you have planned.
| Activity | Recommended Lumens | Recommended Color Temp (Kelvin) | Minimum IP Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Relaxing & Socializing | 200–500 lm | 2700K–3000K (Warm White) | IP65 |
| Reading Outside | 400–600 lm | 3000K–4000K (Warm/Natural White) | IP65 |
| Outdoor Cooking/Grilling | 800–1200 lm | 4500K–5500K (Natural/Cool White) | IP65 |
| Setting Up/Tearing Down | 1000+ lm | 5000K–6500K (Daylight) | IP65 |
| Security & Visibility | 1200+ lm | 5000K–6500K (Daylight) | IP67 |
Choosing the right combination of lumens, Kelvin, and IP rating will transform your awning from just a cover into a functional and inviting outdoor living space.
A Practical Guide to Installing Your Awning Lights
Upgrading your rig with a good set of awning lights is easily one of the most satisfying DIY projects you can do. A clean installation doesn't just look sharp; it guarantees your lights will survive years of road trips and campouts. I'll walk you through the most common installation methods so you can get the job done right.
Before you even think about sticking or screwing anything on, remember the golden rule: surface preparation is everything. It doesn’t matter which method you use; if the surface isn't clean, your lights won't stay put for long.
My secret weapon here is a quick wipe-down with isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol on a clean cloth. It cuts through any dirt, wax, or grime that could mess up the bond. Just let it flash off and dry completely before you start.
Installing with Adhesive Backing
This is the go-to method for LED strip lights because it’s so simple. Most kits come with 3M adhesive tape already on the back, but trust me, not all adhesives are made equal. A little extra prep work makes a huge difference.
Tools You'll Need:
- Measuring Tape
- Isopropyl Alcohol and a Clean Rag
- Scissors (for trimming the light strip to length)
- Silicone Sealant (to waterproof your connections)
Once the surface is clean and dry, measure and mark exactly where you want the light strip to go. Peel back just a few inches of the adhesive backing to start, press the strip firmly into place, and slowly work your way down the line. Going slow helps you keep it straight and avoid annoying air bubbles.
After the strip is on, run your fingers firmly along its entire length. This pressure activates the adhesive and ensures a solid, lasting bond.
Using an Awning Track Mount
If you want a sturdier, more professional-looking setup, mounting your LED strip inside a dedicated track is the way to go. This approach neatly hides the strip, protects it from the elements, and gives it a clean, factory-installed look.
Many RV awnings actually have a spare accessory track on the roller tube that’s perfect for this. All you have to do is slide the light strip right into the channel.
If your awning doesn't have a spare track, no problem. You can buy one and attach it to the side of your RV just below the awning housing with a few screws or some high-strength 3M VHB tape.
Mounting with Screw-In Brackets
For heavier lights like pucks or some floodlights, screw-in brackets are your best bet for a secure mount. This method does require drilling small pilot holes into your RV's exterior, so live by the old carpenter’s rule: measure twice, drill once!
Pro Installation Tips:
- Plan Your Wire Route: Before you mount a single thing, map out where the wires will go. The goal is to hide them for a clean finish. Tucking wires along the awning arms or using small adhesive wire clips usually does the trick.
- Waterproof Every Connection: Any place you splice wires or where a wire enters the RV needs to be sealed. A small dab of 100% silicone sealant creates a watertight barrier that keeps rain and moisture out for good.
- Test Before You Stick: This one is huge. Always connect your lights to a 12V power source to make sure they work before you permanently install them. It’s a simple step that can save you a world of frustration.
Getting the electrical connections right can be tricky sometimes. If your lights are flickering or just won't turn on, the issue might be deeper in your rig's system. You can learn more by troubleshooting RV electrical problems in our detailed guide. A little planning goes a long way to making sure your new lights last.
Final Checklist: How to Buy the Best RV Awning Lights
Okay, you've got the basics down. Now it's time to put that knowledge to work and shift from just browsing to actually buying the right gear for your rig. This is the last step: connecting what you know about lumens, power, and weatherproofing to the lights you see online or in a store. I've put together a simple checklist to help you cut through the marketing and pick the best RV awning lights for your specific needs.
When you're comparing different light kits, put on your inspector's hat. You’re not just looking at pretty pictures; you’re digging into the specs to find the perfect match for your RV, your travel destinations, and how you like to camp. Taking a minute to do this now will save you from that sinking feeling of buyer's remorse later on.
Your Product Page Checklist
Before you hit "add to cart," give the product page a once-over with this checklist. These are the non-negotiable details that really determine if a lighting kit is right for your RV.
- Voltage: First thing's first—confirm the lights are designed for a 12V DC system. Hooking up anything else is a surefire way to cause some serious damage to your RV’s electrical system.
- IP Rating: Look for a minimum of IP65. This tells you the lights are dust-tight and can handle rain and road spray without shorting out. If you really want peace of mind, an IP67 rating is even better.
- Lumen Output: Think about what you'll use them for. Do you want a soft, ambient glow for relaxing evenings (200-500 lumens)? Or do you need bright, functional light for cooking or late-night repairs (800+ lumens)? Match the brightness to the job.
- Adhesive Quality: If you’re going with an LED strip, the adhesive is everything. Look for trusted names like 3M or VHB (Very High Bond) tape. These are made for the outdoors and can handle the temperature swings that RVs go through.
- Warranty: A solid warranty (I'd look for at least one year) is a good sign. It shows the manufacturer is confident in their product and gives you a safety net if something goes wrong down the road.
Questions to Ask Before You Buy
Beyond the basic specs, a few practical questions can make all the difference between a smooth installation and a frustrating afternoon. If you can't find the answers on the product page, check the Q&A section or shoot customer support a message.
Becoming an informed shopper is crucial in a growing market. The expansion in outdoor recreation has fueled a boom in RV accessories, meaning more choices but also more variations in quality. For retailers, this underscores a growing customer base ready to invest in premium gear. You can explore more about the RV accessory market growth here.
- Does this kit include a remote, dimmer, or switch? Some kits are all-in-one, but with others, you'll need to buy controllers separately. You don't want to find that out after it's delivered.
- What is included for mounting? Does it come with enough clips, screws, or track material to cover the entire length of your awning? It's a pain to be a few clips short mid-install.
- Can the light strip be cut to a custom length? If you need a perfect fit, make sure the strip has clearly marked cut points. Not all of them do.
- Is the power cord long enough to reach my 12V outlet or connection point? I've learned this one the hard way. Measure the distance from your power source to where the lights will end to avoid any frustrating surprises.
Common Questions About RV Awning Lights
Even after you've picked out and installed the perfect set of awning lights, a few questions are bound to come up. Let's tackle some of the most common ones I hear from fellow RVers, with some practical answers to help you get the most out of your setup.
How Can I Keep Bugs Away From My Lights?
Ah, the eternal struggle. We've all been there—you flip on the lights for a nice evening outside, and suddenly you're hosting a party for every bug in the county. Insects are naturally drawn to light, especially the blue wavelengths found in those bright, cool-white LEDs.
The simplest fix is to switch your lights to a warmer, yellow, or even amber color. These longer wavelengths are way less attractive to most flying pests, letting you enjoy your evening in peace without the constant buzzing.
Still on the fence about which light type is right for your camping style? This decision tree can help you narrow it down.
As you can see, the best choice often comes down to how you camp—whether you're boondocking or at a full-hookup site—and what you need the light for, be it practical tasks or just setting a relaxing vibe.
Maintaining and Using Your Lights
A little bit of care goes a long way in extending the life of your lights and conserving your RV's precious battery power.
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Can I leave my lights on all night? You sure can. Modern LED lights are incredibly efficient and sip power. A typical LED strip might only pull 1-2 amps, so leaving it on overnight is unlikely to drain a healthy battery. That said, if you're boondocking, it's always smart to conserve every amp you can.
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What's the best way to clean my lights? Keep it simple. A soft cloth with a bit of mild soap and water is all you need. Stay away from harsh chemicals or a pressure washer, as they can easily damage the waterproof seals and ruin your lights. While you're at it, keeping the awning itself clean provides a good foundation for your lights—you can find an easy guide to cleaning your RV awning if you need some pointers.
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Are color-changing lights worth it? I think so, absolutely! Beyond just being fun, they're incredibly practical. You get the bug-repelling power of amber tones, the ability to switch from bright white task lighting to a soft, ambient glow, and everything in between—all with a single remote.
At RVupgrades.com, we stock a huge selection of premium lighting options and thousands of other parts to help you maintain and enhance your rig. Find the perfect accessories for your next adventure today!
