Camper Christmas Cheer: Hanging Lights With Festive Flair

Hanging Christmas lights on a camper or RV is a great way to get into the holiday spirit. There are many ways to do this, and it's important to consider safety and efficiency when choosing your method and type of lights. In this article, we'll cover everything from the types of lights available to the best ways to hang them, so you can get your camper looking festive in no time!

How to Hang Christmas Lights on a Camper

Using hooks, clips, and ties

Hooks, clips, and ties are a great way to hang Christmas lights on your camper without causing any damage. Command hooks, for instance, are a good option for hanging lights inside your camper, as they can be easily removed without leaving marks on the walls or ceiling.

For the outside of your camper, you can use adhesive-backed zip-tie mounts, which are available at most hardware stores. Simply peel off the tape backing and stick them onto the surface, using fine zip-ties to hold the light strands in place. When you're done, cut the zip ties and leave them in place for next time. These come in various sizes, but the tiny ones are strong enough and hardly visible.

Another option for hanging lights on your camper's awning is to use badge holder clips. These can be easily attached to the awning and then removed if the wind picks up.

If you're hanging lights along the roof edge, consider using magnetic light clips to secure light strands. These are easy to install and remove and can hold various types of Christmas lights.

Choosing the right lights

When it comes to choosing the right lights for your camper, there are several options to consider. Firstly, you'll want to decide between traditional incandescent lights or the more modern LED (Light-Emitting Diode) lights. Incandescent lights offer a classic warm glow, but they burn hotter and may not be as energy-efficient as LED lights. LED lights are more durable, long-lasting, and energy-saving, making them a safer and cost-effective option for your camper.

Next, you'll want to select the appropriate size and style of lights for your camper. The most common types of Christmas lights include:

• C7 and C9 lights: These are the strawberry-shaped lights that come in different sizes, with C9 being the largest and C7 being mid-size.
• C6 lights: These are the smallest of the strawberry-shaped lights.
• Christmas string lights: These are the most commonly used lights, featuring a candle-like bulb shape with a pointed tip.
• Icicle lights: These lights mimic icicles and are perfect for hanging on overhangs, peaks, and windows.
• Battery-operated lights: These lights offer more freedom in your decorating as they are powered by a battery pack.
• Twinkling Christmas lights: These lights flash on and off randomly, creating a fun and dynamic display.

When choosing lights for your camper, it's essential to ensure they are rated for outdoor use and designed to withstand the elements. Consider the wattage and power requirements of the lights, especially if you are camping off-grid or with limited electricity access. You may want to bring a generator or solar panel to ensure you have enough power for your display.

Additionally, think about the colour and style of your lights. You can opt for traditional warm-toned lights or choose cooler-toned LEDs. Some LED lights even offer the ability to change colours and patterns remotely through a smartphone app, giving you more flexibility in your display.

Lastly, consider the length and number of light strands you will need. Measure the areas you want to cover, including the distance to your power source, to determine how many lights you will require. Remember to follow the directions for connecting multiple strands to avoid creating a fire hazard.

Planning your design

Choose a Theme or Colour Scheme

Decide on a theme or colour scheme that you want to stick to. This could be traditional Christmas colours like red, green, and gold, or something more unique like a winter wonderland theme with whites and blues. You could also choose a specific type of light, such as icicle lights, to create a cohesive look. Net lights are also a great option if you want to cover a large area, such as wrapping them around the entire camper or a tree.

Decide on Light Placement

Think about where you want to place your lights. Do you want them draped over landscape features like hedges or trees? Or perhaps you want to outline the roofline, windows, and door frames. For campers, some popular spots include the rooftop, awnings, lawn, and chairs/rails/umbrellas. Remember to consider the power requirements of your lights and whether you will need a generator or solar panel to support your display.

Select the Right Type of Lights and Clips

There are many types of Christmas lights available, from traditional incandescent bulbs to energy-efficient LED lights. LED lights are a popular choice as they are safer, more efficient, durable, and longer-lasting. You can also find LED lights that change colours or flicker like flames. Additionally, consider whether you need battery-operated lights for areas without power sources.

Once you've chosen your lights, select the appropriate clips to secure them. Adhesive clips are great for windows, railings, or columns, while universal clips work well for rooflines. If you're looking for an easy and inexpensive option, plastic hooks and clips can hold all types of Christmas lights.

Calculate the Required Amount of Lights

To determine how many lights you need, measure all the straight lines of your camper and add them together. Don't forget to measure the distance to your power source as well. This will ensure you have enough lights to cover your desired areas without overloading your power supply.

Check Park Rules

If you're staying at a campground or RV park, be sure to check their rules and regulations regarding holiday decorations. Some parks may have restrictions on bright lights, excessive decor, or attaching items to trees and shrubs. It's important to be mindful of these rules to avoid any issues with the park management.

Installing lights on the roof

Firstly, it is important to plan the placement of your lights. Decide if you want to outline the entire roofline or just a section of it. You can also consider adding lighted blow-up ornaments or icicle lights to your roof to create a festive display. Keep in mind that anything placed on the roof needs to be secured safely to withstand strong winds.

Once you have a plan, gather your supplies. You will need lights, of course, and a way to attach them to your camper. Some options for attachments include adhesive-backed zip-tie mounts, command hooks, or plastic clips. If you're using zip-tie mounts, look for ones that are small and hardly visible. For plastic clips, make sure they are designed for use with your chosen light type.

Before you start, test your lights to ensure they are all working. Then, if using adhesive-backed attachments, clean the surface of your camper's roof where you will be sticking them. This will help ensure a strong hold.

Now, it's time to start installing the lights. If using adhesive attachments, peel the backing and stick them to the roof at even distances. Then, attach the lights to the clips. If using zip-tie mounts, feed the zip ties through the appropriate holes in the lights and tighten them securely.

Remember to take safety precautions when working on a ladder or near the roof. It is recommended to have a helper when installing lights on the roof. Additionally, avoid installing lights on rainy or snowy days, as this can be dangerous and affect the adhesion of any adhesive attachments.

By following these steps, you'll be able to safely and effectively hang Christmas lights on your camper's roof, spreading holiday cheer wherever your travels take you!

Safety considerations

Safety is a key consideration when hanging Christmas lights on a camper. Here are some detailed tips to ensure the process is safe:

Firstly, always be mindful of the power source and wattage. If you are camping off-grid, be aware of the limited power availability and the draw of your lights. It is a good idea to test a small string of lights while monitoring your usage before putting up a full display. LED lights are a more efficient and longer-lasting option, perfect for park use and conserving power.

Secondly, ensure you are using the correct type of lights and attachments. Choose lights rated for outdoor use, and always follow the manufacturer's instructions. Use the correct clips and attachments for the specific areas of your camper you wish to decorate. For example, adhesive clips are best for columns or railings, and universal clips are suitable for rooflines. When hanging lights on the roof, avoid nails or staples, and opt for plastic clips instead, as they are safer and easier to remove.

Thirdly, be cautious when working at height. If you need to climb a ladder to reach the roof, ensure it is placed on level, firm ground, and have someone hold it steady. Keep your hands free while climbing by using a tool belt or bag to carry your supplies.

Additionally, always test your lights before installation. Check that all light patterns work, and replace any blown bulbs. Make sure your lights can reach a power source by plugging them into an extension cord.

Finally, be mindful of your surroundings and the environment. If camping in an area with wildlife, avoid placing lights within nibbling range or the path of animals. Also, be aware of wind conditions and ensure any decorations or lights hung from awnings can be quickly taken down if the wind picks up.

By following these safety tips, you can ensure your Christmas light display on your camper is both festive and secure.

Frequently asked questions