Camper Awning Lights: Hanging Guide And Tips

There are several ways to hang lights from a camper awning, and many products available to help you do so. You can use rope lights, which are encased in a long clear plastic rope and can be wrapped around the metal frame of the awning. You can also use camping lanterns, which can be attached by looping rope or shower curtain rings around the awning and then tying the lanterns via their handles. Another option is to use RV awning light clips or hooks, which can be bought and attached to the awning's railing. Finally, you can use plastic clothespins or binder clips to clip the lights to the edge of the awning's canvas.

Using rope lights

Rope lights are a great way to add ambient lighting to your camper awning and are simple to install. They are lightweight, flexible, and can be draped or wrapped around your awning poles or support structures. Before you begin, ensure your rope lights are designed for outdoor use and are compatible with the power source you plan to use, such as batteries or a generator.

To start, measure the length of your awning and decide on the desired length and density of your rope lights. You may want a single strand or multiple strands for a more illuminated effect. Cut the rope light to size, being mindful of the manufacturer's instructions, as cutting in the wrong place could damage the entire strand. Some rope lights come with pre-attached adhesive backing, which can be useful for this project.

When hanging the lights, begin by attaching one end of the rope light to the desired power source. This will give you an idea of the lighting effect and ensure the lights are functioning properly before proceeding. Starting at one end of your awning, secure the rope light using zip ties, light clips, or adhesive backing if available. Space the fasteners evenly to avoid sagging and ensure they are tight enough to hold the lights in place but not so tight that they damage the rope light or awning.

As you work your way across the awning, create patterns or designs with the rope lights to enhance their visual appeal. For example, you could outline the edges of the awning or create a criss-cross pattern for a more dynamic look. Ensure that the rope lights are securely fastened and won't come loose with wind or movement. Once you've reached the end of your awning, plug in the lights to admire your handiwork!

Clothespins

To start, find a spot on your awning where you want to hang the lights. A good place to start is around the awning's border or along one of the seams. Once you've decided on a spot, use a tape measure to determine the length of string lights you'll need. Cut the string of lights to the appropriate length.

Next, attach clothespins to the string of lights at evenly spaced intervals. Be sure to point the clipping end of the clothespins upward so that they don't accidentally drop. Once all the clothespins are in place, carefully lift the string of lights and clip them onto the side of your awning. Make sure the string is secure before letting go.

Finally, plug in the lights and enjoy your beautifully lit outdoor space!

Binder clips

Using binder clips to hang lights from your camper awning is a quick, easy, and cheap method. Binder clips are better than the ones that go in the channel because you can just pull the lights off in an emergency and get the awning rolled up much faster. They are also less visible than clothespins and work just as well.

You can buy a pack of 130 binder clips in assorted sizes for less than $10 on Amazon.

To hang your lights, simply attach the clips to the edge of the awning's canvas, making sure the opening of the clip is facing upwards. Then, hook the top of each light over the clip. This method is quick to affix and remove and the clips are hardly visible.

If you are in a windy location, you may want to consider drilling small holes in the front bottom edge of your awning and threading wire through to hang your lights. This will keep them more secure in windy conditions.

Hooks/clips

Hooks and clips are a popular choice for hanging lights from your camper awning. Here are some options:

RV Awning Light Clips/Hooks

Some RVs come with built-in light clips or hooks, but if yours doesn't, you can buy them separately and attach them to the awning's railing. Once they're in place, simply hook the tops of your light string over the clips/hooks. This is a straightforward and affordable option.

Binder Clips

Binder clips are a cheap and effective alternative to purpose-made hooks. They're less visible than clothespins and just as easy to attach and remove.

Rubber Slot Fixtures

Many RV awnings have an open track area on the underside of their rollout bars. Rubber slot fixtures are designed to fit into this slot and provide a means of hanging light strings. This option gives your awning a "track lighting" effect. Just be sure to remove the fixtures before closing the awning.

Clothespins

Regular plastic clothespins can be used to hang lights, but they may not hold up well and could be unattractive. If you go this route, be sure to point the clipping end upward to prevent the lights from slipping out.

"S" Hooks

"S" hooks can be used to hang lights by drilling holes in the front bottom edge of the awning and twisting wire through the holes to hang the lights. This method provides a steady hold, even in windy conditions.

Other Options

In addition to hooks and clips, you can also use rope or shower curtain rings to hang battery-operated camping lanterns from different parts of the awning. Alternatively, you can loop rope lights around the awning bars, but be sure your awning can withstand wind with the added weight.

Drilling holes and hanging with S-hooks

Drilling holes and using S-hooks is a great way to hang lights from your camper awning. This method is especially useful if you have automatic power awnings, as it avoids the risk of the wind sensor malfunctioning and rolling up the awning with the lights still attached.

To start, you'll need to drill a few small holes (around 1/8" in diameter) across the front bottom edge of your awning. Make sure you don't drill through any wires or cables! Once you've got your holes, you can simply run a short length of insulated wire through each one and twist the ends together to create a small loop. These loops will be what you hang your lights from. If you want to make the process a little easier, you could also use small metal carabiners or "S" hooks instead of wire loops.

The benefit of using wire loops or "S" hooks is that they're easy to bend and adjust if needed, and they can be left in place when you pack up your awning, so you don't have to worry about losing them. Just make sure that whatever material you use is strong enough to hold the weight of your lights and won't be affected by the weather.

When it comes time to take down your lights, simply unhook them and, if you've used wire loops, twist the wires together to secure them for travel. That way, they'll be ready and waiting for you the next time you want to hang your lights.

Frequently asked questions