Hanging Stake Solar Lights On Your Camper: Easy Steps

Solar-powered lights are a great tool for campers who want to reduce their carbon footprint or are camping far away from shore power hookups. They are also useful in case of emergencies, such as power outages. One of the best ways to implement solar lights is to set them up outside your camper. This can be done by hanging them on your awning or sticking them into the ground.

Using rope lights

Rope lights are a great option if you want to avoid the hassle of clipping and unclipping lights from your awning. They can also be used to wrap around the base of your camper as a bright path. Rope lights are flexible and can be bent to wrap around poles. They are also waterproof, and the battery pack can withstand some water.

• Choose your location: Rope lights can be hung in your bedroom, around your headboard, in your home along steps and stair banisters, or outside on your deck.
• Dry and clean the surface: Before installing the lights, clean the area where the rope lights will be placed to remove any dust and debris. Ensure that you dry off the area afterward.
• Decide on the rope lighting length: Measure the length of rope lights you will need for your desired location. Rope lights typically come in 10-foot segments, and you can link up to 200 feet of additional Soft White rope lights and 100 feet of RGB rope lights from the same power source.
• Install cable clips: Hold the clips against the wall, ensuring they are level and spaced evenly, and secure them with screws.
• Secure the lighting in place: Hang the rope lights on the mounted clips, adjusting them as needed to match your desired arrangement.
• Plug in the lights: Plug the rope lights into a power source and enjoy your newly illuminated space!

It is important to note that when installing rope lights, you should always unplug them before cutting or modifying them in any way. Additionally, do not plug in the rope lights while they are still wound on the spool, as this may cause them to melt.

Tying camping lanterns to the awning

First, gather your supplies. You will need several battery-operated camping lanterns and some rope strong enough to hold their weight. Make sure the lanterns are battery-powered, as hanging propane lanterns can be a safety hazard.

Next, create a loop with the rope and thread it through the handle of the lantern. Then, throw the other end of the rope over the sturdiest bars of your awning and tie the ends together securely. You can adjust the length of the rope to hang the lanterns at different heights, creating a unique and interesting display.

If you want to hang multiple lanterns, space them evenly along the awning, ensuring that each rope is securely tied and can bear the weight of the lantern. This method is quick and easy, allowing you to set up your lighting in just a few minutes.

For added convenience and safety, you can also use shower curtain rings instead of rope. Simply loop the shower curtain ring through the handle of the lantern and latch it around the awning bar. Make sure the rings are large enough to fit both the lantern handle and the awning bar.

Another option is to use small binder clips. These are less visible than clothespins and provide a stronger grip. Simply attach the binder clips to the awning fabric and then hook the lantern handles onto the clips.

When hanging your lanterns, be mindful of the weight and distribution. Ensure that the awning bars and your chosen hanging method can support the weight of the lanterns to avoid any accidents.

Remember to keep the area around your awning clear of obstacles, and always exercise caution when lighting lanterns to prevent any fire hazards.

By following these simple steps, you'll be able to enjoy the warm glow of your camping lanterns and create a cosy and inviting atmosphere for your outdoor gatherings.

Using RV awning light clips/hooks

• Purchase RV awning light clips or hooks: These can be found at RV stores, Walmart, camping supply stores, or online retailers like Amazon. Examples of products include the Camco Awning Clip, RVGUARD RV Awning Light Holder, and RV Designer Klippy Klips.
• Attach the clips or hooks to the awning: If your RV has a rollout awning, fully unroll it. Identify the underside of the rollout bars, where you will find an open track or slot area. Slide the clips or hooks into this slot. For a retractable awning, you can drill small holes in the arms and hook a dollar store clothesline between the arms just inside the roller tube.
• Hang the stake solar lights: Once the clips or hooks are securely attached, simply hook the tops of each light over the clips or hooks. Ensure that the lights are evenly spaced and securely fastened.
• Enjoy your illuminated outdoor space: With the lights hung, you can now enjoy the ambiance and functionality of your lit-up camper awning. These lights can provide additional lighting for safety, security, and comfort during your camping trips.
• Take down the lights when needed: Remember to remove the lights and clips or hooks before retracting your awning for travel. Also, be mindful of weather conditions, and take down the lights if strong winds or storms are expected.

Rubber slot fixtures for instant track lighting

Instant track lighting can be a great way to enhance your camper's lighting, and using rubber slot fixtures is an easy and effective method. Here's a guide to help you achieve instant track lighting using rubber slot fixtures:

Planning and Preparation:

Before you begin, it's important to plan the layout of your track lighting. Decide where you want the lights to be located and how many lights you'll need. Measure the length of the area you want to cover and plan the spacing between each light. Determine the type of lighting you prefer, such as LED or incandescent bulbs, and the desired brightness.

Purchasing the Right Products:

When purchasing rubber slot fixtures for instant track lighting, consider the following:

• Type of Fixtures: Look for fixtures made specifically for track lighting, ensuring they have the necessary connectors and attachments.
• Number of Fixtures: Buy enough fixtures to cover the desired area, plus a few extra in case of damage or future expansion.
• Compatibility: Ensure the fixtures are compatible with your chosen type of lighting, such as LED or incandescent bulbs.
• Ease of Installation: Opt for fixtures that are easy to install and come with clear instructions.
• Quality: Choose reputable brands and products with good reviews to ensure durability and longevity.

Installation Process:

• Surface Preparation: Clean and prepare the surface where you'll be installing the rubber slot fixtures. Ensure it's dry and free of any debris.
• Fixture Placement: Mark the locations for the fixtures along the planned track, spacing them evenly according to your plan.
• Installation: Follow the instructions provided with your chosen fixtures. This may involve adhering the fixtures to the surface using an appropriate adhesive or mounting them using screws or other hardware.
• Wiring: Connect the wiring from the fixtures to a power source, ensuring it is safe and secure. You may need to consult an electrician for this step.
• Bulb Installation: Insert the desired bulbs into the fixtures, ensuring they are securely fitted.

Maintenance and Care:

• Cleaning: Regularly clean the fixtures and bulbs to remove any dust or dirt buildup, ensuring optimal light output.
• Bulb Replacement: Replace bulbs as needed, following the manufacturer's instructions for your specific fixtures.
• Safety: Ensure the wiring and connections are secure and protected from moisture or damage. Consult a professional if you have any concerns.

By following these steps, you can easily achieve instant track lighting using rubber slot fixtures, adding style and functionality to your camper's lighting setup.

Binder clips

If you're looking to hang stake solar lights on your camper, binder clips are a cheap and effective method. They work in a similar way to plastic clothespins, but are less visible and can be more secure.

To use binder clips to hang your lights, you'll need to attach them to the edge of the awning's canvas. Point the clipping end of the binder clips upward, so they have a good grip on the lights and won't accidentally drop them.

You can also use binder clips in combination with other methods. For example, one camper uses a temporary clothesline strung between the arms of their awning, with binder clips to attach the lights to the line. This method allows them to take the lights down very quickly if needed, or to retract the awning leaving the lights in place.

Frequently asked questions