One of the best parts of the RV lifestyle is having your home on the road with you. Because of this, your backyard is constantly changing, as are the breathtaking landscapes, which encourage you to get outside and enjoy each location as much as possible.
Sprucing up your patio space not only invites you outside every evening, but it makes you want to stay there longer. Imagine a crackling campfire, a cozy drink in hand, and scenic views surrounding you on all sides. However, there is one addition that could take the whole experience up a notch – let’s shed some light on seven charming patio lighting ideas for your RV.
Edison String Lights
Glamping with the Rollin Boles. Image by Camping World.
They’re probably one of the first things to come to mind when someone mentions patio lights, but Edison String Lights are popular for a reason. They’re classic and nostalgic without being dated or out-of-style. The retro-inspired Edison bulb gives a nod to the first light bulbs created by Thomas Edison and their glow provides a soft, cozy vibe to your patio.
Perfect for stringing from tree to tree to illuminate small areas of your yard, these string lights can also be hung from your RV awning. If you really want to get festive, you could opt to use color-changing Edison lights instead. Sit back and watch while the bulbs slowly transition from one color to another and transform your RV patio into an instant party.
DIY Branch Chandelier
For a rustic outdoor patio lighting idea, try creating a chandelier from branches and string lights. Gather some branches – the longer, the better – and form any shape you’d like. Then, secure them with fishing line or twine.
You could create an abstract circle or something more linear, the options are endless. Once you have a shape you like and it’s secure, weave your favorite string lights or rope lights through the branches. Finally, hang your creation from your awning and sit back under the glow of your creativity.
Novelty String Lights
The campfire is where everyone gathers on chilly nights. Image by Camping World.
Sometimes, your RV patio needs something a little more specific. For those times, turn to a set of novelty string lights in place of, or in addition to, your standard set. Novelty string lights bring more flavor and come in a wide range of options so you can give your patio as much personality as you desire.
A few of our favorites include:
Mason Jar Firefly LED String Lights Metal Cage String Lights Retro Travel Trailer Party String Lights Margarita Mini String Light Set Mini Black Lantern String Light Set Dragonfly String Light Set Mini Paw Print String Lights Click to view slideshow.LED Light Strips
For a unique, customized option, use LED light strips for patio lighting. They’re waterproof and can be cut to a specific length so your RV awning or outdoor kitchen can be fully illuminated. They come with 3M tape backing that adheres to any clean surface and makes the installation process easy and straightforward.
Not only do LED light strips set the mood and add an ambiance to your patio, but they can also provide safety and security without driving up your RV electric bill. Try an LED light strip kit that offers more than just a warm white glow with a key fob remote that not only has an on/off button but also controls and programs the lights to your desired color and setting.
Light Up Palm Tree
Light Up Palm Tree
While every day feels like vacation when you’re on the road, not every destination can feel tropical – until now. Thanks to a light up palm tree, you can recreate the breezy feeling that comes along with visiting tropical locations while sitting on your patio. With a sturdy trunk wrapped in 60 inches of LED rope lighting and adorned with four lit PVC leaves, this palm tree will have you craving a Pina Colada, regardless of where you’re parked.
Mason Jar Candles
For an easy DIY lighting idea for your patio, collect and clean several mason jars. Place a candle inside each jar and twist on the outer ring of the lid with a loop of string between the rim and the jar to create a handle to hang it from. Then you can hang the jars from your awning, side mirrors, or the limbs of nearby trees to create a magical atmosphere.
If your candles move around inside the jar, try this tip for more stability. Light a candle and tip it to drip a layer of wax into the bottom of the jar. Blow out the flame while the wax is still warm and place the candle inside the jar. Press down to embed it into the wax and create a secure seal. It’s a simple yet very effective way to achieve a glowing, cozy outdoor area to relax after a long day.
If you aren’t eager to play with fire and hot wax, flameless candles provide the same ambience without the hassle of lighting and extinguishing a flame. You can even find flameless, battery-operated candles that come with a remote to make this patio lighting idea even more convenient.
Blue Awning Rope Light
Image: Shutterstock
When it comes to patio lighting ideas, the list wouldn’t be complete without including the ever popular blue awning rope light. It’s an option that never gets old and can be seen attached to RV awnings at nearly every campsite.
They’re awesome for outdoor use because they’re water-resistant, but they can be used indoors as well. Use them to outline your slideout or to accentuate the cockpit when you’re hosting guests. When in doubt, it’s a safe choice to take your RV patio furniture or interior décor from bland to beautiful.
Regardless of which patio lighting idea you choose, they will all ensure that your patio is charming and encourage you to spend more time outside enjoying it. If patio lights seem like a departure from your normal lighting preference, there are plenty of lanterns that are both stylish and functional to illuminate your space instead.
What does your dream RV patio look like? Tell us in the comments below.