Selecting an led strip for your rv awning depends on your preferred installation method and whether you want basic white light or full color control. The main differences involve protection ratings, mounting styles, and whether the kit includes a remote or app for dimming.
Best overall: RV Awning LED Lights. This kit offers a straightforward 20ft length with a reliable IP65 rating, making it a solid, all-in-one choice for most campers who want a simple, weather-resistant setup.
Most durable build: IP68 Waterproof Awning Lights. This option features a higher IP68 rating, ensuring it can handle harsher weather conditions than standard strips, ideal for those who travel through varied climates.
Best rigid bar: Partsam LED Porch Bar. These solid bars are perfect for users who prefer a permanent, sleek look over flexible tape, providing focused downward light that’s easy to mount on flat exterior walls.
The rest of this guide is for RV owners looking to upgrade their exterior lighting for better visibility or atmosphere.
How We Picked
A product earned a spot only if it included necessary installation hardware like clips or mounting channels in the box. We excluded any items that didn’t clearly state their voltage requirements or lacked basic mounting instructions.
All 10 products side by side — scroll sideways to see every column.
| Top Pick | Best for Color Control | Best for Seamless Light | Best for Weather | Best for RV Interiors | Best for Direct Wiring | Best for App Control | Best for Large RVs | Best for Focused Light | Best for Power Options | |
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| Product | RV Awning LED Lights | RV Awning LED Kit | RV Awning COB Strip | IP68 Waterproof Awning Lights | Flexible Dimmable LED Strip | RecPro LED Awning Light | RGB RV Awning Strip | 40FT RV Awning Lights | Partsam LED Porch Bar | Carefree Universal LED Kit |
| Brand | Vbakor | LATCH.IT | Gliztech | CCBASEBALL | Obeaming | RecPro | Yiswhis | Vbakor | Partsam | CAREFREE |
| Best for | Best Overall | Best for Color Control | Best for Seamless Light | Best for Weather | Best for RV Interiors | Best for Direct Wiring | Best for App Control | Best for Large RVs | Best for Focused Light | Best for Power Options |
| The listing says | 20ft LED strip with extension cable Cuttable every 3 LEDs | 20ft LED strip with mounting channels IP68 waterproof with silicone tube | Cuttable strip with 10ft extension IP67 waterproof flexible silicone | 20ft SMD 2835 LED strip Cuttable every 3 LEDs | 16.4ft strip with 600 LEDs Dimmable with 12V DC dimmer | 19.6ft IP68 LED strip Includes five 4ft mounting channels | 16.4ft strip with remote control App and 40-key remote control | App, remote, and control box 40ft length with extension cable | Two 8-inch LED light bars 8" x 1.5" x 1.5" dimensions | 16ft trimmable LED strip Flash, fade, and strobe effects |
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1. RV Awning LED Lights
Best for: First-time buyers needing a complete, simple kit.
This kit provides a 20ft strip that’s easy to manage for most standard RV awnings. It includes everything from the 6.56ft extension cable to the 10 mounting clips and screws, so you don’t need to hunt for extra parts at the hardware store. Since it uses a flexible copper circuit board, it fits well along the curves of your awning track.
The manufacturer warns that bending the strip at sharp or acute angles may damage the silicone coating and the circuit board.
This product may not be the right fit for someone who wants to control colors or brightness via a smartphone app. It’s a set-it-and-forget-it solution designed for durability rather than advanced digital features.
Pros
- Includes all necessary mounting clips and extension cables.
- Flexible copper circuit board design.
- Rated for rainy and snowy weather.
Cons
- Not for sharp-angle bending.
- No color changing or smartphone app features.
2. RV Awning LED Kit
Best for: Users who want total control over color and brightness.
This kit stands out because it uses UV-treated polycarbonate channels, which keep the strip secure against the side of your RV. The IP68 rating is a significant step up, as it ensures the strip stays dry even in heavy rain. You get a remote to change colors or dim the lights, making it very easy to set the mood for an evening outside.
The kit includes two 6ft power adapters, which gives you flexibility in how you wire it to your existing 12V system. You can cut the 20-foot strip to any length required for your specific awning size. Wire it directly to your porch light, a dedicated switch, or any 12V source.
Please note that the controller requires a stable 12V signal. If your system fluctuates above the 12V DC limit, the controller may become faulty. Before installation, verify that your power supply provides a clean, stable signal. If you aren’t comfortable with basic 12V wiring, you might find the installation process more involved than a simple plug-and-play strip.
Always check your power supply against the specific requirements of 0.45 to 0.6 amps per meter. When you install, use the included degreaser wipes to ensure the VHB tape bonds firmly to your RV exterior. This prevents the channels from peeling during travel or high winds.
Pros
- High IP68 waterproof rating.
- Includes remote for color control.
- Secure polycarbonate mounting channels.
- Versatile 20-foot length.
Cons
- Requires stable 12V power.
- More complex wiring involved.
- Sensitive to voltage spikes.
3. RV Awning COB Strip
Best for: Those who want a seamless, dotless light look.
The COB (Chip on Board) design creates a smooth, continuous line of light rather than the individual dots seen on standard LED strips. It’s built with high-quality silicone that resists yellowing, which helps keep the lights looking new after long periods in the sun. The 12V system is safe to touch, making it a worry-free choice for families with children.
Failing to cut exactly on these lines may interrupt the circuit and render that segment of the strip non-functional.
Installation is simple with the included fixing clips and self-adhesive backing. While it offers a very clean, modern look, it’s a single-color white strip, so it doesn’t offer the color-changing capabilities of other kits. It’s a great choice if you prefer a bright, consistent glow over dynamic lighting effects.
Pros
- Seamless, dotless illumination.
- Resists yellowing from sunlight.
- Simple, cuttable installation design.
- Rated IP67 for harsh outdoor rain or sun.
Cons
- Fixed white light only.
- No remote control included.
- Requires manual cutting for custom lengths.
4. IP68 Waterproof Awning Lights
Best for: Owners who prioritize weather resistance above all else.
These lights use SMD 2835 LED chips, which provide a bright, flicker-free output. The IP68 construction is designed to withstand harsh outdoor conditions, making it one of the more durable options on the list. It’s a versatile choice that you can use on a motorhome, a food truck, or even at home.
You get a full 20ft length that you can cut to size. To avoid damaging the circuit board or cracking the silicone coating, always cut exactly along the marked scissor lines. These markings appear every three LEDs. Never bend the strip at right angles or acute angles, as this forces the internal components to snap.
This ensures the strip stays flush against your vehicle.
Because it’s a white light strip, it’s purely functional and lacks the decorative color features found in other models. If your goal is to set a specific mood or host color-themed events, this single-color output won’t meet your needs. Connect the red wire to your positive terminal and the black wire to your negative terminal to complete the 12V installation.
Pros
- High IP68 waterproof protection.
- Bright, flicker-free LED chips.
- Includes both adhesive and clips.
Cons
- White light only.
- No dimming or color options.
5. RV Flexible LED Strip Light 12V Dimmable Tape Light 16.4
Best for: RV interiors needing high-density, color-accurate light.
This strip contains 600 LED beads across 16.4 feet, which gives you a very high light density compared to standard strips. The CRI 90+ rating means colors look natural and vivid, which is especially useful for task lighting inside the RV. It’s designed to be dimmable, though you’ll need to purchase a compatible 12V dimmer separately to use that feature.
Because this strip is intended for indoor use, it lacks the heavy-duty weatherproofing of the exterior-specific kits. It’s perfect for under-cabinet or accent lighting where you want a smooth, high-quality glow. If you’re mounting these under a counter or inside a cupboard, ensure the surface is clean and smooth before peeling the 3M adhesive backing. This isn’t the right choice for an exterior awning application where the strip would be exposed to rain or direct UV rays.
If you need to shorten the strip to fit a specific nook, cut only at the designated intervals. Cutting in the wrong spot will permanently disable a section of the lights. Always test the length before removing the adhesive cover to avoid wasted material.
Pros
- High light density for brightness.
- Natural color rendering (CRI 90+).
- Cuttable for custom lengths.
Cons
- Requires separate dimmer purchase.
- Not for outdoor use.
6. RecPro 20′ RV LED Awning 4500K Natural White with White
Best for: Users who prefer a natural, warm-white color temperature.
This kit uses a 4500K color temperature. It provides a natural white light that avoids the harsh, clinical feel of typical cool-blue LEDs. The package includes five 4-foot pieces of polycarbonate mounting channel. These channels protect the strip and ensure it sits perfectly flat against your RV exterior.
The kit is designed for a 12V DC direct-wire connection. If your RV doesn’t have an existing 12V DC circuit, you’ll need to source a separate power supply, as the kit doesn’t include a 110V to 12V converter. This makes the system ideal for a clean, permanent installation that hides all wiring.
Avoid this kit if you require a quick, temporary setup or a plug-and-play solution. Because it lacks a controller, you can’t adjust the brightness or change the light color. If you need dimming capabilities, you must install an external dimmer switch between the power source and the light strip.
Pros
- Natural 4500K white light.
- Includes 20 feet of protective mounting channels.
- Designed for permanent, flush-mount direct-wire installation.
Cons
- No 110V power supply included.
- Lacks built-in dimming or color-changing features.
7. 16.4FT RGB RV Awning Light Strip APP & Remote Control
Best for: Campers who want app-based lighting control.
This 16.4-foot strip offers the most flexibility for those who want to change the mood with a smartphone app. You can adjust brightness, colors, and dynamic modes to match any camping party or gathering. It also comes with a 40-key physical remote, providing a reliable backup if you prefer not to use your phone.
The setup is plug-and-play, which makes it accessible for beginners. The kit includes 10 mounting clips and 3M adhesive tags to secure the 10mm-wide strip. While the strip holds an IP65 water-resistant rating, the manufacturer recommends keeping the control box under shelter, such as your RV awning, to avoid direct rainfall.
If you’re camping in areas with heavy, sustained downpours, this unit isn’t designed for total submersion. Use this kit for standard outdoor gatherings, BBQs, or garden awnings where you can protect the controller. For long-term performance, always verify the plug is shielded from standing water. This is a decorative choice, but it isn’t the most rugged option for those who travel in extreme weather conditions.
Pros
- App and remote control included.
- Vibrant color-changing modes.
- Easy plug-and-play installation.
Cons
- Controller needs shelter from rain.
- Less rugged than IP68 models.
8. 40FT RV Awning Lights
Best for: Large RVs needing extensive coverage.
With 40ft of length, this kit covers much more surface area than standard 20ft strips. It includes a microphone that can sync the lights to music, which is a unique feature for parties. You get three ways to control the lights: an app, a remote, and a control box.
The strip is cuttable and linkable, so you can adapt it to your specific RV layout. You can trim the strip every three LEDs along the marked lines. When linking sections, ensure the arrows on the strips face each other to maintain the circuit. If the lights fail to illuminate after cutting, check these connections first.
Like other high-feature strips, it’s IP65 rated, meaning it handles standard weather but should be treated with care. For the strongest hold, clean your RV’s surface with alcohol before applying the adhesive backing. Ensure the surface is completely dry, or the adhesive will fail prematurely.
This kit is likely too long and complex for someone who just wants a simple, single-color porch light. It requires a 12-volt power source, connecting the red wire to positive and the black wire to negative.
Pros
- Extra-long 40ft length.
- Music sync and app control.
- Multiple control methods included.
Cons
- Overkill for smaller campers.
- More complex setup process.
9. Partsam 2Pcs 12V RV LED Porch Awning Lights Bar White
Best for: A clean, permanent, and focused light solution.
These rigid bars provide a sleek, modern look that fits perfectly above a door or along a wall. The design focuses the light at a 40-degree downward angle with a slight forward lean, which prevents the light from shining into your eyes while you’re sitting outside. It’s a durable, shockproof unit with a clear PMMA lens that protects the 30 LEDs.
Because these are rigid 8-inch bars, they can’t be bent to fit curved surfaces. They’re designed for a permanent, surface-mounted installation, so they aren’t suitable for someone looking to decorate an awning with flexible tape. If you want dimming, you’ll need to add a separate dimmer to your wiring, as the unit isn’t dimmable out of the box.
Use the included screw caps to seal the mounting points. This prevents water from entering the housing, maintaining the IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating. If you’re installing these at home in a garden or garage, you must connect them to a 12V transformer, as they’re natively designed for 12V DC systems.
Pros
- Focused 40-degree downward illumination.
- Durable, shockproof, and IP67-rated construction.
- Sleek, modern flower-pattern LED design.
Cons
- Rigid, can’t be bent for curves.
- Dimmable only with extra hardware.
- No built-in on/off switch.
10. Carefree SR0112 15 Colors including White Color LED universal RV
Best for: Owners with diverse power source needs.
This kit is unique because it works with either a 110V plug-in setup or a 12V hardwire application. You don’t need to choose between these methods before purchasing, as the kit supports both configurations. It offers 15 colors and dynamic effects like strobe, flash, and fade, all managed by a waterproof RF receiver and a handheld wireless remote.
The 16-foot strip features a 3M adhesive backing and is fully trimmable. This allows you to customize the length to fit any awning size without needing a slot-in roll bar. Because it’s designed for universal compatibility, it fits all brands of awnings.
If you’re looking for a permanent, clean look, opt for the 12V hardwire application to hide your wiring. If you prefer a temporary setup that you can remove for storage, use the 110V plug-and-play option.
If you only need a basic porch light, you may find the extra color features and power options unnecessary. Avoid buying this kit if you lack the space to mount a receiver, as the remote functionality relies on this external component.
Pros
- Dual power source options.
- Wide range of color effects.
- Trimmable for custom fit.
Cons
- Higher complexity than basic strips.
- More features than some need.
How to Choose in Sixty Seconds
Which difference actually matters most?
The most important factor is the installation type: flexible strip versus rigid bar. Flexible LED strips are easier to mount on curved awning arms and can be cut to fit any length. However, they’re more prone to damage if bent incorrectly. Rigid bars, like those from Partsam, provide a much cleaner, more permanent look and focus light downwards, but they can’t be bent or adjusted for length. If you want a quick DIY project, go with a flexible strip. If you want a professional, long-lasting exterior light that won’t sag or peel, choose a rigid bar. Always check your RV’s surface area before ordering to ensure the mounting hardware will fit.
What should I skip or prioritize?
Skip kits that don’t include mounting clips or channels if you want a long-term solution; adhesive alone often fails in extreme heat or humidity. If you travel in rainy areas, look for an IP68 rating rather than IP65. An IP65 rating handles splashes, but an IP68 rating is better for sustained exposure to moisture. Avoid kits that require specific power supplies not included in the box, as sourcing those separately can be a headache. Finally, if you hate wires, look for kits that include extension cords and cigarette lighter adapters.
What should I confirm before ordering?
Confirm your voltage before you buy any kit. Almost all RV awning lights are 12V, but some kits require a stable, clean 12V signal. If your RV’s battery voltage fluctuates significantly, you might need a voltage regulator to prevent the controller from failing. Also, measure the distance from your power source to where you want the lights to start. If the distance is more than a few feet, ensure the kit includes an extension cable. Finally, check if the strip is cuttable at frequent, regular intervals; this is the industry standard, but some strips have different cutting points, which might affect your ability to get the perfect length.
Choosing the right lights depends on your travel style and technical comfort. For a reliable, all-weather setup, the RV Awning LED Lights are a top pick, while the RGB RV Awning Strip offers more customization. Before purchasing, verify your RV’s voltage and measure your awning to plan your wiring path.
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