Best RV Exterior Lights: Top Picks & Brands

iteration to your camping setup, investing in the best RV exterior lights can significantly enhance your outdoor living experience, safety, and aesthetics.RV lights come in various types, each serving a unique purpose and offering a range of features. understood the importance of selecting the right RV exterior lights, we've compiled this comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision.

When it comes to RV exterior lights, it's essential to consider factors such as brightness, durability, energy efficiency, and compatibility with your RV's electrical system. Additionally, you'll want to consider the specific use cases for your lights and choose designs that offer the best combination of form and function. To help you navigate this vast array of options, we'll explore different types of RV exterior lights, their uses, and some top-rated products in this category.

Types of RV Exterior Lights

Before delving into specific product recommendations, let's familiarize ourselves with the various types of RV exterior lights available on the market. Each category serves a unique purpose and can be combined to create a well-lit, inviting, and secure outdoor space.

1. Running lights ( marker lights): These lights are positioned along the sides and rear of your RV, ensuring that you're easily visible to other drivers on the road. In many jurisdictions, it's a legal requirement to have these lights enabled while driving. They usually consist of red and yellow/orange lights, with red indicating the RV's rear and yellow/orange signaling the front and sides.

halogen vs LED running lights

Halogen running lights have been a popular choice due to their low cost and proven reliability. However, LED running lights are increasingly being adopted due to their superior energy efficiency, longer lifespan, and availability in multi-color options.

2. Awning lights: Awning lights are designed to illuminate the area directly underneath your RV's awnings, creating a welcoming and inviting space for you and your camping companions. These lights are typically available in strip, rope, and puck styles, with some models offering remote-controlled dimming and color-changing functionality.

olar vs hardwired awning lights

Solar-powered awning lights are an attractive option for those seeking convenience and portability. However, if you prioritize consistent illumination and don't mind running power cables, hardwired awning lights may be a better choice.

Walking around your campsite at night.

3. Step lights: Step lights, also known as entry lights, help you safely navigate the entryway of your RV, especially during low-light conditions. These lights can be mounted on or near the steps, and their designs range from simple Puck-style lights to more complex, multi-color models featuring motion sensors and remote controls.

Motion-activated vs continuously lit step lights

Motion-activated step lights can help conserve power by only illuminating when someone approaches the entryway. Conversely, continuously lit step lights ensure constant illumination but may drain your RV's power supply faster.

4. Outside shower lights: If you have an exterior shower in your RV setup, installing lights in this area can enhance safety and privacy. These lights are usually designed to be waterproof and durable, with some models featuring adjustable brightness and color-changing capabilities.

Integrated vs mountable shower lights

Integrated shower lights are designed to be installed directly into your shower enclosure, providing a sleek, cohesive aesthetic. Mountable shower lights, on the other hand, can be positioned near or around the shower area, offering greater flexibility in installation.

5. Electric fireplace and ambient lighting

An electric fireplace can serve as both a functional heating source and an attractive focal point for your outdoor living space. Ambient lighting, such as string lights or pathway markers, can further enhance the mood and safety of your campsite, especially during evening gatherings.

Portable vs built-in fireplace options

Portable electric fireplaces offer the convenience of easy setup and relocation, while built-in fireplaces provide a more permanent, integrated solution that can enhance your RV's resale value.

Best RV Exterior Lights: Top Products

Now that we've explored the different types of RV exterior lights, let's examine some of the best products in each category, highlighting their unique features and user reviews.

Best Running Lights

The Moriding LED Marker Lights are a popular choice among RVers, thanks to their sleek, low-profile design and energy-efficient LED bulbs. These lights are easy to install, with a universal mounting base that fits most RV contours. Users praise their superior visibility and long lifespan, making them an excellent investment for long-term use.

If you prefer a more traditional design, consider the CURT 48780 T-Style LED Marker Lights. These lights feature a classic "T" shape and are available in a two-pack, ensuring ample coverage for your RV's exterior. They're constructed from durable, corrosion-resistant materials and offer excellent visibility thanks to their high-intensity, LED-powered bulbs.

Best Awning Lights

The Hoffman LED Awning Light is a versatile, high-quality option that offers both hardwired and plug-in power sources. This strip-style light features 12 high-output LEDs per foot, providing ample illumination to brighten up your campsite. Users rave about its easy installation and durable design, making it a top choice for RVers.

For a unique, contemporary look, consider the E diabetes Hazard Awning Lights. These modern, puck-style lights feature a sleek, low-profile design and are available in various color options, including white, amber, and red. They're easy to install and offer adjustable brightness settings, allowing you to customize your campsite lighting experience.

Best Step Lights

The Asabel LED Step Lights are a popular choice among RVers due to their versatile, multi-purpose design. These lights can be mounted in a variety of positions, including beneath cabinets, on entryways, or along staircases. They feature motion-sensing technology, automatically illuminating when detects movement and conserving power when not in use.

If you prefer a more traditional, continuously lit step light, consider the Camco 44450 LED Luminescence Magnetic Step Light. This lightweight, portable light features an adjustable magnetic base, allowing it to be positioned on various metal surfaces. It's powered by an efficient, 200-lumen LED bulb and offers hands-free operation, making it an ideal choice for keeping your RV's entrywayIlluminated.

Best Outside Shower Lights

The Hoffman LED Shower Caddy is a versatile, waterproof lighting solution for your RV's exterior shower. This light features 12 high-output LEDs, providing ample illumination for bathing, and a flexible gooseneck design that allows for easy positioning. Its built-in, stainless-steel hardware ensures secure mounting, and its IPX4 waterproof rating guarantees durability in various weather conditions.

For a more discreet, integrated shower light, consider the HYLOM 3Pcs LED Shower Recessed Light. These lights are designed to be installed directly into your shower enclosure, providing a seamless, cohesive aesthetic. They feature a modern, low-profile design and are available in either hardwired or plug-in models, ensuring compatibility with your RV's electrical setup.

When choosing the best RV exterior lights for your setup, it's essential to consider factors such as compatibility, durability, and energy efficiency. By investing in high-quality lights, you'll enhance your camping experience, improve safety, and add value to your RV. Don't forget to compare products, read user reviews, and make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.

As you embark on your next adventure, let the right RV exterior lights illuminate your path to a safer, more enjoyable camping experience. Happy travels!