How to Set Up an Amazing RV Patio

So, you’ve found the perfect place to park your RV for the next few days or even weeks. Now, it’s time to make this campsite your own little RV paradise. Some RVers go above and beyond by setting up entire decks, screened-in porches or even picket fences. However, you don’t need to break your back or the bank setting up the perfect RV patio for you. Mostly, you’ll just need to do a little bargain hunting and planning.

Before you start collecting things likes chairs and decorations, first consider how long you will be parked in one spot. Also, think about how much space you will have around your RV. You don’t want to take longer setting up your RV patio than you will be staying at the RV site. You also don’t want to crowd the other RVers around you with lights and decor. If you’re planning to stay in one place long enough, you can create a truly magical oasis. But, even if you’re only staying at a campsite for a weekend, there are simple and minimal ways to make your RV patio as dreamy as ever.

RV Patio Necessities

Awning

If there is any sun at all where your RV is parked, you’ll want an RV awning. This will not only guarantee some shade for relaxing and barbecuing, but it will also define the space around your RV. It is probably one of the most essential items you can bring with you when setting up your RV patio. Some RV models have the option of attaching automatic awnings that make set up and clean up much easier. You can do a quick Internet search to see what types of awnings are available for your motorhome.

Additionally, shading your RV will keep it from becoming too hot. You don’t want to come back to your RV only to enter what feels like a human oven. After all, you have to sleep in there at the end of the day.

Tables

Some campsites may already have picnic tables with benches that you can use. However, they may not be in the greatest condition as they face various weather conditions every day. Plus, if you have more than four people to feed, picnic table space may be limited. For these reasons, it’s a great idea to keep a fold-up table and chairs in your RV. They are typically easy to find and affordable. They’re also easy to store because they don’t take up much space when folded up.

Are you a real social butterfly that plans to invite several campers to hangout on your RV patio? You may want to consider buying a couple small fold-up side tables, too. These are great for setting up next to chairs to hold drinks and plates full of campfire food. You can also find cheap, patterned table cloths online or in stores like Target or Walmart. These will brighten up your RV patio and make it feel like your own.

Chairs

You might be thinking that there are only a few fold-up chair options. Think again! There are actually so many types of chairs you can choose from. They range in size, cost and comfort. Most importantly, you’ll want to consider how many people you will need to seat before making your purchase.

For only a couple of people, you may want to invest in comfy, folding chairs that recline. These take up more space, but they’re great for the ultimate relaxation. If you’re going to have more than 3-4 people, you may need some folding chairs that take up less storage. Director’s chairs are long and skinny and may come with convenient pop-out cup holders and/or side tables. There are also backpacker chairs which attach to your back for easy, hands-free transportation. Carry chairs fold in four ways and have a carry strap for easy transport, too. Folding chairs and folding rockers are also popular options.

RV Patio Cooking

Barbecue Grill

If you’re an RVer that lives to eat, you probably love to grill. However, make sure to speak with the campground manager before reserving a site if grilling is a priority. This is because only some campgrounds offer fixed charcoal grills.  And even if they do, they might get crowded during dinner time! Speaking with someone from the campground will let you know if you simply need to bring charcoal or your own grill.

If you want to bring your own grill, find one that has good reviews and takes up the least amount of space. This makes them more portable and easier to handle. A grill is only a good investment if it fits in your RV and works well when you need it to. It’s also a great addition to your RV patio.

Fire Pit

What’s a camping trip without a campfire, right? Well, some campgrounds expressly forbid outdoor fires. However, others come fully equipped with outdoor fire pits. Be sure to call ahead of time to see if the campsite you want to reserve has any rules against fires or if they offer fire pits.

If they allow fires, but don’t have a pit you can use, you may want to consider investing in your own. It totally adds to the outdoorsy camping vibe you’re trying to create at your RV patio. Just make sure to be especially cautious when you’re dealing with fire, particularly when you’re in a wooded area.

RV Patio Decor

Outdoor Rug

There a few additional items you can add to your RV patio that aren’t necessities but are totally fun and worth it! One of these is an outdoor rug. There are endless patterns and sizes to choose from online, so you can choose one that fits your budget and style. Just make sure the rug you buy is specifically made for the outdoors and is water-repellent. This is important in case of unexpected rain or an accidentally spilled drink. Water-repellent rugs dry quickly when wet, so you don’t have to wait long to store them again.

You’ll also want to invest in a small rug for the bottom step of your RV. There are rugs specifically made to trap all the dirt, gravel, sand and mud to prevent them from getting inside your RV. Get one that reminds people to wipe their feet before stepping inside for the best results!

Lighting

Good lighting is always important, especially at nighttime. You need light to see what you’re cooking, to watch the kids play outside and to keep an eye on all your camping gear. Luckily, lighting doesn’t have to be boring when it comes to your RV patio. There are many affordable outdoor lamps, lanterns and string lights you can easily store and set up wherever you go. These will really give you the dreamy ambiance you’re looking for.

What’s even better is that many of these options come with LED bulbs, which give off even more light. These types of bulbs also tend to last longer and are better for the environment.

RV Insurance

It’s important to keep in mind that a standard RV Insurance policy may not cover items like RV awnings and pull-out steps. Speak with an RV Insurance Specialist about how you can get the coverage you need. Call (866) 501-7335 for information on policy options, discounts and more.

This content is offered for educational purposes only and does not represent contractual agreements, nor is it intended to replace manuals or instructions provided by the manufacturer or the advice of a qualified professional. No warranty or appropriateness for a specific purpose is expressed or implied.