Last Updated:December 05, 2024
RV Awning Sun Shade Guide (Everything you want to know)
Do you want to add a shade to your RV awning? It will drastically cut down UV rays, and keep the area cooler. We’ve spent more than 6 hours researching rv awning screen shade, and we have narrowed our picks down to the top 4.
We’ll also have a long FAQ at the close of this page to help you decide the best option for you.
Are RV awning sun shades easy to install?
Yes. The awning roller will have an open grove, and the shade will have a tag that slides into this grove. This can easily be done by one person without any special tools.
What is the sun shade fabric?
This will vary between manufacturers. Because these are down mainly during sunny weather, the fabric choice is far less important than for traditional awnings that need to withstand rain and snow.
Because of this, we don’t have strong opinions on the choice of one material over another. All the shades on this list are made a durable material that will last.
Do they have side panels?
Nope, none of these shades come with side panels. If you’re looking for that, you can see our favorite RV sun shade side panel here.
Do they really lower the temperature?
Absolutely! Blocking the UV rays can lower the temperature by several degrees. The impact will not be as great as shades on a window because the air will still circulate around, but the difference can be quite noticeable.
Can you see through the motor home sun shade?
Yes, all the shades are mesh and you can see through them.
Are they reflective?
No, none of the shades that we’ve suggested are reflective. We haven’t found a reflective sun shade that we feel comfortable recommending. If you have purchased one that you’re happy with, we’d love to hear your recommendation.
Will the shade decrease insects?
Not really. For the most part, the bugs were smart enough to fly around the side and get to us or our food. I haven’t seen any scientific studies, but I don’t think the sun shade alone will deter bugs from getting to you.
Are shades allowed in campgrounds and state parks?
Yes in most cases. You may want to double check when you arrive to verify, but for the most part you’ll be able to use the shade wherever you go.
Do they block the sun?
Yes, and very well. All our recommendations block between 80%-86% of the UV rays. You can still see though them, and it feels like viewing the world through sun glasses.
Can this been a privacy screen?
Nope, all the screens can be see through from both directions.
Will the shades work on a travel trailer?
As long as your travel trailer has an awning with the appropriate track. I’d suggest examining your travel trailer or going to the manufacturer for your particular model to make sure before ordering.
I don’t see my exact size, what should I do?
Don’t worry about this. You can get a shade that’s a few inches smaller, and it will still work just fine.
Our research process
ur team of editors reviews more than 40 products for each of our guides. We only consider items that have stood the test of time. We want them to be produced by companies who have been in business for years.
We see a lot of manufacturers take a short-sited approach by making low quality products, and then just launching the same garbage under a different brand once the customer reviews start coming in. Because we only recommend established companies, we can eliminate many of these risks.
We also look for products that have an active support community, and that meet the residential building codes for most states. Some states like Florida and California have more restrictive building guidelines so going with products that meet those standards mean that should work in most other parts of the country.
Finally, we also look at the technical elements of the products. Our site was established in 2012, and we’ve built up an expertise in the shade and awning space. We know the weights of fabric, the types of metal frame, and understand how to evaluate the gears. We’ve also written extensively on awning repair and maintenance so we can speak to the life expectancy.
After several years in business, we expanded to other products in the patio and backyard space. We live in Arizona, and we’re able to spend most of the year outside.
Finally, if you have any questions, feel free to send us a message on our contact form.