Oztent RV Side Awning Setup: Shade Tips for RV-2 to RV-5
By Oztent USA | Published: 2026-11-01
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to zip, pole, and tension the Oztent RV Side Awning on your RV-2, 3, 4, or 5, plus practical tips for better shade and longer awning life.
Quick answer
Zip the Oztent RV Side Awning to either side of your RV awning, stake the two upright poles so the panel is taut but not stretched, and re-tension after the sun or wind changes. Do this before you set out chairs and cooking gear so the shaded zone matches how you actually use the site.
Why the side awning changes your camp layout
The Oztent RV Side Awning adds coverage to the side of your existing RV awning rather than replacing it. That makes it most useful when the sun is low and coming in from the side, or when you want a windbreak-style edge without closing off the whole awning.
Because it zips to either side, you can choose the side that blocks the most direct sun at your site. Check the sun path before you commit to a side; moving the panel later is possible but easier before poles and guy ropes are set.
When to add the Peaked Side Panels
The side awning has a double zip, so you can still use the Peaked Side Panels in conjunction with it. If you already own the peaked panels, plan the order of attachment so the zips line up without twisting the panel.
If you do not own the peaked panels, the side awning still works on its own. Treat the double zip as an expansion option rather than a requirement.
Wind, rain, and care limits to respect
The side awning is a shade and light-weather accessory, not a storm shelter. In gusty conditions, lower the poles or remove the panel rather than letting it flap, because repeated flapping stresses the zip and fabric.
Pack the side awning dry when possible. If you must pack it damp, dry it fully at home before long-term storage to protect the fabric and zips.
Step-by-step Oztent RV side awning setup
- Choose the side and check the sun: Walk around your RV awning and note where the sun will be during the hours you plan to sit out. Zip the side awning to the side that gives the most useful shade, not simply the side that looks most convenient. If you are unsure, pitch the panel loosely on one side and stand under it before staking anything.
- Zip the panel to the awning: Start the zip at the top and feed the slider carefully so the panel hangs straight. Do not force the zip if it binds; unzip slightly, straighten the panel, and try again. A twisted start is the most common cause of a zip that will not close.
- Position the two upright poles: Place the two upright poles at the outer corners of the side awning. Set them so the panel is supported without lifting the main awning out of shape. Keep the poles vertical or slightly outward; leaning them inward puts uneven load on the zip.
- Stake the guy ropes and pegs: Anchor the guy ropes at a shallow angle away from the panel and drive the pegs at the same angle as the rope. Leave a little slack until both sides are set, then tension evenly. Tension the panel until it is taut but not drum-tight; over-tensioning strains the zip and seams.
- Re-check after the sun moves: As the sun shifts, adjust the pole height or guy rope tension to keep the shaded area where you need it. Re-tension after the fabric settles or after a temperature change. A five-minute re-check at midday often makes the difference between a usable and an unused shaded zone.
- Pack and care for the awning: Brush off grit before zipping the panel into its carry bag. Dry the panel fully before storage, and check the zip and pegs each trip. Store the panel loosely folded rather than compressed tightly around the poles.
Product facts
- Oztent RV-2/3/4/5 Side Awning: The Oztent RV-2/3/4/5 Side Awning zips to either side of the RV awning and includes two upright poles, guy ropes, pegs, and its own carry bag. You get the panel and the basic pitching hardware in one bag, so you do not need to source separate poles for a standard setup.
Oztent RV-2/3/4/5 Side Awning
