How to Fit the Oztent RV Zip-In Tarp Awning Extension
By Oztent USA | Published: 2026-11-03
Category: 사용 방법 가이드
Follow this step-by-step process to zip the Oztent RV and RV Plus tarp awning extension onto your awning, tension it correctly, and avoid the most common fitting mistakes.
Quick answer
Zip the extension onto your RV or RV Plus awning before you peg anything down, then tension the tarp evenly from the center outward. The zip-in tarp setup works best when the awning is already standing and the extension is supported at its outer edge.
Why the zip order matters more than the pegs
The extension attaches by zipper, so the connection is only as good as the alignment between the two zipper tracks. If you peg the extension down first, you pull the tracks out of line and the slider binds. Set up the main awning, leave it slightly slack, and join the zipper before adding any tension.
This is also why the extension is a better choice than adding a separate gazebo: you are extending the existing covered footprint rather than creating a second structure with its own gaps and guy lines.
When this extension is the right call, and when it isn't
The Oztent RV and RV Plus Zip-In Tarp Awning Extension adds 2.5 metres of overhead cover and is made from waterproof ripstop fabric. That makes it a practical fit for campers who want more shade or rain cover over a cooking or seating area without carrying an extra shelter.
The trade-off is that it depends on the main awning being deployed and stable. If you need freestanding cover away from the vehicle, or you are not running an RV or RV Plus awning, this accessory will not solve that problem. Check your awning model before buying, because the listing notes that the extension is used with specific setups.
Step-by-step fitting process
- Set up the main awning first: Erect the RV or RV Plus awning and leave the zipper edge accessible and slightly slack. Do not fully tension the awning yet. If the awning is already pegged tight, loosen the nearest guy lines before you start.
- Match the zipper start: Locate the starting end of the extension zipper and align it with the awning track. Feed the slider on straight rather than at an angle. A slider that will not start usually means the two tracks are offset by one tooth; back up and re-seat it.
- Zip slowly along the full length: Close the zipper in one continuous pass while a second person takes up the slack in the tarp. Stop and adjust if the fabric starts to twist. Never force a binding slider; open it back up and check for fabric caught in the teeth.
- Support the outer edge: Raise the far edge of the extension with poles or guy lines so the tarp slopes away from the awning. Keep the slope gentle but continuous. A flat or back-sloping tarp will collect water; set the outer edge lower than the zip line.
- Tension from the center outward: Peg the center of the outer edge first, then work outward to the corners, adjusting guy lines as you go. Aim for a taut surface without distorting the zipper. Re-check the zipper after tensioning; if it curves or puckers, ease the nearest peg.
- Do a final walk-around: Confirm the zip is fully closed, the tarp drains away from the awning, and all pegs and lines are secure. Re-tension after the first rain or a windy night. Carry a spare peg or two; the extended footprint adds more anchor points than the awning alone.
Product facts
- Oztent RV and RV Plus Zip-In Tarp Awning Extension: Adds 2.5 metres of length to the RV or RV Plus awning using a zip-in connection. Plan your peg layout and outer support points around that extra length so the tarp does not sag.
Oztent RV and RV Plus Zip-In Tarp Awning Extension - Oztent RV and RV Plus Zip-In Tarp Awning Extension: Made from waterproof ripstop fabric. Ripstop resists tearing at stress points, but it still needs even tension to shed water rather than pool it.
