Zip Dee Awning

The Zip Dee awning is a premium, time-tested choice for RV and camper owners who want durability over flashy features.

4.6

HitchHaven score4.6 out of 5 · our editorial rating

Aircraft-grade aluminum arm construction
Marine-grade acrylic fabric options
Adjustable pitch for rain runoff
Heavy-duty roller tube with internal spring tension
Available in multiple widths from 8' to 21'
Compatible with most RV and travel trailer rail systems

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Overview Specs Pros & cons Full review Related

The verdict

The Zip Dee awning is a premium, time-tested choice for RV and camper owners who want durability over flashy features. Its robust aluminum arms and quality fabric make it a long-term investment, though the higher cost and manual operation may not suit everyone.

Spec plate

Material: Aircraft-grade aluminum arms
Fabric: Marine-grade acrylic
Width Options: 8 ft to 21 ft
Operation: Manual (motor kit optional)
Warranty: 5-year limited warranty

Pros & cons

What we like

Extremely durable and weather-resistant
Smooth, easy manual operation
Classic fade-resistant fabric colors
Strong reputation for longevity (decades of use)
Replacement parts widely available

What to watch

Higher price point than generic awnings
Manual-only operation unless upgraded with motor kit
Installation can require professional help
Limited dealer network for warranty service

Full review

The Zip Dee awning has been a mainstay of the RV world for decades, trusted by owners of travel trailers, motorhomes, and vintage Airstreams who want a dependable patio awning that performs as well as it looks. Built in the United States, each awning features a heavy-duty aluminum frame and arms designed to withstand years of sun exposure, roadside vibration, and the general wear that comes with full-time or seasonal travel. The fabric itself, whether in classic acrylic or vinyl options, is chosen for its fade resistance and water repellency, giving campers a shaded, weather-protected outdoor living space that extends the usable footprint of their rig without demanding constant upkeep.

What sets the Zip Dee awning apart from generic replacements is the engineering behind its arm and roller assembly. The spring-loaded arms allow for smooth, controlled extension and retraction, while the adjustable pitch lets users angle the awning to shed rain or block low afternoon sun. Many Zip Dee units are also compatible with optional add-ons like LED strip lighting, wind sensors, and screen room enclosures, allowing RVers to customize their setup for everything from quick overnight stops to extended basecamp stays. The hardware is also notably repairable, with widely available replacement parts and fabric, meaning owners aren't forced into a full awning replacement when a single component wears out.

For RV and camper accessory shoppers, the Zip Dee awning represents a long-term investment rather than a disposable upgrade. Its reputation among Airstream owners in particular has made it something of an industry benchmark, often specified as original equipment or chosen as a direct replacement when factory awnings fail. Installation typically follows standard RV awning mounting patterns, making it a practical retrofit for many trailer and motorhome models already on the road. Whether used to shade a morning coffee setup, shelter camp chairs from a sudden drizzle, or create a dry entryway during a multi-day rainstorm, the Zip Dee awning continues to be a go-to accessory for campers who want shade equipment built to match the demands of real-world travel.

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