6 Best RV Exterior Cleats for Securing Your Gear

There is nothing quite as unsettling as the sound of loose gear banging against your RV siding while you navigate a winding mountain pass. Securing your exterior equipment isn’t just about protecting your investments; it is about maintaining the balance and safety of your rig on the open road. These six mounting solutions will help you lock down everything from kayaks to recovery boards with professional-grade reliability.

08/14/2026 06:48 am GMT

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Why Secure Gear Matters for RV Stability

When you mount gear to the exterior of your RV, you are fundamentally changing the vehicle’s center of gravity and aerodynamic profile. An improperly secured load doesn’t just risk falling off; it creates "load shift," which can lead to dangerous swaying or fishtailing at highway speeds. Every pound of gear needs to be anchored to a structural point, not just a cosmetic panel, to ensure it stays put during sudden maneuvers.

Beyond the physics of driving, there is the reality of campsite wear and tear. High winds, heavy rain, and the constant vibration of travel can loosen even the most robust-looking straps if the anchor points aren’t up to the task. Investing in high-quality cleats ensures that your gear stays exactly where you left it, saving you from expensive repairs or the frustration of losing equipment mid-trip.

Understanding RV Exterior Mounting Points

Before you drill a single hole, you must identify the structural members of your RV. Most RV walls are thin sandwiches of fiberglass or aluminum over foam, which offer almost zero "pull-out" strength for screws. You should always aim to mount your cleats into the vertical wall studs, the roof rafters, or a reinforced mounting rail system.

If you cannot reach a stud, you must use backing plates on the interior side of the wall to distribute the load. Without proper backing, a heavy gust of wind acting on a kayak or bike rack will rip the cleat right through the thin skin of your rig. Always prioritize mounting to structural metal framing, and when in doubt, consult your RV’s manufacturer diagrams to avoid hitting electrical lines or plumbing.

Lashing Gear Safely to Your RV Exterior

The golden rule of lashing is to use a "three-point" system whenever possible to prevent shifting in multiple directions. I recommend using non-stretch cam straps rather than bungee cords, as bungees lose tension over time and can snap back with dangerous force. A cleat is only as good as the knot or strap you tie to it, so keep your lashing points clean and free of debris.

Always account for the "whip" factor when securing long items like ladders or fishing rods. Even if the base is rock solid, the tips of long gear can vibrate and oscillate, eventually causing the entire assembly to loosen. Use secondary soft ties to dampen this movement, ensuring that your gear remains a static part of the vehicle rather than a dynamic, moving weight.

Sea-Dog Line Stainless Steel Cleats

If you need a permanent, "set it and forget it" solution, Sea-Dog Line stainless steel cleats are the gold standard. These are marine-grade components designed to withstand salt spray and constant UV exposure, making them perfect for the harsh environment of full-time RVing. Their polished finish looks great, but it’s their structural integrity that makes them a top pick for heavy-duty applications.

These are best for folks who frequently strap down bulky items like solar panels or heavy storage boxes. Because they are forged from 316 stainless steel, they won’t corrode or snap under tension. If you are looking for a lifetime solution and don’t mind a permanent, visible mount, these are the ones to buy.

Attwood Heavy-Duty Folding Deck Cleats

Space is at a premium on the exterior of a van or trailer, and protruding cleats can be a major snag hazard when you are walking around the rig. The Attwood folding deck cleat solves this by laying flat when not in use. You get all the strength of a fixed cleat, but with a low-profile design that disappears into the body of the RV.

These are perfect for the "stealth" builder who wants to keep their rig looking clean and aerodynamic. The spring-loaded action is smooth, and they won’t rattle while you are driving down a bumpy forest road. If you prioritize a sleek aesthetic without sacrificing utility, these folding cleats are your best bet.

Nite Ize CamJam Tie-Down Cleat System

Sometimes you don’t want a permanent installation, or you need a solution that allows for rapid adjustment. The Nite Ize CamJam system is less of a traditional cleat and more of a tensioning powerhouse. It allows you to cinch down a load with incredible leverage without needing to tie complex knots.

This system is ideal for securing lighter, frequently accessed items like camp chairs or outdoor rugs. It isn’t meant for heavy structural loads, but for quick-release convenience, it is unmatched. If you value versatility and ease of use over heavy-duty structural anchoring, the CamJam is a fantastic addition to your gear locker.

YakAttack MightyBolt Cleat Solutions

If your RV is already outfitted with T-track systems—common on many modern adventure vans—the YakAttack MightyBolt is the ultimate modular choice. These cleats slide directly into the track and can be positioned anywhere along the length of the rail. You can move them in seconds to accommodate different gear configurations.

This is the perfect choice for the nomad who changes their setup from season to season. You get total flexibility without drilling new holes in your exterior skin. If you have a T-track system, stop using fixed cleats and switch to this modular solution immediately.

Davis Instruments Plastic Utility Cleats

Let’s be honest: not every piece of gear requires a stainless steel anchor. For light-duty tasks, such as hanging an extension cord, a lightweight awning light, or a drying line, the Davis Instruments plastic utility cleats are a budget-friendly and effective option. They are lightweight, won’t rust, and are incredibly easy to install.

These are not for your heavy recovery boards or roof boxes, as they lack the tensile strength of metal. However, for organizing the "small stuff" that usually ends up cluttering your storage bay, they are perfect. If you need a cheap, simple way to manage light accessories, these will get the job done.

Accon Marine Folding Cleat Hardware

Accon Marine is known for high-end marine hardware, and their folding cleats are the pinnacle of engineering. These are "pop-up" style cleats that sit perfectly flush with the mounting surface. When you need to tie something down, you simply press down to pop them up, and then push them back down when you are finished.

These are the most expensive option on this list, but they are worth the investment for a high-end custom build. They offer the cleanest look possible and are built to last for decades. If you are building a premium rig and want hardware that matches that level of quality, Accon Marine is the only choice.

Tips for Weatherproof Cleat Installation

Regardless of which cleat you choose, the most important step is the seal. Every hole you drill is a potential entry point for water, which is the mortal enemy of an RV. Always use a high-quality, marine-grade sealant like butyl tape or a specialized polyurethane caulk behind the cleat base before tightening it down.

Don’t just rely on the sealant to hold the cleat; use it to create a gasket that prevents water from ever reaching the screw threads. Check your seals annually, as the constant vibration of the road can cause them to dry out or crack over time. A little bit of maintenance during your spring prep will prevent a massive rot headache down the line.

Securing your exterior gear is about finding the right balance between structural integrity and the specific needs of your lifestyle. Whether you choose the permanent strength of stainless steel or the modular convenience of track-mounted systems, ensure your installation is watertight and anchored to a solid support. With the right hardware in place, you can hit the road with the confidence that your gear is as ready for the journey as you are.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is an RV exterior cleat?

An RV exterior cleat is an exterior-mounted anchor point used to secure outdoor gear, awnings, clotheslines, and camping accessories to the outside of a recreational vehicle. Most cleats feature a traditional two-horn marine design or a folding mechanism made from cast aluminum, stainless steel, or nylon. These fittings bolt directly through the wall framing or backing plates to provide a reliable tie-down point. Owners commonly use them at the campsite to fasten solar panels, paddleboards, and trash bags off the ground.

What does a pop-up RV exterior cleat do for travel trailers?

Pop-up RV exterior cleats recess flat against the wall when not in use to reduce exterior clearance hazards and wind drag. Pressing the release button or lifting the cleat arm exposes the tie-down loop only when you need to fasten ropes or bungee cords. This flush profile prevents tree branches from catching the hardware on narrow backcountry trails. Flush-mount styles are especially useful near slide-outs and side doors where protruding metal horns could cause personal injury or scratch passing vehicles.

How do you install RV exterior cleats into fiberglass siding with a backing plate?

Installing RV exterior cleats into fiberglass requires drilling pilot holes, inserting stainless steel machine bolts, and securing an aluminum or hardwood backing plate on the interior wall. Coat the bolt holes and the cleat base with butyl tape or marine-grade polyurethane sealant like 3M 4200 to block moisture intrusion. Thread the bolts through the siding and the inner plate, then torque locknuts firmly against large fender washers. Never rely on wood screws alone, as thin fiberglass laminates crack easily under dynamic loads.

How do you properly tie down outdoor gear using RV exterior cleats?

Securing gear with RV exterior cleats requires looping a marine-grade rope around the base, wrapping it in a figure-eight pattern around the horns, and finishing with an underhand half-hitch. This classic cleat hitch distributes tension evenly and prevents rope slippage under gusty winds without binding under heavy tension. Use 3/8-inch braided nylon or polyester cordage rather than stretchy bungee cords when securing rigid cargo like ladders. Always leave 2 to 3 inches of slack if tying awnings to avoid bending the wall frame during sudden wind gusts.

Are stainless steel or plastic RV exterior cleats better for cold weather camping?

Stainless steel RV exterior cleats perform significantly better than plastic cleats in cold weather because metal retains its structural strength below freezing temperatures. Grade 316 stainless steel handles sub-zero contraction and ice buildup without cracking, whereas ABS or nylon plastics become brittle and can snap under sudden tension below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. Stainless units cost between $15 and $35 each, compared to $5 to $10 for plastic models. For winter RVers mounting heavy winter equipment, the extra expense of metal hardware prevents sudden failure.

How many RV exterior cleats do you need on an RV?

Most RV owners install four to six exterior cleats across the vehicle to provide balanced tie-down points for both cargo and campsite setups. Mounting two cleats near the rear corners allows you to lash bulky sports gear, while two cleats on the patio side support awning tie-downs and hanging lights. If you carry long items like kayaks on your exterior wall or ladder racks, add a third matching pair near the midpoint for center-line stabilization.

Why do RV exterior cleats pull out or come loose over time?

Loose RV exterior cleats usually result from fasteners anchored solely into thin wall paneling rather than structural framing or dedicated reinforcement plates. Dynamic highway vibration and steady wind loads gradually strip the threads out of soft plywood and fiberglass laminates. Water leaking through unsealed screw threads also rots internal framing lumber, destroying the wall’s holding power. Fix this issue by replacing small sheet metal screws with through-bolts, applying fresh marine sealant, and installing broad interior backer plates to distribute load across the wall studs.

Is it safe to transport heavy cargo tied to RV exterior cleats while driving on the highway?

Driving on the highway with heavy cargo tied to standard RV exterior cleats is unsafe because road vibrations and crosswinds create dynamic loads far exceeding the wall’s structural rating. RV sidewalls are engineered to withstand distributed forces, not concentrated shear stress from bouncing 50-pound objects at 65 miles per hour. Reserve your exterior cleats for stationary campsite tie-downs or lightweight items like empty hoses. Transport heavy equipment like kayaks, bikes, or spare tires on frame-mounted hitch racks or dedicated roof carrier systems instead.