Caravan Awning Guide: Essential Tips and Advice

Jan 07, 2025

A complete caravan awning guide will help you choose between full, porch, or air awnings, based on your needs and budget. From essential tips on materials to installation know-how, we'll ensure you don't waste money on the wrong awning. Ready to transform your caravan into a cosy home-from-home? Let's dive in!

Choosing the Right Caravan Awning

Selecting an awning might seem overwhelming at first. With countless options available in shops and online, where does one even begin? Let's break it down into manageable chunks.

A close up of tools and caravan awning material

Understanding Awning Types

The market offers three main types of awnings, each with its own charm and purpose.

Full Awnings These beasts double your living space and offer complete protection from Britain's famously unpredictable weather. Think of them as adding an entire extra room to your caravan. Perfect for those month-long summer holidays or seasonal pitches. The trade-off? They're heavier to transport and take longer to set up.

Porch Awnings The lightweight champion of the awning world. These compact companions provide just enough extra space for muddy boots and outdoor gear. Brilliant for weekend warriors who prefer spending more time exploring and less time setting up camp. They're budget-friendly too.

Air Awnings The new kid on the block that's revolutionising the camping scene. No more wrestling with poles - just plug in your pump and watch it rise. While the initial cost might make your eyes water, the ease of use makes them worth every penny for many campers.

Measuring Your Caravan

Getting the right fit is crucial. Nothing worse than discovering your new awning doesn't fit properly when you're already at the campsite.

Start by measuring the awning rail height from the ground. This measurement determines whether you'll be able to stand upright in your awning - rather important unless you fancy spending your holiday hunched over.

A caravan awning attached to a caravan with a picnic table nearby, next to trees

Next, measure the rail length. This one's critical - too short and you'll have gaps, too long and you'll have expensive excess material flapping in the wind.

Don't forget to check for obstacles. Windows, doors, and external fixtures can all affect how your awning fits. Take detailed notes and photographs of your caravan's features when shopping.

Considering Your Budget

Let's talk money. Awnings range from budget-friendly to bank-breaking, but there's more to consider than just the initial price tag.

Budget Breakdown:

Entry-level porch awnings start around £200
Mid-range full awnings hover between £500-£800
Premium air awnings can soar past £1,000

Extra Costs to Consider:

Groundsheets protect your awning's floor
Storm straps for wild weather
Cleaning products for maintenance
Storage bags for protection

Setting Up and Taking Down Your Awning

Step-by-Step Instructions

Setting Up:

Check the weather forecast first - attempting setup in strong winds is asking for trouble
Clear the pitch area of anything that might damage your awning
Lay everything out and count all parts before starting
Thread the awning through the rail carefully - rushing this step often leads to tears
Secure corner pegs loosely at first

A green caravan canopy awning shown from a front angle

The Middle Bits:

For traditional awnings: Install the poles gradually, working from the centre outward
For air awnings: Inflate each section slowly, maintaining even pressure

The Finishing Touches:

Adjust guy ropes for proper tension
Check all pegs are secure
Fine-tune the fit until everything sits perfectly

Taking Down: Start by removing pegs in a systematic way. Work backwards through your setup process, taking care to fold fabric along original creases. Never pack away a wet awning unless absolutely necessary.

Safety Tips

Mother Nature can be unpredictable. These safety measures keep your awning secure and your holiday stress-free.

Essential Safety Measures:

Monitor weather forecasts religiously
Check guy rope tension daily
Use extra storm straps in adverse weather
Ensure proper ventilation to prevent condensation
Regular structural checks during your stay

Maintaining Your Awning

Cleaning and Storage

Proper maintenance doubles your awning's lifespan. A little care goes a long way.

Cleaning Done Right:

Brush off loose dirt regularly during your trip
Use specialist cleaning products - normal detergents can damage the fabric
Clean both sides thoroughly but gently
Allow complete drying before storage
Pay special attention to zips and seams

Storage Wisdom:

Choose a cool, dry storage space
Avoid direct sunlight
Use proper storage bags, not bin bags
Keep away from heat sources
Consider using moisture absorbers in storage

Top Maintenance Tips:

Address small repairs immediately
Reproof the fabric annually
Check seams before each season
Keep spare parts handy
Document any repairs for future reference

Remember, a well-maintained awning isn't just about longevity - it's about reliability when you need it most. Whether facing unexpected rain showers or seeking shelter from the midday sun, your awning stands ready to enhance every camping adventure.

Final Thoughts: Choosing and maintaining the right awning transforms ordinary camping trips into comfortable outdoor living experiences. Take time with the selection process, be meticulous with setup, and stay on top of maintenance. The effort pays off in years of reliable service and countless memories made under your home away from home.

The perfect awning turns a simple caravan into a versatile living space, ready for whatever adventures await. Happy camping!

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