Vango vs Kampa: Which is Better For You
Looking for the ultimate camping companion? While Vango edges ahead with its time-tested durability and premium materials, both brands are solid choices. Vango's Scottish heritage shines through in their bombproof designs, though you'll pay more for the privilege. Here's why these awning titans have outdoor enthusiasts divided...
Table of Contents
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Vango Awnings: An Overview
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Kampa Awnings: An Overview
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Vango vs Kampa: A Comparison
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Choosing Between Vango and Kampa
- Conclusion
Vango Awnings: An Overview
Born in the harsh Scottish weather of 1960, Vango has spent decades perfecting their craft. Rain-lashed highlands and gusty peaks have shaped their design philosophy, resulting in awnings that laugh in the face of Britain's most challenging weather.
Each product tells a story of careful evolution, with updates driven by real outdoor experiences rather than boardroom decisions. This heritage shows in everything from their material choices to their testing procedures.
Key Features of Vango Awnings
The devil's in the details, and Vango's attention to the little things sets them apart. Their awnings blend traditional craftsmanship with modern innovations, creating products that feel both reliable and contemporary.
Durability and Construction
Forget those flimsy festival tents - Vango awnings are built like tanks. Their high-denier fabric doesn't just resist weather; it shrugs it off. Vango's AirBeam® inflatable technology is its standout innovation, allowing for fast pitching and stability.
The double-stitched seams and reinforced stress points show attention to real-world use. These aren't awnings that will give up after a season or two of heavy use.
Ease of Setup and Packing Away
Nobody wants to spend hours wrestling with poles and guidelines when they could be enjoying their holiday. Vango's Quick-Connect system transforms what used to be a two-person job into a manageable solo task.
The color-coded poles eliminate the puzzle-solving aspect of setup. Even in poor light or challenging conditions, the system makes sense.
Available Sizes and Colours
From compact weekend warriors to sprawling family spaces, Vango's range covers all bases. Their colour palette sticks to practical, dirt-hiding shades that won't show every splash of mud.
The size range runs from 2-meter compact awnings to 6-meter giants, with multiple height options to match different vehicles.
Popular Models
Vango offers a diverse range of awnings, blending durability, user-friendly designs, and cutting-edge features.
The Vango Galli III Air is an excellent choice for motorhome enthusiasts, boasting generous living space, versatile entry points, and the option to add a bedroom annex—ideal for families embarking on extended trips.
Caravan owners will appreciate the Riviera 420, which delivers a perfect mix of style and practicality with its spacious interior, diamond-clear windows, and skylights, creating a luxurious yet functional atmosphere.
For those seeking a more traditional aesthetic, the Tuscany Air 400 combines classic design with modern air-inflation technology, offering a compact yet spacious option that's perfect for couples or smaller families.
Kampa Awnings: An Overview
Since bursting onto the scene in 2006, Kampa has shaken up the industry with fresh thinking and modern approaches. Their rapid rise from newcomer to established player speaks volumes about their innovation.
The brand focuses on solving common camping frustrations through clever design rather than just following traditional approaches.
Key Features of Kampa Awnings
Kampa, now part of the Dometic Group, has quickly established itself as a leader in the awning market since its launch in 2006.
Backed by Dometic's global reputation for quality and innovation, Kampa continues to push boundaries with its modern designs and customer-focused features.
Their awnings prioritise ease of use, weather resistance, and contemporary aesthetics, making them a favourite among campers who value convenience and performance.
From compact weekend solutions to spacious family-friendly models, Kampa's range reflects a commitment to making outdoor adventures more accessible and enjoyable.
Durability and Construction
WeatherShield™ fabric technology leads their material innovation. While different from Vango's approach, it achieves impressive weather resistance through modern material science rather than sheer thickness.
The construction prioritises weight reduction without sacrificing stability. It's a delicate balance, but one Kampa generally gets right.
Ease of Setup and Packing Away
The QuickPitch™ system is one of the fastest setup mechanisms on the market. What used to take 30 minutes can now take 10, even for less experienced campers.
Component reduction plays a big role here - fewer separate parts means fewer things to go wrong or get lost.
Available Sizes and Colours
Kampa embraces contemporary aesthetics with modern colour schemes. Their range includes options that look at home next to both classic and modern vehicles.
The size range focuses more on the middle market, with excellent options for weekend campers and small families.
Popular Models
The Cross Air series demonstrates everything Kampa does well - quick setup, modern materials, and practical design. Their inflatable technology has won multiple camping awards.
Vango vs Kampa: A Comparison
Mounting Types
Mounting systems reveal each brand's philosophy. Vango sticks to proven rail systems that prioritise security, while Kampa innovates with universal solutions that maximize compatibility.
Size and Projection Options
Think about space like real estate - it's all about location and usage. Vango's deeper projections create veritable outdoor rooms, perfect for longer stays. Kampa's more compact designs suit those who move frequently between sites.
Features and Options
The feature war between these brands benefits consumers enormously. Vango packs in weather-beating capabilities, while Kampa focuses on user convenience. Both approaches have merit depending on camping style.
Book a quick call with one of our experts to find your ideal setup.
BOOK A CALL ➜Price Comparison
Budget talk isn't exciting, but it matters. Vango's premium materials command premium prices, typically 15-30% higher than comparable Kampa models. However, their durability often justifies the investment for frequent users.
Brand Reputation and Customer Service
Years of weather-beaten tents and awnings have built Vango's reputation for reliability. Kampa's responsive support team and comprehensive warranty make up for their shorter history.
Choosing Between Vango and Kampa
Consider Your Needs and Budget
Smart buying means matching products to actual usage patterns. A weekend warrior needs different features than someone living the van life full-time.
Vehicle Type and Mounting Options
Vehicle compatibility can make or break an awning purchase. Both brands offer online tools to check fitting options for specific vehicles.
Desired Features and Accessories
Feature choices reflect camping style. Heavy weather users benefit from Vango's robust construction. Fair-weather campers might prefer Kampa's ease of use.
Conclusion
The verdict? Vango wins for hardcore outdoor enthusiasts who demand ultimate durability and don't mind paying for it. Kampa excels for casual campers seeking user-friendly designs and modern features at more accessible price points.
The best choice depends entirely on camping style, usage frequency, and budget. Both brands have earned their place in the market through different but equally valid approaches to outdoor living.
Consider this guide a starting point rather than the final word. The perfect awning is out there - it's just a matter of matching these brands' strengths to specific camping needs.
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