Vango vs Outwell: Outdoor Brands Compared

Ever stood in a campsite during a surprise rain shower, watching fellow campers dash for cover? The right awning can transform your outdoor experience from soggy to sublime. Here's the quick take: Vango awnings excel in durability and weather resistance, while Outwell leads in comfort and value for money.

Table of contents:

Vango Awnings: An Overview

Born in the unpredictable Scottish weather, Vango's 50-year heritage shines through in their awning design. Their range reflects decades of battling British elements, with each product showcasing robust engineering and weather-ready features.

Key Features of Vango Awnings

The standout elements of Vango awnings blend time-tested reliability with modern innovation. Each design draws from extensive outdoor experience, creating shelters that stand firm against nature's challenges.

A Vango Tuscany 500 awning shown from mid distance

Durability and Construction

Vango's signature weatherproofing includes double-stitched seams and reinforced stress points. Their poles use aerospace-grade materials, while the fabric undergoes rigorous weather testing. Recent upgrades include enhanced UV protection and strengthened corner joints.

Ease of Setup and Packing Away

The PowerClick system makes attachment surprisingly straightforward. Colour-coded poles eliminate guesswork, while the BeamSpeed technology allows for rapid inflation in air awning models.

Available Sizes and Colours

The range spans from compact weekend models to expansive seasonal pitches. Traditional forest green and navy dominate, with newer granite and blue options available.

Popular Models

Vango's Galli awnings are big and tough - great for long trips with friends and family.

Need something smaller? The Cove range is perfect for weekend getaways.

The Riviera series brings a touch of luxury to caravanning. These top-end awnings use better materials and look great, while Vango's AirBeam® technology makes setup a breeze.

Dorema Awnings
A Vango Riviera 390 awning shown from the front

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Outwell Awnings: An Overview

Danish design principles meet camping practicality in Outwell's approach. Twenty years of refinement has produced awnings that emphasise user comfort without sacrificing durability.

Key Features of Outwell Awnings

Durability and Construction

Smart-frame technology in some awnings provides stability without excess weight. The brand's proprietary weather-guard system includes taped seams and water-resistant zippers, while tension bands add extra support in challenging conditions.

Ease of Setup and Packing Away

Quick-pitch designs reduce setup time significantly. Many Outwell awnings feature inflatable structures with single-point inflation for quick setup, particularly in their Smart Air collections.

Available Sizes and Colours

Earth tones dominate the collection, with sizes ranging from weekend escapes to seasonal camping solutions. Recent additions include variable depth options for different vehicle types.

Popular Models

Outwell shines with their Scenic Road awnings - perfect for campervans and motorhomes. They're easy to set up and take down as you explore.

The Jonesville range uses clever inflatable poles instead of traditional ones. Just pump them up and you're ready to go.

Want space that works around you? The Milestone series gives families room to spread out. Plus, their Smart Air system means you can set up camp without breaking a sweat.

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Vango vs Outwell: A Comparison

Mounting Types

Both manufacturers offer rail-mount, drive-away, and freestanding options. Vango's SkyTrack system provides exceptional stability, while Outwell's QuickConnect clamps ensure secure attachment.

Size and Projection Options

Measurements range from compact 2-meter depths to sprawling 4-meter projections. Vango typically offers larger maximum sizes, while Outwell provides more mid-range options.

Features and Options

Vango prioritises weather resistance with features like storm straps and heavy-duty groundsheets. Outwell focuses on living comfort, offering better ventilation and more windows.

Price Comparison

Entry-level Vango awnings start around £300, with premium models reaching beyond £1000. Outwell's range begins at around £200, topping out near £900. Mid-range options from both brands cluster around £400-600.

Brand Reputation and Customer Service

Vango's longer warranty periods (2-5 years) reflect confidence in their build quality. Outwell's shorter warranty (1-2 years) comes with praised customer support and readily available spare parts.

A couple hugging with a Vango awning behind them

Choosing Between Vango and Outwell

Making the right choice between these two camping giants requires careful consideration of several key factors. From vehicle compatibility to specific camping needs, each detail plays a crucial role in the decision-making process.

Consider Your Needs and Budget

Before diving into specific models, it's essential to establish clear priorities. Think about how often the awning will be used, typical weather conditions, and available storage space. The budget should account not just for the initial purchase but also for any additional accessories needed.

Vehicle Type and Mounting Options

The success of any awning installation starts with proper vehicle compatibility. Different vehicles require specific mounting solutions, and getting this wrong can lead to frustrating setup experiences or potential damage.

Match the awning's mounting system to your vehicle's height and attachment points. Consider whether you'll need a drive-away option or if a fixed installation better suits your camping style.

Desired Features

Beyond basic shelter, modern awnings offer various features that can enhance the camping experience. The choice between brands often comes down to which features align best with specific camping needs.

Year-round campers might prioritise Vango's robust weather protection, while weekend adventurers could find Outwell's comfort features more appealing. Storage space at home and in transit should also influence the decision.

Conclusion

The choice between Vango and Outwell comes down to specific camping needs. Vango suits those facing challenging weather or requiring maximum durability. Outwell appeals to comfort-focused campers prioritising ease of use and value.

Both brands deliver reliable protection with distinct advantages. Vango's weather-resistance and robust construction serve well in harsh conditions. Outwell's user-friendly designs and comfort features excel in moderate weather.

Consider local climate, camping frequency, and storage space when making the final decision. The perfect awning balances protection, comfort, and practicality for your specific outdoor adventures.

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