Caravan Awnings
Awnings for Caravans — Get the Home Away From Home You Deserve
At CamperNation, we know how important it is to create a comfortable, inviting space you can enjoy wherever your adventures take you.
We also know that sometimes for those looking to buy caravan awnings, the process can seem a little daunting, especially if it’s your first time.
If your caravan awning research has left you feeling a bit spoiled for choice and overwhelmed with information, or you’re unsure where to start, don’t worry – you’re not alone!
That’s where we come in.
We have the best caravan awnings to fit your needs – whether you’re looking for a compact, lightweight awning for weekend breaks or a more spacious set up for extended stays, or anything in between.
We’re not going to talk at you about endless intricate features on this page, instead we have two straightforward goals.
1. Provide you with a simple overview of your main options
2. Guide you all the way to the exact caravan awning that best fits your needs
So, shall we get started? Let’s look at the main types of caravan awnings you need to know about.
Want to continue reading our ultimate guide to different types of caravan awnings? Click here.
Oh, and if you just want to see ALL the available caravan awnings for sale, click here.
Find the perfect caravan awning for your needs below
Ideal for:
- Quick and easy set up
- Travelers who move around a lot
- Those who value portability and easy storage
Ideal for:
- Short trips and quick getaways
- A simple solution to extending space
- Those looking for a cost-effective option
Ideal for:
- Long-terms stays and extended holidays
- Families or groups
- Caravan owners who often host guests
Caravan Awnings for Sale
Exploring Caravan Awning Types
Picture this: it's a sunny morning at the campsite. Your neighbour unfolds their awning, creating an instant outdoor living room complete with fairy lights and comfy chairs. Meanwhile, you're squeezing past your gear inside your caravan, wondering if it's time to join the awning revolution.
Think of a caravan awning as your outdoor room. It's somewhere to kick off muddy boots, watch the sunset with a cuppa, or wait out those inevitable rainy days. Beyond just weather protection, a good awning doubles your living space - essential when British weather keeps you close to home base.
The world of caravan awnings might seem overwhelming at first glance. Between inflatable beams, traditional poles, and quick-pitch designs, there's quite a bit to unpack. Let's break down each type to help you find your perfect match.
Inflatable Caravan Awnings
Remember those bouncy castles from childhood fetes? Inflatable awnings use similar technology, but with a sophisticated twist. Air beams replace traditional poles, creating robust structures that can handle British weather while being remarkably easy to set up.
Advantages of Inflatable Awnings
Setting up an inflatable awning feels almost magical. Within minutes, what looks like a flat piece of fabric transforms into a sturdy shelter. The electric pump does all the heavy lifting, while you stand back and watch your outdoor space take shape.
These modern marvels pack down surprisingly small, making them perfect for caravanners who value both space and convenience. Plus, they're incredibly stable in windy conditions, with the air beams flexing rather than snapping.
Disadvantages of Inflatable Awnings
The convenience of inflatable awnings comes at a price - literally. They typically cost more than traditional options, which might make budget-conscious campers think twice.
Sharp objects can be their kryptonite, though repairs are usually straightforward with the right patch kit. Some caravanners also report needing to top up the air pressure during longer stays.
Inflatable Caravan Awning Reviews & Recommendations
The market offers plenty of reliable options across different price points. Premium models feature smart pressure-release valves and extra-tough materials, while mid-range options balance functionality with affordability.
Poled Caravan Awnings
Traditional poled awnings have stood the test of time, much like your favourite pair of walking boots. These trusty structures rely on sturdy poles and time-proven designs.
Advantages of Poled Awnings
The reliability of poled awnings makes them a favourite among seasoned caravanners. They're built to last, with simple components that rarely fail. When pitched correctly, these awnings create rock-solid outdoor spaces that can withstand serious weather.
Budget-friendly pricing makes them particularly attractive to those just starting their caravanning journey. Repairs are straightforward, often requiring nothing more than basic tools and spare parts.
Disadvantages of Poled Awnings
Setting up a poled awning requires time and patience. The process involves sorting poles, threading them through sleeves, and careful tensioning - not ideal when you're racing against approaching rain clouds.
Storage can be tricky too. Those poles need somewhere to live during transit, taking up precious space in your caravan's storage compartments.
Poled Caravan Awning Reviews & Recommendations
Look for models with colour-coded poles and clear setup instructions. Quality varies significantly between brands, so it's worth investing in established names known for durability.
Touring Caravan Awnings
Touring awnings bridge the gap between full awnings and basic sun canopies. They're designed for caravanners who move frequently and need quick, hassle-free setup options.
Advantages of Touring Awnings
Speed is the standout feature here. These awnings go from bag to fully pitched in record time, perfect for overnight stops or weekend breaks. Their lighter weight makes them easier to handle, while compact packed sizes free up valuable storage space.
Disadvantages of Touring Awnings
The trade-off for convenience is size. Touring awnings typically offer less living space than their full-sized cousins. Weather protection might also be reduced, particularly in models designed primarily for summer use.
Touring Caravan Awning Reviews & Recommendations
Focus on models with robust lightweight materials and simplified pole arrangements. Quick-pitch systems can make a massive difference to setup times.
Choosing the Right Caravan Awning
Finding the perfect awning involves more than picking a favourite colour. Size, material, and features all play crucial roles in making the right choice for your caravanning style.
Caravan Awning Size Guide & Measuring Tips
Measuring Your Caravan
Getting accurate measurements is crucial for awning shopping. Start with the awning rail height - measure from the ground to the rail, keeping the caravan level. Then measure the rail length, noting any obstacles like doors or windows that might affect fitting.
Remember to check your caravan's handbook for the official awning size recommendation. Manufacturers often provide this information to help avoid costly mistakes.
Understanding Awning Dimensions
Awning measurements can seem like a foreign language at first. The A-measurement determines the awning's fit, while depth measurements tell you how far it extends from your caravan.
Awning Material & Weather Protection
Waterproof Ratings
British weather demands serious waterproofing. Look for hydrostatic head ratings above 3000mm for year-round use. The higher this number, the better the fabric will resist water penetration.
UV Protection
Sun damage can significantly shorten an awning's lifespan. UV-resistant materials help prevent fading and deterioration, particularly important for summer camping enthusiasts.
Caravan Awning Features & Accessories
Mud Skirts
These simple additions make a big difference in comfort. They seal the gap between ground and awning, keeping drafts out and warmth in. During wet weather, they also help prevent water from seeping under the awning.
Annexes and Extensions
Transform your awning into a multi-room space with these clever add-ons. They're brilliant for creating separate sleeping areas or storage spaces when needed.
Top Caravan Awning Brands
Vango Caravan Awnings
Vango has earned its reputation through constant innovation. Their air awning technology sets industry standards, while their traditional ranges offer reliable performance at reasonable prices.
Isabella Caravan Awnings
Danish design meets British weather requirements in Isabella's premium range. These awnings command higher prices but justify them through superior materials and construction.
Caravan Awning Setup & Maintenance
Setting Up Your Awning
Success lies in preparation. Check the weather forecast before starting, and ensure you have all components ready. Level ground makes a massive difference to both setup and stability.
Cleaning and Caring for Your Awning
Regular maintenance extends awning life significantly. Clean off dirt promptly, ensure thorough drying before storage, and address small repairs before they become major problems.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size awning do I need?
The perfect size depends on how you'll use it. Weekend trips might only need a modest porch awning, while seasonal pitching calls for something more substantial. Always check your caravan's specifications before making a final decision.
How much do caravan awnings cost?
Prices vary dramatically based on size, type, and brand. Basic porch awnings start around £200, while top-end full awnings can exceed £3,000. Consider how often you'll use the awning when setting your budget - frequent users often find investing in quality pays off long-term.