Full Awnings for Caravans

Ever dreamt of doubling your caravan space without the faff of buying a bigger one? Full awnings are your camping magic trick! Turn your caravan into a palace with these clever extensions. Perfect for British weather (read: unexpected rain), extra storage, or just showing off to the neighbours.

Want to keep reading our guide to full caravan awnings? Click here.

Full Caravan Awnings for Sale

What are Full Caravan Awnings?

Picture this: You're on holiday in your caravan, and with one simple addition, you've got twice the living space. That's exactly what a full caravan awning delivers - a robust, tent-like structure that runs the entire length of your caravan.

Unlike those smaller porch awnings that just cover the doorway, full awnings create an entirely new room alongside your caravan. Think of it as rolling out an instant extension, perfect for those long summer evenings or rainy afternoons.

Benefits of Full Awnings

The magic of full awnings lies in their versatility. They're brilliant at keeping the British weather at bay, whether that's sheltering from unexpected downpours or providing shade during those rare but glorious heatwaves.

Beyond weather protection, these awnings create a proper living space. Fancy an outdoor kitchen for those sizzling BBQ sessions? Done. Need somewhere to stash the bikes and walking boots? Sorted. Want a cosy spot for morning coffee while watching the sunrise? Easy peasy.

Plus, they add an extra layer of insulation to your caravan when the temperature drops - rather handy for those brave souls who camp year-round.

Types of Full Awnings

The world of full awnings splits into three main camps:

Traditional Poled Awnings Built tough with steel or aluminium poles, these are the trusty workhorses of the awning world. They're typically cheaper and can handle whatever the weather throws at them, though they'll make you work a bit during setup.

Air Awnings The new kids on the block, using inflatable beams instead of poles. They're a breeze to set up - just plug in your pump and watch them rise. The catch? They'll make your wallet considerably lighter.

Hybrid Awnings The best of both worlds - combining air beams with strategic pole placement. Think of them as the Swiss Army knife of awnings: versatile, reliable, and clever.

Choosing the Right Size

Size matters enormously with awnings. The wrong size isn't just inconvenient - it simply won't work.

Before even thinking about buying, grab your tape measure and note down:

• The length of your awning rail

• The height from ground to rail

• Your caravan's overall length

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Full Caravan Awning

Picking the perfect awning isn't just about measuring up. There's quite a bit more to think about.

Shopping for an awning requires careful thought about:

• Available budget

• Required dimensions

• Preferred materials

• Intended usage patterns

• Local weather conditions

• Storage limitations

• Setup preferences

Watch for end-of-season sales at major retailers - they often offer significant discounts as winter approaches. Just make sure you're buying this year's model rather than old stock.

Size and Dimensions

Beyond the basic measurements, consider:

How much pitch space you typically get at campsites. Those massive awnings look great, but they're no use if they won't fit on your pitch.

Storage space at home matters too. Even the most amazing awning becomes a headache if it takes up half your garage.

Think about how you'll use the space. A couple wanting extra storage needs less room than a family planning to use it as a living area.

Material and Construction

The fabric choice can make or break your awning experience.

Acrylic fabrics breathe well and laugh in the face of UV rays, but they come with a premium price tag.

Polyester offers a lighter option that dries quickly after rain, perfect for those who move pitches frequently.

PVC-coated polyester provides bomb-proof weather protection, though it can feel a bit like living in a plastic bag on warm days.

Features

Modern awnings pack in some brilliant features:

Windows aren't just for looking pretty - they flood the space with natural light and help you keep an eye on the kids playing outside.

Ventilation points stop your awning turning into a sauna on warm days and help prevent condensation when it's cold.

A proper groundsheet keeps the creepy crawlies out and the warmth in. Look for heavy-duty options that won't tear at the first sight of a sharp stone.

Ease of Setup and Packdown

Nobody wants to spend half their holiday wrestling with an awning.

Consider how long setup typically takes - and be realistic about your patience levels. Some awnings go up in 15 minutes, others might take over an hour.

Check if you'll need help putting it up. Many air awnings can be handled solo, while traditional poles often need an extra pair of hands.

Brand Reputation and Warranty

A good warranty speaks volumes about a manufacturer's confidence in their product.

Look beyond the warranty length to what it actually covers. Some only protect against manufacturing defects, while others offer comprehensive coverage.

Check if spare parts are readily available - a five-year warranty isn't much use if you can't get replacement parts when needed.

Popular Full Awning Brands

The awning market offers plenty of choice, from budget-friendly options to premium products.

Dorema

Dorema stands out for rock-solid construction and attention to detail. Their awnings often feature reinforced stress points and superior weatherproofing.

The brand offers both traditional and air awnings, with sizes to fit practically any caravan. Their warranty support tends to be excellent, though you're paying for that peace of mind.

Isabella

Isabella sits firmly in the premium category, producing awnings that often outlast the caravans they're attached to.

Their designs frequently incorporate innovative features like adjustable roof tensions and smart ventilation systems. Yes, they're expensive, but they're built to last decades rather than years.

Vango

Vango brings air awning technology to more affordable price points. Their AirBeam system has proven particularly popular with younger caravanners.

While they might not have the same bombproof feel as premium brands, they offer excellent value for money and good durability.

Walker

Walker focuses on traditional pole designs at mid-range prices. Their awnings tend to be straightforward and functional rather than flashy.

The brand has built a solid reputation for reliability and good after-sales service. They're particularly good at catering to British caravanners' needs.

Dometic

Dometic brings innovation to awning design, often incorporating clever features like integrated LED lighting and smart ventilation systems.

Their global presence means extensive testing across different climates, though this sometimes results in designs that might be overkill for typical British weather.

Full Caravan Awning Buying Guide

Tips for Installation and Maintenance

Setting up your awning needn't be a battle. Some key tips:

Always clean the awning rail before threading - a bit of silicone spray helps things slide smoothly.

Pegging out should follow a specific order: corners first, then main pegging points, finally the storm straps and guy lines.

Regular maintenance keeps your awning happy:

• Clean it properly after each trip

• Never pack it away wet

• Check and re-proof the seams annually

• Keep zips clean and lubricated

• Repair small tears before they become big problems

FAQs

How do I choose the right size awning?

Measuring correctly is crucial. Get the awning channel length and ground-to-rail height wrong, and you'll end up with an expensive mistake.

What are the best materials for a full awning?

Climate and usage should guide your choice. Acrylic works brilliantly for seasonal pitches, while PVC-coated polyester suits touring better.

How do I set up a full awning?

Take it step by step:

1. Thread carefully through the rail

2. Secure corners loosely at first

3. Sort the frame or inflate beams

4. Tension gradually and evenly

5. Final pegging and adjustments

How do I maintain my full awning?

Regular TLC keeps your awning performing:

• Clean after using

• Store bone dry

• Check seams and stress points

• Re-proof when water stops beading

• Keep zips and mechanisms clean