If you're thinking about adding an awning to your campervan setup, the right choice can make a huge difference to comfort, storage, and how much you enjoy time on site. A good awning gives you extra living space, shelter from rain and sun, and a more flexible base for longer trips.
But not every awning suits every van, travel style, or budget. This guide walks through the main things to consider before you buy so you can choose an awning that works for the way you camp.
An awning creates a practical extension of your van. For some people, that means a covered space for chairs and cooking. For others, it means room for muddy boots, bikes, dogs, or extra sleeping space. If you travel often in the UK, it can also make wet-weather trips far more comfortable.
The best awning for you depends on how you use your campervan. Weekend trips, family holidays, solo touring, and longer stays all call for slightly different setups.
Before comparing brands or sizes, think about your typical trip. Do you move sites every day, or stay put for several nights? Do you want a quick shelter for short stops, or a full living area for longer holidays? Are you travelling as a couple, with children, or with pets?
If you tour regularly and like to keep moving, a lightweight drive-away or wind-out option may make more sense than a large air awning. If you stay on one pitch for several days, a larger awning with more enclosed space may be worth the extra setup time.
There are a few common awning styles to choose from, and each has pros and cons.
Drive-away awnings attach to your campervan but can be left standing when you take the van off site. They're a popular choice for people who want extra living space without losing the freedom to head out during the day.
Wind-out awnings are mounted to the vehicle and extend out quickly to create instant shelter. They're convenient and fast, but they usually offer less enclosed space unless paired with side panels or an awning room kit.
Air awnings use inflatable beams instead of poles. Many buyers like them because they are quicker to pitch and easier to handle than traditional poled awnings.
Pole awnings can still be a strong option if you want a more traditional setup and don't mind a little more assembly time.
One of the most important steps is making sure the awning is compatible with your van. Always check the fitting height, attachment method, and rail or mounting system required. An awning that looks right on paper may not fit your vehicle correctly without additional adapters or rails.
You should also consider the shape of your van, side-door position, and how much clearance you need. If you're unsure, it's better to confirm fit before buying than to deal with returns or a poor setup later. Call our team on 0115 647 9965 for help in deciding what awning best suits your van & needs.
Bigger isn't always better. A larger awning gives you more room, but it also takes longer to pitch, needs more storage space, and can be heavier to transport. The best size is the one you'll genuinely use.
Think about what the awning needs to do. If you just want somewhere to sit outside with cover, a compact option may be enough. If you need space for dining, changing, gear storage, or sleeping, you'll want to look at larger enclosed models.
If an awning feels like hard work, you may end up leaving it packed away. Setup matters more than many buyers expect. Look at how long the awning takes to pitch, whether one person can manage it, and how easy it is to attach and remove.
Inflatable awnings are often popular because they can be quicker and simpler to handle. That said, the best option depends on your confidence, storage space, and how often you'll use it.
UK touring means your awning needs to handle more than sunny afternoons. Water resistance, ventilation, stability, and build quality all matter. A well-made awning should cope with changing conditions and still feel usable in wind or rain.
Look for strong fabrics, reliable zips, secure pegging points, and clear information about ventilation and waterproofing. If you camp outside peak summer, weather protection becomes even more important.
Storage space is always limited in a campervan. Before you buy, check how heavy the awning is and how much room it takes up when packed down. A model that is easy to transport and store may be more practical than a larger option that stays at home because it is too bulky.
Awning prices vary widely depending on size, construction, materials, and brand. It helps to think beyond the headline price. You may also need a pump, fitting kit, attachment rail, groundsheet, carpet, or optional inner tent.
Buying the cheapest option is not always the best value if it doesn't fit your van properly or won't stand up to regular use. On the other hand, the most expensive model is only worth it if you'll benefit from the extra features.
Before choosing an awning, ask yourself:
- How long do I usually stay on one pitch?
- Do I need enclosed living space or just overhead cover?
- Will I want to drive away and leave the awning standing?
- Can I store and carry the packed size easily?
- Is it compatible with my campervan as it is, or will I need extra fittings?
- How important is fast setup?
The right awning should make your campervan trips easier, more comfortable, and more enjoyable. The best choice is not necessarily the biggest or most expensive option. It's the one that suits your van, your travel style, and the kind of space you actually need.
If you're comparing options and not sure where to start, focus on compatibility, ease of setup, weather protection, and how you really camp. Those four factors will usually point you in the right direction.
A little research up front can save a lot of frustration later and help you buy an awning you'll be happy to use for years.