Awnings & Shade

Choose the right awning or shelter

Fitment & mounting: avoid the common mistakes

Materials, weather performance & accessories

What to compare (simple specs that matter)

• Fabric & durability: look for ripstop/canvas blends designed for touring and UV exposure.
• Water performance: coatings/ratings help, but pitch and tension also matter for runoff.
• Setup hardware: poles/legs, arm design, and included guy ropes can change real-world ease of use.
• Pack-down: case design (soft bag vs hard shell) and overall weight can impact daily touring convenience.

Accessories that upgrade comfort fast

If you camp in wind, rain, or shoulder seasons, add walls early. They’re the fastest way to turn shade into a more enclosed shelter. Browse awning walls & accessories for wall kits, privacy panels, brackets, and extensions that help you dial in your setup.

Care & storage

• Dry before storage: packing damp is the #1 cause of mould and odours.
• Clean after trips: remove dust and salt spray, then air-dry fully.
• Check hardware: inspect mounting points and fasteners after long corrugated-road trips.

Delivery, returns & support

Change-of-mind returns: regular stock items are typically eligible within 7 days if unused and in original condition (special orders excluded). For full details, see Terms & Conditions of Sale.

Building a full touring setup? Pair your awning with roof top tents, camp furniture, and camp cooking.

FAQs

What’s the difference between a straight awning, 180°, and 270°?

Straight awnings cover one side quickly. 180° extends along the full side for more shade. 270° wraps around to the rear for maximum camp coverage.

Do 270° awnings work without poles?

Some are designed to stand on their arms in calm weather, but you should still peg and guy them when wind picks up—large canopies catch gusts quickly.

How do I choose the right awning size?

Measure your usable mounting length and decide how much coverage depth you want. Then choose a size that suits your vehicle length and camping style.

Driver side vs passenger side: which should I buy?

Pick the side that best matches your camp layout (cooking, fridge access, doors) and where you prefer to relax at roadside stops.

Do I need roof racks to mount an awning?

Most vehicle awnings mount to crossbars, platforms, or canopy systems using brackets. If you don’t have a suitable rack/platform, sort that first.

Will an awning fit my canopy/platform setup?

Usually yes—but check your mounting rail length, bracket compatibility, and door/tailgate clearance. Heavier awnings may need stronger mounting hardware.

Are awnings waterproof?

Many are designed for sun and rain, but performance depends on fabric/coatings and how you pitch it. For wet weather, walls and good runoff angle make a big difference.

What accessories are worth adding first?

Start with the correct mounting brackets, then consider walls for wind/rain protection. Lighting is a great comfort upgrade if you camp after dark.

Can I use an awning with a rooftop tent?

Yes—just confirm ladder and door clearance. Wraparound awnings can be excellent for covering the side/rear living area.

How long does setup take?

Straight awnings are typically the fastest. 180°/270° options offer more coverage and may take longer depending on poles and walls.

What’s the best option for quick roadside stops?

A straight pull-out awning is usually the quickest and simplest for shade on demand.

What’s best for basecamp touring?

A 180° or 270° awning paired with walls gives you the most usable sheltered space for cooking, relaxing, and weather protection.

How do I prevent mould and musty smells?

Dry the awning fully before storage, clean off dirt/salt after trips, and store it somewhere ventilated. Avoid packing it away damp.

What’s your change-of-mind return policy?

Regular stock items are typically eligible within 7 days if unused and in original condition (special orders excluded). See the Terms & Conditions of Sale for full details.