Choosing the right motorhome awning involves a careful assessment of your vehicle's specifications, your personal camping style, and the practicalities of setup and storage. A well-chosen awning significantly enhances your motorhome experience by providing additional living space, shelter from the elements, and a comfortable outdoor area.
Understanding Your Motorhome's Needs
The first step in selecting an awning is to thoroughly evaluate your motorhome. This foundational step ensures the awning fits correctly and functions optimally without obstructing essential vehicle features.
Critical Measurements and Obstructions
One of the most crucial initial steps is precise measurement and observation of your vehicle. You'll need to measure the length and height of your vehicle and take into account the position of any doors, windows, lockers and vents for gas appliances.
Here’s what to consider:
- Length: Measure the available flat, unobstructed length on the side of your motorhome where the awning will attach. This determines the maximum length of awning you can accommodate.
- Height: Measure from the desired attachment point on your motorhome down to the ground. This ensures the awning will have adequate clearance and provide sufficient headroom when deployed.
- Obstructions: Carefully note the exact locations of:
- Doors: Ensure the awning doesn't block entry or exit.
- Windows: The awning should not impede window operation or views.
- Lockers: Access to exterior storage lockers must remain clear.
- Vents for Gas Appliances: Crucially, the awning must never cover or obstruct gas vents to prevent dangerous carbon monoxide buildup.
Awning Attachment Method
Once you have your measurements and noted obstructions, you'll then have to determine how the awning will attach. This will depend on whether the motorhome is fitted with any form of rail to support it.
Common attachment methods include:
- Awning Rail (C-rail/J-rail): Many motorhomes come pre-fitted with an integrated awning rail, which provides a secure and straightforward channel for sliding in the awning's beading. This is the most common and robust attachment method for many types of awnings.
- Figure-8 Strips and Kador Strip: For awnings that attach via a rail, a Kador strip (a thick bead sewn into the awning fabric) slides into the motorhome's rail. Figure-8 strips are then used to connect the Kador strip to the awning itself, allowing for a tight, waterproof seal.
- Straps Over Roof: Some freestanding or drive-away awnings use straps that go over the motorhome's roof and are secured on the opposite side, often with suction cups or by being pegged down. This method offers flexibility but may not be as secure in high winds.
- Magnetic Strips: Less common, but some smaller porch awnings can attach with strong magnetic strips that adhere to the motorhome's metal body.
- Suction Cups: Similar to straps, some awnings might incorporate heavy-duty suction cups for quick, temporary attachment.
Types of Motorhome Awnings
Motorhome awnings come in various styles, each offering distinct advantages depending on your needs.
| Awning Type | Description | Key Advantages | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roll-out / Cassette | Permanently mounted on the side or roof, deployed by cranking or electric motor. | Quick setup, integrated, durable, rigid structure. | Frequent stops, semi-permanent shelter. |
| Inflatable | Uses air beams instead of poles; inflated with a pump. | Easy setup, no poles to break, robust in wind. | Regular use, quick pitching, less hassle. |
| Porch | Smaller, simpler awning that covers just the entrance area. | Compact, lightweight, easy to transport and set up. | Short trips, basic rain/sun shelter. |
| Drive-away | Freestanding awning that can be detached from the motorhome, allowing the vehicle to be driven away. | Provides extra living/sleeping space, vehicle freedom. | Longer stays, exploring local areas by motorhome. |
Factors to Consider When Choosing
Beyond the basics, several other factors influence the best awning choice for you.
1. Your Camping Style
- Frequency of Use: Do you camp frequently or occasionally?
- Trip Duration: Are you taking short weekend trips or extended holidays?
- Number of People: Do you need extra space for a family, or just for yourself/a couple?
- Weather Conditions: Will you mostly be camping in sunny, rainy, or windy conditions? Look for UV resistance, waterproof ratings (hydrostatic head), and robust frames.
2. Material and Durability
Awning fabrics vary widely in quality and performance:
- Polyester: Common, lightweight, good water resistance. Often coated for UV protection.
- Acrylic: Durable, breathable, good fade resistance, but heavier.
- Ripstop Fabrics: Offer enhanced tear resistance.
- Hydrostatic Head: A measure of waterproofness (e.g., 3000mm is a good standard for rain).
Consider the frame material too: steel (strong, heavy), fiberglass (lighter, flexible), or air beams (light, easy).
3. Setup and Storage
- Ease of Setup: How quickly and easily can you erect and dismantle the awning? Inflatable awnings are generally the quickest.
- Pack Size and Weight: Do you have enough storage space in your motorhome for the folded awning? Will its weight impact your vehicle's payload capacity?
4. Budget
Motorhome awnings range significantly in price. Establish a realistic budget considering the type, size, and features you require. Remember that investing in a higher-quality awning can mean greater durability and a longer lifespan.
Practical Tips for Selection
- Read Reviews: Check user reviews for insights on real-world performance, setup difficulty, and durability.
- Watch Videos: Look for setup guides or demonstrations online to get a feel for how different awnings work.
- Consult Specialists: If unsure, speak to motorhome accessory retailers or specialists who can offer tailored advice based on your vehicle model and needs.
- Consider Accessories: Think about additional items you might need, such as groundsheets, internal sleeping compartments, or awning lights.
By thoroughly evaluating these points, you can confidently choose a motorhome awning that perfectly complements your travels and enhances your outdoor living space.
