When planning your next camping adventure, choosing the right caravan awning can make a big difference in the level of comfort and enjoyment you experience. Caravan awnings are a fantastic way to extend your living space and make the most of the great outdoors, whether you’re travelling on a short weekend break or a more extended holiday. But with so many options available, how do you choose the perfect caravan awning for your needs?
Size and Shape
The first factor to consider when choosing a caravan awning is its size and shape. Awnings come in various sizes to fit different caravan models and provide varying amounts of living space. Before you start shopping, measure the length of your caravan’s awning rail, as this will determine the maximum size of awning you can use. If you are still deciding what size to get, it’s best to go slightly more significant, as this will provide more living space and give you room to grow if you decide to upgrade your caravan.
There are three main shapes of awnings for caravans: full awnings, porch awnings, and inflatable awnings. Full awnings are the largest and most spacious, extending the entire length of the caravan and providing plenty of room for furniture and accessories. Porch awnings are smaller, providing a sheltered area for outdoor activities or storage. Inflatable awnings are a newer design that uses inflatable tubes rather than poles for support. They’re quick, easy to set up, and ideal for short breaks.
Materials
The next consideration when choosing a caravan awning is the materials used. The primary materials used for awnings for the caravan are polyester, acrylic, and PVC. Polyester is lightweight and easy to handle, making it a popular choice for porch and inflatable awnings. Acrylic is more durable and weather-resistant, making it a good choice for full awnings that will be exposed to the elements for extended periods. PVC is the most hard-wearing material, making it ideal for harsh environments and long-term use.
Choosing an awning made from high-quality materials that will withstand the elements and provide reliable protection from the sun, wind, and rain is essential. Look for awnings with a high UV rating and a waterproof coating to ensure maximum protection from the elements.
Features
The features of a caravan awning are another critical consideration. Some awnings come with accessories like storm straps, ground sheets, and mesh panels. Storm straps provide extra stability in windy conditions, while groundsheets provide a barrier between the awning and the ground. Mesh panels allow for better ventilation and natural light while keeping insects out.
When considering the features of an awning, it’s essential to consider the type of camping you’ll be doing. If you’re planning to camp in various environments and weather conditions, look for an awning with versatile features that will meet your needs.
Ease of Use
When choosing a caravan awning, it’s essential to consider its easy use. Full and porch awnings require a specific skill to set up and take down, while inflatable awnings are generally quicker and easier to use. It’s also worth considering the weight and portability of the awning, especially if you’re planning to move around frequently.
Price
Finally, price is always a consideration when choosing a caravan awning. Prices vary depending on the awning’s size, shape, materials, and features. Full awnings are generally the most expensive, while porch and inflatable ones are more affordable. It’s essential to consider your budget and shop for the best deals.
Conclusion
Caravan awnings are a fantastic way to extend your living space and make the most of your outdoor experience. With these factors in mind, you can choose the perfect caravan awning to enhance your outdoor experience and make your trip more comfortable and enjoyable.
