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A Guide to Buying a Caravan Awning: What to Know

Tuesday, 7th November 2023

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Caravan awnings are a fantastic addition to your caravan setup, providing extra living space and protection from the elements during your outdoor adventures. However, choosing the right caravan awning can be a daunting task with huge range of options available on the market. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know when buying an awning for your caravan, particularly if you are new to caravanning.


What to look for before buying

When you're looking for a caravan awning, there are several factors to consider to help you make an informed decision…

Size

Ensure your awning is the right size to fit your caravan. Measure the awning rail length and consider how you plan to use the awning space.

Material

Awnings come in various materials like polyester, acrylic, and lightweight ripstop fabrics. Choose one that suits your needs – consider factors like weight and the type of frame if you are looking to use the awning in all weathers.

Ease of setup

Quick and hassle-free setup is essential. If you are a complete beginner when it comes to awnings, look for simple installation systems, such as inflatable air frames or easy-to-assemble poles.

Ventilation

Adequate ventilation is important to prevent condensation inside the awning. Rest assured that we supply awnings with well-placed windows, vents, and breathable materials.

Additional features

Some of our awnings come with extra features like zip-out panels, optional annexes, and built-in ground sheets – think about whether any of these are important to you and your needs.


Which Awning Is Best for Strong Winds?

There’s nothing to say you can’t use your new awning all year round. If you're planning to use your caravan awning in areas prone to strong winds, it's crucial to choose one of our strongest awnings that can handle tougher conditions. Look out for:

Strong frame: Our awnings with the most robust frames, such as steel or reinforced aluminium, are best equipped to withstand strong winds.

Storm straps: It may be wise to invest in storm straps or tie-down kits to secure your awning in place. These can provide extra stability and prevent the awning from lifting or collapsing in strong winds.

Aerodynamic design: Choose an awning with the most aerodynamic design that minimises wind resistance as much as possible. This can reduce the stress on the structure during high winds.


How long do awnings last?

The lifespan of a caravan awning depends on various factors, including its quality, material, and how well it's maintained. On average, a well-maintained awning can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years. Regular cleaning, safe storage during the off-season, and avoiding excessive exposure to harsh weather conditions can help extend the lifespan of your awning.


What is the best type of caravan awning?

Caravan awnings come in several types, each suited to different needs. A few popular options include:

Full awnings

These offer the most living space and are suitable for long-term stays or seasonal pitches.

Porch awnings

Perfect for short breaks and weekend getaways, providing a balance between space and portability.

Inflatable awnings

Quick and easy to set up with inflatable air frames, making them a popular choice for those looking for hassle-free assembly.

Driveaway awnings

Designed more for motorhomes, these awnings can be detached from the vehicle, allowing you to explore without dismantling your campsite.

Sun canopies

Lightweight and compact, these provide shade and protection from the sun, but they may not be suitable for extended stays or bad weather.

Choose the type of awning that best matches your camping style and requirements.


How to measure for a new awning

Before purchasing a new caravan awning, it's essential to measure your caravan accurately to ensure a proper fit.

1.Measure the awning rail

Measure the length of your caravan's awning rail, which is where the awning attaches. Make sure to measure from the ground to the rail and note the measurement in centimetres or inches.

2.Measure the height

Measure the height from the ground to the top of the awning rail. This measurement ensures your awning is pitched at the correct angle.

3.Choose the right size

Based on your measurements, choose an awning that matches the length and height you've recorded.

Buying a caravan awning is a significant investment to level up your outdoor adventures. To make the right choice, consider factors including size, material, setup, and ventilation. Choosing the best type depends on your specific needs and preferences. Here at Leisure World Direct, we supply awnings for caravans from a wide range of top manufacturers including Dorema, Isabella and Bradcot awnings. Making sure to measure your caravan accurately to ensure a perfect fit. With the right awning, you'll enhance your camping experience and create memorable moments in the great outdoors. Need some assistance? Get in touch with us today and one of our experts will be on hand to help!