Car Awnings

At Outdoor Roadie we think car awnings are a great addition to your camping setup. Not only do they provide shelter and protection, but they also offer convenience and versatility that can enhance your overall outdoor experience.

Car awnings are typically:

• Easy to set up - 5min set up time is typical
• Give you extra space in your camp setup
• Provide you with good protection from the rain 
• Protect you from the heat and sun in the summer
• Are durable and have telescopic poles for you to adjust height.

At Outdoor Roadie you will find a range of vehicle awnings for your specific needs. Whether you need a large 2.5m wide awning for your large vehicle or a smaller 1.5m awning for the rear side of your vehicle.

Benefits of Car Awnings

Providing Shelter and Protection

1. Shielding from Sun, Rain, and Wind

Car awnings are designed to shield you from the harsh elements of the outdoors. Whether it's scorching sun, heavy rain, or gusty wind, a car awning can provide the necessary shelter to keep you comfortable and protected.

2. Creating a Comfortable Outdoor Workspace

With a car awning, you can transform your outdoor space into a comfortable workspace. Whether you're camping, hiking, or simply enjoying a day at the beach, a car awning provides you with the perfect shady spot to relax, work, or socialise.

3. Keeping Camping Gear Dry and Protected

One of the biggest challenges of outdoor activities is keeping your camping gear dry and protected. Car awnings offer a convenient solution by providing a sheltered area to store your gear, keeping it safe from rain, dew, and other elements.

4. Used in conjunction with a roof tent

All of our vehicle awnings can be used with roof tents as long as you have the appropriate roof crossbars or roof racks to attach the car awning too. This way you will have both a comfortable sleeping area and extra space to relax from the weather. 

Types of Car Awnings

The main types of car awnings can be subcategorised by:

- Size (Width)

- Retractable, roll out or 270 awnings

- Integrated LED Lighting Awnings

A. Size

1. 2.5m by 2.5m Size Awnings: These awnings are the largest of the three common sizes and provide a substantial amount of shade and shelter. They are ideal for larger vehicles such as full-size SUVs, vans, and 4x4s. The 2.5m width extends far enough to cover a significant area, making it suitable for group activities, camping, or setting up a spacious outdoor living space.

2. 2.0m by 2.5m Size Awnings: A slightly smaller option, these awnings are well-suited for medium-sized vehicles. They still offer a generous amount of coverage but in a more compact form, which can be advantageous for those who have limited mounting space or prefer a less obtrusive addition to their vehicle. The 2.0m width is ample for most outdoor activities, providing enough shelter for seating, cooking, or relaxing.

3. 1.5m by 2.0m Size Awnings: These are the most compact of the standard sizes and are perfect for smaller vehicles or for users who require a more minimal setup. The 1.5m width is enough to provide shelter for one or two people, making it ideal for solo travellers or couples. This size is also easier to handle and quicker to set up, which is beneficial for those who frequently move from place to place.

Roll-Out or Pull Out Awning

These awnings are stored in a cylindrical case attached to the vehicle's side or roof rack. When needed, they roll out to provide a sheltered area. They are easy to set up and ideal for quick stops or short-term use.

Batwing or 270-Degree Awnings

These awnings provide instant shelter and extensive coverage, extending around the side and rear of the vehicle in a semi-circular shape. They are perfect for creating a large shaded area, useful for camping or group gatherings.

Integrated LED Lighting Awnings

These awnings come with built-in LED lighting, providing illumination for activities after dark. This feature is particularly useful for campers and travellers who spend time outdoors at night.

C. Choosing the Right Car Awning

Choosing the right car side awning involves considering several key factors to ensure that it meets your specific needs and fits your vehicle appropriately. Here's a guide to help you select the right car side awning:

1. Vehicle Compatibility: Ensure that the awning is compatible with your vehicle type and size. The mounting system should fit your vehicle's roof bars or rails. Consider the awning's size in relation to your vehicle to avoid overhang issues.

2. Size and Coverage: Choose an awning size that provides the coverage you need. Larger awnings (e.g., 2.5m by 2.5m) are great for groups or extended stays, while smaller ones (e.g., 1.5m by 2.0m) are more suitable for solo travelers or quick stops. Consider both the width and the extension (depth) of the awning.

3. Material and Durability: Look for awnings made from high-quality, durable materials that can withstand various weather conditions. UV-resistant and waterproof fabrics are ideal. The frame and poles should be sturdy and rust-resistant.

4. Ease of Setup and Use: Consider how easy the awning is to deploy and stow away. Some awnings come with quick-release mechanisms, while others might require more manual setup. If you frequently move from place to place, a quick-setup awning might be more convenient.

5. Additional Features: Some awnings come with additional features like integrated LED lighting, sidewalls for extra protection, or adjustable legs for uneven ground and some are mould proof. Decide which features are important for your intended use.

6. Weight and Portability: Check the weight of the awning and ensure your vehicle can safely carry it. Heavier awnings might offer more durability but can be more challenging to handle and install.

7. Brand and Warranty: Consider reputable brands known for quality products and good customer support. A good warranty can provide peace of mind and protection against manufacturing defects.

8. Budget: Determine your budget and find an awning that offers the best value for money within your price range. More expensive doesn't always mean better, but investing in a quality awning can save money in the long run by avoiding frequent replacements.

Our selection of Car Awnings at Outdoor Roadie

At Outdoor Roadie we pride ourselves with making long-term relationships with brands creating the best roof tents the UK has to offer. We are proud to work with great brands with an extensive reputation such as ARB, TentBox, Tent & Trail and WildLand.

We have a wide range of car awnings of different capacity that will fit your camping setup. All car awnings have a minimum of 3000mm hydrostatic head rating and mould resistant canvas material.

Browse our selection below and use the filters to narrow down your search to find the perfect car awning as well as additional awning accessories for you and your situation.

FAQs

1. Can I install a car awning myself? Yes, with basic tools and by following the manufacturer's instructions, most car awnings can be installed by an individual.

2. How do I clean my car awning? Use mild soap and water for cleaning. Avoid harsh chemicals and scrub gently to prevent damage.

3. Are car awnings suitable for all weather conditions? While they offer protection from sun and rain, it's advisable to retract them in high winds or severe weather.

4. Does it come with warranty? Yes, all car awnings come with a minimum of 2 years manufactures warranty in case any manufacturing faults arise.

5. How long does a car awning last? With proper care and maintenance, a quality car awning can last several years.