Vehicle Awnings Guide
An awning turns your vehicle or roof tent setup into a much more usable living space. It gives shade, rain protection and a covered area for cooking, sitting or storing gear — especially useful in typical British weather.
This guide explains the main types of awning and helps you choose the right one.
Main Types of Awning
| Type | Best For | Setup Speed | Coverage | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Simple Side Awning | Everyday use, lighter setups | Fast | Straight side | Most affordable and versatile |
| 180° Wing Awning | Good all-round coverage | Medium | Side + rear | Popular balance of space and practicality |
| 270° Wing Awning | Maximum covered living space | Medium–slower | Side + rear + more | Best for longer stays or basecamp use |
| Awning with Walls/Room | Weather protection & privacy | Adds time | Enclosed area | Useful in wind or rain |
Simple Side Awnings
These are the most common and practical starting point. They mount along the side of your vehicle or roof rack and pull out to create a straight covered area.
Strengths:
- Quick and easy to use
- Lightweight
- Good value
- Work well with most vehicles and roof tents
Our TT-A1 range is designed for everyday UK use and can be paired with optional walls or a full room when you need more protection.
180° & 270° Wing Awnings
Wing awnings (sometimes called batwing or wrap-around awnings) give much more covered space by wrapping around the rear of the vehicle.
- 180° – Covers the side and part of the rear. A good middle ground.
- 270° – Gives the largest covered area, ideal if you want a proper outdoor living space.
These are popular with people who stay in one place for several days or want better weather protection.
Our Speedwing Max range is designed for fast setup and solid performance in real conditions.
Another globally recognized option is the famous Alu-Cab Shadow Awn range. These self supporting awnings are made in South Africa and known for their long lifespan anf slick operation!
Do You Need Walls or a Room?
An open awning is fine in good weather. Adding walls or a full awning room makes a big difference when it’s windy, rainy or you want more privacy and warmth.
Many of our awnings can be upgraded with wall kits or rooms so you can start simple and add more later.
Which Awning Should You Choose?
Choose a simple side awning if you:
- Want something lightweight and easy
- Mostly need shade or light rain protection
- Prefer lower cost and simple setup
Choose a 180° or 270° wing awning if you:
- Want more usable living space
- Often stay longer in one place
- Need better all-round weather protection
Add walls/room if you:
- Camp in exposed or windy locations
- Want a more enclosed, comfortable space
- Travel in cooler months
Need Help Choosing?
The best awning depends on your vehicle, how you travel, and whether you already have a roof tent. We’re happy to give practical advice based on your setup.
You can also see the different styles in person at our East Sussex showroom.
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