The Ultimate Guide to Campervan Awnings

If you’re dreaming of extra living space, shade from the sun, or somewhere to stash your muddy boots, a campervan awning might just be your new best travel buddy. At Quirky Campers, we know that choosing the right awning can be confusing, but we’re here to help with this fun, down-to-earth, and super informative guide!

Whether you’re hiring one of our beautiful handcrafted campervans or building your own with help from our Campervan Conversion Guide, here’s everything you need to know about awnings.

What is a campervan awning?

A campervan awning is an additional structure that attaches to your van, extending your living space into the great outdoors. Think of it as a pop-up extension that can serve as a dining area, extra bedroom, gear storage, or playroom for little adventurers.

Types of Campervan Awnings

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to campervan awnings. Here are the main types:

🌄 Driveaway Awnings

These are like mini tents that attach to your van but can stand on their own when you drive off for a day trip. Great for campers who stay put for a few nights. Available with inflatable air poles or traditional poles.

Pros:

Loads of extra space for sleeping, eating, or lounging
Leave it up while you explore

Cons:

Takes time to set up
Bulky to store when not in use

☀️ Sun Canopies

Simple and quick to set up, sun canopies offer shelter from the sun and light rain. These are great for day trips or when you want to create a little shade for a picnic.

Pros:

Lightweight and quick to set up
Minimal storage space needed

Cons:

Doesn’t provide enclosed protection from weather

Choosing the Right Awning

Here are some questions to help narrow down your options:

How much space do you need? Is it just you and your partner, or are you travelling with kids, dogs, and a kitchen sink?
How long are you staying put? Driveaway awnings are better for longer stays.
What’s the weather likely to be like? In the UK, rain is always a possibility…
Do you want a retro vibe or a sleek modern look? Brands like Just Kampers offer vintage-inspired designs that match the Quirky aesthetic perfectly.

How Much Should You Spend?

Campervan awnings range from £50 for a basic sun canopy to over £1,000 for large inflatable driveaway models. Around £500 will get you a good quality, weather-resistant awning that will last for years.

Don’t Forget the Accessories!

Once you’ve got the main awning, it’s time to make it your own:

Awning carpets
Storage solutions (check out vintage suitcases!)
Coat hooks
Solar fairy lights
Sheepskins and cosy cushions

We’re all about bringing personality to your camping setup – that’s why every campervan for hire on Quirky Campers is unique and lovingly built.

FAQs About Campervan Awnings

1. Can I use a caravan awning on a campervan? Not always. Caravan awnings are often designed for straight sides, while campervans typically have a more curved shape. Always check compatibility.

2. Do all campervans have awnings? Nope! Some have sun canopies, some have nothing. When you hire from Quirky Campers, the van listing will let you know exactly what’s included.

3. Can I sleep in a driveaway awning? Yes! Many have optional inner compartments for sleeping. Ideal for kids or friends joining the adventure.

4. Are awnings waterproof? Most are water-resistant at a minimum. Always check the spec if you’re expecting heavy weather.

5. Can I attach an awning to any van? You’ll need to make sure your van has an awning rail or compatible fitting. If you’re building your own van, our Campervan Conversion Guide explains how to set this up.

Ready to Roll?

Explore our stunning collection of campervans for hire – some with dreamy awnings already included! Or if you’re building your own van, our Campervan Conversion Guide is packed with tips on layout, fittings, and of course, awning options.