A caravan awning is one of the must-have accessories for caravan enthusiasts in NZ. It is a versatile addition to your holiday experience, adding comfort and functionality. However, there are various types of caravan awning, and choosing the best for your needs can be tricky and overwhelming. In this blog, you will learn about the various types and features. You will also find tips for choosing the best one depending on the type of caravan or your purpose.
Why is it Important to Invest in a Caravan Awning?
A caravan awning is essential for various reasons. One of its primary functions is weather protection. In New Zealand, the summer sun is harsh and adding an awning to your caravan protects you from the heat. It provides adequate shade so you can safely relax outdoors during the summer. In addition, it can protect you from the rain. It provides extra space to enjoy when you park your caravan, creating a defined outdoor space.
Depending on the types of caravan awning you invest in, some have added features like in-built guttering. This feature is beneficial in harvesting water from the rain, so you can enjoy an eco-friendly caravan holiday experience wherein you harness natural resources and eliminate waste.
Caravan Awning Types
Choosing from the various caravan awning types can be overwhelming, if not tricky. Therefore, it pays to familiarise oneself with these types to make an informed buying decision.
Wall-Mounted Cassette Awning
A wall-mounted cassette awning is the most common type of caravan awning. It features an easy-to-use design with a solid construction that fits most caravan types. You will find this awning type in most caravans for rent since they are easy to operate for inexperienced caravanners.
The canopy is enclosed within an aluminium case and uses a telescopic handle to deploy. Additional features, such as built-in locks and tie-down cables, are available, depending on the brand and manufacturer. You can also purchase electric awnings that are convenient to operate.
Since the wall-mounted cassette awning is easy enough for one person to operate, this explains the popularity of this type of caravan awning. You can add sunflaps to this awning to increase shade coverage.
Roof-Mounted Cassette Awning
Roof-mounted cassette awnings are ideal for vehicles with limited wall space, such as vans. You can find them in various lengths, finishes, and colours. You can also customise the canopy cloth. They are less popular than the wall-mounted cassette awning type for caravans.
Inflatable Awnings
The compact size, lightweight nature, and portability of inflatable awnings make them popular among NZ caravanners. They are easy to assemble and use. Inflatable awnings can work as standalone awnings, meaning you do not attach them to any part of the caravan. Therefore, they’re an excellent caravan awning type for short- or long-term stays.
Inflatable awnings are also versatile enough to attach to a cassette awning using a rope. Once inflated, you can use the awning as an extra room for daytime use. The space is ideal for sleeping or storage, depending on the awning size. Many caravanners leave their inflated awning behind when they explore to mark their parking spot.
Privacy Rooms
This caravan awning type is like an inflatable awning, but it has the advantage of an enclosed space. It consists of three walls, so it offers added privacy and more space. Since it is enclosed, it takes longer to install. While it offers extra space, the structure is vulnerable to high winds.
How do you choose among the caravan awning types?
The best awning for your caravan should tick the right boxes. It varies according to your lifestyle and the extra space or shade you need. It also depends on the season you want to go caravanning.
Consider these essential factors when choosing the best caravan awning for your next adventure.
Brand & Quality
Investing in a caravan requires considering the brand and quality that could withstand the test of time – and the weather conditions. The responsibility of the awning is to provide added shade and outdoor space. If you’re going to rely on it to protect you from the elements, it must be able to do its job!
Quality is also crucial when buying caravan awnings if you use them frequently. A durable material and construction guarantee ensures that you’ll be able to use it within its expected lifespan.
When buying awnings, research the best brands. It also pays to know the best awning fit for your caravan type for maximum performance and value.
Purpose
What are you using the awning for? You must answer this question to decide on the best caravan type.
For example, the cassette (wall- or roof-mounted) awning is ideal if you want an awning to provide shade. On the other hand, a privacy room is a must if you want additional storage or living space.
Caravan Size
Caravan awnings vary in size and dimensions. Therefore, it is a primary consideration when choosing the right type of awning for your caravan. Measure the exact dimensions of your caravan to find the right match of awning type. For example, the awning must not be longer than the caravan wall, especially if you choose the wall-mounted type. It ensures adequate support for the awning to attach itself to, providing more stability for your awning.
Installation
Consider the amount of time and effort required to set up the awning. You can install some types of awning alone, while others, such as inflatable ones, require at least two individuals. Therefore, consider if you have help setting up the awning when choosing what to buy for your caravan.
Awning Material
While material can also be a consideration when determining brand and quality, it’s crucial to highlight it as a separate factor when buying caravan awnings. The type of awning material determines essential qualities, such as water resistance, waterproofing, and ease of maintenance. Choose caravan awning types made of durable fabrics that are made to last. In addition, fire retardant and waterproof materials give you peace of mind. For this, choose vinyl fabrics.
Understanding the different qualities of caravan awning materials also helps you determine whether you can use them for specific seasons. For example, acrylic fabric is not water resistant, so it is best for summer use.
Ready to Find the Best Caravan Awning?
Use this information when shopping for accessories for your caravan and know what factors to consider when choosing the best types of caravan awnings. Choosing the right type to match your caravan needs can take your adventure to the next level!