Making use of an awning attached to your camper van is almost like extending your home. It’s no only useful as a place to sleep, store stuff or hang out, but also great to get out of the bad weather!
We purchased a Litchfield California inflatable awning from Amazon- because I generally have had quite enough of camping poles for my lifetime – our model is specifically made for high roof vans. The extra headroom is great! It came with useful straps that go over the roof and fix to the underside of the opposite side of the van. While straps over your van roof don’t offer the same secure attachment as an awning rail does, they are a lot easier to remove and drive away from compared to using an awning rail & drive-away kit….
As our T4 Transporter factory high roof is made from fiberglass or GRP or something like that, I wasn’t too keen on using screws to attach the C-shape awning rail – also known as a Kador/Keder strip or multi-rail. So we used Sikaflex 221 strong adhesive sealant. The other reason, is that I didn’t fancy taking out the ceiling I had installed… In the video you can see how we bonded the awning rail to the high roof and we have had absolutely no issues – except that once in a storm in Galicia the awning keder strip pulled out of the rail, and not the rail off the van…
Then to improve the entrance to the van through the sliding door, I removed the utilitarian looking community bus entrance with hazard yellow rubber strips, and fitted a nice swanky new plastic step from Van-X – which also needed to screws to attach.
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Happy Days!
Why is a campervan awning important?
A campervan awning is an essential accessory for any camper, and it offers several important benefits that can significantly enhance your camping experience. Here are some key reasons why a campervan awning is important:
- Extended Living Space: A campervan awning effectively expands your living space. It provides an additional area where you can relax, eat, cook, and socialize. This extra space is particularly valuable when you’re camping with family or friends, as it creates room for everyone to move comfortably.
- Shade and Sun Protection: One of the primary functions of a campervan awning is to provide shade and sun protection. It shields you from the sun’s intense rays, helping to prevent sunburn and overheating. This is especially important during hot summer months.
- Weather Protection: Awnings also offer protection from other weather conditions, including rain and wind. They provide a dry and sheltered area where you can set up camp chairs, tables, and other equipment, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors even in less-than-ideal weather.
- Versatility: Campervan awnings are versatile and adaptable. They can be used for various purposes, such as outdoor cooking, dining, or simply relaxing. Some models even have removable panels or walls that can be added for privacy or windbreak.
- Comfort and Relaxation: Having a shaded and sheltered outdoor space adds to your overall comfort and relaxation while camping. It’s a place where you can read, nap, or enjoy a meal without being exposed to the elements.
- Privacy: Some campervan awnings come with side panels or curtains, providing a degree of privacy. This is useful for changing clothes, creating a separate outdoor space, or simply maintaining a sense of privacy while camping.
- Energy Efficiency: By providing shade and reducing the amount of direct sunlight entering your campervan, awnings can help maintain a cooler interior temperature. This can lead to less reliance on air conditioning and improved energy efficiency, especially during hot weather.
- Protection for Your Campervan: Awnings can also protect your campervan itself. They shield the vehicle’s exterior from the sun’s UV rays, helping to prevent paint fading and prolonging the life of exterior components.
- Enhanced Camping Experience: Overall, a campervan awning enhances the camping experience by giving you more options and flexibility. It allows you to spend more time outdoors comfortably and makes your campsite feel like a home away from home.
- Entertaining Guests: If you have friends or family joining you on your camping trips, an awning provides a dedicated space for entertaining guests. It’s an ideal setup for hosting a small outdoor gathering or picnic.
In conclusion, a campervan awning is a valuable addition to your camping setup, providing extended living space, protection from the elements, versatility, and enhanced comfort. Whether you’re seeking shade from the sun or shelter from rain and wind, a well-chosen awning can significantly improve your camping experience and make your adventures more enjoyable.
