Motorhomes Caravans & Destinations
A BEGINNER’S GUIDE TO AWNINGS
A good awning is a must-have for Kiwi RV travellers. But with many varieties to choose from, which is best for you? Claire Smith looks at the most common options.
Agood awning serves not only as weather protection, but creates a defined outdoor living area or extra room, extending that much-needed sense of space. From manual wall-mounted awnings to innovative inflatable options, these handy covers come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes.
If you’re planning to buy a new awning, the first consideration is the size of your vehicle. It’s a good idea to opt for the maximum size that will fit the length of your motorhome, including over the entrance door. Choosing the best type of awning for you and your RV can involve a bit of research. Here’s an overview of the main options:
WALL-MOUNTED CASSETTE AWNING
This is the easiest to use awning. Cassette awnings are available in a variety of lengths and are fixed to the side or roof of your motorhome. They’re sturdy, simple to operate, and are suitable for most types of motorhome. The canopy is housed within an aluminium case and uses a ‘roll out’ mechanism which is deployed either with an electric motor, or with a manual handle. Either method can be performed by one person quite easily.
For support, some awnings include a ‘straight arm’ function which holds the canopy open using horizontal arms that attach to the side of the motorhome, while others have fold-down legs and pegs.
Because they’re quick and easy to roll in and roll out, these types of awnings are good for those who enjoy short stays, and move regularly. Because they’re fixed permanently to the side of your motorhome, they don’t take up any internal storage space. It pays to note that fixed awnings can weigh up to 50kg, which is something to factor into your payload allowance.
FIXED AWNINGS
Fixed awnings have a roof and three sides and attach to the side of the vehicle, so once it’s set up, it stays put until you’re ready to pack down and leave. This setup is particularly good for caravans and adds a huge amount of extra living space. Fixed awnings generally have a good connection between the vehicle and the awning itself, as well as zipped or roll down/up side curtains.
FREESTANDING OR ‘DRIVE AWAY’ AWNINGS
The obvious benefit of a freestanding awning is the ability to leave it on site (provided the site is secure, such as a campground), while you head out for the day. Freestanding awnings often include an extra flap of material that connects to the motorhome either by a fixed railing or cassette, straps that go over the motorhome, or magnets.
Fixed and freestanding awnings can be erected in a similar fashion to a tent - with poles and pegs. But if you fancy a faster and easier option for setting up, inflatable awnings are the way to go. They both weigh roughly the same, however you will need to include a pump - either electric or manual - for an inflatable version. You can read more about inflatable awnings at nzmcd.co.nz/stories/your-technical-guideto-inflatable-awnings/