Are you ready to take your overland adventures to the next level? Imagine navigating through rugged terrain, the open road stretching endlessly before you, and the promise of the great outdoors beckons. But as any seasoned overlander knows, a successful journey depends on staying prepared. An overland awning is an essential piece of gear that can make your trip more enjoyable and comfortable.
In this guide, we’ll uncover the secrets to selecting the perfect overland awning for your vehicle. So, fasten your seatbelt, adventurers, and let’s dive into the world of car roof awnings.
The Overland Awning Advantage
First things first, what exactly is an overland awning? Imagine it as your trusty sidekick on the road, providing shade and shelter wherever you roam. Overland awnings are like compact, portable canopies that attach to your vehicle, instantly creating a cosy oasis in the wilderness. They enhance your overland camping experience, offering relief from the sun’s scorching rays or shelter from unexpected rain showers.
Here’s why you need one:
- Versatile shade: Overland awnings provide a versatile source of shade. Whether taking a break during a long drive, setting up camp for the night, or having a spontaneous picnic by the trail, having instant shade at your disposal is a game-changer.
- Quick setup: Many overland awnings allow quick and easy setup. You don’t need to be an outdoor expert to get one up and running. In minutes, you can have your portable car shade ready. It allows you to spend more time enjoying the adventure.
iii. Compact & portable: Vehicle camping awnings are designed to be compact and lightweight, making them a breeze to transport. They won’t weigh you down during your overland journey, and they won’t gobble up valuable space in your vehicle.
- Enhanced camping: If you’re into vehicle camping, an overland awning transforms your setup. It creates an outdoor living area, perfect for cooking, dining, or relaxing outside your vehicle’s interior.
- Weather protection: Overland awnings are versatile in dealing with various weather conditions. They shield you from rain, provide shade during hot days, and can even act as a windbreak, giving you more control over your camping environment.
Choosing the Perfect Overland Awning: A Comprehensive How-To
Now that we’ve established the importance of overland vehicle camping awnings, let’s dive into the specifics of choosing the perfect one.
- A) Consider Your Vehicle
The first step in selecting the ideal overland awning is considering your vehicle type and size. Different vehicles have different roof configurations and weight capacities. Here’s what you need to think about:
- Roof rack compatibility: Check if your vehicle has a roof rack or bars. Most car roof awnings can be attached to these racks. Ensure your roof rack can support the weight of the awning you choose.
- Roof height: Consider the height of your vehicle. Taller vehicles might require taller awnings to provide adequate shade and clearance.
- Vehicle size: The size of your vehicle plays a role in determining the size of the awning you need. If you have a larger vehicle, you can choose a large awning to create a more spacious outdoor area.
- Weight capacity: Check your vehicle’s capacity for roof-mounted accessories. Don’t forget to factor in the weight of the rooftop awning, brackets, and any additional accessories you plan to attach.
- B) Awning Type and Size
Overland awnings come in various types and sizes. Here’s a breakdown:
- Awning Types:
Side awnings: Side awnings are the original and most common type of overland awning. They are known for their quick and easy setup and pack-down process. The side awnings are ideal for camping, caravanning, picnicking, or any outdoor activity where you need instant shade and shelter.
180-degree and 270-degree awnings: The 180- and 270-degree vehicle camping awnings come with extended coverage options. A 270-degree awnings provide coverage from the side of your vehicle around to the back. These awnings are often compatible with wall sets, allowing you to create a fully sheltered and comfortable campsite. With walls attached, they offer protection from wind, rain, and sun, making them suitable for larger groups or extended camping stays.
Freestanding awnings: Freestanding awnings are a unique type of overland awning that you can mount to the side of your vehicle. What sets freestanding awnings apart is their ability to support themselves without additional poles. This design feature ensures a clutter-free campsite, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors without obstructions.
Each type of awning has advantages and caters to different camping and adventure preferences.
- Awning Size:
Width: The width of the awning determines how much coverage you get. Consider the number of people you’ll be camping with and how much space you’ll need for activities.
Extension: It refers to how far the awning extends from your vehicle when fully deployed. A longer extension means more shaded space but requires more room for setup.
Height: The awning’s height can affect the usability of the shaded area. Taller individuals might prefer higher awnings for better headroom.
- C) Material Matters
The material of your overland awning is crucial for durability and weather resistance. Look for awnings made from robust materials, such as:
- Ripstop canvas: This heavy-duty canvas is durable and can withstand the rigours of outdoor use. It’s also highly resistant to tears, ensuring your awning lasts for years.
- Polyester: Polyester awnings are lightweight and dry quickly, making them a good choice for wet conditions. They’re also resistant to UV damage.
- Poly-cotton: A poly-cotton blend is the ideal material for your overland awning. It ensures a comfortable and long-lasting outdoor shelter that combines polyester’s durability and cotton’s breathability.
- D) Ease of Use
Nobody wants to spend precious adventure time struggling with complex setups. Choose a car roof awning with user-friendly features, such as:
- Twist lock poles: Twist lock poles can be swiftly extended and locked into place with a simple twist, making the setup process quick and hassle-free.
- Quick release mechanism: This allows for easy setup and take-down.
- High-quality zippers: Ensure the zippers are robust and won’t jam or break easily.
- E) Additional Accessories
Enhance your overland awning experience with a few well-chosen accessories:
- Awning walls: These attachable walls provide extra privacy and protection from the wind. Some even have windows for ventilation.
- LED lighting: Attachable LED lights can illuminate your outdoor space, making it cosy and functional even after dark.
- Mosquito nets: Keep pesky bugs at bay with attachable mosquito nets. They’re a must for camping in insect-prone areas.
- Mounting brackets: Ensure you have the mounting brackets compatible with your specific vehicle and awning type.
- F) Budget Considerations
Lastly, consider your budget. Overland awnings come in a range of price points. While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, a durable, high-quality awning is an investment that will serve you well in the long run.
Conclusion
So, there you have it, intrepid adventurers – a comprehensive guide to choosing the perfect overland awning for your vehicle. Whether exploring the outback, embarking on a cross-country road trip, or simply seeking a comfortable spot to relax in the wilderness, a well-selected car roof awning can make all the difference. Remember to consider your vehicle type, awning type and size, material, ease of use, and any additional accessories you might need. With the right portable car shade by your side, your overland adventures will always be shaded, comfortable, and unforgettable. So, gear up and hit the road – your next epic journey awaits!