Awnings: The Ultimate Guide to Enhancing Your Campervan Experience

Posted by Katie Martin on 15th Jan 2025

Awnings: The Ultimate Guide to Enhancing Your Campervan Experience

Awnings are a must-have accessory for campervan owners, offering additional living space, shade, and protection from the elements. Whether you own a VW T5, Fiat Ducato camper van, or a Fiat Doblo camper, an awning can transform your camping experience. Pairing your awning with a windbreak, like an OLPRO windbreak, provides extra privacy and shields your space from the wind, making your campsite or beach setup even more enjoyable.

In this blog, we’ll explore the benefits of campervan awnings and windbreaks while answering key questions about installation, compatibility, and alternatives to awning rails.

Is It Worth Getting an Awning on a Campervan?

Absolutely! An awning adds significant value to your campervan by providing:

Extra Space: Perfect for cooking, dining, or relaxing. It also doubles as a sleeping area with the addition of a bedroom pod.
Weather Protection: Shelter from sun, rain, and wind, making it ideal for all seasons.
Privacy: Create a personal space, especially in crowded campsites or on busy beaches.

For campervan owners, the VW T5 awning is a popular choice, offering a seamless extension to your vehicle. Check out OLPRO’s range of drive-away awnings for versatile options.

How to Attach a Drive-Away Awning to a VW T5

Attaching a drive-away awning to your VW T5 is simple with the right tools and accessories:

Use an Awning Rail: Install a C-Channel Awning Rail to provide a secure and permanent connection point.
Drive-Away Kit: Attach the awning using a 4-6mm Drive-Away Kit or a 6-6mm Drive-Away Kit, depending on the compatibility with your vehicle and awning.
Magnetic Kits: If you prefer a non-permanent option, the Magnetic Drive-Away Kit is an excellent alternative.

Steps:

Slide the drive-away kit into the awning rail.
Attach the awning’s keder strip to the drive-away kit.
Secure the awning with guy ropes and pegs for stability.

Are Awning Rails Universal?

No, awning rails are not universal. The type of awning rail you need depends on your campervan’s make and model, as well as the awning’s attachment method.

For instance:

C-Channel Rails: Ideal for many campervans, including the Fiat Ducato camper van.
Magnetic Kits: Great for vehicles without pre-installed rails, such as the Fiat Doblo camper.

Ensure you choose an awning rail that matches the size and type of keder strip on your awning.

How to Install an Awning Rail on a Campervan

Installing an awning rail is straightforward and can be done in a few simple steps:

Clean the Surface: Ensure the roof of your campervan is clean and free of debris.
Position the Rail: Align the C-Channel Awning Rail along the edge of your roof.
Secure the Rail: Use adhesive, screws, or clamps to fix the rail in place, depending on your vehicle’s structure.
Test the Fit: Attach your awning to ensure it slides smoothly into the rail.

For added security, use Awning Rail Stoppers to prevent your awning from sliding out unintentionally.

Are Awning Rail Protectors Worth It?

Yes, awning rail protectors are worth the investment. They:

Prevent dirt and debris from clogging the rail.
Reduce wear and tear on the awning connection.
Ensure a secure and smooth attachment process.

Adding protectors to your setup extends the lifespan of your awning and rail.

How to Attach an Awning to a Campervan Without a Rail

If your campervan lacks an awning rail, there are still ways to attach an awning:

Magnetic Drive-Away Kits: These kits, such as the OLPRO Magnetic Drive-Away Kit, attach directly to the vehicle’s metal surface, making them a quick and easy solution.
Pole & Clamp System: Ideal for campervans with a gutter. Secure the pole in the gutter and clamp it in place.
Strap Over the Roof: All OLPRO awnings come with straps that can be looped over the roof and secured on the other side.

These methods are practical for campervans like the Fiat Doblo camper, where permanent modifications may not be possible.

Enhancing Your Space with Windbreaks

Awnings paired with windbreaks create the ultimate camping setup. Windbreaks, such as the OLPRO Windbreak, provide:

Privacy: Shield your space from prying eyes in crowded areas.
Wind Protection: Block strong winds for a more comfortable outdoor experience.
Defined Boundaries: Mark out your camping area, perfect for families with children or pets.

Use windbreaks on campsites, beaches, or even in your garden for versatile functionality. Explore OLPRO’s range of windbreaks here.