Driveaway vs Fixed Awnings: Which One Is Best for How You Travel?

Choosing the right awning can completely change how you camp.
Whether you're heading out for a weekend break or planning a multi-stop road trip, the decision between a driveaway and a fixed awning can shape your entire experience. Yet, many campers don’t realise how different these two types of awnings can feel—until they’re in the middle of a trip, either wrestling with a setup or wishing they could pop into town without dismantling their pitch.

If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Should I choose a driveaway vs fixed awning?”, or “What’s the difference between a driveaway awning vs an attached awning?”, this guide is for you. We’ll walk you through the key differences, practical pros and cons, and common real-world scenarios so you can confidently decide which setup suits your style of travel. Along the way, we’ll highlight how OLPRO’s expertly designed awnings fit into each scenario, making your adventures smoother, more flexible, and far more enjoyable.

What Is a Driveaway Awning?

A driveaway awning is a freestanding awning designed to remain in place at your campsite when you drive your campervan away. This gives you total freedom to go exploring, nip to the shops, or head out on a spontaneous drive without needing to dismantle your entire campsite.

Driveaway awnings attach to your vehicle using a tunnel or connecting sleeve, which can be zipped off and reattached as needed. When you leave the campsite, you simply seal up the tunnel and go.

Benefits of Driveaway Awnings

• Perfect for flexibility – Whether you’re off to the beach or a nearby pub, your setup stays intact.

• Spacious and versatile – Many models can double as standalone tents or extra living areas.

• Best for touring campers – Ideal when you're moving around but still want a reliable base.

OLPRO Driveaway Awnings to Consider

At OLPRO, we’ve designed a range of driveaway awnings to suit every type of trip:

• Cocoon Breeze® V2 Inflatable Driveaway Campervan Awning – Offers a large enclosed space, perfect for families and long stays.

• Hive Driveaway Campervan Awning – Combines versatility and style, ideal for those who want a functional extra room without sacrificing aesthetics.

Explore the full 2025 OLPRO Awnings Range to find more freestanding options to match your van and your lifestyle.

What Is a Fixed (Non-Driveaway) Awning?

A fixed awning, also known as a non-driveaway or attached awning, is permanently affixed to your vehicle while you're pitched up. It moves with your campervan and is not designed to stand alone when you drive away.

This option is simpler in design, generally quicker to pitch, and typically better suited for short stays where minimal setup is key. Many fixed awnings use fewer components, making them lightweight, fast, and fuss-free.

Benefits of Fixed Awnings

• Perfect for short breaks or overnight stops

• Quick pitch-up and pack-down

• More stable in strong winds, especially with the right tensioning and anchoring

OLPRO Fixed Awnings to Explore

For campers who want a simple, stylish fixed setup, OLPRO’s options like the OLPRO Shade Canopy are ideal. They provide shelter without the bulk of a full awning, great for relaxing outdoors or cooking undercover on short stays.

Browse all our fixed and canopy awnings to find one that fits your van perfectly.

Driveaway vs Fixed: The Real Differences (with Scenarios)

Choosing between a driveaway vs wind out awning or a driveaway vs fixed awning isn’t just about gear specs—it’s about how you travel. Here’s a side-by-side comparison to help you visualise what works best for different real-world scenarios:

The OLPRO Campervan Awnings Range includes both driveaway and fixed options, so you’ll find the perfect match for your next trip.

Pros and Cons of Each Setup

When comparing a driveaway awning vs attached awning, it’s important to weigh the advantages against potential limitations. Here’s a clear breakdown to guide your decision:

Driveaway Awning Pros

• ✅ Freedom to drive away without packing down

• ✅ Greater living space options

• ✅ Doubles as a base tent or storage hub

Driveaway Awning Cons

• ❌ Slightly more time-consuming to set up and realign

• ❌ Requires careful positioning to reconnect accurately

Fixed Awning Pros

• ✅ Fast and straightforward setup

• ✅ Ideal for short stays or spontaneous overnights

• ✅ More affordable and compact

Fixed Awning Cons

• ❌ Need to pack everything away before driving

• ❌ Limited use if you're touring or sightseeing daily

To get the most from your setup, explore OLPRO’s full range of campervan awnings and consider which model best suits your travel rhythm.

Final Thoughts: What’s Best for You?

When it comes to driveaway or fixed, there’s no single “best” option—only what’s best for you. If you’re the kind of traveller who settles into one site and stays put, a fixed awning offers simplicity and speed. But if you crave freedom and flexibility to explore without dismantling camp, a driveaway awning is worth its weight in gold.

Industry expert Daniel Walton, puts it simply:

“Fixed awnings are great for convenience, but if you’re touring the Lake District one day and hitting the coast the next, a driveaway awning will save you hours and a lot of hassle.”

At OLPRO, we understand that every camper’s needs are different—which is why our awning range is as diverse as the adventures you take. From driveaway models like the Hive to fixed options like the Shade Canopy, we’ve got you covered.

Browse the 2025 OLPRO Awnings Collection or visit our full awning category for even more inspiration.

Still unsure? Reach out to the OLPRO team for tailored advice—we’re happy to help you find the perfect awning for your next adventure.

Driveaway vs Fixed Awnings: Which One Is Best for How You Travel?
It all comes down to how you use your van, where you go, and how often you move. By understanding the key differences and real-world pros and cons, you can confidently choose the awning setup that will make your trips more comfortable, more enjoyable, and more you.

Ready to find your perfect fit?
Explore OLPRO’s campervan awnings now and get geared up for the road ahead.