Car and truck awnings have become indispensable accessories for adventure enthusiasts, providing pop-up shade and shelter during unpredictable weather conditions. In this article, we present a comprehensive guide to the best car and truck awnings of 2023, perfect for overlanding and car camping.
Factors to Remember When Choosing an Awning for Overlanding
When choosing an awning for overlanding, there are several factors to consider:
- Material: Purchase an awning made with high-quality fabric that is waterproof and UV protected. Cheap fabric can thin and fade over time.
- Type of awning: There are two major awning types: the 180-degree awning and the 270-degree awning. The choice between a 180 and 270-degree awning will depend on the most important attributes for you and your end-use.
- Size and height: Consider the size and height of the awning to ensure it fits your vehicle and provides adequate coverage.
- Weight and storage: Consider the weight and storage of the awning to ensure it is easy to transport and store.
- Ease of installation and setup: Consider the ease of installation and setup of the awning to ensure it is easy to use.
- Weather resistance: Consider the weather resistance of the awning to ensure it can withstand all sorts of weather conditions.
- Compatibility: Make sure your cross bars or rack system is ready to carry the weight of the awning.
- Brand name and reputation: Consider the brand name and reputation of the awning to ensure it is of high quality.
- Design complexity: Consider the design complexity of the awning to ensure it is easy to use and set up.
- Warranty: Consider the warranty of the awning to ensure it is covered in case of any defects or issues.
Differences Between 180-Degree and 270-Degree Awnings
The main difference between a 180-degree awning and a 270-degree awning is the size and coverage area. A 180-degree awning protrudes directly off the side of the vehicle and provides a rectangular awning, while a 270-degree awning expands 270-degrees from the opening point, providing a larger coverage area. 180-degree awnings are usually cheaper, lighter, and easier to set up and pack away than 270-degree awnings. However, 270-degree awnings provide increased coverage and ease of setup, but they are larger when collapsed, more expensive, and heavier.
The choice between a 180-degree and a 270-degree awning depends on personal preference and the most important attributes for the user and their end-use. A 180-degree awning is simple to set up, lightweight, and cost-effective, making it a good option for those who prioritize ease of use and affordability. A 270-degree awning provides a larger coverage area, making it a good option for those who prioritize increased coverage and convenience, but it is more expensive and heavier.
What is a Car Awning?
A car awning is a type of car accessory that provides shade and protection from the elements for a vehicle. There are different designs for vehicle awnings, including standalone designs with plastic or metal pillars that can be moved from one location to another, and fixed designs that are mounted to a wall or a vehicle’s roof. Fixed vehicle awnings tend to absorb more wind and weather, making them more durable and long-lasting. Portable vehicle awnings are also available, which can be disassembled and stored when not in use. Car awnings can be mounted to a variety of roof basket racks or flat platform racks, and come in different sizes to fit different vehicles. Some car awnings have additional features, such as integrated LED lighting and side walls that create shade shelters. Car awnings can be useful for camping, overlanding, or simply enjoying the outdoors while protecting your vehicle from the sun and rain.
Are Car Awnings Waterproof?
Yes, car awnings can be waterproof. Car awnings are designed to provide protection against the rain, especially when it’s time to cook, and a bit more privacy. The awnings are made from heavy-duty, mold-resistant materials that are water-repellent and UV-resistant. The materials used in car awnings vary, but they are often made from waterproof 280g ripstop canvas or heavy-duty PVC-coated 650g nylon. It is important to note that not all car awnings are waterproof, so it is essential to check the product specifications before purchasing. Additionally, some car awnings come with tie-downs, guy lines, and additional support poles to withstand wind and rain.
Pros and Cons of a Car Awning
Car awnings can be a great investment for outdoor enthusiasts, providing shade and shelter from the sun, wind, and rain. Here are some pros and cons of car awnings:
Pros:
- Provide shade and shelter from the sun, wind, and rain
- Create more living space and privacy
- Easy to set up and take down
- Can be mounted to a variety of roof basket racks or flat surfaces
- Can be used for camping, road trips, tailgating, and other outdoor activities
Cons:
- May increase your car’s fuel consumption
- May create more noise when driving, especially soft-shell tents
- May need to drive slower, recommended top speed of 65mph or 100kmh
- More expensive than other car tents
- May not be as effective in extreme weather conditions
Maintenance and Care for Your Awning
To extend the lifespan of your car or truck awning, proper maintenance and care are essential. Here are some tips to help keep your awning in top condition:
- Clean the awning regularly: Use a soft brush and mild soap to gently clean dirt and debris from the awning fabric. Rinse with clean water and allow the awning to air dry completely before storing.
- Inspect the awning for damage: Regularly check for any signs of wear and tear, such as rips, tears, or broken hardware. Address any issues promptly to prevent further damage.
- Lubricate moving parts: Apply a silicone-based lubricant to any moving parts, such as hinges and poles, to ensure smooth operation and prevent rust.
- Store the awning properly: When not in use, store the awning in a dry, cool place, away from direct sunlight. Ensure that the awning is completely dry before storing to prevent mold and mildew growth.
- Use guy lines and stakes: In windy conditions, use guy lines and stakes to secure the awning and prevent damage caused by wind.
- Avoid overloading: Do not exceed the weight capacity of your awning or mounting system, as this can lead to structural damage or even collapse.
With proper care and maintenance, a high-quality car or truck awning can provide years of reliable shade and shelter for your overlanding adventures. By following these tips, you can ensure that your awning remains in excellent condition and continues to enhance your outdoor experiences.
Overall, car awnings can be a great addition to your outdoor gear, providing shade and shelter and creating more living space. However, it’s important to consider your vehicle type and use case before purchasing an awning to ensure that it’s the right fit for you.
Our Top Picks for the Best Awnings for Overlanding 2023
The Easy-Out Awning / 2M is a water-repellent, UV-resistant awning that measures 2m wide and extends 2.1m from the mounting extrusion. It is designed for quick and easy two-person set up, in under 60 seconds. The awning mounts quickly and easily to the side of the Front Runner Roof Rack for instant sun or rain protection. The vertical support poles are lightweight yet durable and have spikes on the end for secure ground placement. The poles extend to 2.4m maximum height for use with taller vehicles. The awning comes with a heavy-duty PVC-coated nylon cover that protects it while stowed and in transit. The awning also includes reflective gut ropes with tent stakes for stability in windy conditions. The awning can be turned into a shelter in minutes by adding the Easy-Out Awning Room or Easy-Out Awning Mosquito Net. The product dimensions of the awning when closed are 2110mm (80”) L x 120mm (4.7”) W x 120mm (4.7”) H, and when open are 2110mm (82.7”) L x 2000mm (78.7”) W x 2400mm (94.5”) H (Max Height)
The Rhino-Rack Compact Batwing is an awning designed for outdoor enthusiasts who want to enjoy the great outdoors while staying protected from the sun and rain. The Batwing Compact is made from a heavy-duty, water-resistant material that has been tested and rated to UPF 50+, offering maximum sun protection. It is perfect for solo adventurers and couples with small to medium vehicles or short wheelbase 4WDs. The Batwing Compact provides 270 degrees of shade and 6.4m² / 68.9ft² of coverage, making it ideal for enjoying the great outdoors1. The awning is easy to set up and pack away within minutes. Accessories are available to increase coverage even more, such as the Rhino-Rack Batwing Compact Tapered Zip Extension. The Batwing Compact is available in both left and right side mounts. The length of the compact model when packed away on the roof rack is 79″ (6′ 7″) compared to the massive 98″ (8′ 2″) of the full-size Batwing. The Rhino-Rack Compact Batwing is a great option for those who want a high-quality, durable, and easy-to-use awning for their outdoor adventures.
The OVS Nomadic Awning 270 is a game-changer for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a reliable shelter solution. Designed for the driver’s side, this awning effortlessly spans a generous 270 degrees, providing expansive shade and protection against unpredictable weather conditions. Crafted with durability in mind, its robust construction ensures it stands up to the challenges of varied terrains, from desert sun to mountain rain. The setup is refreshingly straightforward, making it a breeze even for solo adventurers. Integrated with telescopic poles, the awning remains stable even in windy conditions. A perfect blend of functionality and convenience, the OVS Nomadic Awning 270 is a top pick for those looking to elevate their outdoor experiences. Opened: 240″ x 157″ x 88.5″ Closed: 88” x 7” x 6”
The ARB Touring Awning with LED Light is a retractable awning that provides shade and protection from the sun and rain. The awning is made of tough PU coated 300gsm poly/cotton canvas that is fully waterproof and has a UVP 50+ rating to block harmful UV rays. The awning is available in a size of 2500mm x 2500mm (8.2ft x 8.2ft). The aluminum encased awning offers a sleek and contemporary alternative to traditional awning covers while adding improved functionality. The awning comes with an LED light strip that provides up to 1,200 Lumens and is sealed in a waterproof housing. The light strip is adjustable via a waterproof dimmer switch and can switch between cool white or amber modes. The ARB Touring Awning with LED Light is easy to set up and take down and comes with pegs and guy ropes for windy conditions. The awning is compatible with all ARB 2500mm x 2500mm awning accessories. The ARB Touring Awning with LED Light is a top-quality product that is perfect for camping and off-roading adventures
The Thule Outland Awning is a manual box awning that can be used in conjunction with a rooftop tent, cargo box, or other rooftop accessories. It is easy to install and comes with an adapter kit that is ready to mount to Thule and other aftermarket roof racks. The awning can be easily deployed in just 60 seconds and comes with a reliable set of telescopic legs that can be locked out thanks to the Quick Lock System. The Thule Outland Awning is available in lengths of 6.2, 7.5, and 8.2 feet and projects 8 feet out when fully extended. It is easy to use and stows into a lightweight, sleek aluminum case to stay protected from the elements when not in use. The awning is made from high-strength polyester fabric to provide years of use. The Thule Outland Awning is available for purchase on Amazon and other online retailers
MoonShade is a portable vehicle awning created by Moon Fabrications that provides reliable coverage, day or night, to your outdoor site. It is designed to be compatible with almost any sturdy structure and offers maximum sun protection by day and reflective coverage by night. MoonShade provides 9ft by 7ft coverage but packs down tight and weighs only 8 lbs, making breakdown and storage a breeze. It is a versatile awning that can be used on multiple vehicles and can be set up easily with a variety of anchoring systems. MoonShade is made of lightweight material but is very durable and structurally sound2. It can be set up alone and can withstand heavy winds. Moon Fabrications also offers an XL version of the MoonShade that measures 9 x 12 feet, giving it a total coverage of 108 square feet, a big upgrade from the 63 square feet of the original MoonShade. The MoonShade XL can pack into a roll the size of a yoga mat, making it very convenient to store and transport. The MoonShade is a great option for those who want a portable and versatile awning that can provide reliable coverage in any outdoor setting.
Investing in a high-quality car or truck awning can make a significant difference in your outdoor experiences, providing much-needed shade and shelter during your adventures. Our top picks cover a range of features, sizes, and prices, ensuring that there’s an option for everyone. Consider your vehicle type, use case, and personal preferences when choosing the best awning for your needs, and enjoy the comfort and convenience that these awnings bring to your outdoor excursions.
F.A.Q.
- Q: How do I choose the right awning for my vehicle?
A: Consider factors such as material quality, type of awning (180-degree or 270-degree), size and height, weight and storage, ease of installation and setup, weather resistance, compatibility with your vehicle’s cross bars or rack system, brand reputation, design complexity, and warranty. - Q: What is the difference between a 180-degree awning and a 270-degree awning?
A: A 180-degree awning provides a rectangular shade directly off the side of the vehicle, while a 270-degree awning expands 270-degrees from the opening point, providing a larger coverage area. 180-degree awnings are usually cheaper, lighter, and easier to set up than 270-degree awnings. However, 270-degree awnings provide more coverage and ease of setup but are larger when collapsed, more expensive, and heavier. - Q: Can car awnings be used on any vehicle?
A: Car awnings can be mounted to a variety of roof basket racks or flat platform racks, and they come in different sizes to fit different vehicles. It’s important to check the compatibility of the awning with your specific vehicle and roof rack system before purchasing. - Q: Are car awnings waterproof and UV resistant?
A: High-quality car awnings are typically made from waterproof and UV-resistant materials to protect you from rain and harmful sun rays. Make sure to look for these features when choosing an awning to ensure it can withstand various weather conditions. - Q: How easy is it to install and set up a car awning?
A: Car awnings vary in their ease of installation and setup. Many car awnings can be installed and set up by one or two people in a matter of minutes. Be sure to consider the ease of installation and setup when choosing an awning, as well as any included instructions or video tutorials from the manufacturer.