Thinking about adding an awnings to your campervan? Here’s everything you need to know to make the right choice — with up-to-date UK stats, practical recommendations, and honest pros and cons.
Whether you’re after a bit of shade, extra sleeping space, or a practical shelter for muddy boots and wet dogs, awnings are one of the most versatile additions to a campervan setup. But are they right for your van, your lifestyle, and your adventures?
At Bhode Vans, we fit high-quality Fiamma F45s and F80s in many of our conversions — they’re clean-looking, simple to use, and ideal for most UK road trippers. But they’re not a one-size-fits-all solution, and in this guide, we’ll explain why.What Exactly Is a Campervan Awning?
Put simply, a campervan awning is an attached or detachable shelter that extends your usable living space beyond the walls of your van. From compact roll-outs to full side rooms, they offer practical benefits for travellers who value flexibility and comfort on the road.
Awnings can be:
- Permanently fitted (like the wind-out Fiammas we use)
- Inflatable rooms for serious extra space
- Driveaway units for long-term basecamp setups
Why Do People Install Awnings?
According to the NCC, over 55% of UK campervan owners cite “space” as their main limitation while travelling. A well-chosen awning solves that.
- Extra Shelter: Instant protection from sun, drizzle, or sudden downpours.
- Outdoor Living: Cook, eat, or relax without being confined to the van.
- Storage: Ideal for muddy kit, wetsuits, bikes, or even a dog crate.
- Rental Appeal: Vans with awnings are often more attractive on platforms like Quirky Campers or Camplify.
Types of Campervan Awnings (And Who They’re Best For)
1. Wind-Out Awnings
Like the Fiamma F45s and F80s we fit, these attach to a fixed rail and unroll in under 60 seconds.
- Best for: Daily tourers and weekend campers
- Pros: Super quick, neat, reliable
- Cons: Not ideal in very windy conditions without legs/guying out
2. Inflatable Awnings
Often free-standing with air-beam supports, they’re easy to pitch and more forgiving than metal frames.
- Best for: Longer stays, family camping, wet climates
- Pros: Roomy and flexible
- Cons: Bulky to store, need a pump, costlier (expect £600–£1,000+)
3. Driveaway Awnings
These let you detach your van without dismantling your whole setup.
- Best for: Basecampers who head out for day trips
- Pros: Total freedom, some models come with built-in ground sheets
- Cons: Takes longer to pitch and pack down
4. Tailgate & Porch Awnings
Compact, often pop-up style for quick stops or weekenders.
- Best for: Small vans, solo travellers, festivals
- Pros: Lightweight, budget-friendly
- Cons: Limited coverage, not suitable for full-time vanlifers
Don’t Forget the Awning Screens
Awning privacy or windbreak screens are optional extras that can take your setup from decent to deluxe. Available for many wind-out awnings including the Fiamma F45 range, they:
- Block crosswinds and add comfort on breezy days
- Offer privacy when parked in busy sites
- Provide shade without cutting off airflow
- Create a defined outdoor room for cooking, reading, or just chilling
Expect to pay £100–£250 depending on size and brand. At Bhode Vans, we can supply and fit compatible screens or offer advice on freestanding modular options.
Explore some top screen options via Fiamma UK.
Costs & Value: What Should You Expect to Pay?
| Awning Type | Typical Cost (Installed or Fitted) |
| Wind-out (manual) | £500–£900 |
| Wind-out (electric) | £1,000–£1,400 |
| Inflatable | £600–£1,200 (plus fitting) |
| Driveaway | £400–£900 |
| Porch/Tailgate | £150–£300 |
| Awning Screens | £100–£250 |
Tip: At Bhode Vans, we recommend wind-out awnings for ease and speed. But we also offer tailored advice for those who need something more rugged, compact, or detachable.
Considerations Before Buying
- Van Height: Not all awnings fit all rooflines. Fiamma F80s are great for high-roof models.
- Usage Type: Are you static most of the time, or moving daily?
- Weather Resistance: Look for waterproof ratings and wind load ratings
- Ease of Setup: Can one person do it?
- Mounting Space: Make sure there’s room on your roof rail
- Storage: Some models are bulky — especially inflatable ones
- Screen Compatibility: Will it take side/privacy panels?
Do You Even Need an Awning?
You might not — and that’s okay. Here’s when it makes sense:
- You’re travelling with family or a dog
- You spend lots of time outdoors even in bad weather
- You cook outside or use camping furniture regularly
- You plan to rent your van out and want to boost appeal
It might not be worth it if:
- You’re mostly in laybys or urban stopovers
- You never camp for more than a night in one spot
- You just don’t fancy the extra faff
Maintenance and Use Tips
- Always peg it down, even if it’s calm
- Roll it up dry or let it fully dry when home to prevent mould
- Practice setup before your first big trip
- Use storm straps in exposed areas
- Store screens separately to keep them clean and mildew-free
Our Final Word
An awning can change the way you use your campervan — but only if it suits your style of travel. From sleek and simple Fiamma wind-outs to driveaway setups with full outdoor living rooms, there’s something for everyone.
At Bhode Vans, we don’t push one-size-fits-all solutions. We fit Fiamma F45s and F80s as standard for their quality and convenience, but we’ll always recommend what makes sense for your van and your travels.
Want help picking the right awning?
🚐 Chat to Bhode Vans about campervan awning options
Or read about our Bhode NARA campervan conversion — a smart, compact layout that suits an awning brilliantly.
