The Ultimate Guide to Driveaway Awnings for UK Campervan Owners

For many campervan owners across the UK, the open road and the freedom to explore are what it's all about. But sometimes, that freedom comes with a desire for a little more space, comfort, and versatility at your campsite. This is where a driveaway awning becomes an invaluable addition to your campervan kit. Imagine having an extra room at your disposal – a place to relax, cook, store gear, or even sleep, all while retaining the flexibility to simply drive your campervan away for a day trip without packing everything down. That's the magic of a driveaway awning.

At CamperBrain, we understand the nuances of campervan life. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about choosing the perfect driveaway awning, ensuring your adventures are more comfortable, convenient, and enjoyable.

What is a Driveaway Awning?

A driveaway awning is essentially a tent designed to attach to the side or rear of your campervan, creating an extended living space. The key feature, and what gives it its name, is the ability to 'drive away' from the awning while leaving it freestanding. This means you can detach your campervan and use it for day trips or errands, returning later to re-connect to your ready-pitched awning. This offers unparalleled flexibility compared to traditional static awnings or simple sun canopies that require the vehicle to remain attached.

Why Choose a Driveaway Awning for Your Campervan?

The benefits of adding a driveaway awning to your campervan setup are numerous, enhancing almost every aspect of your camping experience:

• Expanded Living Space: This is perhaps the most significant advantage. A campervan, by nature, has limited internal space. An awning provides a dedicated area for dining, cooking, relaxing, or simply spreading out, especially useful on longer trips or when the weather isn't ideal.
• Storage Solutions: Keep muddy boots, bikes, outdoor furniture, and other bulky items out of your campervan's main living area. This helps keep your vehicle tidy and free from clutter.
• Extra Sleeping Quarters: Many driveaway awnings offer optional inner tents, turning your awning into an additional bedroom. This is perfect for families, friends, or simply giving yourself more space to stretch out.
• Shelter from the Elements: Whether it's scorching sun, persistent rain, or a breezy afternoon, an awning provides essential protection. It can create a shaded area for outdoor cooking or a dry entrance to your campervan.
• Flexibility and Freedom: The 'driveaway' feature means you're not tied to your pitch. Explore local towns, visit attractions, or refill water without having to pack up your entire camp.
• Enhanced Socialising: An awning creates a fantastic communal area for sharing meals, playing games, or simply chatting with fellow campers.
• Increased Privacy: For campervans with limited window coverings or those parked in busy sites, an awning can offer an additional layer of privacy.

Key Features to Look For in a Driveaway Awning

Choosing the right driveaway awning involves considering several factors to ensure it meets your specific needs and integrates seamlessly with your campervan. Here's a breakdown of what to look for:

1. Attachment Method

How the awning connects to your campervan is crucial for both security and ease of use. Common methods include:

• Kador Strip (Beading): This is the most secure and popular method. A thin plastic or rubber strip (beading) slides into an awning rail or a multi-rail channel on your campervan. A 'figure-of-8' channel then connects the awning's Kador strip to the rail. It offers a weather-tight seal and is very robust.
• Throw-Over Straps: These are straps that simply go over the top of your campervan and peg down on the other side. They are universal and easy to use but can be less secure in high winds and may cause rubbing on your vehicle's paintwork over time.
• Magnetic Strips: Similar to throw-over straps, these attach magnetically to the roof of your steel-bodied campervan. They offer quick attachment but are generally less secure than Kador strips and not suitable for all vehicle types.
• Suction Cups: These provide a temporary attachment to flat, non-porous surfaces. They are quick but typically less robust and not recommended for long-term or windy conditions.

For a secure and reliable connection, especially in the often unpredictable UK weather, a Kador strip system is highly recommended.

2. Size and Headroom

Consider both the footprint of the awning and its internal height. How much space do you truly need? Are you looking for a small porch, a large living area, or extra sleeping space?

• Footprint: A larger footprint offers more space but requires a bigger pitch and can be more challenging to set up. Think about how many people will be using the awning and for what purpose.
• Headroom: Most people prefer to stand upright within their awning. Check the internal height, especially at the edges, to ensure comfort. Awnings designed for taller vehicles like the OLPRO Loopo Breeze v2 Driveaway Awning often provide excellent headroom, making the space feel more open and usable.

3. Material and Durability

The fabric of your awning determines its longevity and weather resistance.

• Denier (D): This refers to the thickness of the fabric's fibres. Higher denier (e.g., 150D, 300D) generally means a thicker, more durable, and heavier fabric.
• Hydrostatic Head (HH): Measured in millimetres, this indicates the fabric's waterproof rating. A higher HH (e.g., 3,000mm, 5,000mm) means the fabric can withstand more water pressure before leaking. For the UK climate, aim for at least 3,000mm HH.
• UV Resistance: Prolonged exposure to sunlight can degrade awning fabric. Look for materials treated for UV resistance to extend the lifespan of your awning. The Dulepax Universal Driveaway Sun Canopy Awning, for example, is specifically highlighted for its UV-resistant properties, crucial for a sun canopy.
• Ripstop: Some fabrics incorporate a ripstop weave, making them more resistant to tears and preventing small holes from spreading.

4. Ease of Pitching: Air vs. Pole Awnings

This is one of the biggest distinctions in driveaway awnings and significantly impacts setup time and effort.

• Air Beam Awnings: These use inflatable tubes (air beams) instead of traditional poles. They are incredibly quick and easy to pitch – often just requiring inflation with a hand or electric pump. They are also lighter and more flexible in windy conditions. The Vango Air Tall, praised in online discussions, is a prime example of a robust air beam awning. Many modern awnings, like the OLPRO Loopo Breeze v2, utilise air beam technology for rapid setup.
• Pole Awnings: These rely on traditional fibreglass or steel poles that are threaded through sleeves and tensioned. While generally more affordable, they can take longer to pitch and might be trickier for a single person. They are, however, very stable once erected.

5. Pack Size and Weight

Campervan storage space is precious. Consider how compact the awning packs down and its weight. A heavier, bulkier awning might be a struggle to store and transport, especially if you have limited payload capacity.

6. Ventilation

Good ventilation is essential to prevent condensation, especially in the UK's often humid climate. Look for multiple mesh windows, vents, and doors that allow for airflow while keeping insects out.

7. Groundsheet Options

Most awnings come with either a sewn-in or clip-in groundsheet. Sewn-in groundsheets offer the best protection against drafts, insects, and water ingress, creating a fully enclosed space. Clip-in groundsheets offer more flexibility for cleaning and removal but may not be as sealed.

8. Compatibility with Your Campervan

This is critical. Awnings are designed for specific attachment heights. Measure the height from the ground to your campervan's awning rail or the top of your roof (if using throw-over straps). Awnings typically come in 'low,' 'mid,' and 'tall' variations to match different vehicle heights (e.g., VW California, Transporter, Sprinter, Transit).

9. Budget

Driveaway awnings vary significantly in price, from around £80 for a basic sun canopy to over £1,000 for a large, feature-rich air awning. Set a realistic budget and balance it against the features and durability you require.

Connecting Your Awning to Your Campervan: A Closer Look

Understanding the connection process is key to a hassle-free experience. If your campervan has an existing awning rail (like a Reimo Multi-Rail or a standard C-channel), you're in luck. Most driveaway awnings are designed to attach using a Kador strip (sometimes called beading) and figure-of-8 sections.

1. Slide the Awning's Kador Strip: The Kador strip on the awning's tunnel section slides into one side of the figure-of-8 channel.
2. Attach to Vehicle Rail: The other side of the figure-of-8 channel then slides into your campervan's awning rail.
3. Secure: Use a Kador clamp or stopper at each end to prevent the figure-of-8 from sliding out. This creates a secure, weather-tight tunnel between your campervan and the awning.

When you want to drive away, simply slide the figure-of-8 and Kador strip connection out of the campervan's rail, fold down the tunnel, and peg it to the ground. Your awning remains freestanding. Reconnecting is just as straightforward.

Popular Driveaway Awning Brands and Products

The market for driveaway awnings in the UK is vibrant, with several reputable brands offering a range of options. Brands like OLPRO, Vango, Dometic, and Outwell are well-known for their quality and innovation.

Let's look at some of the products available through CamperBrain:

OLPRO Loopo Breeze v2 Driveaway Awning

OLPRO is a highly regarded brand in the UK camping and caravanning sector, known for its innovative designs and quality products. The OLPRO Loopo Breeze v2 Driveaway Awning is an excellent example of a modern air beam awning. It's designed for ease of use and offers substantial additional space. Features typically include:

• Air Beam Technology: Rapid pitching and robust structure.
• Spacious Interior: Often includes large windows for light and views, and ample headroom.
• Durable Fabric: Good hydrostatic head ratings for UK weather.
• Multiple Doors: Offers flexible entry and exit points.
• Optional Inner Tents: Allows for extra sleeping accommodation.

This type of awning is often praised by users for its stability and the convenience of its air frame, making it a strong contender for those seeking a balance of performance and ease of setup.

Dulepax Universal Driveaway Sun Canopy Awning

Sometimes, a full awning isn't necessary, and a simple, effective shelter is all that's required. The Dulepax Universal Driveaway Sun Canopy Awning fits this need perfectly. This product focuses on providing quick, waterproof, and UV-resistant shelter. Customer reviews for the Dulepax canopy highlight its strengths:

• "Excellent," "Resistente," "Great quality," "Bien": Users frequently praise its overall quality and durability, suggesting it holds up well to its intended purpose.
• "Easy to put up": A significant advantage for those looking for minimal setup time, aligning with the quick shelter concept.

However, some reviews mention it's "Not fit for purpose." This often points to user expectations not matching the product's design (e.g., expecting a full awning's protection from a sun canopy) or potential compatibility issues with specific vehicles. It's crucial to remember this is a canopy – designed for sun and light rain protection, not as an enclosed living space. Ensure your campervan's attachment height and method are compatible for the best experience.

Maintaining Your Driveaway Awning

Proper maintenance will significantly extend the life of your driveaway awning:

• Clean Regularly: Brush off dirt, leaves, and debris. For stubborn marks, use warm water and a soft brush or sponge with a mild tent-specific cleaner.
• Dry Thoroughly: Never pack away a wet or damp awning. This is the biggest cause of mildew and mould, which can severely damage the fabric. If you must pack it wet, unpack and dry it completely as soon as possible.
• Check for Damage: Periodically inspect seams, zips, poles/air beams, and fabric for any signs of wear, tears, or damage. Repair small issues promptly to prevent them from worsening.
• Store Properly: Store your clean, dry awning in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and pests.

Common Questions About Driveaway Awnings

What are the benefits of a driveaway awning?

Driveaway awnings offer significant benefits for campervan owners, including vastly increased living and storage space, shelter from diverse weather conditions, and the unique flexibility to detach your campervan for day trips while leaving your pitch set up. They enhance comfort, convenience, and overall enjoyment of your camping adventures, making your campervan feel like a true home away from home.

How do driveaway awnings attach to a campervan?

Most driveaway awnings connect to a campervan via a Kador strip (beading) that slides into an awning rail on the vehicle, secured with 'figure-of-8' sections. Other methods include throw-over straps, magnetic strips, or suction cups, offering varying degrees of security and ease of use. The Kador strip method is generally preferred for its robust, weather-tight seal.

Which are the best driveaway awnings for campervans?

The "best" driveaway awning depends on individual needs, but top brands like OLPRO, Vango, Dometic, and Outwell consistently receive high recommendations. Air beam models, such as the OLPRO Loopo Breeze v2, are often praised for their quick setup and stability. For simple shelter, a well-regarded sun canopy like the Dulepax Universal offers excellent value. Consider factors like size, attachment, and material durability.

What should I consider when buying a driveaway awning?

When purchasing a driveaway awning, consider its attachment method (Kador strip is best), the required size and headroom for your needs, and the durability of its material (high denier, 3000mm+ hydrostatic head, UV resistance). Evaluate pitching ease (air vs. pole), packed size, ventilation, groundsheet type, and critically, compatibility with your campervan's height. Lastly, factor in your budget.

Are driveaway awnings easy to put up?

The ease of putting up a driveaway awning varies significantly with its type. Air beam awnings are generally considered very easy and quick to pitch, often requiring just a single person and a pump to inflate the beams. Pole awnings, while stable, typically take longer and can be more complex to erect. Products like the Dulepax canopy are praised for their simple, quick setup.

Summary and Recommendations

Choosing the right driveaway awning means balancing your budget with your specific needs for space, ease of use, and weather resistance. For those seeking maximum convenience and a robust structure, an air beam awning like the OLPRO Loopo Breeze v2 Driveaway Awning is an excellent investment. It offers quick pitching, ample space, and reliable performance in varying UK weather conditions. Its air beam technology makes it a popular choice for families and regular campers.

If your primary need is quick, adaptable shelter from sun or light rain, and ease of setup is paramount, a sun canopy such as the Dulepax Universal Driveaway Sun Canopy Awning can be a fantastic, budget-friendly option. Its positive customer feedback on quality and ease of use makes it suitable for day trips or fair-weather camping, provided its limitations as a canopy (not a full enclosed space) are understood.

Regardless of your choice, prioritising a secure attachment method (Kador strip), appropriate size for your vehicle, and durable, weather-resistant materials will ensure your driveaway awning enhances your campervan adventures for years to come.

Conclusion

A driveaway awning is more than just an accessory; it's an extension of your campervan lifestyle, offering unparalleled flexibility and comfort. By carefully considering the factors outlined in this guide – from attachment methods and material quality to pitching ease and compatibility – you can confidently select the perfect awning to unlock new possibilities for your UK campervan adventures. Happy camping!