Buying an awning: Tips for purchasing an awning

Tips for Purchasing an Awning

If you're planning a camping trip and want to ensure extra comfort with an awning, you've probably already begun the challenging search for the perfect one. Size, type, materials, and costs—where do you start? Should it be freestanding or not, inflatable or with poles? Here are some guidelines to assist you in purchasing an awning.

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Price of an Awning

Determining the cost of an awning can be confusing. Prices range from about €100 for basic models to between €2,000 and €3,000 for high-end models with advanced features and materials. It's crucial to consider the functions and specific needs the awning will fulfill.

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Intended Use of the Awning

Before making a purchase, answer the following questions:

• What vehicle do you travel with most often? The type of vehicle—be it a van, caravan, bus, or car—will determine the approximate size and type of attachment needed. Only a few awnings, like the GT BOX, are multifunctional and can connect to different vehicles.
• Stationary or always on the go? If you're constantly moving, an inflatable awning that’s easy to set up and take down will save you time. For a fixed location, consider a more permanent structure like a pavilion.
• How much space is available for transportation? Consider the packing size and weight. Ensure it fits within your vehicle's capacity and is easy to load and unload.
• Purpose of the awning: Will it serve as an extended living room, kitchen, universal space, or storage? This will impact the required size.

Awning Variants

The selection of the awning type is closely linked to its intended use. Below are some basic variant explanations:

• Freestanding vs. Non-freestanding Awnings: Freestanding awnings are independent of the vehicle and allow for flexibility; they remain at the campsite while the vehicle leaves for day trips. Non-freestanding awnings require a permanent connection to the vehicle, making them generally cheaper as they need fewer materials.
• Inflatable vs. Pole-Based Awnings: Inflatable awnings, made with a dual-layer air hose system, are lightweight and easy to handle, offering convenience without the need for poles. Pole-based awnings, although heavier and more cumbersome, are robust and commonly used, with poles available in various materials such as aluminium, fibreglass, carbon, and steel.

Material & Coating of Awnings

The material and coating of an awning significantly affect its price and suitability for different conditions:

Material

• Cotton: Durable and breathable, cotton is resistant to rot and mildew, used by manufacturers like TenCate.
• PolyCotton: A blend of polyester and cotton, combining the strength of polyester with the breathability of cotton.
• 100% Polyester: Lightweight and durable, polyester is less breathable but versatile and low-maintenance.

Coating

• PVC-Coated Fabric: Heavy but extremely robust and windproof.
• Acrylate Coating: Provides additional water repellency and is easy to maintain.

Most GentleTent awnings are made of TenCate material, ensuring they are waterproof, durable, and easy to maintain.

Fixing of the Awnings

Before buying an awning, check what mounting options are available for your vehicle:

• Piping Rail: Common on caravans, allowing the awning to be simply piped in and tensioned. Piping rails can be installed if not already present.
• Marquee: Another option is to drape the awning over a marquee and secure it. Some awnings come with suction cups or Velcro fasteners.

GentleTent awnings can be attached using a piping rail or marquee with the Car-Connection included in delivery.

Sizing

The size required depends on the awning type:

• Partial Tent (Non-freestanding): Attached to a part of the vehicle, usually the roof. Measure by pulling a non-stretchable thread through the keder strip on the roof.
• Whole Tent (Freestanding): Measure the circumferential length from the rear end of the car to the front tensioning point using a non-stretchable thread.

Note: Dimensions may change with a raised inner tent floor, and vehicle underbody height may decrease if fully loaded.

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