Hi,
So we're a few weeks away from collecting our new caravan and I need to make a decision on the best type of awning to buy. We (2 adults 3 children) will mainly be using the caravan in the UK For most of the school holidays Easter etc, the odd weekend if nice weather, as well as a month during the summer to Europe.
I can't really afford to, and don't really want to buy 2 awnings so I'm wondering if a full awning or a porch awning with an annexe would be the best option.
If we went for a full awning would we be able to just use it as a sun canopy whilst in Europe? i.e zip out all the sides and leave them at home to give us extra payload, or do you need to erect an awning with all the sides in? And when in the UK use it as a full awning.
As a family of 5 the extra weight we would gain from leaving front and side panels at home when away for a month in Europe would be invaluable.
Any advice would be gratefully received
Hi Dave, thanks for your reply. So we would be able to erect a full awning without the panels attached to it and use as a sun canopy too? If so it would make the full awning a better investment for us at the moment
Quote: Originally posted by Mumof32011 on 17/1/2017
So we would be able to erect a full awning without the panels attached to it and use as a sun canopy too?
Absolutely yes. This is what we do and have done for years. The only issue is that if it is windy you may want to use a tie-down kit to help keep it in place rather than have to take it down, but then you'd probably do that with a sun canopy anyway.
Quote: Originally posted by Mumof32011 on 17/1/2017
Hi Dave, thanks for your reply. So we would be able to erect a full awning without the panels attached to it and use as a sun canopy too? If so it would make the full awning a better investment for us at the moment
That's exactly what we do. But I use storm straps if the panels are out in case a strong gust lifts the whole thing.
Thanks for the replies, I think we will go for the full awning as it offers us the best options for now, with the storm straps. I'll also have a good look at the factory clearance too.
I just take a sheet & 3 poles canopy. canopy threads into awning rail then 3 guyed poles with centre pole highest to form a roof shape. Use 2 guys on each pole & with suitable pegs it will be secure enough.
You can do what you suggest and take all the sides out. However you still have to carry and erect the frame. A simple canopy is pretty cheap light and very quick to go up. I would get both for the extra few pounds it costs.
Quote: Originally posted by Mumof32011 on 17/1/2017
Hi Dave, thanks for your reply. So we would be able to erect a full awning without the panels attached to it and use as a sun canopy too? If so it would make the full awning a better investment for us at the moment
That's exactly what we do. But I use storm straps if the panels are out in case a strong gust lifts the whole thing.
That is what we do too. We got a good deal on a Dorema at the NEC show several years ago. It has lasted well, we had it extended to fit our last van-and current one!
------------- DS-There's more to life than football!!!
Storm straps: http://www.roofbox.co.uk/scripts/rbvehsel4_tab.php/car-specific-accessories/fasty_storm_strap_270cm_silver_grey_25mm_wide_200kg_1_strap_/Qx at w,6M42VAwp3 at Rb%7B~cC4ure%60ibUs
Quote: Originally posted by chrisn7 on 17/1/2017
There is an argument for a porch awning and annexe too. For weekends or short breaks use just the porch. Add the annex for longer holidays.
Isabella do several width porch awnings, so you should be able to find a a combination that suits.
For lighter full awnings, the Isabella Capri is lighter than many, so may help if weight is a real issue
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Topic: full awnings as sun canopies too?
