Going to plan your next camping adventure or outing? Got a car awning for your SUV. These smart attachments create an immediate shade and cover, and make your car a homey base camp wherever you park.
Tailgating a match, camping in the woods, or just in need of some protection in the unpredictable weather, a vehicle awning can provide you with the option to have some kind of covering in an instant. For those seeking convenience and reliability, opting for a professional awning installation can make all the difference. However, in the presence of dozens of alternatives on the market, it can be difficult to select the correct one.
What Is a Car Awning?
A car awning is an awning that is retractable or folding, and is attached to the roof rack or side rails of your vehicle. It then works outwards to form a covered area along your SUV, truck, or van once deployed.
The majority are also those that are directly mounted on pre-existing roof racks, and thus, they are easy to add to cars that have already had cargo systems installed. They are popular with overlanders, campers, and outdoor enthusiasts who would like to have a quick shelter without the inconvenience of using a traditional tent or canopy to put up.
Awnings for cars are available in different sizes, usually 6 to 10 feet wide and 6 to 8 feet long. This will offer sufficient canopy to accommodate camping furniture or equipment, or a modest party.
Advantages of Fitting a Car Awning
- Instantly block the sun and the weather: Within minutes, you can put up your awning to avoid extreme sun, light rain, or wind. This becomes important, particularly at mid-day breaks when making long journeys on the roads.
- Create more of your own space: A roof rack car awning will effectively double your outdoor space and provide a comfortable area to cook, relax, or socialize.
- Secures your equipment: Have camping gear, coolers, and more to stay dry and in the shade without having to stretch to get to them.
- Adds more functionality to your vehicle: Turn your SUV into a mobile tent and use it to go to the beach or outdoor patio, outdoor markets, etc.
- Durable and reusable: Quality awnings last through years of use, and they fold up small when it is not in use, a smart long-term investment.
Things to See When Buying a Car Side Awning
- Mounting System
You must have an awning that has brackets, which fit with the usual roof rack systems. Universal mounts are compatible with a majority of crossbars, but vehicle-specific mounts provide the best fit. Weight check on the roof rack and also your awning.
- Material Quality
Find UV-proof, waterproof cloth such as ripstop polyester or canvas. The frame must be either aluminum or steel in order to be durable but not too heavy. Stress points are reinforced with stitching, which increases the life of the awning.
- Size and Coverage
Before buying, estimate the amount of area required. Larger awnings (8-10 feet) are appropriate for groups and family camping, whereas smaller models (6-7 feet) are appropriate for the solo traveler or smaller vehicles.
- Deployment Speed
The finest retractable awnings are erected in less than five minutes. Others have quick-release systems or spring-loaded arms that are almost easy to install. With regards to the awning, think about how many times you would be putting up and removing it.
- Wind Resistance
The quality models consist of tensioning systems and several tie-down points. This holds your awning still in the windy weather. Others are also breakaway so that they do not break when hit by sudden gusts.
The SUV’s Top List of Best Car Awnings: Our Picks.
- ARB Touring Awning
This is an Australian-made awning that meets the criteria of reliability. The ARB has a waterproof PU-coated ripstop canvas, which prevents 98 percent of UV rays. Its light housing is made of anodized aluminum that secures the fabric when it is folded, and the embedded LED light is functional in the evening.
The ARB attaches with a great deal of ease to most roof racks and is available in sizes ranging from 6.5 to 8.2 feet. It is more expensive than other competitors, but the quality of the building is worth the investment to the serious adventure taker.
- Overland Vehicle Systems Nomadic.
The Nomadic is the best choice in case you want to be fully covered. It comes in widths to 8.2 feet up to 8 feet extension giving it a large group of shade area. The poly-cotton canvas, weighing 280 grams, is resistant to mildew and has great resistance to water.
The spring-loaded arms help in the setup, which requires three minutes. There are also aluminum support poles and heavy-duty stakes in the Nomadic, which are applicable during windy seasons.
- Smittybilt Overlander Tent Awning.
Smittybilt should be considered by buyers with a limited budget. This awning lacks features that may be vital, but it is cheap. Oxford polyester fabric, which is contained in the 210D, is a durable material that can withstand frequent usage, and the frame is powder-coated with aluminum that would not be affected by corrosion.
The Overlander is 6.5 and 8.2 feet and has a mounting bracket that fits most crossbars. Although it does not come as elegantly as the high-end choices, it will do the job for weekend warriors.
- Thule Hideaway
The Hideaway will introduce the Thule brand image of quality to the awning market. The fabric is shielded against road debris and weather by its anodized casing, and it can be deployed smoothly and in a controlled manner by the gas-strut arms.
This is a roof rack car awning which fits well with other Thule accessories, and therefore it will be perfect should you already have their roof systems. The Hideaway is above average price with high-quality construction and is well-polished on the outside.
Installation of a Car Awning on an SUV.
The installation of a vehicle awning is the easiest task to do, as it requires simple equipment and adhering to guidelines. Below is a rough process that applies to the majority of models.
Gather Your Tools
You’ll need:
- Socket wrench/ adjustable wrench.
- Measuring tape
- Position marking marker or tape.
- Helper (not mandatory but recommended)
Installation of Mounting Brackets
Install your awning brackets in the roof rack crossbars. The majority of awnings are mounted on the passenger side, though it depends on your setup. Install the position brackets to the manufacturer’s specifications, and normally spacing them evenly along the length of the awning.
Measure up and make sure that you have an equal distance between the front and back of the vehicle. Indicate the positions and tighten anything.
Secure the Brackets
Install mounting hardware by passing it through your roof rack channels or past the crossbars. Install bolts step by step, ensuring that each step is front and rear brackets. Do not tighten to the full until alignment is checked.
Attach the Awning
Using another person, guide the awning to the brackets mounted. The majority of models fit in or utilize quick-release pins. Ensure as per the instructions of the manufacturer.
Test the Deployment
Before you go, put on your awning in your driveway. Ensure that it slides and all locking systems are in good condition. Adjust bracket tightness or position.
Professional installation
If you’re not confident tackling the installation yourself, consider professional awning installation. Experienced installers ensure your awning mounts securely and functions correctly from day one.
Maintenance Tips for Your Car Awning
- Clean often: Wash your awning after every trip with water to get rid of dirt, pollen, and salt. On the recalcitrant stains, use gentle soap and a soft brush. It must be thoroughly dry before storing lest it become mildew.
- Check Hardware: Test mounting bolts and brackets periodically (after every few months). Fit up those loosened by road vibration. Search fabric seams and support arms against signs of wear and damage.
- Oil moving components: Oil hinges, gas struts, and other moving components with silicone spray once or twice a year. This averts corrosion and brings about smooth operation.
- Store in winter: When you will not use your awning for so long in winter, you may think about taking it out of your car. Keep in a dry place not subjected to extreme temperatures.
- Repair any holes: Smaller holes in the cloth may be fixed using awning repair tape or patches. Minor problems that are disregarded may result in costly issues in the future.
Enhance the Comfort of Your Next Adventure.
A car awning changes the experience of the outdoors. It offers shelter instantly, it increases the amount of space you have, and shields you and your equipment against the elements. Whether you are a weekend camper or a serious overlander, the appropriate vehicle awning makes any journey better.
When choosing a model, always consider your common use case. The retractable vs fixed awning designs and long-lasting materials are appreciated by frequent users, whereas occasional users may move towards more affordable models. In any case, it has to be installed well and regularly maintained to yield years of uninterrupted service.
Ready to upgrade your SUV? Take measurements, review the options we’ve covered, and choose the car awning that matches your adventure style. Your next outdoor experience will be cooler, drier, and infinitely more enjoyable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I install a car awning without a roof rack?
Most car awnings require a roof rack or side rails for mounting. However, some manufacturers offer bracket systems that attach directly to specific vehicle models without existing racks. Check with the awning manufacturer about compatibility with your SUV.
How much weight does a car awning add to my vehicle?
Most vehicle awnings weigh between 30 and 60 pounds, depending on size and materials. This is well within the capacity of standard roof racks, which typically support 150-200 pounds when the vehicle is stationary.
Are car awnings waterproof?
Quality awnings are water-resistant and handle light to moderate rain effectively. However, they’re not completely waterproof like a tent. Heavy downpours may result in some dripping, especially at seams. The primary purpose is shade and light weather protection.
How long does it take to set up a roof rack car awning?
With practice, most awnings deploy in 2-5 minutes. Your first few attempts may take longer as you familiarize yourself with the mechanism. Look for models with spring-loaded arms or quick-release features for the fastest setup.
Can I leave my awning deployed overnight?
While possible, it’s not recommended to leave your car’s side awning extended overnight or during high winds. Unexpected weather changes can damage even the sturdiest awnings. Always secure or retract your awning before sleeping or leaving your campsite.