Best Caravan Awnings | Ultimate Buying Guide 2025

Key Features to Look For in All-Weather Awnings

Waterproof Ratings

All of the top brands featured here are fully waterproof, even though you’ll often see older references to hydrostatic head ratings like 3000mm. These days, it's more about fabric quality than numbers. In general, heavier fabrics offer longer-lasting protection because they take longer to break down under UV exposure.

To extend the life of your awning, especially if you use it regularly, I recommend reproofing it each year with a treatment like Fabsil. It’s a simple job that can make a big difference in maintaining weather resistance.

UV Protection

This is crucial if you travel in summer or in countries with a warmer climate. It not only helps prevent the fabric from fading, but also slows down wear and tear. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can eventually lead to leaking, especially in lighter-weight fabrics, so strong UV resistance plays a big role in your awning's longevity.

Ventilation Panels

Ventilation is essential for reducing condensation inside the awning, a common issue that’s often mistaken for a leak. From my experience, the more expensive awnings tend to have superior ventilation features, making them far more suitable for sleeping in. To get the best overnight comfort, I always recommend using a sleeping annexe or free standing inner. Optional roof liners can also help manage moisture levels and improve insulation. There’s nothing worse than a damp awning. Good airflow keeps everything fresh inside.

Reinforced Frames

Whether poles or air beams, strength is essential when the weather turns. Steel frames are a great option for rigidity, but once a pole buckles, it usually needs to be replaced. One of the key advantages of an airframe system is its flexibility — like a bouncy castle, if it bends under strong wind, it simply returns to its original shape. I always check for storm straps too, as they add an extra layer of stability.

Wind Resistance: What’s the Maximum Wind a Caravan Awning Can Handle?

Beaufort Wind Scale

Force 7 (up to 61 km/h) is about the most I’d trust even the best awnings in — and only with solid anchoring. It’s important to note that lightweight porch awnings and canopies should be taken down in these conditions, as using them in high winds can not only cause damage but may also invalidate your warranty.

Extra Security Measures

I always carry storm straps and use weighted bags when needed. It's the kind of prep that makes a difference.

Maintenance Tips for All-Weather Awnings

• Clean off mud and let it dry completely before storing.
• Store in a dry, ventilated place to prevent mildew.
• Re-proof once a year to keep waterproofing in top shape.

Common Mistakes When Using Caravan Awnings

• Packing an awning away wet – this can cause mould, which is extremely difficult to treat and could potentially ruin your awning.
• Rushing setup and forgetting proper anchoring – always use storm straps if forecasted for strong winds. An awning that is not securely pegged down could flip over the caravan and potentially damage both the awning and the caravan.
• Buying the wrong size – always double check the length and height of your caravan before purchasing.
• Poor ventilation, especially in humid conditions – or forgetting to open ventilation, which can cause a build-up of moisture inside the awning that is commonly mistaken for a leak.

Seasonal Awning Use: Summer vs. Winter

Seasonal Awnings

Only awnings that are specifically marketed as seasonal or all-season should be used for long-term pitching. These models are designed with heavier fabrics, stronger stitching, and superior UV protection to cope with extended exposure to the elements.

Using an awning that isn't rated for seasonal use for three months or more can drastically shorten its lifespan, often limiting it to a single season. Manufacturers typically don’t recommend leaving non-seasonal awnings pitched for extended periods, and doing so could void your warranty.

Summer Setup

Go for breathable fabrics and plenty of mesh. Light colours reflect heat and keep it cool inside. If you’re using your awning regularly in hot weather, it’s also worth noting that heavier-weight awnings will generally last longer thanks to their superior UV protection.

Winter Setup

Only awnings that specifically mention being suitable for winter or all-season use should be used during colder months. Winter conditions can be extreme, and lightweight porch awnings are simply not designed for this kind of exposure. In fact, using a lightweight awning during winter could invalidate your warranty. For proper cold-weather touring, go with a robust, reinforced design, and consider insulated liners and waterproof flooring for added warmth and protection. You’ll want heavy-duty material, strong supports, and maybe even insulated liners to stay warm.

Top Brands to Consider in 2025

• Vango – Modern features and reliable build quality.
• Dometic – High-tech options that stand up to tough conditions.
• Outdoor Revolution – A top pick for innovative air-frame technology and lightweight touring options.
• Isabella - Premium full and porch caravan awnings suitable for seasonal use. 
  
• Dorema - Full and porch awnings available for seasonal and weekend use. 
  

Accessories That Enhance Awning Performance

• Storm kits for added security
• Ground carpets for insulation and comfort
• Draught skirts to block chilly air
• LED lighting to make evenings feel cosy

FAQs

How to choose/size your awning?

Start with your A-size, think about how often and where you travel, and pick the best material for your needs. It's important to note that A-frame measurements are specifically for full-size awnings. If you're using a porch awning, you’ll want to measure just the length of the top rail. And if you're concerned about whether your awning will cut across a window, be sure to measure from the edge of the caravan door to the end of the window as well. This helps ensure a perfect, unobstructed fit.

What is the maximum wind for a caravan awning?

Up to Force 7, but only if it’s well secured and made with tough materials. Always make sure to use storm straps in windy conditions for added stability. If you're unsure which storm straps are compatible with your awning, check with us or the manufacturer to ensure you choose the right ones.

Can you use a caravan awning in snow?

Yes, but only all-season or winter-specific awnings are suitable for snowy conditions. These models will clearly state their winter rating in the title or product description. Stick with heavy-duty options that are built for this purpose and always ensure proper support when pitching in snow.

Are inflatable awnings good in bad weather?

They’ve come a long way. With proper pegging and tensioning, they hold up well.

Conclusion

Choosing the right caravan awning can completely change how you experience your trips. Whether you're parked by the coast or tucked away in a forest, the right setup gives you freedom, shelter, and a little slice of comfort wherever you are. I hope this guide helps you find the perfect awning for your adventures.

Contact Us

If you have any questions regarding choosing your awning you can contact us on 01872 554421 or email sales@aztecleisure.co.uk

WRITTEN BY

GAVIN JOSE

Gavin has worked in the outdoor industry since 2003, starting out in the Aztec Leisure shop in Perranporth. Over the years, he’s built up deep product knowledge and a strong understanding of what campers really need. Having moved from the shop floor to managing the website, he now oversees online sales and content for tents, awnings, and caravan accessories. In his spare time, he enjoys camping, travelling, and exploring with his wife and their dog, Baxter.

View LinkedIn Profile