Best Vehicle Awnings for Overlanding

Whether you are coolingoff in the sun or stay dry from the rain, ensure you have the best overland awning to get the job done.

Our Top Overland Awning Picks

Image of ARB Retractable Awning with LED Strip ► Best Overall Awning ARB Retractable Awning with LED Strip
Image of ARB Heavy Duty Awning Room ► Best Awning Room ARB Heavy Duty Awning Room
Image of Yescom Car Side Awning Rooftop ► Budget Friendly Yescom Car Side Awning Rooftop
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If you have the enthusiasm for traveling or camping then the overland awnings are something that you will need. Sometimes the weather can go wrong while you are camping. If you have ever experienced a rainy situation while camping then you may know the importance of overland awnings.

The best overland awnings will keep your camp safe from rainy situations. It will make your camping experience more comfortable. You do not need to spend a lot on overland awnings. A simple awning can keep you safe in different weather conditions.

It can be a tricky task for many of us to choose the best overland awnings. When it comes to awnings there are countless options available on the market. Fortunately, we are here only for your help.

In this post, we are going to review the 10 best overland awnings to make your purchase easier. We have a collection of all types of overland awnings from affordable to premium awnings. Our buying guide will also help you to choose the best one according to your needs and budget.

Are you ready to spend a few bucks for the best camping experience?

Then let’s jump to the article…

Things to Consider Before Buying an Awning

Many of us will be confused even after reading the reviews of these 10 awnings. Therefore, we have prepared a buying guide. Here you will find some essential factors that you should think about before buying overland awnings.

So read on to learn more…

Types of Awnings

There are different types of awnings available on the market. We have breakdown three types of awnings with their advantages and disadvantages. Let’s dig into the three types of awnings.

Drive Away Awnings

The drive away awnings are the best options if you are going for wild camping. These types of awnings are much similar to tents. It can be made of steel or fiberglass poles. The drive-away awnings are also best for rainy situations.

You can use drive away awnings for any purpose. You can also detach the drive away awning from your van for extra storage. Well, there are also left-hand drive and right-hand drive awnings available on the market.

These two options depend on your camper because of the height. Therefore, make sure to consider these two options before buying drive-away awnings. There are also some accessories available for drive away awnings. You can purchase accessories like windows, mesh doors, carpets, etc.

Canopy Awnings

If you want easy-to-set-up awnings, then the canopy awnings are best for you. The canopy awnings are slightly different from drive-away awnings. The canopy awnings are permanently attached awnings to your camper van.

These types of awnings are lightweight, portable, and easy to set up. It will help you to stay fresh and avoid the sun’s harmful rays. It saves your skin from damage. You can use canopy awnings for your dining area.

Some canopy awnings also come with walls to protect against wind and bugs. Well, there are also two different types of canopy awnings. The two types are roof-mounted and wall-mounted canopy awnings. The awnings that come with walls are mostly wall-mounted.

According to outboundliving.com, the wall-mounted canopy awnings are better than the roof-mounted. The roof-mounted are attached to the roof rack or bars of the van. But, there is also an issue with the wall-mounted canopy awnings.

You will need to dig holes on the sides of your camper for the wall-mounted canopy awnings. If you are okay with this, then you should go with wall-mounted. However, it also depends on your camper van. Make sure to consider your camper van before choosing from these two.

Tailgate Awnings

The tailgate awnings are smaller in size and because of that, they are suitable for any type of camper vans. However, they are more compatible with truck campers and tailgates. Overall, they are ideal for campers with extra outdoor space like trails.

These types of awnings are also too easy to set up compared to the canopy and drive-away awnings.

The tailgate awnings are considered a type of accessory. But, it also protects from rain and sun rays like the other two types.

You can use tailgate awnings as a standalone awning or expand your outdoor space. It is also helpful to create a washroom, private toilet area, or extra storage space. You can also make a sleeping area through tailgate awnings for pets. The tailgate awnings are affordable as well.

Space

Make sure that the overland awning you purchase fits everyone. There should be enough space for everyone you are camping with. If you are camping with your family and friends then make sure to buy a larger overland awning.

The larger your overland awning, the heavier it will be. You do not need extra weight while camping. You should not purchase a large one if there are only two or three people with you. However, their weight is not a big deal if you are camping near your vehicle.

Easy to Setup

Before buying overland awnings, you should be clear about how to set up that awning. Most are easy to set up by two people. But, some of them can be difficult to set up. Therefore, it is better to be clear about the installation of awnings.

Materials

The material is also a necessary factor to consider while buying overland awnings. Your awning should be made of durable materials. The fabrics should be waterproof and able to protect you from UV rays.

If you are going camping where rain is common then probably you will need the best overland awning for rain. You should purchase an awing that can keep everyone safe in any weather condition.

Extra Accessories

Some overland awning features come with extra accessories like a carry bag, floors, screened walls, etc. The screened walls are much helpful if you are camping in an area where bugs are usual.

The screened walls will protect you from bugs and mosquitos. It will also keep your food safe and allow you for a comfortable sleep. The carrying bag makes transportation much easy.

Some come with floors to prevent groundwater from leaking. The stakes are also essential accessories. It will keep the awnings secure against the wind.

These are some things that you should consider while buying the best overland awnings. Also, do not forget to measure the height, width, and length of your vehicle. It will help you to choose the best overland awnings according to your camper.

Our Favorite Overland Awnings of 2024!

ARB Retractable Awning with LED Strip Image

ARB Retractable Awning with LED Strip

★★★★★ (4.6)

The ARB is one of the top leading brands for awnings. Therefore, this is the third-best overland awnings from ARB. The ARB 814409 is also amazon’s choice in RV awning by ARB. It is also not too expensive retractable awning.

The exciting feature of this ARB retractable awning is its LED light strip. There is an LED light strip on the top of the awning. It is also easy to mount a retractable awning. You can mount it on any roof racks or roof bars.
You can also install this ARB 6.5FT awning to any dual-cab track rack. There are also pegs and guy ropes for securing legs. The ARB 814409 awning can be small for big cars. Make sure to measure the size of the camper before making the purchase.

There is a quick-release buckle available. With the quick-release buckle, you can remove the awning faster. Do not forget to use a quick release buckle while mounting. However, you have to purchase that buckle separately.
It also has a heavy-duty nylon PVC storage cover like the previous one. It provides convenient shade and protection from the elements. You will also get hardware and instructions for mounting. It also does not have any essential accessories. But, you can purchase them separately if you are going for night camping.

User’s Critic
Well, it is the best retractable vehicle awning. But, some users say that it is also a bit heavy. Users are also not happy because the L-brackets are not included with this ARB retractable awning.

Pros:

  • High-quality awning
  • Easy to mount
  • Sturdy and durable awning
  • Comes with a LED light strip
  • Convenient shade
  • Includes hardware and instruction for mounting

Cons:

  • A bit heavy
  • L-brackets are not included
ARB Heavy Duty Awning Room  Image

ARB Heavy Duty Awning Room

★★★★★ (4.6)

  • Available in 2000 x 2500 mm and 2500 mm x 2500 mm.
  • Works with ARB 814101 or ARB4401A Awnings
  • Screened room keeps the bugs out.

The ARB 813108A is a mid-range heavy-duty awning room. It comes with all the necessary features that you will need while camping. With this ARB heavy-duty awning, you will get overall protection in any weather condition.

There are four exterior walls made from 300D oxford polyester. The size of this awning is 2500mm × 2500mm that is perfect for camping with family and friends. These four walls also work as zipper-operated doors.

The ARB heavy-duty awning is designed as a fully enclosed room and mosquito net. It will provide you protection from mosquitoes and insects as well. You can roll up the exterior walls to enjoy the surrounding nature under the shade of the awning.

The exterior walls also provide you privacy. You can unzip the rear wall to get access to the vehicle. There are two zipper ports in the top corner of the awning to provide power cable access. The weight of the ARB awning is around 8kg.

The outer exterior walls are UV treated to protect you from the sun’s harmful UV rays. It also has a mesh pocket panel in which you can store magazines and personal items. The awning features a separate ceiling to enhance insulation from the sun.

Moreover, the ARB heavy-duty awning comes with a polyethylene waterproof floor. The waterproof floor adds an extra layer of protection from insects. You do not need to buy any accessories with the ARB awning. It comes with accessories like a nylon stuff sack for storage, two guy ropes, and six pegs.

User’s Critic

The users have two issues with this overland awning. According to a user, the walls are not thicker and too durable. It should be double-sewn rather than single-sewn. Another is it can take some time to set up.

Final Thoughts

Overall, it is a nice vehicle awning. It provides you privacy and protection in any weather condition. However, you should also be aware of its drawbacks. Its walls are not thicker but it will not allow the water to come inside.

Pros:

  • Nice design of awning room
  • Zipper access on all sides
  • It has an actual ceiling
  • Waterproof material
  • Quite spacious
  • The Mosquito Netting is great
  • Safe for windy and rainy condition
  • The floor is rugged

Cons:

  • The walls are very thick
  • Single-sewn
ARB Retractable Vehicle Awning  Image

ARB Retractable Vehicle Awning

★★★★★ (4.2)

If you are looking for a pocket-friendly option, then this retractable vehicle awning is for you. It is an easy to mount 4×4 retractable vehicle awning. You will need only 30 seconds to set up this ARB vehicle awning.
The ARB awning also allows you to adjust the height with telescopic legs. You can easily mount it on the side of roof racks or roof bars. This ARB awning is also easy to store. The ARB 814301 vehicle awning is waterproof and UV protected as well.

There is also a PVC-lined polyester storage cover. You can store the awning in this heavy-duty PVC bag. The ARB retractable vehicle awning comes with pegs and guy ropes for securing legs.

Moreover, it also includes a spanner, mounting instructions, mounting nuts, and bolts. It fits on to the side of most roof racks and roof bars conveniently. The ARB vehicle awning is made of lightweight material PU coated 300gsm poly or cotton canvas.

The biggest disadvantage of this awning is accessories. It is a pocket-friendly overland awning but does not come with any accessories. You must have to purchase accessories like screened walls and floors separately while going camping.

 User’s Critic
According to users, the cover case of this awning is not much durable. Users say that it is not a long-lasting vehicle awning. Its coating seems to come off the top because of heat while it is not in use.

If you are looking for a pocket-friendly option, then this retractable vehicle awning is for you. It is an easy to mount 4×4 retractable vehicle awning. You will need only 30 seconds to set up this ARB vehicle awning.
The ARB awning also allows you to adjust the height with telescopic legs. You can easily mount it on the side of roof racks or roof bars. This ARB awning is also easy to store. The ARB 814301 vehicle awning is waterproof and UV protected as well.

There is also a PVC-lined polyester storage cover. You can store the awning in this heavy-duty PVC bag. The ARB retractable vehicle awning comes with pegs and guy ropes for securing legs.

Moreover, it also includes a spanner, mounting instructions, mounting nuts, and bolts. It fits on to the side of most roof racks and roof bars conveniently. The ARB vehicle awning is made of lightweight material PU coated 300gsm poly or cotton canvas.

The biggest disadvantage of this awning is accessories. It is a pocket-friendly overland awning but does not come with any accessories. You must have to purchase accessories like screened walls and floors separately while going camping.

 User’s Critic
According to users, the cover case of this awning is not much durable. Users say that it is not a long-lasting vehicle awning. Its coating seems to come off the top because of heat while it is not in use.

The ARB retractable vehicle awning does not come with some essential accessories. However, it is still helpful without those accessories. But, if you are planning for a night camping, then those accessories are necessary. As it is an affordable awning. Therefore, it may have a few issues.

Pros:

  • Affordable Awning
  • Made of thick material
  • Lightweight design
  • Easy to install
  • Best top for driving on the beach

Cons:

  • No accessories included
  • Not much durable
Yescom Car Side Awning Rooftop Image

Yescom Car Side Awning Rooftop

The yescom car side awning rooftop best seller with more than four hundred reviews on Amazon. The vehicle awning is available in different sizes. You can purchase either gray or beige car side awning.

The yescom vehicle awning is made of 420D oxford fabric with a 2000mm PU coating. It is UV50+ protected and water-resistant. The vehicle awning has a stable aluminum alloy structure that is rustproof.

You can install it on the vehicle rooftop rail. It will provide you 62 sq. ft shade and cover area to protect you from sun, rain, and wind. The yescom overland awning includes telescoping poles with a twist-lock design.

You can easily adjust the height of telescoping poles according to your needs. The telescoping poles also make the setup much easy and simple. It comes with accessories like a waterproof carry bag for easy transportation and storage.

The yescom car side awning rooftop includes the necessary hardware and instruction manual for installation. Its hardware is made of high-quality stainless steel material. The yescom car side awning is a perfect choice for camping, picnic, and car travel.

User’s Critic

According to users, it is a value for the money vehicle awning. However, we found two users complain. First, the zipper on the cover is on the top. Once it is mounted to the brackets, the zipper hangs too low and brushes against the top of the door. Some users are having issues with installation as well.

Pros:

  • Covers a large area
  • Nice zippers
  • Made with high-quality material
  • Adjustable telescoping poles
  • Affordable price range

Cons:

  • The zipper brushes against the top of the door
  • A few people are having an issue with the installation
Blossomer Car Side Waterproof Awning  Image

Blossomer Car Side Waterproof Awning

★★★★★ (4.3)

Probably the Blossomer car side awning is the cheapest owning on this list. It is available in three different sizes from 300×150cm to 440×200cm. The smaller size can provide you enough space for picnic tables and 5-6 tables.

It is suitable for many outdoor activities like camping and picnic. The automobile side awning is made of rugged and durable material. It is made of water-resistance oxford fabric with integrated production line technology.

There is a strong metal bracket and a strong rope for quick and easy setup. It provides excellent protection against wind. The Blossomer car side awning is a multi-purpose awning as well.

You can fix it on vehicles, SUVs, MPVs, trucks, hatchbacks, and cars. It is also helpful as a gazebo. The large space and stable structure of this awning makes it the best choice for camping, sports events, and festivals.

You only need to follow three steps to set up this Blossomer car side awning. First of all, set the bracket and one side of the tent to the roof of your camper. After that, only fix the rope in the proper position, and installation completes.

You can also fold it and store it for easy transportations. It will not take lots of space in your car. Because of its small design, it is convenient to carry.

User’s Critic

Well, it does not have many user reviews on Amazon. However, there are a few reviews that say it is a perfect awning according to its price. It is much helpful awning of traveling with your family and friends.

Pros:

  • Provides enough space for 5-6 people
  • Made with rugged and durable material
  • Excellent windproof performance
  • Cheap price
  • Helpful for traveling with family and friends
  • Convenient to carry

Cons:

  • A bit difficult to set up
  • Do not have many user reviews
Danchel Outdoor Retractable Waterproof Camper Awning Image

Danchel Outdoor Retractable Waterproof Camper Awning

★★★★★ (4.7)

The danchel outdoor retractable vehicle awning comes in three different sizes from 5×8.2ft to 8.2×6.5ft. It is made of waterproof 420D oxford fabric. The oxford fabrics come with breathable material.

Therefore, oxford fabrics are better than other materials or fabrics. You can use this danchel outdoor retractable camper for protection against sunlight, rain, and wind. This retractable waterproof awning is easy to install by one person.

It is also easy to carry because of its foldable design. You can fold it and store it in a storage bag when not in use. The danchel retractable vehicle awning comes with extendable poles. You can extend these poles up to 4.9ft to 6.9ft.

Its horizontal bar allows you to make exterior walls of canvas material. The multi-purpose awning is suitable for the camper, camping, and other outdoor adventures. You will get all the mounting accessories and a PVC bag. There are stakes and ropes to secure the mounting poles.

  • User’s Critic

The Danchel outdoor awning will come with installation instructions. But, still, some users are having difficulties while mounting. Otherwise, the users are happy with this waterproof vehicle awning.

  • Value for the money
  • Great customer support
  • Includes mounting hardware
  • High-quality and lightweight material
  • The best sunshade so far

Our Overland Awning Recommendation

In this article, we have provided enough information that will help you to choose the best overland awnings. Before buying, you should be clear about your needs and budget. Do not forget to follow our buying guide before purchasing overland awnings.

These all vehicle awnings provide the best features at a reasonable price. Some of them are available at less than $100. We hope that after reading this article, you do not need to research more for finding the best overland awnings. So that’s it for now. See you in the next article…

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