Awnings on Jeeps and other 4x4s have been around for decades now, but only lately have really made it into the mainstream. Many will rightly consider them an unnecessary luxury, but depending on where in the world you find yourself exploring, a bit of shade can be a downright godsend.
If you find yourself exploring the Mojave desert or across Moab in Utah during the many hot months, you might find yourself envious of others who can be seen lounging under their awnings, and not chasing slivers of shade all day. After all, camp should be relaxing, not a constant struggle to find comfort where there isn't any
For what is honestly a relatively small investment, an awning can transform your camping set up from a primitive outpost to a luxurious home away from home in seconds. Plus, with all the innovations in this space lately, they're not just for shade and shelter from the rain anymore. Your awning can be a tent, a screen room, and a windbreak, all in one easy to roll-up package.
First Off, Let’s Talk Awning Basics
There are more and more awning designs hitting the market on a seemingly daily basis, but they all have one thing in common: They require a sturdy, reliable surface to mount on. Unless you have an RV or something similar, that means a roof rack or some sort. This means it’s important to factor an awning into your planning in terms of weight on the roof and also how you’re storing your gear.
Many manufacturers, such as ARB, offer mounting hardware both for their own branded awnings and rack systems, as well as others. It’s important to have them mounted securely, as awnings are subject to more force than you might expect. This is especially true for large, 270-degree models (more on those below), not only from their own weight but also in high winds
The other thing to consider when choosing where to mount the awning is its orientation on your vehicle or adventure trailer. For instance, do you have a rooftop tent? If so, which side does it fold down? Where do you usually set up your camp kitchen? How and which direction does the rear hatch of your rig open (if applicable)? Do you tend to settle down around the sides of your vehicle or at the back?
These factors will also determine how large an awning you can install - brands like Overland Vehicle Systems build awnings in many sizes and configurations.
Choosing the Right Awning for You
Awnings that provide more utility might appear at first glance. Yes, they do provide shade and give you a convenient place to get out of the rain. However, many awnings can also double as a fully-walled shelter, creating an additional sleeping space for bigger crews, a screen room for keeping insects at bay, and a windbreak. Additionally, many come equipped with LED lighting built-in, which is especially convenient for cooking up those late dinners after a long day out on the trail.
Traditionally, awnings come in a few different lengths to match the size of your vehicle and the mounting surface. From there it extends outward on tension from a fabric or aluminum cover and is supported by two adjustable legs (in order to compensate for uneven ground or create a slant for rain run-off. Guy lines and stakes keep them steady in harsher weather. ARB's 2500 series awning is a great example of this, and this design has been in use for decades now. They set up quickly, even with only one person, though two people will have an easier time, particularly in poor weather conditions.
If you’re making your way around with family or want to host a few fellow off-roaders? 270-degree awnings, like Overland Vehicle Systems Nomadic 270 unfold from the vehicle on a beefy hinge in order to lend shelter to both the side and the rear of your vehicle. Designs like this take the cake in terms of total shade square footage. While a little on the bulky side and more expensive compared to traditional pull-out models, if you're looking to create the ultimate mobile base camp, a 270-degree awning is hard to beat. They also create more shade throughout the day without having to reposition camp.
Now if you’ll excuse us, we’re going to roll out our awnings, grab a couple of comfy camp chairs, a frosty beverage or two, and then enjoy the view.
