Posted by Katie Martin on 7th Jan 2025

Everything You Need to Know About a Drive Away Awning

If you’re a campervan or motorhome enthusiast, you’ve probably heard about the benefits of a drive away awning. These versatile additions provide extra space, comfort, and flexibility for your adventures. But are they worth it? How do they work? And are they the right choice for your camping setup? In this guide, we’ll answer all your questions and explain why a drive away awning is an excellent investment for your next trip.

Are Drive Away Awnings Worth It?

Absolutely. A drive away awning is worth it for anyone seeking extra living or storage space while camping. They offer a separate area for dining, relaxing, or even sleeping, giving you more room in your campervan or motorhome. One of their biggest advantages is flexibility; you can detach the awning from your vehicle and leave it set up at the campsite while you go exploring.

OLPRO’s range of drive away awnings includes lightweight and spacious options to suit all needs. Whether you’re a solo traveller or camping with family, the extra space and convenience these awnings provide make them invaluable.

Can You Sleep in a Drive Away Awning?

Yes, you can sleep in a drive away awning. Many models, such as OLPRO’s drive away awnings, feature built-in or optional inner tents that create private sleeping areas. These tents are designed to be breathable, weatherproof, and comfortable.

Sleeping in an awning can free up space inside your campervan, allowing you to use your vehicle solely for cooking and relaxing. It’s a great solution for families or larger groups who need additional sleeping areas.

How Does a Drive Away Awning Attach?

A drive away awning attaches to your vehicle using a variety of methods. Most models connect via:

Awning rails: The most secure method, involves a rail fitted to your vehicle.
Drive Away Kit: These are used to link the awning to a rail or gutter.
Guy lines and straps: For vehicles without rails, straps can be thrown over the roof and secured to the ground.

The specific attachment method depends on your vehicle and the type of awning you choose. OLPRO’s drive away awnings come with versatile options for easy setup including provided throw-over straps and dual beading on the tunnel connector (subject to certain products)

How to Attach a Drive Away Awning Without a Rail?

If your vehicle doesn’t have an awning rail, don’t worry—you can still attach a drive away awning. Use straps that are thrown over the roof of your campervan and secured with pegs or guy lines. This method is simple and effective, although it may require a bit of adjustment in windy conditions.

Another option is to use magnetic or suction cups to secure the awning to the side of your vehicle. These are particularly useful for campers who don’t want to install a permanent rail.

What is Better Than Awnings?

While drive away awnings offer incredible benefits, some campers may prefer standalone tents or gazebos, depending on their needs. A standalone tent can provide similar space and flexibility without needing to attach it to your vehicle. However, a drive away awning remains unmatched in terms of convenience, weatherproofing, and integration with your campervan.

For the best of both worlds, consider OLPRO’s range of awnings that double as standalone tents, giving you maximum versatility.

Do You Need a Rail for a Drive Away Awning?

No, you don’t necessarily need a rail for a drive away awning. While a rail provides the most secure attachment, you can also use other methods like straps or suction cups. This makes awnings accessible for all types of vehicles, whether or not they have a fitted rail.

What Size Drive Away Awning Do I Need?

The size of your drive away awning depends on your vehicle and your camping needs. Measure the height of your campervan or motorhome to ensure compatibility. Awnings typically come in sizes designed to fit small vans, medium campervans, or larger motorhomes.

Consider how much space you’ll need for sleeping, dining, or storage. OLPRO’s awnings come in a variety of sizes, from compact models for couples to spacious options for families.

Can You Have a Wind-Out Awning and a Drive Away Awning?

Yes, you can use a wind-out awning and a drive away awning together. A wind-out awning provides instant shade and shelter, while a drive away awning offers more permanent and versatile space. The two can complement each other perfectly, especially on longer camping trips.

Can You Use a Drive Away Awning as a Tent?

Yes, many drive away awnings are designed to function as standalone tents. This is especially useful if you want to leave your awning at the campsite while taking your vehicle elsewhere.

OLPRO’s drive away awnings are made with durable, weather-resistant materials, making them suitable for use as standalone shelters or tents.

Do You Need Permission for an Awning?

In most cases, you don’t need special permission to use a drive away awning. However, it’s always a good idea to check campsite rules or local regulations before setting up. Some campsites may have restrictions on the size or type of awning you can use.

Can You Attach a Drive Away Awning to Fiamma?

Yes, many drive away awnings can be attached to a Fiamma awning rail. Fiamma rails are popular among campervan owners, and OLPRO’s awnings are compatible with this setup. Be sure to check the specifications of both your awning and rail for compatibility.

How Windy is Too Windy for an Awning?

Wind speeds of 20–25 mph can start to pose a risk to your drive away awning, especially if it’s not securely anchored. Always use guy lines, storm straps, and pegs to stabilise your awning in breezy conditions. If winds exceed 30 mph, it’s best to take the awning down to prevent damage.