Posted by Katie Martin on 4th Nov 2024

How Do You Attach an Awning to a Motorhome?

Attaching an awning to your motorhome can transform your camping experience, offering additional living space, protection from the elements, and a comfortable area to relax outdoors. For those new to motorhome travel or looking to upgrade their setup, understanding how to correctly and safely attach an awning is crucial. In this guide, we’ll walk through the steps needed to attach a motorhome awning, using some of OLPRO’s top models like the CUBO XL Breeze, Cocoon XL Breeze, and Loopo XL Breeze as examples. We’ll also provide expert opinions and tips to ensure your awning is secure and easy to set up.

Step 1: Choose the Right Awning for Your Motorhome

Before learning how to attach an awning, it’s important to choose the right one. OLPRO offers a variety of motorhome awnings tailored to different needs and vehicle sizes. The CUBO XL motorhome awning is perfect for those seeking a quick and easy setup, while the Cocoon XL motorhome awning offers a spacious, family-friendly option. The Loopo XL motorhome awning is an excellent choice for those needing a compact yet versatile awning. You can explore the full range of motorhome awnings available at OLPRO here.

Expert Opinion

John Matthews, a seasoned camping expert with over 20 years of experience, states: “The right awning can make all the difference in your motorhome setup. It’s essential to choose one that matches your needs and vehicle size to ensure it fits correctly and provides the most comfort.”

Step 2: Prepare the Awning Rail or Drive-Away Kit

To attach an awning, you first need to have a suitable attachment system. Most motorhomes come with an awning rail or a drive-away kit that makes the process straightforward. An awning rail runs along the side of the motorhome and allows you to slide the awning beading into place. Drive-away kits, like the ones compatible with OLPRO’s models, include a strip that connects the awning to the vehicle while allowing easy detachment when you need to drive away.

If your motorhome doesn’t have an awning rail, you can install one or use suction cups. All OLPRO Motorhome Awnings come with storm straps to strap over the top and/or sides of your vehicle.

Step 3: Slide the Awning into Place

Once you have the right attachment system, the next step is to attach the awning:

Position the Awning: Align the awning with the rail or attachment strip. Make sure it’s level and positioned correctly before starting the setup.
Slide the Beading: Slide the awning beading into the rail, ensuring it fits snugly along the length of the attachment. For awnings like the Cocoon XL Breeze, this process is quick and efficient, especially with their air-beam technology that inflates within minutes.
Secure the Awnings with Straps or Clips: Once the awning is in place, secure it using the straps or clips provided. OLPRO’s motorhome awnings come with multiple securing options to ensure your awning remains stable in various weather conditions.

Expert Tip

According to Sarah Davies, an outdoor travel blogger, “A key tip when attaching a motorhome awning is to check the ground level before securing it. Make sure the ground is flat and free of debris, as uneven surfaces can cause the awning to lean or be less stable.”

Step 4: Inflate the Air Beams or Insert Poles

Most modern motorhome awnings, such as OLPRO’s Loopo XL Breeze and CUBO XL Breeze, use air-beam technology. To set up these models:

Inflate the Air Beams: Use the included pump to inflate the air beams, which form the structure of the awning. This typically takes just a few minutes and ensures a sturdy, pole-free setup.
Adjust and Secure: Once inflated, adjust the positioning and secure the guy lines and pegs. This keeps the awning stable, even in windy conditions.

For traditional pole setups, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to insert and secure the poles correctly. Make sure everything is tightened and anchored well to avoid any shifting during your stay.

Step 5: Attach the Groundsheet and Organise the Interior

Once the structure is up, it’s time to lay down the groundsheet and set up the interior. This step not only makes the space comfortable but also adds to the awning’s stability. OLPRO’s motorhome awnings, like the Cocoon XL Breeze, come with attachable groundsheets designed to fit perfectly, ensuring a seamless setup.