The Best Awnings (UK 2026)

By the Camp Canopy editorial team · Updated 2026 · How we test & score

An awning adds valuable sheltered living space to a caravan, motorhome, campervan or car - somewhere to cook, store gear, dry off and relax out of the weather. From drive-away awnings to tailgate car awnings, here's what to look for and our top awning picks.

Quick answer

Choose the awning type for your setup: a drive-away awning attaches to a campervan but detaches so you can drive off; a caravan or motorhome awning gives a big attached room; a car or SUV tailgate awning suits car camping. Vango, OLPRO and others make excellent inflatable and poled awnings. Prioritise the right fit and connection for your vehicle, plus weatherproofing and easy pitching.

What to look for

First, the type and fit for your vehicle - drive-away (with the right connection height), caravan (to your awning rail), motorhome or car/tailgate. Then poled vs inflatable (air awnings pitch faster), the covered floor space, and weatherproofing (a good HH, taped seams, a groundsheet). Consider ventilation, doors and windows, and how heavy it is to handle and store.

How we pick

We rate awnings on fit and connection, usable space, weatherproofing, ease of pitching and value - across drive-away, caravan, motorhome and car types. Every pick is a genuine camping awning - not a household front-door canopy or patio awning.

Our top picks

Frequently asked questions

What is a drive-away awning?

A drive-away awning attaches to a campervan or motorhome to create extra sheltered living space, but detaches (leaving the awning pitched) so you can drive the vehicle away and return without taking it down. It's ideal for campervanners who want a base at the campsite while still using the van for day trips.

What size awning do I need?

Match the awning to your vehicle's fit (connection height for drive-away, awning rail size for caravans) and the covered space you want. Consider how many people and how much gear you need to shelter, and the pitch space available. Check the manufacturer's fitting guide for your specific van or caravan before buying.

Bottom line

Our top pick is the Tentproinc RV Awning Shade (our score 9.6/10) - A practical camping shelter (caravan / motorhome awning) for time spent outdoors..