Category: Caravan Holidays (Page 1 of 3)

Van Trip in Italy

4th July 2022 /

If you have the budget for a van trip in Italy, the best way to see all the best places is by driving from Lecce via Gallipoli, then taking the coast road SP 308 at Santa Maria di Leuca, where the Ionian and Adriatic meet. You can easily visit Bari and the coastal towns from the Val dItria, or if you prefer to stay by the coastline, you can visit the Val dItria from either Polignano or Monopoli.

Trani – north of Bari, Trani has a nice harbor and a cathedral, and is a nice place to stop while traveling between Valle dItria and Gargano, or visit Castel dil Monte (40 minutes by car). Trani – north of Bari. The small city of Trani can be visited in just a few hours, however, it is worth staying for several days to take in the atmosphere, as well as extending yourself with a trip to nearby Castel del Monte, a major Unesco site right outside of the town.

Monopoli – Just 15 minutes away from Polignano, this cute little city is well worth visiting and can be a great base (it is cheaper than Polignano a Mare). Polignano a Mare makes an ideal base in Puglia, being in easy driving distance to both the main airports (Alberobello and Brindisi), the uniquely built Trullo Town of Alberobello, and a lot more charming places to visit, like Ostuni and Martina Franca. These days, Polignano a Mare is popular with tourists, who visit to see its historical center, which sits precariously on the cliffs overlooking the Adriatic Sea, as well as enjoy its beaches. A seaside city along the Adriatic coast, Polignano a Mare is distinguished by breathtaking landscapes, amazing views, and stunning Old Town.

While Polignano a Mare is home to one of the best-known beaches in this gorgeous province, true sun seekers should skip the crowds and instead just walk down the coast to nearby city Monopoli. I might be slightly biased having used Monopoli as a base for 2 whole months, but this charming seaside city is easily one of the nicest, and definitely the most underrated, places to visit in this gorgeous province. Polignano a Mare is one of the best-known places to visit in Puglia thanks to its scenic Cala Porto (aka La Mantiglia); a tiny paved beach that sits delightfully hidden beneath the limestone cliffs of the city and its whitewashed houses. Coastal towns that I would certainly recommend visiting or staying short-term include Polignano a Mare and Locorotondo.

Puglia is still Southern Italy, so remember public transportation may not be reliable, and many places are not well connected, but a Puglia villas experience is a must! From here, you can explore Puglias heartland, not just historic places like Alberobello and Ostuni, but also Fasanos popular ZooSafari and Aquapark Egnazia, which are so much fun for kids of all ages. There are many things to do in Puglia — and a beautiful Unesco world heritage site, Alberobello — also a really funny thing to say — is one of Puglias Trulli towns. While Puglia is known more for its breathtaking coastline, Baroque architecture, and pastoral villages, it is also a place with ancient traditions that continue to this day, welcoming people, and, of course, the Cibo – our cuisine, unlike any other that you will find in Italy.

Everything you need to know about caravan solar panels

31st March 2022 /

If you’re a caravan owner who likes to get away from it all, then you know the importance of having mobile power. Nothing is worse than being in the middle of nowhere and running out of juice. That’s why many caravan owners are turning to solar panels as a way to keep their power needs met. In this guide, we will discuss the different types of caravan solar panels available, as well as how to get the most out of your mobile power setup.

What Are Solar Panels and How Do They Work?

Solar panels are devices that convert sunlight into electricity. They are made up of a series of connected solar cells, which are also known as photovoltaic cells. When light hits a photovoltaic cell, it creates an electrical current. This process is known as the photovoltaic effect.

Solar panels are most commonly used to generate electricity for homes and businesses, but they can also be used to heat water or power caravans.

The efficiency of solar panels has increased significantly in recent years, making them an increasingly popular option for those looking to reduce their reliance on fossil fuels.

Types of Solar Panels

Here are the three main types of solar panels:

Monocrystalline Solar Panels

Monocrystalline solar panels are made from a single crystal of silicon and are renowned for their high-efficiency rates. In fact, monocrystalline panels typically have an efficiency rate of around 20%, meaning that they can convert more of the sun’s energy into electricity than other types of solar panels.

In addition to their high efficiency, monocrystalline panels are also very durable and can withstand harsher weather conditions than other types of panels. As a result, monocrystalline solar panels are often the preferred choice for those who live in areas with high levels of sunlight and/or extreme weather conditions.

Polycrystalline Solar Panels

Solar panels are an increasingly popular way to generate renewable energy, and polycrystalline solar panels are one type of panel that is available on the market. Unlike monocrystalline panels, which are made from a single crystal of silicon, polycrystalline panels are made from multiple silicon crystals.

As a result, polycrystalline panels are less efficient than monocrystalline panels, but they are also less expensive to produce.

Polycrystalline panels are also less vulnerable to heat damage, which makes them a good choice for use in hot climates. In addition, polycrystalline solar panels have a blue hue, which many people find to be more aesthetically pleasing than the black color of monocrystalline panels.

Thin-Film Solar Panels

Thin-film solar panels are a type of photovoltaic panel that is made by depositing one or more thin layers, or “films,” of photovoltaic material on a substrate. The most common thin-film materials are cadmium telluride (CdTe) and copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS).

Thin-film solar panels have a number of advantages over traditional silicon-based photovoltaic panels. They are lighter and more flexible, so they can be installed on a wider range of surfaces.

They also have a lower temperature coefficient, meaning they are less likely to lose efficiency at higher temperatures. In addition, thin-film solar panels typically have a lower upfront cost than traditional panels. However, they are also less efficient than traditional panels and have a shorter lifespan.

How to Choose the Right Solar Panel for Your Caravan

When it comes to solar panels for caravans, there are a few things to consider:

The Size of the Panel

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a solar panel is its size. You want to make sure that the panel is big enough to generate the amount of power you need.

The Efficiency of the Panel

Another important factor to consider is the efficiency of the panel. You want to choose a panel that can convert as much of the sun’s energy into electricity as possible.

The Weather Conditions

You also need to take the weather conditions into account when choosing a solar panel. If you live in an area with high levels of sunlight, you will need a panel that can handle intense sun exposure. If you live in an area with harsh weather conditions, you will need a panel that is durable and can withstand extreme weather conditions.

The Cost of the Panel

Finally, you need to consider the cost of the panel. You want to find a panel that is affordable and fits within your budget.

How to Install a Solar Panel on Your Caravan

Once you have chosen the right solar panel for your caravan, it’s time to install it. Here are the steps you need to take:

The first step is to determine where you want to install the panel. The best place to install a solar panel is on the roof of your caravan, but you can also install it on the side or back of the caravan.

The second step is to remove the cover of the caravan and locate the battery. The battery is typically located in the front of the caravan.

The third step is to remove the screws that hold the battery in place and disconnect the wires.

The fourth step is to install the solar panel. First, you need to remove the backing from the panel and then attach it to the caravan with screws or adhesive. Make sure the panel is facing the right direction and that it is tilted at the correct angle.

The fifth step is to reattach the battery to the caravan and reconnect the wires.

The sixth step is to close up the cover of the caravan and you’re done! You can now enjoy free energy from the sun while you travel.

Benefits of Using Solar Panels on Caravans

Here are the top benefits of using solar panels on caravans:

  1. They are a sustainable form of energy
  2. Solar panels can be placed on the caravan’s roof, side, or back to increase efficiency.
  3. Having solar panels on your caravan means that you don’t need to worry about running out of gas if you’re traveling in an area without electricity.
  4. Solar panels are an affordable way to generate power while traveling.
  5. They can be installed on any caravan, regardless of the make or model.
  6. Solar panels help reduce your environmental impact while traveling.
  7. They are a great way to save money on your electric bill while you’re on the road.

Conclusion

Now that you know all about solar panels for caravans, it’s time to choose the right one for you. Remember to consider the size, efficiency, weather conditions, and cost of the panel before making your decision. And be sure to follow these simple steps for installing the panel on your caravan. With a solar panel installed on your caravan, you can travel worry-free and enjoy the benefits of free energy from the sun.

10 Tips for Buying Your Next RV

12th January 2022 /

The right RV can help you travel vast distances without ever feeling like you’ve truly left home. But with so many options available, it’s hard to know what the “right” RV is, or how to buy it successfully – even if you’ve had experience buying and owning RVs in the past.

In this guide, we’ll explore some of the most important tips to follow to ensure you find the best RV model – and get a great deal on it.

Tips for Buying Your Next RV

These are some of the most important tips for buying your next RV:

1.       Understand how you’re going to use your RV. Your first responsibility is to understand how you’re going to use your RV. Different people are going to have different applications, and therefore different needs. You may prefer something that’s easy to maneuver if you plan on getting into tight spaces or at least you’re not confident in your driving abilities. But if you’re going to live the majority of your life on the road or if you’re going to take advantage of big, open spaces, you may want to invest in something with a lot more size.

2.       Set a firm budget. Once you have a basic idea of how much size you need and what kind of quality you’re interested in, put together a strict budget. There are RVs that can fit almost any kind of budget or lifestyle, so even a strict budget shouldn’t restrict you too much. Make sure you calculate the monthly costs of ownership if you plan on financing the vehicle and set a number for yourself that allows you to live comfortably with your current income. You can obtain generous RV loans to give a boost to your vehicle-buying budget, but you will need to make a proper plan with the financials sorted so that you don’t get overwhelmed with everything.

3.       Visit dealerships or tradeshows in person (but don’t buy yet). If you’re not sure what type of RV you want, one of your best options is to visit local dealerships or major tradeshows. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to see a number of different RVs in person and try them out, walking around in the living spaces and possibly even driving them. Salespeople will likely try to sell you immediately, but refrain from making any final purchases yet. You have a lot of cost comparing to do.

4.       Use the right shipper. If you plan on buying an RV from a different area of the country, like if you’re buying online, it’s important to choose the right RV shipper. The best shippers will offer you a great deal on the transaction and we’ll do everything possible to deliver your RV in the best condition (and in a timely manner).

5.       Make a list of all your needs and wants. At this stage in your research, you should be able to make exhaustive lists of all your needs and all your wants. What are the key features of this RV that are non-negotiable? What are the features you’d like to have but are willing to compromise on? These lists will be incredibly useful for helping you evaluate your options in the near future.

6.       Consider a used RV. Like with most vehicles, your new RV will likely depreciate the moment it leaves the lot. You can often find a much better deal on a used RV – and you won’t have to worry about depreciation.

7.       Shop online. If you’ve never bought an RV online before, you might be skeptical about the benefits. But shopping online can introduce you to a wide range of different sellers, including both companies and individuals, and can ultimately introduce you to much better financial deals.

8.       Compare offers to get better financing. If you plan on getting a loan for your RV purchase, make sure you compare offers from different lenders, and don’t go with the first offer you happen to find. You can usually get a much better interest rate this way.

9.       Get a thorough inspection. Always make sure to inspect your RV thoroughly before completing the transaction, especially if you’re buying used from an individual. It may be worth paying for a professional to do this.

10.   Negotiate. Finally, don’t be afraid to negotiate! Try to get a better deal if you can.

Putting Your RV to Good Use

Now that you have an RV in your possession, it’s time to make the most of it. Make sure you take plenty of time off your first year of ownership so that you can use the RV to its fullest potential, however you see fit. 

Remain open minded throughout the course of your ownership, and don’t be afraid to upgrade if you find that this RV no longer serves your needs. If you do, you can sell your RV and make back at least some of the money you spent on it in the first place.

How Secure are the Latches on your Pop Top Roof?

15th June 2021 /

From time to time, you’d see some news report on TV about recreational vans (RV) having to stop on the road and deal with the damage they caused because the pop top roofs on top of their RVs have gone off and dropped on the road.

It doesn’t commonly happen, but it happens often enough. While you may think that it won’t happen to your pop top roof because it still looks sturdy, it’s probably the same thing in the thoughts of those who experienced these incidents before they happened.

If you have a pop top or hybrid camper, you need to start checking the latches that keep it on top of your RV. Most of the time, RVs are equipped with four over-centre latches that secure the pop top roof. However, this type of design comes with some risks that can cause problems, which should be a cause for worry, especially because most Australian RVs use this type of design.

If you want to know how secure the latches on your roof are, the problems you may have to prepare for, and what you can do to prevent them, this article will provide you with what you need.

Why latches can detach during travel

There are two main reasons why latches can detach from the camper during travel. First, it can be due to a wrong installation that results in the latches not being correctly secured into the over centre position. It can also be because the contents of your camper have subsided during travel, leading to the weight distribution being off and causing the latches to detach.

Having latches detaching during travel can be extremely dangerous. Not only will it cause damage to your camper, but it can also be dangerous for other vehicles around you. They can hit it or even run over it, which can lead them to lose control and have an accident.

Furthermore, having them detach can be financially crippling because you have to pay for the repairs, not only for your damages but for other people, too. You would also have to pay for hospital bills if the incident leads to injuries.

The risk of latch failure and corrosion

As written earlier, the design of the over-centre latches can come with a variety of risks when it comes to latching failure and corrosion. The problems that can be caused by these risks include:

  • The wall thickness of thin pop rivets used as pivot pins in latches is too thin, and the diameter size is also too small. They are also not that strong, which is why they often fail when too much force or weight is put upon them.
  • The latch can be stiff to operate due to the use of pop rivets, leading to the potential for injury, especially when the latch handle is protruding at a 90-degree angle to the direction of the van.
  • When the latch becomes damaged, corroded, or rusty, it can result in the latch becoming inoperable. These things can be from different causes, such as too much moisture and tightening the latch too much.

A latch failure or a protruding latch can cause many injuries and damage. When unlucky, it can be detached, and the latch ‘T’ bar can hit someone on the side of the road. Be careful with this, especially when your latch is installed at eye level.

Most latches in RVs are made of weak material to prioritize affordability over durability. The material in these latches can easily be damaged and are prone to corrosion. To prevent these types of problems from happening with your RV, try looking for latches made of stainless steel or other strong material.

Yes, they may be a bit more expensive, but it would keep you and your camper safe and prevent you from having pop top roof-related troubles on the road.

A latch failure can damage the lifting cable mechanism

Most of the damage caused by latch failures to the lifting cable mechanism is due to the pop top being opened when some of the over-centre latches are still attached. Without the lifting table mechanism, the pop top will be rendered unusable.

This is such a simple failure, but it can lead to so much hassle, especially when it happens during the middle of a trip. It’s also not that easy to repair and often needs you to have it professionally repaired, which can cost you at least $300.

Avoid over centre latch problems with pop top caravans

Most pop top caravans in the market come with these problematic risks. Even if you get one upwards of $40,000, pop tops in this price range still use weak material and are easy to damage. It’s not just due to the material used, as the design itself is flawed and prone to damage.

If you want a better, safer, and more secure alternative solution, the Snap-Flat over-centre latch can help you. Designed with improved safety and manufacturing using more durable and long-lasting materials, it can be a good alternative compared to regular pop tops.

It has a design that prevents the latch from detaching and makes attaching and detaching much easier and effective. It prevents accidents caused by a damaged latch and trying to take it off when a latch is still in place.

It’s tough to have a problem with pop top caravan latches, but with proper precautions and priorities, you can be in your caravan safely without worrying about your pop top roof detaching by itself.

Caravan Holidays – Why Choose a Caravan Holiday?

12th January 2021 /

There are many different types of holidays to choose from when you are thinking about going on a caravan holiday. However, your last option is what you actually have or more importantly, have brought with you all along. You probably call it home for a considerable amount of time, so carrying all the household goods and belongings will be very complicated. On the other hand, when you go caravanning, it’s going to be quite a distance away from home, so bringing all the forgotten items home to collect is going to be unfeasible at least once.

So what can you do? Well, if you need space for a short while and don’t mind having to make some sacrifices then you can go on road trips. There are some beautiful caravan parks situated in breathtaking locations all over the country. Additionally, such holidays can be ideal for people who have the option to work remotely. These people often equip their caravans with work tables and chairs (from companies like office monster) that can allow them to work efficiently during the trips. If you are one of the people who have the option to work remotely, these holidays can be great for you as you can spend your day sightseeing and relax after a hard day’s work.

However, if you like doing things on your own terms then perhaps you should think about camping in caravan holiday parks. It can be a very liberating experience and you can really explore the countryside and discover the things that make your county unique. This could range from rivers to forests. In the case of the former, you can think about fishing if that is something that interests you. It is a great way to spend time and have fun. But in order to take part in this activity, you need to have the proper equipment including rods, reels etc. If you already have them, great! If not, then you may feel like browsing through the collection of ScreamingReels and other such retailers. Once you purchase the fishing equipment, then you can explore the countryside, especially the rivers. In any case, camping in on-site caravans gives you the freedom to cook your own food and cook it in the style that suits you. Many campsites are situated next to beautiful scenery and you can also enjoy the hiking trails if you are feeling adventurous. It’s a truly satisfying experience to return to your caravan holiday park each evening and admire the landscape and the people around you.

In addition, camping in British caravan parks offers you the opportunity to sample a wide range of foods and drinks. Camping in British caravan parks gives you the opportunity to sample cuisines from around the world and taste some of the best British dishes. Some of the most popular dishes include fish and chips, meat pies, pulled pork, beef stew, venison and many other traditional British dishes. If you are an enthusiastic explorer of the British countryside then a caravan holiday would be perfect for you. A caravan holiday park will offer you peace and quiet, enabling you to get out into the countryside and enjoy the natural beauty that surrounds you.

When booking a holiday park or even a touring caravan site, it is important to choose the right caravan park with the right size of caravan. In order to choose the size of caravan you need to know the specifications of the site so you will be assured of the safety of your belongings and you will also be able to rent out more room. If you plan to travel with family and friends then you will also need to ensure that there is plenty of space to sleep. Most holiday parks provide facilities for washing, bathing and even eating so you can be confident that your stay in the UK will be comfortable and hassle free.

Touring caravan holidays offer a wide variety of locations that cater for many different budgets and lifestyles. It is possible to find holiday parks situated in the centre of large cities, on the outskirts of small towns, in rural areas, along the coast or at the very edge of large national parks. Holiday parks are usually family friendly and many have special child-friendly facilities, including children’s play areas, playgrounds and tea rooms. In some cases you will find luxury caravan holidays with swimming pools and other amenities that make holidaying fun and memorable for families of all ages.

When choosing a caravan park or a caravan insurance policy, you should make sure that you choose a reputable company that provides outstanding customer service and has an excellent track record. You may wish to check out the Internet where you will find a number of specialist caravan insurance companies who can offer you great value for money. Caravan insurance policies are designed to provide you with peace of mind and you should make sure that you fully understand the terms and conditions of the policy before taking out the cover. Your insurance should give you reassurance that your holiday home will be safe in the event of a fire, theft or an accident and you should make sure that the caravan park’s security arrangements to meet your requirements.

Many holiday park owners are keen to let you know that they offer some of the best caravans in the country and most of them have state of the art security arrangements, which provide peace of mind and the assurance that your holiday home is safe and secure. The majority of caravanners now come with their own dedicated security team who will watch your belongings and guard your caravans against any unwanted intruders. They will even respond to any alarms that are triggered in the area and will meet you at the airport or hotel if you need to report anything suspicious. Holiday parks are very popular and there are plenty of caravanners around who will offer you excellent value for money, and also a large choice of caravan parks, which means that you are certain to find a holiday park in any location that you choose.

Busting Common Myths and Misconceptions about the Rv Lifestyle

8th January 2021 /

Recreational vehicles (RVs) have become increasingly popular as a versatile means of travel and accommodation. These vehicles, ranging from compact campervans to luxurious motorhomes, offer a unique blend of mobility and comfort, allowing travelers to explore diverse landscapes while enjoying the conveniences of home. Equipped with essential amenities such as beds, kitchens, and bathrooms, RVs cater to a variety of lifestyles, whether for short weekend getaways or extended cross-country adventures. The growing interest in RVing is fueled by the desire for freedom, flexibility, and the ability to connect with nature, making RVs an ideal choice for those seeking adventure and relaxation.

One of the key aspects that enhance the RV experience is the variety of ways these vehicles can be utilized. Their versatility allows for a multitude of adventures, from traditional camping to more unconventional uses. RVs can serve as cozy homes on wheels, enabling travelers to explore different places and immerse themselves in nature without sacrificing the comforts of home. At the same time, their mobility opens up opportunities for unique experiences beyond traditional camping. In this regard, RV parks can provide a safe and convenient place for RVers to park and rest. Options similar to this Uvalde RV Park often come equipped with a wide range of amenities, including electrical hookups, water and sewer services, Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and recreational areas. Some RV parks also offer unique features like swimming pools, fitness centers, and community events, which create an environment for travelers to socialize and enjoy their stay.

However, there are many misconceptions and incorrect assumptions about RVing floating around. Let’s put some of those into perspective.

Myth #1: Rvs Are Expensive

Though it is true that some luxury RVs cost well over a million dollars, they are the rare exception, not the rule. We have met people who happily live full-time in RVs that cost under $10,000, saving money from that and many other everyday parts of their lives, such as chasing a no deposit bonus every time they dabble in a favourite pastime of Rvers, online gambling. However, the majority of full-time RVers we meet seem to have spent somewhere between $50,000 and $150,000 on their RV setup (including tow vehicle). And since most RVs have kitchens, bathrooms, and sleeping areas, you can often get a long-term loan with a monthly payment, just like a home mortgage. The type of RV you buy and how you choose to travel may vary, but you can RV on virtually any budget.

Myth #2: Rvs Get Terrible Mileage and Cost A Fortune In Fuel

While it is true that some RVs (in particular, larger motorhomes) get poor mileage compared to most passenger vehicles, it’s important to remember that you will probably not drive an RV like a passenger vehicle. You may drive your RV a few hundred miles and then stay in one location for days, weeks, or months at a time.

In addition, many full-time RVers tow a separate vehicle to use for errands and exploring, which will get better mileage and help average out fuel costs. It’s entirely possible to spend less on fuel traveling the country than you do now, living locally.

Myth #3: Rvs Are Too Small To Live In Comfortably

Actually, some RVs are larger than small apartments, but even small RVs usually have well-designed, comfortable spaces that can provide everything you need. That, plus the fact that you are usually in locations with great weather and changing scenery, tends to make your space feels large, not confining. You may sleep and work inside your RV, but you tend to spend more time outdoors so you live in a much larger space that encompasses every area you travel to. By contrast, many people have never lived outside of their state, their city, or even the small town where they were born. If you ask us, that is living in a small space.

Myth #4: Rvs Are Always Breaking and In The Shop

Bad news travels faster than good news, and complainers love to be heard. So when somebody talks about how their RV keeps breaking or spends significant time in the repair shop, people will usually spread the story. Sure, things on RVs do break and need fixing, but it’s often only little things and many you can fix yourself if you’re handy. If you buy a decent-quality RV and take good care of it with regular maintenance, you can minimize many issues. Repairs and breakdowns are not uncommon, but can also be relative to usage.

Perhaps we’ve been lucky, but in the four-plus years (more than 1,500 days) we have been living in our RV full-time, we have needed to stay out of our RV for repairs for only about ten days, AND in almost every case we got to plan ahead and choose the days. That is a pretty small percentage of time, around 1 percent. And while some RVs might end up in the shop more than others, we believe most RVs spend the vast majority of the time being enjoyed. RVs are certainly not perfect, you will experience issues (just as you would in a home), and the frustration or stress of RV repairs will be amplified if you are new to RVing, or in an unfamiliar area.

7 Best Caravan Awnings Available in the Market: Guides on Choosing the One For You

11th December 2020 /

Caravan awnings make traveling more enjoyable. It allows for extra space and gives everyone the needed cool shade whenever and wherever. Today’s caravans are extra roomy but nothing defeats the extra space and airy feel that caravan awnings bring.

As there are many options to choose from, you may get easily overwhelmed when looking for the perfect one for you and your needs in the market.

To make things easier for you, we’d discuss essential awning information and factors that you need to know and consider in order to choose the right one to suit your lifestyle and activities. To simplify your search, we will also enlist seven of today’s most popular and best selling caravan awnings in the market.

After reading this post, you’d be able to confidently choose the perfect caravan awning for you and your needs.

Two Important Factors in Choosing The Perfect Caravan Awning For You

1. Price

To simplify your search, it’s always best to start it with a budget in mind. Having one will help you from overspending and will significantly trim down your choices.

2. Space

How much space do you need? When looking for the perfect Caravan awnings Australia it’s best to already have the space you need in mind. It would do you well if you also already have the accurate measurement and size of your caravan so that if you’d find one that you already like, you can instantly check if it comes in a size that fits your caravan.

3 Different Awnings and Their Offered Functionalities

There are different kinds of awnings when it comes to style and materials used. It will be far too complicated if you will consider all as you simply need to consider the three different kinds of awnings depending on their functionalities. When it comes to functionality, there are mainly three options to choose from.

1. Rollout Awnings

These kinds of awnings are manually pulled. Pulling can be done by hand in the case of smaller vans or with the use of a supplied pole. When it’s not in use, rollout awnings can easily be secured with travel locks or a ratchet.

Rollout awnings have support poles that can be pegged and roped. Such a design allows users to have waterproof walls or mesh sides. Setting it up will be easier if done by two people.

2.  Wind Out Awnings

Wind out awnings come with a winch handle that makes setting it up significantly easy. So much so that it can be set-up by just one person. No extra hand is necessary when setting up wind out awnings because of its winch handle that simply needs to be turned. Wind-out awnings are significantly easier and faster to set-up. Some models even come with a 12-volt motor kit. A wind out awning can be easily transformed into an annex.

3. Inflatable Awnings and Annexes

Of the three kinds, inflatable awnings are the easiest and fastest to set-up. Like wind out awnings, a person can single handedly complete its set-up.

Inflatable awnings just need to be filled with air. Instead of metal poles, inflatable awnings have air columns. Made of lighter and flexible material, inflatable awnings are less likely to be damaged by elements. Just like regular awnings, inflatable awnings still need to be pegged. Inflatable awnings tend to be on the pricey side.

7 Best Awnings in the Market

To give you an idea as to what’s hot in the Australian market, do take note of the following models that are currently popular in the market.

1. Sunchaser Awning / Dometic A&E 8300

Lowest Price: $520

Priciest Variant: $1,105

This best-seller wind out awning is loved by many because of its heavy-duty design that can withstand harsh weather.

2. Dometic PerfectWall 1500 Awning

Lowest Price: $1,029

Priciest Variant: $2,140

This model is also a wind out model that comes with a 12V motor kit. This model is perfect for caravans with flat walls. It is heavy-duty and has a UV protected vinyl that the user reports to be robust and solid.

3. Carefree Fiesta Awning

Lowest Price: $564

Priciest Variant: $1,026

This is a manual rollout model that is currently the best-seller in the US. This model is wall-mounted and has a quality that can last for many years.

4. Fiamma F45 Awning

Lowest Price: $799

Priciest Variant: $1,165

The Fiamma awning is a very popular wind out awning. It has reinforced arms with shock absorbers that allow for high wind resistance.

5. AussieTraveller Coolabah Awning

Lowest Price: $1,392

Priciest Variant: $2,307

This model is fully assembled and manufactured in Australia. It’s cross-wire bracing design allows it to brace strong winds and harsh weather conditions. Hobbyists consider it as a superb alternative to models from big brands.

6. Carefree 12V Freedom Awning

Lowest Price: $1,245

Priciest Variant: $1,550

This model is automatic and comes with a standard 12V motor. You just need to have its control button installed in your van and from there it can be set-up in just one button push. Setting up is extremely easy with this one.

7. Xtend Outdoors Australia Wide Inflatable Annexe

Lowest Price: $799

This inflatable awning is a newcomer in the market. It comes with a manual hand pump for easy set-up. Once set-up, it can withstand any harsh weather without the need for extra accessories.

Shop Wisely

When looking for the perfect caravan awning, always start with your personal needs. Ask yourself: what do I prefer when it comes to awnings? Do you prefer easy set-up? Knowing what you need will make your search significantly easier if considered together with your desired space and dedicated budget. Enjoy shopping!

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