Guide to measuring and fitting caravan awnings

Choosing the right awning for your caravan can transform your touring and holiday experience, giving you extra living space, shelter, and comfort on the road.

But before setting off, it is essential to get the measurements right.

An ill‑fitting awning can lead to frustrating setup, poor weather protection, and even damage to your caravan.

Whether you’re a first‑time buyer or upgrading to a new awning, mastering this process will save you time, money, and hassle.

In this travel advice guide, we give you all the information you need about caravan awnings and how to put them up.

What are caravan awnings?

Caravan awnings are tent-like extensions that attach to the side of a caravan, providing extra living, storage, or sleeping space when pitched at a campsite.

They are a common site at sites across the UK and Europe.

A caravan awning is essentially a portable room that expands the usable area.

They are designed to connect seamlessly to the caravan’s awning rail using a fastener.

Depending on your needs, awnings can serve as dining areas, kitchens, or annexes.

There are several types of caravan awnings, but they are a practical and cost-effective way to enhance your touring experience, giving you flexibility, comfort, and a home-away-from-home feel wherever you travel.

The majority of them feature lightweight fabrics, composite frames, and large windows for natural light while maintaining privacy.

Different types of caravan awnings

There are three main types of caravan awnings – full, porch, and inflatable. However, there are several others to be aware of before you purchase one ahead of your road trip.

Full caravan awning

A full awning runs the entire length of the caravan, creating a large, enclosed living space. It’s ideal for long holidays, families, or those needing extra storage. With windows, blinds, and durable fabrics, it feels like an extra room. Though heavier and slower to pitch, it offers maximum comfort and flexibility. Many campers use them for dining, lounging, or storing bikes and gear, making them the most versatile option for extended stays.

Porch caravan awning

Porch awnings attach to part of the caravan side, offering a smaller, lighter shelter. They’re quick to set up, easy to transport, and perfect for short breaks or weekend trips. While they don’t provide the full coverage of larger awnings, they’re excellent for cooking, relaxing, or keeping muddy boots outside. Their compact size makes them practical for travellers who want convenience without sacrificing too much space, striking a balance between portability and functionality.

Inflatable caravan awnings

Inflatable awnings replace poles with air beams, making pitching fast and stress‑free. They’re stable, weather‑resistant, and popular among campers who value convenience. Although heavier to carry, they save time and effort compared to traditional designs. Many models offer generous space, with windows and ventilation built in. They’re especially useful for those who move frequently between sites, as they can be deflated and packed away quickly, combining modern technology with comfort and practicality.

Roll out caravan awnings

Canopy awnings, also called roll‑outs, are simple overhead shades that extend directly from the caravan. They’re lightweight, quick to deploy, and ideal for providing shelter from sun or light rain. Unlike enclosed awnings, they don’t offer walls or extra storage, but they create a breezy outdoor living space. Many caravans have them permanently fitted, making them convenient for spontaneous stops. They’re best suited for fair‑weather campers who want shade and airflow without heavy setup.

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How to measure caravan awnings

Before you set up your caravan awning, you’ll need to work out the A-measurement.

This is the key dimension used to size caravan awnings correctly. It’s taken by measuring from the ground at one side of the caravan, up through the awning rail, around its curve, and back down to the ground on the opposite side.

This creates a semi‑circular distance that ensures the awning fits snugly without sagging or strain.

Manufacturers use the A‑measurement to match caravans with compatible awning sizes.

Here is how to measure your caravan for the correct awning:

• Choose the exact awning position – Decide precisely where the awning will sit along your caravan, not just the general side. Consider door swing, window access, vents, and space for tables or cooking. Check ground conditions (level, soft, or sloped) and make sure you have room for guy lines and pegs. Mark the start and end points on the rail to keep your measurements consistent.
• Measure the awning height – Measure from the ground to the awning rail at the chosen position. Take at least two readings (front and rear ends) in case the caravan or pitch is slightly uneven. Note the ‘attachment height’ range recommended by your awning brand and ensure your measurements sit within it.
• Measure the awning width – Measure the usable width along the rail between your marked points. For porch awnings, confirm how much straight rail is available. Avoid counting curved sections unless your awning allows it. Record both the total width and the straight-rail length so you can check compatibility across different models.
• Check the caravan roof slope for runoff – Assess the roof angle where the awning will meet the caravan. You want water to shed away quickly, not sit and pool. If the slope is shallow, choose an awning with adjustable pitch or add a tensioning pole to increase fall.

How to fit caravan awnings

Here is the step-by-step way to fit caravan awnings:

• Feed the awning cord into the rail – Begin by sliding the awning cord into the caravan’s awning rail – make sure it doesn’t snag!
• Assemble the frame starting with the centre – Once the fabric is in place, begin constructing the pole framework. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions closely, but generally it’s best to start with the central poles first as this stabilises the structure.
• Apply tension to the poles – Extend and lock the poles in place. Correct tension prevents sagging, damage, and ensures stability in the extendable structure.
• Secure with guy ropes – Attach guy ropes to the designated points and angle them outward before pegging them into the ground.
• Peg down the awning firmly – Drive pegs into the ground at a 45‑degree angle for maximum grip. Remember to follow the instructions in the manual.
• Add final attachments – Once secure, fit any accessories such as curtains, draught skirts, or ground sheets.

How much does a caravan awning cost?

Although there are many different types available, the price for a full awning can range from £1,000 to £4,000.

However, basic models can be found for cheaper, and premium models can be even more expensive.

Porch and roll out awnings often cost less than £500.

Repairs and replacement costs for parts of an awning can range from a few pounds to several hundreds.

Regular maintenance and correct storage are important for caravan owners who have an awning.

Has your caravan got breakdown cover?

Arrival is the RAC’s dedicated breakdown cover for caravans, campervans, and motorhomes, created in partnership with The Camping and Caravanning Club.

It combines the trusted roadside assistance you’d expect from the RAC with tailored benefits designed specifically for leisure vehicles.

You can select cover that matches exactly what you drive or tow, giving peace of mind whether you’re on a short trip or a long adventure.

Protection applies to your vehicle if it weighs under 3.5 tonnes, as well as to your caravan.

Any car or towing vehicle that is built to tow a caravan and falls below the 3.5‑tonne limit is eligible.

Importantly, there are no restrictions on the size of the caravan itself – height, weight, and length are all covered – so you can travel with confidence knowing your setup is fully supported.

Get caravan breakdown cover today.