What Information Do You Need Before Buying a Drive Away Awning?

What Information Do You Need Before Buying a Drive Away Awning?

Whether you own a campervan, van conversion, motorhome, or day van, choosing the right drive away awning can transform your camping experience. A drive away awning provides valuable extra living space, storage room, dining space, or even additional sleeping accommodation while allowing you to disconnect your vehicle and explore without packing everything away.

One of the most common questions we receive at IDS Camping & Leisure is:

“Which drive away awning will fit my van?”

The answer depends on several important factors. Before purchasing a drive away awning, there are a few key questions you should be able to answer to ensure you choose the correct model.

Why Choosing the Right Drive Away Awning Matters

Drive away awnings are not a one-size-fits-all product. Different vehicles have different heights, attachment methods, and space requirements.

By gathering a few simple measurements and details about your vehicle, you can avoid purchasing an awning that doesn’t fit correctly or connect securely.

1. What Vehicle Do You Have?

The first question any awning retailer will ask is:

What make and model is your vehicle?

Examples include:

• Ford Transit Custom

• Ford Transit

• Volkswagen Transporter

• Volkswagen Crafter

• Fiat Ducato

• Peugeot Boxer

• Citroën Relay

• Mercedes Sprinter

• Renault Trafic

• Vauxhall Vivaro

Even vehicles that look similar can have different roof heights and connection points.

For example, a standard Ford Transit Custom may require a different awning height to a high-roof Ford Transit conversion.

2. What Is the Height of Your Vehicle?

This is often the most important measurement when choosing a drive away awning.

The connection height is measured from the ground to the point where the awning will attach to the vehicle.

Most drive away awnings are designed for one of three height categories:

Connection Heigt

Awning Type

Low 180cm – 210cm

Mid 210cm – 255cm

High 255cm – 300cm

Always check the manufacturer’s connection height range before ordering.

A difference of just a few centimetres can affect how well the awning seals against your vehicle.

How to Measure Vehicle Height

Measure from the ground to:

• The awning rail

• The C-channel

• The wind-out canopy rail

• The point where the awning will attach

If you’re unsure, many vehicle specifications are available online, but physically measuring your van is always the safest option.

3. How Many People Will Use the Awning?

The number of occupants helps determine how much living space you’ll need.

Solo Travellers

A compact drive away awning may be sufficient for:

• Storage

• Cooking

• Shelter from bad weather

Couples

Many couples prefer a medium-sized awning that provides:

• Extra seating space

• Dining area

• Additional storage

Families

Families often benefit from larger awnings that provide:

• Separate living space

• Children’s sleeping areas

• Room for bikes and outdoor equipment

Thinking about how you’ll use the awning is just as important as vehicle compatibility.

4. Does Your Vehicle Have an Awning Rail?

Many buyers don’t realise that there are several ways to connect a drive away awning.

Your vehicle may have:

• Factory-fitted awning rail

• C-channel rail

• Reimo rail

• Fiamma canopy

• Thule canopy

• No rail at all

Knowing what attachment system you have can help identify any adapters you may need.

5. How Will the Awning Attach to Your Vehicle?

Several connection methods are available.

Kador Rail Connection

Many drive away awnings use a sewn-in kador strip that slides directly into an awning rail or canopy channel.

Figure of Eight Connectors

Figure of Eight connectors allow the awning beading to connect to a rail or adapter strip.

Drive Away Adapter Kits

Adapter kits can connect an awning to:

• Wind-out canopies

• Caravan rails

• Campervan rails

These are among the most popular solutions for campervan owners.

Drive Away Awning Adapter Kits

Magnetic Drive Away Kits

Magnetic kits are particularly popular with van conversions that do not have an awning rail fitted.

The magnetic strip attaches directly to the steel roof of the vehicle and allows fast connection and disconnection.

Quest Magnetic Drive Away Kit

Throw-Over Straps

Some awnings can be secured using straps that pass over the roof of the vehicle.

These are often suitable for occasional users and vehicles without dedicated awning rails.

6. How Often Will You Use Your Awning?

Consider your camping style.

Weekend Breaks

Quick-pitch air awnings are often preferred for shorter trips.

Touring Holidays

Drive away awnings are ideal for touring because you can leave the awning pitched while exploring nearby attractions.

Longer Seasonal Stays

Larger awnings provide more comfort for extended camping trips.

7. What Will You Use the Awning For?

Different campers have different priorities.

Common uses include:

Extra Living Space

Perfect for relaxing, dining, and escaping poor weather.

Additional Sleeping Accommodation

Some drive away awnings include inner tents.

Storage Space

Ideal for:

• Bikes

• Camping furniture

• Wet clothing

• Outdoor equipment

• 
  

Pet-Friendly Space

Many campers use drive away awnings to create additional room for dogs.

Common Mistakes When Buying a Drive Away Awning

Avoid these common errors:

Guessing Vehicle Height

Always measure accurately.

Assuming All Rails Are the Same

Awning rails can vary significantly.

Choosing Based Only on Price

The cheapest awning isn’t always the best value if it doesn’t suit your vehicle or camping style.

Forgetting About Accessories

You may also need:

• Adapter kits

• Figure of Eight connectors

• Storm straps

• Groundsheet protectors

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right drive away awning starts with gathering the correct information about your vehicle and camping requirements.

Before ordering, make sure you know:

✔ Your vehicle make and model

✔ Your vehicle connection height

✔ How many people will use the awning

✔ Whether you have an awning rail

✔ Which attachment method you need

✔ How you intend to use the awning

Taking a few minutes to answer these questions can help ensure you choose an awning that fits properly, pitches easily, and enhances every camping trip.

At IDS Camping & Leisure, we’re always happy to help customers find the right drive away awning and accessories for their vehicle.