The long list of awning types makes it easy for every adventurer to find shelter for their touring needs. There are countless benefits to adding an awning to your 4×4. Awnings are your route to increased privacy, enhanced protection from the elements – whether it’s sun, wind or rain you need to shelter from – and the flexibility to set up camp comfortably wherever you pitch up for the night.
Awnings can also double as tents, so the possibilities are endless. Another perk to fitting an awning to your 4×4 is its easy setup, with most awning models able to be erected or dismantled in minutes with the right knowledge.
Read on to discover the top tips you need to know when fitting an awning to your 4×4.
Find the awning for your needs
Let’s go back to basics, easy setup after all begins with the right product. There are many awning types available, each of which promises ease, flexibility and freedom when adventuring on the road or off.
From fully enclosed awning rooms and mosquito nets to awnings that offer partial coverage and even built-in tents, the right awning product will make all the difference to your camping experience.
Invest in the right accessories
Your choice of roof rack is another defining factor when fitting an awning to your vehicle. Many roof rack types, including trade, flat roof and BASE racks, ensure awnings can be simply secured to your vehicle during transit as well as erected within minutes.
Along with your roof rack, additional hardware may be needed to guarantee easy mounting as Offroading explains:
“The rack essentially mounts with two little ‘L’ brackets… These brackets need to be installed onto your roof rack. Your awning should come with a handful of ‘T’ Bolts which can slide into the channels in your roof rack. If your roof rack does not have any channels then you will need to drill two pilot holes through your roof rack to install the brackets. If you have a cargo carrier installed, you may simply be able to use ‘U’ brackets (included with many awnings).”
Mounting hardware is usually sold separately. Easy-Out Awning Brackets for example are the recommended accessory for Front Runner awnings, with setting up taking just 60 seconds and requiring only two people thanks to this winning combination.
Remember, practice makes perfect
Having a trial run (or two) before you hit the open road is the way to master the setting up and packing away of your chosen awning. By practising in advance, you can make the awning set up as fast and simple as it should be, as well as highlight the need for any additional accessories.
Before you venture off on your touring adventure, be sure to check the condition of your awning and any associated mounting hardware.
Looking for awnings and mounting hardware to add to your upgrade collection? Browse our range of awnings and accessories today.
