Campervan and Motorhome Awning Height Guide
When choosing a campervan awning or motorhome awning, one of the most crucial factors to consider is the attachment height. Getting this right ensures that your awning fits snugly, remains stable, and functions properly, providing a comfortable extension to your campervan or motorhome. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about drive-away awning attachment heights, helping you make the best choice for your vehicle.
Why is Attachment Height Important?
The attachment height is the measurement from the ground to the awning rail or the point where the awning connects to your campervan or motorhome. Selecting the correct height ensures a tight seal between the awning and your vehicle, preventing draughts, leaks, or instability. A poorly fitted awning can flap in the wind, allow rainwater to seep in, or be difficult to secure properly.
Awning manufacturers typically produce awnings in various height ranges to accommodate different vehicles. These height categories are generally labelled as Low, Mid, and Tall, catering to a range of campervans, panel vans, and motorhomes. Let’s break down these categories in more detail.
Understanding the Height Categories
1. Low Height Awnings (180-210cm)
Low-height drive-away awnings are designed for smaller campervans and low-roof vehicles. They typically fit vehicles with an attachment height ranging between 180cm and 210cm. Examples of vehicles that fall into this category include popular models like the VW T4, T5 and T6 Campervans and other similar sized models.
Examples of Low Height Drive-Away Awnings
View all2. Mid Height Awnings (210-255cm)
Mid-height drive-away awnings are designed to fit vehicles with a medium attachment height, generally between 210cm and 255cm. This category caters to larger campervans and low-to-mid-height motorhomes, such as the Peugeot Boxer, and Mercedes Sprinter.
Examples of Mid Height Drive Away Awnings
View all3. Tall Height Awnings (255-295cm)
Tall drive-away awnings are designed for larger motorhomes and taller vehicles, with an attachment height between 255cm and 295cm. These awnings are suitable for vehicles such as large motorhomes, large panel van conversions, and higher roof models.
Examples of Tall Height Drive Away Awnings
View allHow to Measure Your Vehicle’s Attachment Height
To determine the correct drive-away awning height for your campervan or motorhome, you’ll need to measure the attachment height accurately. Follow these steps to measure your vehicle:
- Park on a Level Surface: Ensure your vehicle is parked on flat, level ground. Any incline or uneven surface could result in an inaccurate measurement.
- Identify the Attachment Point: Locate the awning rail, roof bar, or the point where the awning will attach to your vehicle. This is typically found on the side of the vehicle.
- Measure from Ground to Attachment Point: Using a tape measure, measure the vertical distance from the ground to the attachment point. This measurement is your vehicle’s attachment height.
- Double-Check Your Measurement: To ensure accuracy, it’s worth double-checking your measurement. Make sure the tape measure is held straight, and there’s no sagging or misalignment.
Once you have your attachment height, you can easily match it to the appropriate awning category (Low, Mid, or Tall).