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Thanks for the tip JanieTee. On the strength of that I went to Go Outdoors today to check out the Icarus 500 canopy. Armed with a price match of £48.95 from outdooraction.co.uk, I liked it and got it for £43 instead of their £58.50. At present this is more within our budget than the Minnesota canopy and does the same job, albeit with fibre glass poles. However, I think the clips will be a good fit as the Virginia and Icarus poles are only slightly different in diameter.

Might be worth considering, James, at that price and the space at the front it creates is ample.

Just got back from a fab week in Tavistock having used the Vango Icarus extension on the front of our Virginia 5. We think it worked a treat and provided much needed space and cover from the Dartmoor mist and drizzle, at times. I have included some pics to show our set up.

James, if you read this, it is worth the £40 ish rather than the more expensive minnesota extension.

Hi James,

We were on a C&CC site and there was no problem with pitch size - we had a standard grass pitch. The canopy adds about 1.5 - 2m onto the front of the tent but the wardens had no issue with this at all. The extra space it gives you was well worth it and allowed us to keep the larger front door rolled up all day long. If you can, find it cheap on the web and then get Go Outdoors to price match if you have one nearby. I got our canopy for about £43 in the end. Bargain!

I found the clips on the canopy were just right for the diameter of the Virginia poles, though you will find it is less taught on the side of the second door, as the strap has to stretch over the porch area. This wasnt a problem though and it fits really well over the front of the tent. My better half was well impressed!

Let me know how you get on.

All the best, Ian

Hi all,

Last weekend, at the tender age of 52, my new husband took me camping for the first time ever!  We bought the Virginia 5 as it was light and airy and had had a room for my portaloo!!!  (Being disabled, this is a must).  I am so pleased to have joined this forum as you guys (and gals) have answered our question already!  We ned an extension for the V5.  We used a Pagoda with two sides but the wind and rain poured in and we got drenched........... at times! LOL.  I loved camping though and can't wait to go again. 

So, thank you for your great discussion on the extensions........... loks like the Vango Icarus for us............. :).

Cherill.

Hi James,

It's good to know I'm not the only oldie!

Been to Yeomans in town today and ordered the Vango Premier Extension for our V5.  The chappie in the shop was very instrumental in helping us to finally decide which one to go for. He couldn't do enough to compare for us!!!

Now, to get the other bits and peices I have eyeing up before Simon (my hubby) puts a stop on the purse strings....

I'll let you all know how things go when we get to use the set up! 

Once again, thanks guys!

Bright Blessings,

Cherill