Hi, we are looking for recommendations for a decent size driveaway awning for a vw t4. We are a family of 4 so will need it for a bit of overflow bed space, portaloo and small kitchen (hopefully not all at the same time!) Would prefer it to be as light as poss and have a sewn in groundsheet. Any ideas gratefully received! Thanks
I have a Mazda Bongo and the sizes are similar. Initially we purchased an Outdoor Revolution Moveleite - the pole version. It has a fitted groundsheet and between the van and main awning there is an area about a metre wide which is folded back on itself when you wish to drive away. This are is excellent for extra storage and a Thetford style toilet - gives you the privacy. The awning withstood some really windy weather on one trip to Cornwall. We liked the awning so much we later got an inflatable one for ease of putting up.(same type). I found it it little easier for setting up up but upon reflection we would have been just as happy with the pole version. However circumstances changed and we now have a caravan but still have the awnings. In conclusion we didn't find any faults with either awning, both served us well, didn't leak and stood up to some pretty bad weather. You can use the figure of 8 attachments or the supplied straps to fix to the van. Others may have different experiences, but if I had to buy again I would go for the same.
I now use one of these Sheltapods. With the integrated sun canopy it feels much airier than normal awnings. I also have a Vango Kela II Air awning which is great but is much heavier & takes up more than twice the space when packed away. The Vango is a good 5 years old & has been faultless, but I just can't be bothered lugging it around these days. I have only used the Sheltapod a couple of times (in good weather, so can't comment on its long term use. https://www.ukcampsite.co.uk/articles/view.asp?id=1006