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Quote: Originally posted by Rune Caster on 03/11/2010

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We use a full awning - so much easier and quicker to put up than any porch awning.

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We just use a porch awning. I think if you have kids  and/or dogs the extra space is useful and ours is big enough for a small table and chairs (there's only 3 of us) if we want to eat in  it.  It also keeps boots, coats and beer out of the van! We have a Compactalite pro 250 and find it easy to put up. It is one of the lightweight ones though, I wouldnt want to sleep in it.

As Zorro said, it all depends on your own personal circumstances and the only way you're going to find out is try without.  We all joke about putting up awnings the first time (it is a bit like Krypton factor!) but once youve done it, it gets quicker each time.

Quote: Originally posted by Tigermouse on 04/11/2010

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Quote: Originally posted by Rune Caster on 03/11/2010

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We use a full awning - so much easier and quicker to put up than any porch awning.

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I found that too. Last time out in the 'van, and being on my own so not needing as much space, I used the porch awning - and what a nightmare, it took three times as long to put up, when it rained water collected on the front on the roof and it leaked over the door. Never again, it's the full awning every time now.

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As there are so many different ones I'd have thought the ease of erection / dismantling would  vary enormously even just between all the full awnings, & then also between all the porch ones. 

I can't imagine that all full awnings ones are easier than all porch awnings, or that the reverse is true either  

Is it ???!

 

Quote: Originally posted by billyboggins on 05/11/2010

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awning essential..especially after a tiff

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We've got a full awning that we've put up twice - nightmare - metal poles everywhere took hours - screamed at the kids cos tripped over them at everyturn.

We also have a Sunncamp half size awning - which we wouldn't be without, we have two recliners, a little table, the plastic box for shoes and a camping wardrobe that we put all our bedding an pillows in during the day it takes 15 mins to go up (same poles as a tent).  Most importantly keeps the kids bikes from view at night.  And it folds into a really small bag.

Wouldn't be without out and for what they cost you'd be mad not to get one.

My caravan is tiny (only 9' 5" body length) and we have managed with 3 of us in there for a couple of nights with no awning.

Have to admit if we went for longer then I would use the awning though.

I have a very small porch awning that came with the van, a sun canopy and a Bradcot Portico Plus porch awning that actually covers the whole van so looks like a full awning!!
I have found the awnings no more hassle to put up than a tent and the extra space they give is great, especially with 2 young boys!