To choose a drive-away awning, start with your vehicle’s measured attachment height and connection system. Then compare the awning’s layout, campsite footprint, frame type and packed size. A campervan model name alone does not confirm compatibility.
A drive-away awning gives you extra sheltered space beside your vehicle and can remain pitched when you disconnect and drive away, provided it is set up and secured according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Whether you’re planning a weekend in Cornwall or a longer UK touring holiday, choosing the right fit matters more than simply choosing the biggest awning.
Measure your attachment height first
Measure from the ground to the point where the awning will connect, with your vehicle positioned as it would be on your pitch.
Compare that measurement with the exact awning’s specified range. Labels such as “Low”, “Mid” and “Tall” are not substitutes for checking the measurements.
For example, the Kampa Roam Low Poled listing specifies a connection height of 180–210cm, while the Outdoor Revolution Cayman Low D/T 2026 specifies 180–220cm.
Height is only one part of the fit. You must also check the attachment system, usable connection length and any obstructions around doors or fitted equipment.
Check how the awning connects to your campervan
Before ordering, identify whether your vehicle has an awning rail, cassette awning, roof bars or another suitable attachment arrangement.
Check the awning’s instructions and your vehicle’s setup to establish which connection method is appropriate. For a rail connection, confirm the required beading size and whether a separate drive-away fitting kit is needed.
Do not assume that a fitting kit is included or that every connector fits every rail. Photographs of your connection point can help when asking for advice.
Do you need a twin drive-away fitting kit?
A drive-away fitting kit provides a removable connection between a compatible vehicle rail and your awning, allowing you to disconnect the vehicle while leaving the awning pitched.
The Universal Twin Drive Away Fitting Kit includes three figure-of-eight connector sections and a 3m kador strip with 4mm and 6mm beading. The two beading sizes provide options for compatible C-channel rails and wind-out awning channels.
Before ordering, check your vehicle’s rail channel size, the awning’s connection beading and the usable connection length.
“Universal” does not mean it fits every setup, and the kit does not compensate for an incorrect awning attachment height. Follow your awning and vehicle equipment instructions when connecting or disconnecting.
If you are unsure which connection you have, provide photographs and measurements before buying rather than guessing.
Choose a layout that works on your pitch
Think about how you will use the extra space: seating, dining, storing equipment or an optional sleeping area.
Check the position of entrances and the connecting tunnel. Consider how people will move between the vehicle and awning, and allow space for doors to open, guylines and access around the pitch.
A quoted floor size may not describe the full pitching area. Check the manufacturer’s layout diagram, including the tunnel and canopy, before booking a pitch or choosing an awning.
If you want extra sleeping space, check whether a compatible inner bedroom or annexe is available and whether it is included or sold separately.
Air or poled: which should you choose?
An air awning uses inflatable structural beams, while a poled awning uses a conventional frame. Neither construction type automatically makes an awning the best choice for every camper.
Compare the individual model’s weight, pitching instructions, pump requirements, packed dimensions and layout. Think about who will put it up and how much storage space you have in your campervan.
Always follow the manufacturer’s weather limits and securing instructions. Do not treat a touring drive-away awning as a permanent structure.
Check packed size as well as living space
An awning needs to fit inside your vehicle when you travel, not just beside it on the campsite.
Check its packed dimensions and weight, along with the space needed for any pump, fitting kit, groundsheet or optional bedroom. Make sure you can comfortably lift and handle the packed awning.
For UK touring trips, ventilation and drying also matter. Follow the manufacturer’s care instructions and dry the awning before storage.
Two poled drive-away awnings to consider
Kampa Roam Low Poled Drive Away Awning
The Kampa Roam Low Poled Drive Away Awning is listed with a 180–210cm connection-height range, a 300 × 390cm footprint, fibreglass poles and a sewn-in groundsheet.
Its listing describes several attachment options, including throw-over straps, dual kador beading, pole-and-clamp compatibility and roof-bar tabs.
It is an option to consider if you want a poled living space beside a campervan within its specified height range. Confirm the appropriate attachment method and any accessories required separately before ordering.
Outdoor Revolution Cayman Low D/T Drive Away Awning 2026
The Outdoor Revolution Cayman Low D/T Drive Away Awning 2026 is listed with a 180–220cm attachment-height range and a fibreglass poled frame.
Its specification lists a 300 × 300cm footprint plus an 80cm cowl depth, a weight of 13.6kg and a packed size of 72 × 33 × 33cm. It also lists twin 4mm and 6mm connection beading.
Compare those measurements with your vehicle, available pitch space and storage capacity. The wider stated height range does not remove the need to check the connection system and clearance.
Check both product pages for current prices and availability.
See drive-away awning layouts in Cornwall
Seeing an awning pitched can help you judge the space, entrances and layout more easily than measurements alone.
Read our guide to drive-away awnings on display in Cornwall to plan a visit to World of Camping at 4 Bamber House, Victoria, St Austell, Cornwall, PL26 8LQ.
Call 01637 877619 before travelling to confirm the current display and opening times. Display availability and purchase stock are separate, and the buying options discussed above are not necessarily the models on display.
Bring your vehicle’s make, model and year, measured attachment height, and details or photographs of its rail or cassette awning.
Frequently asked questions
Will a drive-away awning fit any campervan?
No. Check the specified attachment height, connection system, usable connection length and clearance around your vehicle. Make and model alone are not enough.
Can I leave the awning pitched while driving away?
Drive-away awnings are designed to disconnect from the vehicle. Follow the exact model’s instructions for disconnecting, closing and securing it before leaving.
Do I need a twin drive-away fitting kit?
That depends on your awning and vehicle’s connection system. The Universal Twin Drive Away Fitting Kit includes a 3m kador strip with 4mm and 6mm beading plus three figure-of-eight sections. Check compatibility before ordering.
Will a fitting kit make an awning fit a taller campervan?
No. A fitting kit provides a connection; it does not change the awning’s specified attachment-height range.
Is an air awning better than a poled awning?
It depends on your priorities. Compare the individual models’ layout, weight, packed size and pitching process rather than choosing by frame type alone.
What details should I provide when asking for fitting advice?
Provide your vehicle’s make, model and year, measured attachment height, and details or photographs of its rail, cassette awning or other connection points.
Where can I see drive-away awnings in Cornwall?
Read our Cornwall awning display guide for the showroom details. Call ahead to confirm the current display and opening times before travelling.
