Last Updated: 28 September 2026
The best caravan awning depends on your van, how often you move camp and how much effort you want to put into setting it up. A roll-out awning may suit a full-size caravan, while a compact box or bag awning can be a better fit for a smaller RV. If you’re considering an electric awning or replacing a damaged one, there are a few extra costs and compatibility checks to make first.
Below, we compare the main types of caravan and motorhome awnings, explain what to check before buying, and look at models available in Australia.
Which caravan awning should you choose?
| Awning type | Generally suits | Main advantage | Check before buying |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roll-out awning | Full-size caravans and some motorhomes | Creates a generous sheltered area, with accessories available for many models | Check that the RV has suitable wall space and structure for the mounting arms. Confirm whether the price includes the hardware. |
| Box awning | Caravans, motorhomes and some smaller RVs | Folds into a compact protective case; available in manual and electric versions | Check the mounting position, brackets, door clearance and whether replacement fabric or parts are available. |
| Bag awning | Pop-tops, smaller caravans and campers with a compatible awning rail | A relatively simple, compact option | Check the rail size and length, setup steps and how much space the packed awning needs. |
| Inflatable awning | Caravans or motorhomes where extra enclosed living space is the priority | Many designs provide shelter and an annexe-style room together | Check attachment height, packed size, weight and how long it takes to set up and dry before storage. |
Roll out awnings for caravans and motorhomes
A roll-out awning stores its fabric around a roller tube, with support arms that attach to the side of the RV when packed away. It’s a common choice for full-size caravans and some motorhomes, particularly if you want a generous shaded area and the option to add accessories such as screens or an awning clothesline.
Roll-out awnings come in manual and electric versions. Before choosing one, check that your RV has enough suitable wall space for the arms and that the mounting points meet the manufacturer’s requirements. Also check whether the advertised price includes the arms and other hardware.
Good for: Full-size RVs, frequent use and travellers who want a broad choice of accessories.
Things to consider: The arms need mounting space, the complete setup can be heavy, and installation may require professional help.
Box awnings for caravans and motorhomes
A box awning, also called a cassette awning, folds its fabric and supports into a protective case. Depending on the model, the case mounts to the wall or roof of a caravan or motorhome. That compact design can make a box awning worth considering when a traditional roll-out awning’s wall-mounted arms won’t suit the RV.
Box awnings are available with manual cranks and, in some models, electric operation. Check the required brackets, door clearance and mounting position before buying. Replacement parts and accessories vary by model, so it’s worth checking their availability too.
Good for: Travellers who want a compact awning that stores inside a case.
Things to consider: Mounting brackets may cost extra, and size, weight and parts availability vary considerably between models.
Bag awnings for caravans and smaller RVs
A bag awning packs into a soft cover attached to the RV, often using an existing awning rail. Some designs roll the fabric around a tube, while others fold or roll it around a support bar. They can be a useful option for pop-tops, smaller caravans and campers that suit their particular mounting system.
Bag awnings are often straightforward in design, but setup varies: you may need to unpack poles, extend legs and peg the awning down. Before ordering, check the rail compatibility, mounting length and packed dimensions.
Good for: Smaller RVs and travellers who are happy with a more hands-on setup.
Things to consider: You need somewhere to store the poles and accessories, and the soft cover provides less protection than a hard case.
Inflatable awnings for caravans and motorhomes
An inflatable awning uses air-filled beams in place of some traditional poles. Many are designed as enclosed awning rooms, giving you extra sheltered living space alongside the caravan or motorhome. They’re particularly appealing for longer stays when you’ll have time to set up and make use of that space.
The trade-off is packed size and weight. You’ll also need to check the attachment method and height against your RV, and allow time to dry the fabric before storing it.
Good for: Longer stays and travellers who want an enclosed living area.
Things to consider: Packed bulk, setup time and finding a model that fits the RV correctly.
What to check before buying a caravan awning
Measure your RV and check the mounting points
Start with the available mounting length and height, but don’t choose an awning on length alone. Windows, doors, roof fittings and the strength of the mounting area can all affect what will fit. Check the measurements specified for the particular awning model, along with its brackets and installation instructions. If you’re replacing an existing awning, record its make and model before you shop.
Manual or electric caravan awning?
An electric awning can make extending and retracting the canopy easier, particularly if you move camp often or find manual setup difficult. Electric models are available in more than one awning style, including roll-out and box designs. Check the power requirements, installation cost and how the awning is operated if power is unavailable.
A manual awning may be a simpler choice if you’re comfortable setting it up yourself and want to avoid the additional electrical installation. Dometic’s current Australian range includes manual, crank-operated and powered awnings.
Think about accessories before choosing the awning
If you want to add privacy screens, an annexe, an anti-flap kit or an awning clothesline, check compatibility before purchasing. Accessories that fit one awning or rail profile won’t necessarily fit another. Include their cost when comparing your options.
Check parts and the complete installed cost
Before settling on a model, find out whether replacement fabric, arms, brackets or motors are available. Ask what comes in the box as some awnings need separately purchased mounting hardware. For example, Dometic lists the hardware for its 8700 awning separately. Installation can also change the total cost considerably.
Replacing a caravan awning: Fabric, parts or the whole unit?
If the fabric is damaged but the arms, roller and mounting points are sound, replacing the fabric may be an option. If an arm, spring, motor or case is damaged, check whether that part is available for your exact model before replacing the entire awning.
Record the awning’s make and model, photograph its fittings, and measure it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. A replacement described as the same size may still need different hardware or mounting points. If the awning has structural damage, or you’re changing from manual to electric, get installation advice before ordering.
Brand and models to consider
Here is a range of brands and types to consider when purchasing a new caravan awning or replacing your old one.
Fiamma Caravanstore Bag Awnings
- Type: Manual bag awning
- Size: Various ranging from 190cm – 360cm
- Price: $694 – $863
The Fiamma Caravanstore is a manual awning that packs into a soft bag attached to the caravan’s sail track. Unzip the bag, roll out the canopy, then extend the legs and rafters stored inside the roller tube. The legs can be pegged to the ground or attached to the vehicle using the included lower brackets.
It’s an option for caravans, pop-tops and campers with a suitable sail track, particularly if you want a bag awning with room to add accessories. The lead bar has a second track for a privacy screen or lights. Various sizes are available. The retailer specifies a 6 mm internal diameter sail track, which is not included.
Thule Cassette Awnings
- Type: Box awning
- Size: Various ranging from 190cm – 500cm
- Price: $1,650 – $2,725
The Thule range of awnings come in both manual and electric options. The range of lengths makes it worth considering for caravans, campervans and motorhomes, although the right size depends on your vehicle’s mounting space.
The support legs lower from the front rail and use Thule’s Quick Lock system for adjustment. Although there are electric options, Thule says a motor can be fitted to a manual model later. Before ordering, confirm the brackets needed for your RV and compare the weight of your chosen size.
Aussie Traveller Roll-Out Awnings
- Type: Roll out awning
- Size: Various ranging from 243cm – 762cm
- Price: $805 – $2,165
Aussie Traveller’s roll out awnings are availablea in both manual and electric versions and are sold in a range of lengths. The vinyls features 3 layers of PVC and mesh, plus a layer of UV coated fabric for extra protection.
Check what comes in the package as some models are sold as the roller tube and fabric only with the framesets sold separately.
Carefree Electric Awnings
- Type: 12V electric roll-out and box awnings
- Size: Various ranging from 250cm – 640cm
- Price: Starting from $640 – $2,450
Carefree’s electric range gives buyers a choice between a traditional roll-out awning and a box awning that packs into a protective cassette. Popular models include the Altitude and Eclipse roll-out ranges, as well as the Freedom box awning, with sizes suited to different caravans and motorhomes.
Check exactly what each price includes before comparing models. The lower-priced Eclipse listing is marked “no arms”, so it should not be treated as the cost of a complete new installation. You’ll also need to confirm the mounting hardware, 12V electrical requirements and fit for your RV.
Our verdict on awnings for caravans
Caravan and motorhome awnings are not a one-size-fits-all approach and it all comes down to your individual needs and budget. Regardless of which type you choose, take the time to research and read customer reviews so you can make an informed decision when you decide to go ahead and purchase.
We wish you happy travels, memorable camping experiences and countless nights staring at the stars from under your brand-new awning. Here’s to many wonderful adventures ahead!
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