If you’re thinking about buying an awning for your motorhome, you need to take the following measurements to make sure you order the size that fits correctly. Avoid disappointment, wasted time and having to return parcels by taking these few simple steps.

First, make sure your motorhome is parked on a flat surface and is level. Next, with a tape-measure – and perhaps a pair of helping hands – measure and note-down the following, referring to the above diagram to check that you’re measuring the right thing …

Measurement A: To determine which HEIGHT you need – measure the height of your awning blind (to the actual blind slot – NOT the casing around it) or rail from the ground AT EACH END, in centimetres. The LONGER of the two dimensions is the important one (Most motorhomes are higher at the back than the front. If your vehicle has a levelling system, have it in a neutral position while measuring.)

(As an example of where your motorhome height sits size-wise: Kampa Dometic camper & motorhome awnings are available in these heights:

2020 Models

VW: 180-210cm

S: 235-250cm

L: 250-265cm

XL: 265-280cm

XXL: 280-295cm

2021 Models

VW: 180-210cm

Drive-Aways: 220-300cm

S: 235-265cm (fits Caravans too)

M: 265-295cm

L: 295-325cm.)

Measurement B: To determine which SIZE you can buy (eg. 260, 330, 390 etc) in terms of the length of the awning, front to back of the vehicle – measure the full length of your awning BLIND or RAIL – NOT the casing that surrounds it – in centimetres. (You must have enough awning blind or rail to hold the size of awning that you intend to buy. For instance, the Kampa Motor Rally AIR PRO 260 XL is 260cm long, so your awning blind or rail needs to be at least this long.)

Measurement C: To determine whether there’s sufficient space for an AIR TUBE to fit against the vehicle without the door catching on it when being opened – measure the distance between the awning blind (the slot in the casing again) or rail and the top of your door when closed. (You will need at least 12cm between the door and the blind or rail.)

Compare these 3 dimensions with those of the awning(s) being considered, and check that the awning’s walls would sit clear of your motorhome’s door, windows, storage hatches or anything else that protrudes. (Remember that a narrower awning can be positioned – more left or more right – on a wider awning blind or rail to help fit around potential obstructions.)

If you’ve taken the measurements from your motorhome accurately, and are happy that the dimensions of the awning of your choice are not conflicting, there should be no reason why it shouldn’t fit. If still in doubt, ask your retailer for advice. (We are always glad to assist and advise at Norwich Camping & Leisure – call 01603 717600 and ask for any of Jof, Jordi, Steve, Matt or Ryan, or email sales@norwichcamping.co.uk)

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Norwich Camping & Leisure Village, in Blofield, east of Norwich, Norfolk, has one of the UK’s largest outdoor displays of tents and awnings, plus indoor showroom displays of camping & caravanning equipment, outdoor clothing, garden furniture & buildings, barbecues and a fully-stocked garden centre.

Barbecue brands in stock: Alfresco Chef; Weber; Napoleon; Outback; Campingaz; Broil King; Char-Griller; Kadai; Grillstream; Masterbuilt; Kamado Joe; Ooni; Traeger; Cadac & Whistler. 

The Leisure Village also has a farm shop, coffee shop, new & used campervan sales and a professional-standard car, camper & caravan hand-wash station. With 50 years of experience and practical, friendly advice – plus FREE NEXT-WORKING-DAY DELIVERY on orders over £100 (Terms & Conditions apply), our Best Price / Price Match Policy and low-rate finance terms, why not find us online or come along and see us!  

www.norwichcamping.co.uk    Tel: 01603 717600    sales@norwichcamping.co.uk    

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