Roof awnings are a popular accessory for anyone who likes heading out on an off-road 4X4 adventure. In fact, they should almost be considered essential gear. Why? Well for one, they protect you from Australia’s challenging conditions including the scorching sun and heavy winds and rain, that sometimes all appear in just one day.
Along with the protection roof awnings deliver, they can also serve to enhance your outdoor experiences. Here’s how to get the most out of your Rhino-Rack awning.
1. Roof Awnings protect you from the elements
The main reason many buy a roof awning is to have the freedom to enjoy being outside no matter the weather. The weather runs its own show and we can’t always trust the predictions before we head off. Awnings provide a shady place to get out of the sun’s harmful rays. For example, the Sunseeker Awning features a handy UV50+ rating for the ultimate sun protection. They’re also great as a dry spot out of the rain that seems to come from all directions at once. Whether you’re camping, having an afternoon picnic, lounging on the beach or watching the cricket, a roof awning is just what you need.
And let’s not forget the tucker. Nobody wants soggy burgers or soaked sausages that have been left out. An awning provides the perfect cover for cooking up an outdoor family feast. The Sunseeker and Batwing awnings are all constructed using the tough as nails canvas that is ripstop, lightweight, and mould resistant. Therefore, you can trust they will be both durable and reliable.
2. They provide privacy
Roof awnings are great for creating for a perfect outdoor living space – anywhere and any time. They’re also ideal for creating privacy when you’re outside. It’s pretty awkward changing clothes in the vehicle unless you’re a flexible contortionist. Having some privacy to change into your swimmers or out of wet/dirty clothes sure is a luxury on the road. If your awning doesn’t have an included side pull-down, you can secure tarps to the side to create privacy or different rooms. That or you can grab the Sunseeker Awning Side Wall to add an extra 2m x 2m of coverage.
3. Awnings make handy clothes dryers
No trees around to string a clothesline from? No problem. An awning provides a handy place to hang your wet clothes from to dry. You can use hangers and line them along the awning or run a piece of cord between the awning’s poles for a makeshift clothesline.
4. You can project a movie on your awning
This one will definitely be a hit with the kids! If you hang a white sheet from the top of your awning, you can use it as a screen for your portable movie projector. That or you can simply angle and point your projector onto the awning itself.
Nothing beats chilling on the beach or camping far off in the bush and still being able to enjoy your favourite action movie on a big screen. Plus, it means less screen time on the iPads and more family friendly fun on the road.
How to choose an awning
If you’re in the market for an awning, there are a few things you’ll want to consider. The first thing to think about is how big an area you want to cover. Do you want a typical square awning, or would you like an “L” shape that provides shade both on the side and in back of your vehicle?
Next, you’ll want to make sure the awning you want is compatible with your vehicle and your needs. The size of your rig, your campsite, and how many people you typically camp with will also inform your decision.
Check out Rhino-Rack’s Awning Buying Guide to find out more about choosing the awning that will work best for you.
