The Magic of an Inflatable Drive Away Awning

When it comes to enhancing the camping experience with your VW California Ocean Campervan, an inflatable drive away awning is a game-changer. These versatile structures provide additional living space, storage, and shelter, allowing you to make the most of your outdoor adVANtures. We offer the Vango KELA and Vango GALLI models. These use an AirBeam system. Our Galli III has the option of two bedroom compartments, allowing the awning to be used like a traditional tent! The awning is also where our lovely dog sleeps at night. 

The whole point of it being ‘drive away’ is that the awning is not permanently fixed to your van. It is attached using a Kador strip, which connects the awning to the van. When you want to go off for the day, just pull the strip out, and away you go, leaving the tent exactly where you left it. When you return, simply line your Campervan up with the awning, connect it again with the Kador strip, and you are back where you started. 

The techy bits…

What is an Inflatable Drive Away Awning? 

An inflatable drive-away awning is a portable structure designed to attach to the side of your VW campervan. Unlike traditional awnings that require extensive assembly, inflatable versions utilize air-filled beams to create a sturdy framework. This innovative design eliminates the need for poles, making setup quick and effortless. We can get the whole thing up and attached in around 20 minutes, and we have even done it in a storm!

Attaching them!

Most awnings come with a universal connector, such as a tunnel or a sleeve, which fits securely onto the side of the campervan. Our Vango models use a Kador strip and a ‘Figure of eight’ connector. The attachment point on the VW California Ocean is within the edge of the wind out awning, ensuring easy access between the awning and the campervan. Straight from one into the other!

Inflation System.

Inflatable drive-away awnings use robust air beams instead of traditional poles. These beams are made from durable, high-quality materials, such as PVC or TPU, capable of withstanding external elements (and we have been in some mad storms!). To inflate the awning, a pump is used to fill the beams with air. The pump comes with a built-in pressure gauge to ensure accurate inflation, making it easy to achieve the desired level of rigidity.

Setting Up the Awning.

Setting up an inflatable drive-away awning with your VanGlorious Campervan is a straightforward process. First, park the campervan in a suitable location (nope, not under a tree!), and ensure a level surface. Next, get the awning out of the bag and spread it out on the ground, finding the right side to attach to the van. Wind out the van’s awning around 20cms, and connect the drive-away awning to the campervan using the Kador strip and figure of eight connector. Once securely attached, start inflating the beams using the pump. As the beams fill with air, the awning takes shape. Finally, secure the guy ropes and pegs to provide additional stability in windy conditions. Wind the van’s awning back towards the van to create a tight connection to your Campervan. Ta-Daaaa!

Features and Benefits.

Inflatable drive-away awnings offer a wide range of features and benefits that enhance your camping experience. These include:

• Additional Living Space: The awning extends the usable space of your campervan, providing room for relaxing, dining, or sleeping. It creates a separate area to store gear, bikes, or camping equipment, (or a dog!), keeping your campervan clutter-free.
• Versatility: Many awnings include removable panels and doors, allowing you to customize the configuration based on your needs. Our Galli III has integrated sleeping compartments, allowing you to accommodate extra guests (or the dog!).
• Protection from the Elements: The awning provides shade from the sun, shelter from rain, and protection against insects. It allows you to enjoy the outdoors while staying protected from adverse weather conditions.
• Easy Transport and Storage: Inflatable drive-away awnings are lightweight and compact when deflated, making them easy to transport and store. Although it seems they take up quite a bit of space in the boot, it is well worth having the extra space on your campsite pitch!

An inflatable drive away awning is a valuable addition to your VW campervan holiday, offering practicality, comfort, and versatility. With its easy setup, it elevates the camping experience to a whole new level.