If you’ve ever been caught out camping in the
rain, you’ll understand the benefi ts of having
enough shelter. In most cases, there simply
isn’t enough shelter available to cater for the
whole family comfortably when you really need
it the most. So what choices do you have? How
can you ensure you’re prepared for heavy rain
or even escaping excessive heat?
FACTORY UPGRADES
If you’re looking for extra shelter, try talking
to the manufacturer of your camper trailer
or tent. In most cases, they’ll have a factory
upgrade package available that’s a perfect fi t
and simply zips on. The design and testing
has been done for you and it’s usually more
cost effective as these products are regularly
manufactured in bulk. The important thing
to consider is if the extra shelter provided is
everything you need, because if its not, factory
options can be quite limited.
Average Price Range $ 300 – $1000
DIY AWNING EXTENSION
With a few extra tent poles and a tarp, extra
shelter or shade is usually an easy addition
to make. The best part is it only needs to
be set-up when you need it and it can be
positioned where it’s most effective. Being
a DIY task, your options are practically
limitless, but the downfall is that depending
on your design, setting-up can be a lengthy
process and not particularly suited to
extreme weather conditions, which could be
when you really need it.
Average Price Range: $100 - $200
- EXTRA SHELTER
ADDITIONAL TENT
SHELTEROne option that is rarely explored is the
addition of a second tent. Keeping a spare
dome tent or similar inside the camper trailer
can come in handy for a variety of tasks. The
most common use is to store extra equipment
inside during rainy periods which helps un-
clutter the space available under your existing
awning. A dome tent is much cheaper than
additional add-ons from the manufacturer.
Plus they take up minimal space and can give
the kids some personal space, helping them
learn independence.Average Price Range: $50 – $400Your camper trailer manufacturer
may be able to supply affordable
awning extensionsTarps provide extra shelter,
but may take longer to set up Dome tents are a quick and easy
method for extra covered storageTOP TARP TIP:
Placing the edge of the tarp under the
awning allows the water to run off without
leaking at the join.If upgrading your awning, ensure
you can erect it quickly and in
adverse weatherFEATURE
Best Value Upgrades