When it comes to outdoor adventures, choosing the proper shelter can make or break your experience. Whether you’re a seasoned overlander or a weekend camper, the debate between overland awnings and traditional camping shelters continues to spark lively discussions around the campfire. Both options have their merits, and the choice often comes down to personal preference and the type of adventure you’re embarking on.
So, let’s dive into the pros and cons of overland awnings versus traditional camping shelters to help you decide which is best for your next outdoor escapade.
The Basics: What Are Overland Awnings and Traditional Camping Shelters?
Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let’s clarify what we’re discussing. Overland awnings are sun shades for cars extending from the side of your vehicle, providing shelter from the elements. These awnings are typically attached to roof racks and can be set up quickly, making them a favourite among overlanders and off-road enthusiasts.
On the other hand, traditional camping shelters include anything from pop-up tents and tarps to full-fledged canvas tents. These shelters are typically freestanding and require some form of assembly, whether pitching poles or tying ropes to trees. Now that we’ve set the scene, let’s compare the two options.
Overland Awnings: Pros and Cons
Let’s explore the merits and demerits of overland awnings below for a better understanding:
Pros of Overland Awnings:
1. Quick and Easy Setup
One of the most significant advantages of overland awnings is how quickly they can be set up. Pull up to your desired spot, attach the awning to your roof rack, and voilà—instant shelter. This ease of use is particularly beneficial when moving and must frequently set up and break down camp.
2. Integrated with Your Vehicle
Overland awnings are designed to be an extension of your vehicle, so you don’t have to worry about finding a flat or clear space to set them up. They also provide a convenient sun shade for cars, keeping the interior cool and protecting your gear from the sun’s harsh rays. Plus, with car awning accessories like side walls or mesh panels, you can create a more enclosed space for added privacy or protection from the wind.
3. Versatile Shelter
Overland awnings are incredibly versatile, offering a variety of configurations to suit different needs. Whether you’re looking to create a shaded area for lounging, a covered space for cooking, or even an extended sleeping area with car roof tents, an overland awning can do it all. This flexibility makes it an excellent choice for overlanders who value adaptability in their gear.
Cons of Overland Awnings:
1. Limited Coverage
While overland vehicle awnings are great for providing shade and light shelter, they typically offer limited coverage compared to traditional camping shelters. If you’re dealing with heavy rain or wind, you might need more than an overland awning to provide the protection you need. In such cases, you may need to supplement your setup with additional gear or seek more robust shelter options.
2. Dependent on Your Vehicle
By design, an overland awning is attached to your vehicle. This means your shelter is always tied to your car, which can be both a pro and a con. On the downside, it limits your ability to set up camp away from your vehicle, and if you need to drive somewhere, you’ll have to break down your shelter first.
3. Requires Roof Space
You need roof space on your vehicle to use an overland awning. If your roof is already loaded with gear, a roof rack, or a rooftop tent, you might find fitting an awning challenging. This can be a limiting factor for those who need to maximise their vehicle’s storage capacity.
Traditional Camping Shelters: Pros and Cons
Read on for a better understanding of the advantages and disadvantages of traditional camping shelters.
Pros of Traditional Camping Shelters:
1. Independent of Your Vehicle
One of the main advantages of traditional camping shelters is that they are entirely independent of your vehicle. This means you can set up camp wherever you find a suitable spot, whether next to your car or a short hike away. This flexibility is excellent for campers exploring beyond their vehicle’s reach.
2. Greater Coverage and Protection
Traditional camping shelters, such as tents and tarps, generally offer more coverage and protection from the elements than overland awnings. Whether dealing with heavy rain, wind, or even snow, a well-constructed tent can provide a secure and comfortable shelter.
3. Variety of Options
When it comes to traditional camping shelters, there’s a wide variety of options to choose from, ranging from lightweight backpacking tents to spacious family tents. This variety allows you to select the shelter that best suits your needs, whether for a solo adventure or a large group outing. Additionally, many traditional shelters can be combined with car awning accessories like tarps or canopies to create a more expansive camping setup.
Cons of Traditional Camping Shelters
1. Longer Setup Time
Traditional camping shelters typically require more time and effort to set up compared to overland awnings. You’ll need to find a suitable spot, pitch the tent, and secure it properly. While experienced campers might be okay with this process, it can be a hassle for those who prefer a quicker, more straightforward setup.
2. Bulky and Heavy
Depending on the type of shelter you choose, traditional camping tents can be bulky and heavy to transport. This is especially true for larger tents or canvas models, which may require additional storage space in your vehicle. This added bulk could disadvantage those looking to travel light or who need more vehicle storage.
3. Not Always Convenient
Traditional camping shelters can be less convenient than overland awnings in certain situations. For example, the setup and take down process can be time-consuming if you’re making frequent stops or only staying in one place for a short period. In contrast, an overland awning offers quick and easy shelter that is ready to go whenever you are.
Conclusion: Which is Right for You?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when choosing between an overland awning and a traditional camping shelter. It depends on your specific needs, preferences, and the type of adventure you’re planning.
If you value quick setup, versatility, and the convenience of having a shelter integrated with your vehicle, an overland awning might be the perfect choice. It’s ideal for overlanders, road trippers, and anyone who likes to keep their shelter options flexible and on the go.
On the other hand, a traditional camping shelter might be more suitable if you need a shelter that offers excellent coverage, protection from the elements, and the ability to camp away from your vehicle. It’s a fantastic option for those who enjoy extended camping trips, exploring remote areas, or camping in harsher weather conditions.
Ultimately, the best choice might be a combination of both—a traditional camping shelter for greater coverage and an overland awning for instant shade and easy setup. Whatever you choose, both options have their merits and can enhance your outdoor experience differently.