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Planning your next outdoor trip but worried about the unexpected Australian weather? It might be time to invest in a 4wd awning.
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast who loves to explore Australia’s rugged terrain, then you know that having the right gear is essential.
One of the most important pieces of equipment is a 4WD awning. These handy accessories provide shade and shelter from the elements, and they’re easy to set up and take-down. In this article, we’ll take a look at thirteen of the best 4WD awnings on the market today.
So whether you’re planning your next camping trip or just want some extra protection from the sun, read on for the inside scoop on some of the best 4×4 awnings around!
From keeping rain out of your campsite to shading you from the sun — a 4WD awning is a must-have accessory for all off-roaders.
The best 4WD awnings offer pop-up shade and go-to shelter when inclement weather arises.
Not only are they easy to assemble, they also increase the living space in your campsite — making them one of the best ways to experience the Australian outdoors in comfort. But just like any other 4×4 accessory, choosing the right awning will depend on a lot of factors, including your vehicle type and use case.
13 Best 4X4 Awnings of 2023
Ready to upgrade your shade? Here is a rundown of the 13 best 4WD awnings of 2023, We will look at each company’s features, pricing, support, specifications and more to help you make an informed decision.
So what are you waiting for? Read on to find the best 4wd awning for your next camping trip. It has never been easier to buy a 4wd awning with so many great online camping stores.
What is the Best 4WD Awning?
Here are our top picks for the best 4×4 awnings to buy this year. Our Recommendation for the Best 4WD 270 Degree Awnings Australia 2023: Darche Eclipse Range
When it comes to 4wd awnings, bigger is always better – and the Darche Eclipse 270 Degree Awning is large enough to provide the right amount of shade for you and your family.
The awning alone already covers 11.5 sqm, but with walls fitted, the set-up can cover up to 20.5 sqm. It spans the full length of your vehicle, then wraps around the rear for complete coverage.
The best part about this 4WD awning? It comes in a freestanding unit design that is specifically designed for one person set-up.
The Darche Eclipse 270 can be integrated with a roof top tent, to give you a full camping set up.
Key features:
- 11.5 sqm of full coverage
- Freestanding model
- Comes in two models — Australian drivers’ side or passengers side
- Aluminum hinge system, hinged from both ends
- 320 gsm poly/cotton grid ripstop canvass
- Lightweight box tube alloy rafters
- 3 pivoting alloy telescopic leg poles
- 3 heavy-duty mounting brackets and peg kit included
Verdict: Combining durability and versatility, it’s easy to see why the Darche Eclipse 270 Degree Awning is at the top of our list. Its construction features a box-tube alloy arm system that is lightweight and built to last.
Another standout feature is its ripstop polycotton canvas reinforced with an impressive PU 1500mm waterproof rating that keep you dry even in the harshest of weather. This is a premium, well built awning that will last for years.
Darche also offers accessories that can be added to the 270 Degree 4wd awnings.
The Rhino-Rack Batwing Awning is the perfect combination of style and function. Like typical 270-degree awnings, this one covers both the side and rear of your 4×4 with up to 11sqm coverage.
Its standout feature is its heavy duty construction. It’s made with heavy-duty ripstop material enforced at the seams for more durability and rated UPF 50+ for maximum sun protection — perfect for those long summer camping days.
The Rhino Rack Batwing Awning is very popular amongst 4×4 enthusiasts.
Key features:
- 11 sqm full coverage
- 210D Ripstop and mould resistant material tested to have UV50+ rating
- Fold out awning legs and moulded foot
- Branded pickup point
- Large branded zipper tabs
- Neodymium magnet locking feature
- 580gsm PVC storage bag
- 2 multi-fit brackets and hardware
- Spare hinge knuckles
- Rust-resistant black powder coated poles and frame
- Double stitched velcro
Verdict: The Rhino-Rack Batwing Awning is build to last with its strong construction and sun protection features. It is made of heavy-duty 210 Denier Polycotton Ripstop Canvas and has a sturdy steel frame, making it ideal for use in all weather conditions.
This product is designed for quick an easy set up and pack down. All you have to do is fold out the arms and peg down the ropes and it’s good to go!
The Oztent Foxwing Awning earns a spot on this list because of its convenient features. With a one-person installation design, it’s extremely easy to set up and take down in just a matter of minutes – perfect for first time campers who don’t want to mess around with a bunch of poles and complicated instructions.
This 270-degree awning offers full tent-compatibility on every side of your vehicle, with up to 11 sqm of expandable coverage.
Key features:
- UPF 50+ sun exposure rating
- 270-degree coverage
- Zips on all sides for accessories
- Claw spigot poles, pegs, and ropes
- Mould and rust resistant
- Modern style black cover
- Integrated toggles to hold LED lights
- Reflective guy ropes
Verdict: The Oztent Foxwing Awning makes packing up for a camping trip easier and faster. It is a lightweight and easy-to-use 4wd awning that is made of durable exclusive ModCan material (ripstop polyester) and has a sturdy solid aluminium frame. Additionally, it comes with a built-in transit cover to protect it from the elements.
Each arm of this awning folds away smoothly into a sleek rooftop mount, which also doubles as a storage bag for your poles, pegs, and ropes. There’s no need to worry about inclement weather, since this awing is designed to protect you not only from sun exposure because of its UPF50+ rating, but also because it’s completely waterproof and fire-retardant.
Supapeg is a household name in the camping world, well-known as Australia’s main manufacturers of quality camping products — and its Outbound Shield 6 Freestanding Awning is no exception. Because it sets up and packs down incredibly quickly, it is one of the best choices for beginner campers.
What makes this awning stand out is its unique design: its built without any poles. But don’t let this convenient design fool you; it is extremely durable and mould resistant.
Key features:
- 2.7m packed lenght on vehicle
- Freestanding design
- Coolabah 275 gsm dynaproof canvass material
- Heavy duty stainless steel hinge system
- UV treated and tested for Australian climate
- Includes mounting brackets that suit most roof racks
- Suitable for vehicles where rear bracket can be mounted close to the hinge
Verdict: The Supapeg Outbound Shield 6 Freestanding Awning combines both convenience and durability. As its name suggests, this awning is entirely freestanding with no poles involved in the setup. Alternatively, it comes with an extreme weather kit and easy wall attachments for more variety and customization.
This awning can be set up on 4×4, trailers, campers and large SUVs. The Outbound Shield 6 is ideal for the ultimate 4×4 and touring setup!
Durability is the name of the game when it comes to the Eezi Batwing 270-degree Awning. Its standout feature is its anodized aluminium framework that is heavy duty enough to withstand even the harshest weather conditions.
Made of waterproof and breathable ripstop canvas. Despite its strong build, it remains lightweight and easy to carry.
Key features:
- Full anodized aluminum framework
- Ripstop canvas material
- UV-resistant PVC cover
- Freestanding design
- Up to 80 sq. ft. of coverage
- Compatible with roof racks on either passenger or driver side
Verdict: Australia has one of the most challenging climates for camping, with sudden weather changes throughout different seasons. You’ll need a 4WD awning that strong and durable enough to stand this kind of weather — and the Eezi Batwing 270-degree awning is your best bet. Enforced with high-quality ripstop canvas material, it is completely waterproof and rust resistant.
Unlike other 4wd awnings on the market today, the Nomad 270-degree Base Awning can be fully set up without poles and instead relies on a pair of reinforced oversized hinges and heavy duty rafters – making it incredibly easy to pack down and store after your camping trip.
In case of sudden inclement weather, this awning does not disappoint: it comes fully adjustable pivoting aluminum poles that you can adjust to your desired height and locks into place in mere seconds – ready to take on the most severe storms.
Key features:
- 600D poly cotton rip stop material
- 1000g PVC cover
- Boxed aluminum rafters
- Pivoting aluminum adjustable poles
- Tie down points for securing poles
- Ballistic nylon tie downs
- Shock cord with retention
- Heavy duty oversized stakes
Verdict: It’s impossible to talk about the Nomad 270-degree Base Awning without mentioning its high quality construction. It features a cover made of 600D poly cotton rip stop material. For even more durability, this cover is reinforced with heat sealed seams that ensures zero leaks in case of rainy weather.
If there are only two of you, and you are looking for an easy to set awning, the Darche Eclipse 180 deserves to be on the best 4×4 awnings list.
As a lightweight option, the Darche 180 certainly packs a punch. It offers 8 metres shade cover from the side of your vehicle.
The awning is easy to mount on the side of your vehicle in a matter of minutes. Fitted with Velcro, you can also add a separate side wall to act as a windbreaker or increase the cooling effect.
Made from high-quality aluminium which makes it lightweight. Comes complete with two additional leg poles.
Key Features:
- Super lightweight comes in at only 16.6kg
- Only two metres long when stored
- Optional wall
- Everything you need to get going is included
- Waterproof
- Offers sun protection
Verdict: If you travel alone, this awning falls within the best 4wd awnings category. One of the best points about the Eclipse is its weight. At only 16.6kg almost anybody can handle setting this awning up.
Also, it comes with everything you need to set it up. You can also opt for a sidewall which is great for extra hot days. Offers fantastic value for money and looks good.
When you are looking for the best 4wd awning fit for a king, you are looking for the Kings 270 Wing awning. Best of all, you don’t pay a king’s ransom for adding this awning to your rig. Out of all of the awnings featured, it comes with the best competitive price point.
That does not mean that it does not have a lot to offer. Kings 270 Wing awning is one of the best awnings available today. It is perfect for those who are new to the outback as well as more experienced “outbackers.”
When you looking for your first awning, the Kings 270 is an excellent choice as far as the best 4wd awning goes
Adventure Kings awnings are very popular and can be purchased form many online camping stores.
Key Features:
- Wrap around 270 awning
- UV protection up to 50 SPF
- Waterproof
- Perfect for vans, wagons and utes
- Folding design
- Genuinely one minute set up
- Pivoting feet
- Well made
- Ripstop
- Weighs only 16.8kg
- Stores away quickly
Verdict: When you are looking for the best 4×4 awning that does everything, this is the one for you. Not only does it only take a minute to set it up.
Kings 270 also comes with everything you need. It offers you plenty of canvas space for when you would like to get out of the sun. Compared to other awnings, it looks good as well.
With reliable features and an affordable price tag, the XTM 4×4 270-degree Awning is the perfect choice for the budget-friendly camper. At the top of its list of features is its high quality material made of 280gsm polycotton canvas that is not only durable but also has a 1500mm water rating — guaranteed to handle even the harshest storms.
Key features:
- Extends 270 degrees around and 2.5m out from the vehicle
- 1500mm water rating
- UPF 50+
- Rugged 280gsm poly cotton canvas construction
- 1000D reinforced PVC travel bag
Pros
- Budget Friendly
- Durable construction
- Breathable fabric
Cons
- Heavier than other awnings
- No warranty period listed
Verdict: The XTM 4×4 270-degree Awning is the best camping companion whether it rains or shines. Its waterproof with a high water rating, but also has a UPF50+rating to provide sufficient protection from sun exposure. Another standout feature is its heavy duty aluminium poles that are designed to last for longer camping trips.
When you are looking for a free standing 4wd awning, the 180XT Max is one of the top solutions when it comes to the best 4wd awning camping sector.
Thanks to its incredible span, it provides 8.53 metres of coverage. It also excels when it comes to wind resistance as well as offering excellent strength and durability.
When packed, it measures 2.3m and weighs only 26kg. It is easy to mount to most roof racks and load bars.
The awning is finished with a 50mm velcro strip which makes attaching walls easy. It is supplied complete with a pair of heavy-duty L brackets which makes it easy to erect.
Key features:
- Large coverage 8.53m
- Offers wind resistance
- Comes complete with heavy-duty brackets
- Supplied with storage bag
- Treated for sunny conditions
- Easy to set up
- Fully freestanding
- Ripstop canvas
- Waterproof
Pros
- Offers a large shaded protected area
- High Wind resistance
- Extra external walls are easy to attach thanks to the velcro strip
- Heavy duty
- Easy to both assemble and dissemble
- Can be transported on a roof rack
- UV treated
- Mold and mildew resistant
- Excellent quality
Cons
- Rather large to transport
- A little bit weighty
- Expensive
Verdict: Although some may say this 4×4 awning is a bit on the expensive side, it certainly offers many features which campers appreciate. One of the key features is its size. This is one of the best 4wd awnings under which you can sit down and relax after a long day hiking.
As it is relatively easy to put up, it offers an excellent solution when you want to get into the shade quickly.
When you just want to enjoy shade during a lunch stop, the 270 Gullwing Awning Mk2 offers you the perfect opportunity to do so.
As far as versatility goes, the 270 Gullwing is the best 4×4 awning. Even if you are stopping overnight or for a longer period of time, it is perfect.
Manufactured in South Africa it offers excellent sun protection. Solo campers and travellers will not find it hard to put up this awning on their own. As a matter of fact, it takes only about 30 seconds. Packing it away is just as easy.
Key features:
- Easy set-up
- Comes complete with a polyester canvas bag
- Lightweight at 23.5kg
- Single vertical hinge at the rear
- Waterproof
- Mould and mildew resistant
- Velcro strips for wall attachment
Price: $1750
Pros
- Velcro strips for attaching walls
- Easy set up and pack away for one person
- Excellent choice for solo campers
- Offers shade cover of 270 degrees
- Canvas walls available as an optional extra
- Powder coated brackets
- Lots of optional extras
- Good value for money
- Excellent quality
Cons
- It may be slightly heavy to handle for a solo traveller
Verdict: A quality product that offers everything you need for your perfect Australian outback camping adventure. Made from high-quality materials. The canvas offers excellent protection from the sun on hot days and has a high level of UV resistance.
Once set-up, you have plenty of room underneath this awning to set up a camping kitchen and an area for relaxation.
This is a fantastic shade solution. The MOTOP 270 awning is easy to install and set up. It can be attached to a rooftop tent and easily packed away when you are ready to move on,
You have the option of attaching it either to the passenger side of the vehicle or the driver’s side. As it is easy to set up, you have plenty of shade available quickly.
Key features:
- Heavy-duty 280 gsm poly cotton canvas
- Waterproof
- Manufactured from high-quality aluminium
- Excellent wind rating
- Weatherproof canvas bag
- Supplied with three poles
- Sand pegs
- Mounting brackets included
Pros
- Lightweight at only 19.5 kg
- Coverage 11 sq. meres
- High-quality cotton canvas
- Wind resistant
- UV resistant
- Waterproof
- Easy to set up
- Offers excellent value for money
Cons
- Shaded area a bit small for a large party
Verdict: Excellent value for money and high-quality camping gear. When it comes to price, perhaps the one of the best 4wd awnings. The shaded area is okay, but perhaps a bit small if you have a larger party to cater for. On the upside, this awning is well made. A good starter awning if you are just getting into outdoor life.
This is a fantastic shade solution. The Rhino Rack Batwing awning is easy to install and set up. It can be attached to a rooftop tent and easily packed away when you are ready to move on.
You have the option of attaching it either to the passenger side of the vehicle or the driver’s side. As it is easy to set up, you have plenty of shade available quickly.
Key features:
- Heavy-duty 280 gsm poly cotton canvas
- Waterproof
- Manufactured from high-quality aluminium
- Excellent wind rating
- Weatherproof canvas bag
- Supplied with three poles
- Sand pegs
- Mounting brackets included
Verdict: Although this awning costs a little bit extra, it is worth every cent you spend on it. Not only does offer excellent sun protection, but it is also easy to set up and store away. You can opt to buy side walls which are easy to fit. There are also ready-made channels in the framework of the awning for shovels.
It is the attention to detail that qualifies it for the one of the best 4wd awnings. A popular choice when you enjoy visiting the outback on a regular basis.
THE BEST 4WD AWNINGS - WHY BUY ONE ANYWAY?
Why buy a car awning? A car awning is one of the best investments you can make for your outdoor adventures. Not only does it provide shade and shelter from the sun, wind and rain, but it also gives you a place to relax and enjoy the great outdoors.
Awnings are one of the best value-for-money accessories for your 4×4 camping experience.
If you’re still not convinced, here are a few reasons why you should add 4WD awnings to your camping checklist:
Bigger is always better — and this is especially true when it comes to camping.
4WD awnings almost double the living area of your tents. So if you have smaller tents but lots of
people, all you have to do is put down the net extensions of the awnings to extend your sleeping
space.
Awnings also help you create your own little yard — a place where you can put a table to enjoy your
meals or set up a stove for cooking. It also provides extra storage space for your camping gear,
because let’s fact it: no one wants a messy campsite.
Rain, sun, or even hail — the best 4WD awnings are sure to keep your campsite safe and dry.
Shade is important when enjoying the outdoors, particularly at campgrounds with little to no natural
shade. The great thing about awnings is that they help block out the sun but without obstructing your
view
Awnings help you control how much privacy you want to have in your campsite.
Depending on the season, there could be hundreds of people with you in the campsite that could
make you feel uncomfortable. Full awnings provide the best privacy, so you can choose to lift it up or
shut it down completely
Because they are installed on top of your vehicle, 4WD awnings can be set up in just a matter of
minutes.
Some come with additional attachments like poles that will require proper configuration, but it’s
nothing a manual can’t fix. Additionally, most 4x4s already provide a rail or a place for fixing the
awning
THE BEST 4WD AWNINGS - BUYING GUIDE
Just like other 4×4 accessories, choosing the right 4WD awnings will depend on a lot of factors.
Here at Adventurerz we review a wide selection of retractable awnings for your vehicle. We know that when you’re planning a road trip, the last thing you want to worry about is whether or not your awning will hold up.
That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to the best retractable awnings on the market. We’ll help you choose the perfect awning for your needs.
We have two different styles: the foxwing awning and the batwing awning. So which one is right for you? Keep reading to find out!
The foxwing awning is our most popular retractable awning. It’s perfect for those who want an easy to set up and take down awning. The foxwing awning also has great wind resistance, making it perfect for use in any weather condition.
The batwing awning is perfect for those who want a little bit more coverage. It’s perfect for those who camp with large groups or who have larger vehicles. The batwing awning is also great for those who want extra protection from the sun and wind.
To help you narrow down your choices, here are a few key factors to consider:
The awnings must be compatible with both your vehicle and mounting system.
Always consider the product dimensions, although most awnings can fit a range of factory crossbars or aftermarket roof racks. Some awnings might require additional equipment for installment, so make sure to always check your 4×4 set up.
Side awnings are the most popular and the easiest to set up, since it is only mounted on the side of the roof rack.
Rear awnings, as the name suggests, are mounted on the roof bars at the rear of the vehicle. Some 4×4 owners attach both side and rear awnings to provide more extra space.
271-degree awnings covers both the side and rear of your 4×4. They use a hinge system that easily unfolds, making it very easy to set up.
The size of the awning will determine how much shade you want.
Weight is also an important factor since all vehicles have a maximum weight they can carry o the roof, so it’s important not to overload it too much.
Your 4WD awnings must have the capacity to protect from external elements — this means, it must be both waterproof and UV resistant.
Most awnings are made from polyester cotton, while others are also equipped with more specialized features like reflective layers to protect against the harsh sun.
The Best 4X4 Shade Awning Reviews 2023
What is the best 4×4 shade awning?
The best 4×4 car awning for shade is the Supapeg awning. It is made of durable canvas, has an integrated height-adjustable leg system, and comes with a waterproof ripstop canopy.
The Best Side Awning
What is the best 4wd side awning? The Supapeg Stand Easy is the best side awning on the market. It is Australian made and easy to use and set up.
The Best Rear Awning
What is the best rear awning? The Darche Eclipse Awning is the best rear awning on the market. It is made of high-quality waterproof and breathable ripstop canvas, has an integrated height-adjustable leg system, and comes with a waterproof ripstop canopy. There are many accessories available to enclose the awning if the weather turns bad.
The Best Awning Tent
What is the best tent awning? Oztent is the best awning tent on the market. It is made of durable and waterproof fabric, has an integrated height-adjustable leg system, and comes with a waterproof ripstop canopy.
4wd Awnings FAQs
If you drive a lot and need to take breaks often, a vehicle awning will make your trips more comfortable. Awnings provide shelter from the sun and rain, as well as privacy. Most vehicle awnings attach to the roof-rack system so they don't create drag on the car while driving.
Darche is a well-known brand for making high-quality camping and outdoor gear. The Eclipse range of awnings is no exception.
4WD awnings are very practical and easy to install. They are also easy to store and set up. They offer great protection from the sun and rain.
The style of awning that is best for you will depend on your vehicle and your usage. There are many different styles including 270 degree awnings, 180 degree awnings, pull out awnings, plus a number of other styles.
You should read the instructions for your particular car awning. There are many videos available online if you would like to watch a demonstration before you get started.
The Anaconda 4wd awning has 245 reviews. The average rating is 3.7 out of 5. The Dune 4WD Awning is quick and easy to set up and pack away, thanks to its twist locking poles.
