Adding a drive-away awning to your motorhome setup can significantly enhance your camping experience, providing extra living space, shelter, and a convenient area for storing gear. These versatile additions can transform your campsite into a more comfortable and functional home away from home. But with so many options on the market, choosing the best drive-away awning for your motorhome can feel overwhelming. We’ve done the research to help you find the perfect fit for your adventures.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 6 Best Drive Away Awning For Motorhome Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
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1. RV Awning Fabric Replacement Black
The heavy duty black 18.5oz RV awning fabric replacement offers exceptional quality and performance for your motorhome. It’s built to withstand the elements, providing a reliable shield for your outdoor living space.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Weather-Resistant Fabric: Made of high-quality 18.5oz vinyl, this fabric is waterproof and thermally insulated.
- ✓ Designed for RV & Camper Awnings: Compatible with most awnings, ensuring a great fit for your motorhome.
- ✓ Multiple Sizing Options: Available in various lengths to suit different awning sizes, with a fixed fabric width of 8 feet.
Why We Recommend It
This fabric replacement is an excellent choice for its durability and ease of use. It’s a cost-effective way to refresh your RV’s awning, providing peace of mind and extended comfort during your travels.
Best For
Motorhome owners looking to replace worn-out or damaged awning fabric with a robust and long-lasting solution.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent weather resistance, keeping you dry and protected.
- Wide range of sizes available to fit most RVs.
- Durable 18.5oz vinyl material ensures longevity.
Cons:
- Installation can require a second person for easier handling.
- Fabric width is fixed, so ensure it meets your needs.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “So far so good. Pretty easy to put on. Its possible to do alone, but much easier with 2 people. Quality seems to be really good. Time will tell though.”
Customer Review: “Looks and works good. Ease of replacing old awning was a plus.”
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2. Solera Drive Head Assembly Black
The Solera Power Awning Drive Head Assembly Kit is a robust solution for maintaining your motorhome’s awning. It includes the motor and gear kit, ensuring smooth operation.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Includes Motor and Gear Kit: A complete set for replacing your drive head assembly.
- ✓ Easy Manual Override: Features a manual override function for power failure scenarios, allowing you to extend and retract the awning with a cordless drill.
- ✓ Designed for Solera Awnings: Specifically engineered to fit Solera Power Awning Assemblies.
Why We Recommend It
This kit is highly recommended for its straightforward installation and improved build quality over original parts. It’s a reliable upgrade that brings functionality back to your awning.
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Owners of Solera Power Awnings needing to replace a faulty drive head assembly or upgrade to a more durable component.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Better built than original equipment.
- Includes all necessary parts for replacement.
- Easy to install, often a simple swap.
- Manual override feature adds practicality.
Cons:
- Requires basic mechanical understanding for installation.
- Compatibility is specific to Solera Power Awning Assemblies.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Works great better built than the original. Price shopped around at local RV dealers this is over 100.00 cheaper but a name brand product.”
Customer Review: “Highly recommend! Simple as it gets I expected a freaking project! Not the case! Quality and fit was perfect! Literally unsnapped the old one snapped in the new one.”
3. Tentproinc Awning Sun Shade Screen 8’x14’3″
The Tentproinc RV Awning Sun Shade Screen is a fantastic addition for creating a comfortable outdoor space. It’s an affordable way to add shade and privacy to your motorhome setup.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ UV Block & Open View: Blocks approximately 86% of UV rays while offering a clear view, protecting your skin and eyes.
- ✓ Lower Temperature: Creates a cooler, more comfortable shaded area, perfect for hot days.
- ✓ Reduces Wind Efficiently: Helps to break crosswinds, making your outdoor area more comfortable.
- ✓ Durable Material: Made from a sturdy material that feels robust and well-constructed.
Why We Recommend It
This sun shade offers excellent value, providing significant improvements in comfort and UV protection for its price. It’s a simple yet effective way to enhance your motorhome’s outdoor living space.
Best For
Budget-conscious motorhome owners seeking to add shade, UV protection, and a cooler environment to their campsite.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent UV blockage and temperature reduction.
- Easy to install, even for a single person.
- Sturdy and well-made for the price.
- Provides a good balance of shade and view.
Cons:
- May require additional tie-downs in very windy conditions.
- The size may need careful measurement to ensure a perfect fit.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “First I will talk about the actual sun shade. It works fantastically. Our deck out front of our camper faces west, so it would get very hot in the evenings. It feels at least 10 degrees cooler. It is also much thicker and sturdier than I thought it would be. Well made! It took under 5 minutes to ins”
Customer Review: “I purchased this item the last week of September and used it for the first time. I read the instructions on installation and it recommended two people to install. However, I go camping by myself and my little yorkie (who is the supervisor). I found it rather simple and easy to install by myself. Onc”
4. Lippert Solera Awning Motor
The Lippert Solera Awning Motor is a crucial component for powering your RV’s awning. This 12V motor with dual connectors is designed for reliability and ease of integration.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 12V Power Operation: Standard voltage for RV electrical systems, ensuring broad compatibility.
- ✓ Dual Connectors: Simplifies wiring and installation process.
- ✓ 75-RPM Speed: Provides a balanced extension and retraction speed for your awning.
- ✓ Designed for Solera Awnings: Built as a direct replacement for compatible Solera power awnings.
Why We Recommend It
This motor is a straightforward replacement part that gets your awning functioning again quickly. It’s a dependable option for maintaining your motorhome’s comfort and convenience.
Best For
Owners of Solera Power Awnings (built before July 15, 2015) needing a replacement motor to restore awning functionality.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Easy and quick installation.
- Works perfectly for restoring awning operation.
- Significantly more affordable than dealer-installed options.
- Reliable performance for regular use.
Cons:
- May require adding a polarized connector for older models.
- Specific compatibility with pre-July 2015 Solera awnings.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Installed on the RV of my neighbor quickly and easily. Worked perfect all summer long. And the RV dealer was going to charge over $500 for the same item, installed.”
Customer Review: “Bought this to replace non-functioning awning motor on my 2016 Crossroads Cruiser 5th wheel. The original part number of the one I removed was 373566. With the exception of having to add the polarized connector it was physically a complete match. Both were 12VDC, 75 RPM. The original had a P/N 591-7”
5. Solera Drive Head Front Cover Black
The Solera Replacement RV Awning Plain Drive Head Front Cover in black is designed for protection and easy maintenance of your awning’s drive head.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Easy Installation: No assembly required, allowing for quick replacement.
- ✓ Durable Protection: Built to safeguard the drive head from damage, contributing to its longevity.
- ✓ Wide Compatibility: Fits both Solera power and manual awnings, including various assembly types.
Why We Recommend It
This front cover is a practical and straightforward replacement part that helps maintain the integrity and appearance of your RV awning. It’s a simple upgrade that offers good protection.
Best For
Motorhome owners looking to replace a damaged or missing front drive head cover on their Solera awnings.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Simple to install, often a direct fit.
- Provides good protection against the elements and physical damage.
- Compatible with a range of Solera awning types.
Cons:
- Screws for installation are not always included.
- Requires careful alignment for a perfect fit.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Absolute perfect fit and easily installed. I do wish the proper screws were also included.”
Customer Review: “fits well, easy installation if you have the right screws.”
6. Tentproinc Awning Side Sun Shade Screen 9’x7′
The Tentproinc RV Awning Side Sun Shade Screen offers an excellent way to enhance privacy and shade on the side of your motorhome, complementing your main awning.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ UV Block & Open View: Blocks about 86% of UV rays while allowing for an open view of your surroundings.
- ✓ Lower Temperature: Contributes to a cooler and more pleasant shaded area.
- ✓ Reduces Wind: Helps to mitigate the force of crosswinds, making your outdoor space more comfortable.
- ✓ Easy Installation: Designed to slide into the awning roller with relative ease.
Why We Recommend It
This side shade is a great addition for creating a more defined and protected outdoor living area. It’s easy to set up and significantly improves comfort on sunny or breezy days.
Best For
Motorhome campers who want to add side shade and wind protection to their existing awning setup, increasing privacy and comfort.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Effective at blocking UV rays and reducing heat.
- Easy to install, even when camping solo.
- Durable material with a good finish.
- Can be used in various settings, including garages.
Cons:
- Requires precise measurement for the correct fit.
- Best used in conjunction with a front shade for maximum coverage.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This is a lifesaver. Works great as a sunshade when camping. It was easy to install. To install, you have to slide an approximately 2-foot-long piece into the roller that your awning fastens on to. This was easy to do. Once the piece is mounted to the awning, when the awning is out all the way “
Customer Review: “Easy installation, I use it for my garage! Very dxurable! love the black. fits great and light weight. want to order 3 more when on sale. Great durable shade!”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Drive Away Awning For Motorhome
Essential Factors We Consider
When selecting the best drive-away awning for your motorhome, we look at several key factors. Material quality is paramount; it needs to be durable, waterproof, and UV-resistant to withstand various weather conditions. Ease of setup and takedown is also crucial for a stress-free camping experience. We consider the awning’s size and how it integrates with your motorhome, ensuring it provides adequate living or storage space without being unwieldy. Finally, stability and wind resistance are vital for ensuring your awning remains secure, even in breezy conditions. Thinking about your next adventure, perhaps to Bolivia for its unique landscapes, means having reliable gear.
Budget Planning
Drive-away awnings can range significantly in price. While budget-friendly options exist, investing a little more often means gaining superior durability, better weather protection, and easier setup. Consider your typical camping frequency and the environments you’ll be visiting. If you’re a weekend warrior on clear-sky trips, a more basic model might suffice. However, if you plan extensive travel, like exploring different seasons in Senegal, a premium, robust awning will be a worthwhile long-term investment.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right drive-away awning can truly elevate your motorhome adventures. By considering the material, ease of use, size, and stability, you can find a product that perfectly complements your travel style. Whether you need extra living space, a sheltered cooking area, or simply more storage, there’s an awning out there to meet your needs. Don’t forget to factor in accessories that can enhance your setup, such as lighting or flooring, to make your campsite feel even more like home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is a drive-away awning?
A: A drive-away awning is a freestanding or attached tent that can be detached from your motorhome, allowing you to drive your vehicle away for day trips and then re-attach the awning later.
Q: How do I attach a drive-away awning to my motorhome?
A: Most drive-away awnings attach via a kador strip that slides into your motorhome’s awning rail, or they can be secured using guylines if they are freestanding.
Q: Are drive-away awnings difficult to set up?
A: Setup difficulty varies by design. Inflatable (air) awnings are generally easier and quicker to set up than pole-based awnings. We recommend looking for models with clear instructions and color-coded poles if you choose a traditional pole system.
Q: Can I leave my drive-away awning up unattended?
A: While many awnings are designed to be stable, it’s generally not recommended to leave them up unattended for extended periods, especially in adverse weather conditions. Always secure your awning properly before leaving it.
Q: What size drive-away awning do I need?
A: Measure the height of your motorhome’s awning rail to ensure a proper fit. Consider the amount of extra living or storage space you require when choosing the width and depth.
Adding a quality drive-away awning can truly enhance your motorhome journeys, providing versatile extra space and shelter. Whether you prioritize quick setup, robust weather resistance, or budget-friendliness, there’s a perfect option waiting for you. Explore these top picks and get ready to enjoy your next adventure with added comfort and convenience!