Adding an awning to your motorhome is one of the easiest ways to create extra living space and enjoy the outdoors comfortably. Whether you’re chasing shade, setting up a relaxed lunch spot, or simply winding down for the day, the right RV awning can transform your site. But how do you know which type to choose?
At Avida, we fit both electric and manual rollout awnings to our motorhomes. These roof-mounted awnings come in various styles, with cassette awnings (alternately called box awnings) being the most popular electric design. Each has its pros and cons, and choosing between them often comes down to your personal preferences, how often you travel, and how you like to set up camp. Let’s explore the differences and what to consider before you decide to buy a motorhome with awning.
Manual Roll Out Awnings
The manual rollout awning is a tried and tested favourite among traditional awnings, offering durability, flexibility, and solid weather protection. These fixed awnings are operated by hand, using a simple mechanism that allows you to unroll the awning fabric and secure it in place with supporting arms and poles. Once set up, you’ve got a sturdy, shaded outdoor space ideal for relaxing, cooking, or just enjoying the view.
One of the main benefits of a rollout awning is its strength. Built with high-quality materials and designed for regular use, they’re well-suited to long trips and varied weather conditions, including rain. They also work well across a wide range of motorhomes and campervans, and are a natural fit for a small campervan where weight and wall space are important factors. Many are designed to be light weight while still providing shelter from direct sunlight. For travellers who enjoy adding accessories like privacy screens, curved roof rafters or anti-flap kits, a rollout awning provides maximum flexibility.
That said, they do take a little more effort to set up. If you’re travelling solo or have limited mobility, the manual aspect might not be as appealing. Still, many Avida owners appreciate the independence and reliability that comes with a manual system, especially when camping for an extended period.
Electric Awnings
Electric awnings offer the same core benefits with the added convenience of push-button operation. These awnings extend and retract at the touch of a button, making setup quick and stress-free. The easy setup makes them particularly popular as campervan awnings, where space and convenience are priorities. For some models, they’re included as standard, while for others, they’re an optional upgrade.
They’re especially handy for travellers who want to simplify their routines or avoid the physical effort of setup. If you’re pulling into a site in the late afternoon or dealing with unpredictable weather, being able to pack away your awning in seconds is a big advantage. This awning takes minimal effort to operate and creates an extra room outdoors instantly.
Another benefit of electric awnings is consistency. They extend evenly and smoothly onto a flat surface, helping prevent fabric from catching or bunching, and many include features like wind sensors that automatically retract the awning in strong gusts, protecting your gear even when you’re not at the van. This makes them excellent for keeping cool and providing shade consistently, creating an extended living area for your motorhome.
Of course, they do rely on your vehicle’s 12V system or battery, and if anything does go wrong, you may need a technician to help reset or repair the motor. Some models also include storage space within the cassette housing for accessories. But for most motorhome travellers, the ease of use outweighs the extra complexity.
So Which One Is Better?
There’s no single best option, just the one that suits your lifestyle best. If you love the hands-on element of camping and want the freedom to customise your awning setup with accessories, a manual rollout awning is a strong choice. If convenience and simplicity are your top priorities, or you want something that’s easy to manage year after year, an electric awning might be the better fit.
Either way, both options are built to last, and both can give you the shelter, shade and comfort that makes a big difference to life on the road.
Designed for the Great Outdoors
Whatever type of awning you choose, it’s worth paying attention to the details. Awnings made from UV-resistant materials will last longer under the Australian sun, while choosing one from a leading brand like Dometic, Fiamma, or Aussie Traveller makes it easier to access spare parts and accessories down the track. Professional installation ensures your canopy operates safely and efficiently.
Planning Your Next Getaway?
A good awning can turn a stop into a stay. No matter where your journey leads, it gives you the space and shelter to enjoy the outdoors in comfort. If you’re not sure which option is right for your setup, or are upgrading an existing awning, our team can help you find the right awning that works with your motorhome and your travel style.
And if you’re still exploring your options, take a look at our full range of motorhomes for sale and campervans for sale, including models like the Beechworth solar motorhome, Bruny drop down bed motorhome, and Trek campervan with shower and toilet that make off-grid touring even more comfortable.
