Are there strong wind resistant awnings for campervans?

When it comes to campervan awnings, wind resistance is crucial for both safety and comfort. Here’s what you need to know to find the perfect awning for your windy adventures:

Types of Awnings:

• Pole Awnings: Traditional and affordable, but can be bulky and less stable in strong winds. They require proper guying and tensioning to handle high winds. Example: https://khyam.co.uk/products/khyam-kamper-sleeper-pole-sleeve-driveaway-campervan-awning . I have been using https://www.andescamping.co.uk/99473-andes-bayo-driveaway-awning.html for a couple years now. I have the large size right now that supports the width of VW Transporter T5.

• Inflatable Awnings: Quick and easy to set up, with good inherent wind resistance due to their air beams. However, they can be more expensive and vulnerable to punctures. Example: https://www.norwichcamping.co.uk/shop/product/quest-westfield-hydra-mid-inflatable-drive-away-awning-13078/ . I have not used an inflatable awning. I am concerned about the weight but if it works with the wind that could be good.
• Hybrid Awnings: Combine poles and air beams for a balance of stability, affordability, and ease of use.

Key Features for Wind Resistance:

• Frame Material: Aluminum frames are lightweight and strong, while steel offers even more sturdiness for extreme winds.
• Roof Fabric: Choose a tear-resistant and waterproof fabric like ripstop polyester or PVC. Look for a high hydrostatic head rating (HH rating) for better water resistance.
• Guy Lines and Pegs: Strong guy lines and sturdy pegs are essential for anchoring the awning securely. Consider using storm straps for extra wind protection.
• Aerodynamic Design: Opt for awnings with rounded profiles and sloping roofs to minimize wind drag.

Additional Learnings:

• Getting good with guy lines seems key
• Getting the tent square has been important
• Adjustable tent poles have been helpful to add some more tension and help keep the rain from pooling. Here is an example https://www.amazon.co.uk/REDCAMP-Telescopic-Extendable-Adjustable-Black-Telescoping/dp/B0C22TYX1L/ . We are actually going to get more of these. We originally got them to hold up the tent door to allow for shade but they have become a key part of the kit.

Air Tents for Windy Conditions I have been told to look into:

Air tents can be a good option for windy camping due to their inherent stability. However, there are still some factors to consider:

• Airbeam Technology: Choose tents with strong, high-pressure air-beams made from durable materials like TPU or PVC.
• Size and Shape: Opt for smaller, dome-shaped tents with minimal wind surface area. Avoid large, boxy tents that are more prone to wind gusts. Having too small a tent is a concern for us with the Transporter.
• Guying and Pegs: Even air tents benefit from guying lines and sturdy pegs for extra security.
• Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation to prevent air pressure build-up inside the tent during strong winds.

Here are some additional resources that you may find helpful:

• Outwell Wind Stabilizer System: https://www.outwell.com/en-gb/ecommerce/tents/utility-tents/windscreens
• Vango AirBeam Tents: https://www.threezero.co.uk/awnings/awnings-by-type.html
• Tested under severe conditions on Outwell test facility: https://www.outwell.com/en-gb/outwell-academy/tips-and-skills-how-to-guides-from-outwell/material-guide/tested-under-severe-conditions

This testing by Outwell was intriguing. I had not heard of them but will doing research and exploring because the video about their wind test although from 2017 was helpful to see that is being done.

Here is what I read about Outwell:

• Scandinavian Heritage: Founded in Denmark in 1984, Outwell draws inspiration from its Scandinavian roots, emphasising design, functionality, and comfort in their camping gear. I like the idea of supporting a Scandinanvian company in addition to our UK base.
• Tents: Outwell offers a wide range of tents, from pop-up shelters to spacious family tents with multiple compartments and bedrooms. They’re known for their breathable fabrics, sturdy frames, and weatherproof construction.
• Awnings: Their awnings come in various sizes and styles, from lightweight options for solo travelers to full-size living spaces for families. They prioritise wind resistance and ease of setup.

Outwell has quite a few awards listed on their site. https://www.outwell.com/en-gb/outwell-academy/awards. Confirms I need to look for more.

What do they use on Everest base camps?

I have seen a lot of films showing pretty big tents at Everest base camp. I have not been of course but thought it might be good to know what they use there given the conditions. That will be a topic for future research.