For those who regularly commute in their four-wheel drive, stopping for lunch is usually controlled by where you can set up the vehicle. You want a spot that offers shade, is out of the wind, and out of the way! However, with the popularity of 4WD canopies taking off, you may have a much easier solution! 4WD awnings snap off the side or rear of your vehicle and install in minutes, providing instant protection from the elements.
Most awnings on the side of the vehicle are 2.5 meters x 2 meters, or 2 meters by 2 meters. The longest side is usually the one that runs the length of your vehicle, so be sure to measure to see which one will fit best. These things are great and incredibly cheap. In fact, you can get a good quality one for under $300 and have it set up in about an hour.
4WD awnings are designed to be installed by one person and very quickly. The procedure normally consists of unzipping the cover, releasing the brackets, rolling up the awning and raising the legs. The legs are incorporated into the aluminum frame from which the awning emerges. Stand them upright, attach the supports, and if it’s windy, drive some stakes into the ground with guy ropes going to the awning. Usually I suggest pinning it down is a good idea as the wind will pick it all up and blow it onto your vehicle. This often results in panel damage!
4WD awnings are completely weather resistant; I got a puddle of water on our awning when it was raining hard, and not a drop came out. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite for lunch or want to sleep under the awning, they’re a brilliant idea. You can get awnings that pull off the rear of the vehicle and awnings that will cover all 3 sides of the vehicle. Expect to pay a considerably higher amount for these, but if they suit your purposes, that’s great!
Various accessories for 4WD awnings can be purchased, including bug-proof sides or solid sides that allow you to convert the awning into a tent on the side of the vehicle. For about the same cost as you would pay for a regular tent, you can have a big one, attached to your vehicle!
