Explained
Let’s talk awnings
Sep
Finding a collection of trees in the perfect position and somehow getting high enough to string a tarp over your campsite can be an impossible (and oftentimes dangerous) task. Luckily, there are a range of compact and convenient solutions for all your shelter needs.
An awning permanently mounted to your 4WD is one of those things you don’t realise how handy it is until you have it. Perfect for additional shelter from the sun, wind or rain, awnings are a fantastic accessory not just for camping but also for a day at the beach, an afternoon at the park, when pulled over on the side of the road for a spot of lunch or on a 42°C day when desperately needing shelter from the sun whilst changing a blown-out tyre.
When choosing an awning, remember you get what you pay. Look out for tough ripstop canvas, waterproof and UVP ratings, anodised legs and thick reinforced aluminium extrusions. You can purchase awnings in different sizes and most are available in either a PVC zip-up bag or aluminium case. A handy feature to look out for is in-built LED light strips, providing shelter and lighting solutions all in one.
Another great thing about having an awning as part of your set-up is that you can turn it into a sheltered room with the addition of optional walls. Turning an awning into a room provides protection from the weather and insects, as well as allowing for additional privacy.
Gazebos are a great temporary solution for protection from the sun, wind or rain. Using a gazebo with mesh sidewalls is also good for keeping bugs and mosquitos at bay, especially useful at dinner time. Not only great for the campsite, having a gazebo in the garage will come in handy at your next party, beach set-up or BBQ at the local park.
Look out for features such as UV resistance, strong and sturdy construction materials, multiple height options, steel locking pins and optional solid or mesh walls.
What do I want my awning to achieve?
If it’s simply to throw some shade on a hot campsite, Rhino-Rack’s Batwing and Sunseeker awnings are the perfect solutions. The Sunseeker can be mounted from the side, extending straight out and creating a little slice of paradise on your campsite.
The Batwing extends from side to rear, fanning out across 270 degrees. The size of your camping crew, the location of your regular campsites, and the size of your rig will inform which option is most applicable to you. The Batwing Compact is a variation that differs slightly with a 500mm reduction in length to accommodate smaller vehicles and those with fewer shade demands.
How big is the area I want covered?
When it comes to how much shade you want to create, we offer a number of options. It’s also important to remember that these awnings are compatible with many accessories, all of which can help customize your set up to suit your needs.
Materials
The Sunseekers and Batwing are all constructed using the same tough as nails canvas, ripstop, lightweight, and mold resistant. The outer bags are a 580g/m2 water resistant fiber reinforced PVC material. The awnings all have an independent test UV 50+ rating.
The ARB awnings are constructed from tough PU coated 300gsm poly/cotton rip stop canvas, the awnings are fully waterproof and offer a UVP 50+ rating.
No matter what kind of adventure you’re heading out on; an awning will only enhance the experience. Whether you need a cool spot to pitch your tent or a dry and shady spot to sizzle your sausages, no serious camper should be without an awning.
ARB Awning with light
Light your campsite up with ease. Comprises both the ARB awning and an LED light strip in the awning roof to keep your camp shelter and lighting solutions together. No more fiddling with lights and hooks when all you really want to do is cook or relax. The ARB awning provides fast and reliable shade and protection from the elements, while the LED light strip provides up to 1,200 lumens, with a choice of two different colour modes (cool white or amber) and dimmer switch, all powered via a fused cig socket plug.
Available awning sizes:
• PVC case: 2,500mm (W) x 2,500mm (L)
• PVC case: 2,000mm (W) x 2,500mm (L)
• Aluminium case: 2,500mm (W) x 2,500mm (L)
Rhino Rack 270 degree awning
The all-new Batwing is packed with style and function, boasting features designed for aesthetic and easy use. With 270 degrees of shade and 11sqm coverage, the Batwing is the perfect addition to any adventure. Braving hot summer days or rainy days doesn’t mean you should sacrifice your comfort, or your skin!
The new Rhino-Rack Batwing Tapered Zip Extension attaches to both left and right hand Batwing awnings, allowing for any area under the Batwing to be both full enclosed, or open to allow light and breeze through. The extension attaches to the Batwing via a zip, allowing for extra shade, privacy and shelter, with up to 4 Batwing extensions fitting onto the Batwing to fully enclose the Batwing awning. Our new Batwing extensions provide a better fit around Batwing poles, allowing for greater protection from the elements.
The new Rhino-Rack Batwing Tapered Zip Extension with Door attaches to both left and right hand Batwing awnings, allowing for any area under the Batwing to be both full enclosed or open to allow light and breeze through. The extension attaches to the Batwing via a zip, allowing for extra shade, privacy and shelter, with up to 4 Batwing extensions fitting onto the Batwing to fully enclose the Batwing awning. Our new Batwing extensions provide a better fit around Batwing poles, allowing for greater protection from the elements.
Accessories
ARB Wind breaks
Hitch one up to your awning for extra protection and storage. Makes awning structure stronger – great for windy conditions. More room under your awning and offers more shade.
ARB Deluxe awning room with floor
Something extra. Used with 2,500mm and 2,000mm model awnings, the awning room with floor provides protection from the weather and insects, and allows for additional privacy. Can be used as a fully enclosed room or mosquito net.
ARB quick-release awning brackets
Gives you the ability to quickly unbolt your awning to pack away or move to another location.
Quick as a flash and your awning’s up. Retractable and reliable. Simple set-up and operation. Fits onto the side of roof racks and roof bars, and stores neatly in a sturdy PVC bag or aluminium case. Explore our awning range.
