Your complete guide to choosing the right low drive away awning for your campervan or motorhome — with expert recommendations from our team in Cornwall.
What Is a Low Drive Away Awning?
A low drive away awning attaches to your campervan or motorhome and gives you extra living space — a shelter for camping chairs, a wet room for muddy boots, or simply somewhere to sit out of the rain. "Low" refers to the vehicle connection height, typically suited to campervans, panel vans, and low-profile motorhomes with a connection height of around 180–220 cm.
Unlike a traditional awning that stays attached to the vehicle, a drive away awning can be detached while the van drives off, so you can leave your pitch set up and explore during the day.
The 3 Best Low Drive Away Awnings for 2026
We stock and recommend all three of these models — here's how they compare.
1. Outdoor Revolution Cayman T4 Air — Best All-Rounder
The Outdoor Revolution Cayman T4 Air Low Drive Away Awning is our top pick for most campervan owners in 2026. It pitches in minutes thanks to its single-pump air frame, packs down neatly, and comes with a free footprint included — great value at this price point.
Best for: VW Transporter T5/T6 owners and similar mid-size campervans
Connection height: Low (approx. 180–220 cm)
Why we love it: The Cayman T4 has a spacious, airy inner with good headroom, excellent waterproofing, and Outdoor Revolution's proven AirFrame technology. It's robust enough for Cornwall's unpredictable weather.
2. Vango Cove III Low Air Drive Away Awning — Best for Weekenders
The Vango Cove III Low Air Drive Away Awning is a brilliant option if you're weekend camping rather than touring for weeks at a time. It's lighter and slightly more compact than the Cayman T4, making it easier to store in the van between trips.
Best for: Shorter breaks, smaller campervans, and those who prioritise easy packing
Connection height: Low (approx. 180–210 cm)
Why we love it: Vango's build quality is excellent, and the Cove III sets up in under 10 minutes. It's a reliable, no-fuss awning that holds up well in wind and rain.
3. Dometic Rally Tour S 390 — Best for Extended Touring
If you're planning longer trips or need more living space, the Dometic Rally Tour S 390 is worth the investment. It's larger, more structured, and built for extended touring comfort rather than quick weekend pitches.
Best for: Longer tours, motorhomes, and those who want a proper lounge area attached to the van
Connection height: Low–mid range (check your van's specific measurement before buying)
Why we love it: Dometic is one of the most trusted names in touring, and the Rally Tour S 390 feels like a proper room extension — excellent for families or couples who spend significant time on pitch.
How to Choose the Right Low Drive Away Awning
1. Measure Your Connection Height First
This is the single most important step. Measure the height of the awning rail or door seal on your van — this is your connection height. Low awnings typically fit vans with a connection height of 180–220 cm. If you're unsure, bring your van into our showroom in Newquay and we'll help you measure.
2. Consider How Often You'll Use It
If you're pitching every weekend, a quick-inflate air awning (like all three above) is worth every penny. If it's a few times a year, you might get away with a lighter, more budget-friendly option.
3. Think About Space vs Packability
Larger awnings give you more living space but take up more room in the van. The Dometic Rally Tour S 390 is roomier; the Vango Cove III is more compact. Choose based on your storage situation.
4. Check Van Compatibility
All three awnings above work with a standard kador rail or zip connection. If your van has a specific attachment system (e.g., built-in awning rail, Reimo channel), let us know before ordering and we'll confirm compatibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I leave my drive away awning pitched when I drive off?
Yes — that's the whole point! All three awnings above are designed to be detached from the van so you can keep your pitch set up while you explore. Simply unzip the tunnel connector before driving.
What's the difference between a low and a mid drive away awning?
It comes down to connection height. Low awnings suit campervans and panel vans (approx. 180–220 cm). Mid awnings are better suited to higher-roofed vehicles and motorhomes (approx. 220–270 cm).
Do I need a groundsheet?
The Outdoor Revolution Cayman T4 comes with a free footprint, which acts as a groundsheet. For the Vango and Dometic models, a groundsheet or carpet is a great add-on for comfort, especially on hard standings.
Can I use a drive away awning on a motorhome?
Yes, in many cases. Check your motorhome's connection height — if it falls in the low range (180–220 cm), a low drive away awning will fit. If it's higher, you'll need a mid or high version.
Do you offer delivery across the UK?
Yes — we deliver all awnings across the UK from our base in Cornwall. Most orders are dispatched within 1–2 working days.
Still Not Sure? Visit Us in Cornwall
We're based in Newquay and our team knows campervans and awnings inside out. If you're not sure which awning is right for your van, come in and see us at:
Newquay Camping Shop
4 Bamber House, Victoria, PL26 8LQ
Or get in touch — we're happy to help you find the perfect fit before you buy.
