The Kampa Roam and Kampa Traverse are two of the most popular drive-away awnings in our range — both available in low profile for compact campervans, both in poled and inflatable formats. If you’re deciding between the two, this guide explains the key differences and which one is right for your situation.
At Newquay Camping Shop, we stock the full Kampa Roam and Traverse range. This is an honest, side-by-side comparison to help you choose.
The Short Answer
- Kampa Roam — entry level. Lower price, functional spec, the right choice if budget is the primary driver.
- Kampa Traverse — mid-range step up. Better fabric, improved spec, 2026 construction. Worth the extra if you camp regularly.
Kampa Roam Low — Entry Level
Kampa Roam Low Poled
Kampa’s entry-level low-profile poled awning. Fibreglass pole construction, large side windows, clip-in groundsheet, and a pegged-out canopy. Straightforward and practical — does exactly what a drive-away awning needs to do at an accessible price.
- Type: Poled | Profile: Low (180–210cm)
- Best for: Budget buyers, first awning, occasional use
- Pros: Lower price, proven construction, easy field repair
- Cons: Lower spec than Traverse, basic fabric
Kampa Roam Air Low
The inflatable version of the Roam — single-point inflation, 5–10 minute pitch. The entry point into Kampa’s AirFrame inflatable range at the most accessible inflatable price we stock.
- Type: Inflatable | Profile: Low (180–210cm)
- Best for: Budget inflatable buyers, frequent movers, solo tourers
- Pros: Fast pitch, most affordable inflatable in our Kampa range
- Cons: Entry-level spec compared to Traverse Air
Kampa Traverse Low 2026 — Mid Range
Kampa Traverse Low Poled 2026
A step up from the Roam in fabric quality, weather resistance, and overall construction. The Traverse Poled Low is the standout mid-range poled awning for compact van owners wanting more than entry-level spec in 2026.
- Type: Poled | Profile: Low (180–210cm) | Year: 2026
- Best for: Regular campers wanting a step up from entry level, buyers prioritising 2026 spec
- Pros: Better fabric and spec than Roam, 2026 construction, more weather-resistant
- Cons: Higher price than Roam Poled
Kampa Traverse Low Air 2026
The mid-range inflatable Traverse in low-profile format — single-point inflation, improved spec over the Roam Air, and 2026 construction. The best mid-range inflatable for compact van owners who move sites regularly.
- Type: Inflatable | Profile: Low (180–210cm) | Year: 2026
- Best for: Regular movers wanting better inflatable spec than the Roam Air
- Pros: Better spec than Roam Air, 2026 construction, fast pitch
- Cons: Higher price than Roam Air
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Model | Type | Spec level | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roam Low Poled | Poled | Entry | Budget, first awning, occasional use |
| Traverse Low Poled 2026 | Poled | Mid | Regular campers, 2026 spec step-up |
| Roam Air Low | Inflatable | Entry | Budget inflatable, frequent movers |
| Traverse Low Air 2026 | Inflatable | Mid | Regular movers, better inflatable spec |
Which Should You Choose?
Choose the Kampa Roam if:
- Budget is the primary driver and you want the lowest sensible entry point
- You camp occasionally (a handful of trips per year) and don’t need premium spec
- It’s your first drive-away awning and you want to try the format before investing more
Choose the Kampa Traverse if:
- You camp regularly (monthly or more) and want an awning that earns its keep
- You’re buying a 2026 model and want the updated construction
- You want better weather resistance for exposed Cornish and South West sites
- The price difference is manageable for the spec improvement
What About the Kampa Roam Mid or Traverse Mid?
If your campervan has a kador rail height above 210cm (Mercedes Sprinter, VW Crafter, Fiat Ducato, full-size Ford Transit), you need a mid-profile version — both the Roam and Traverse are available in mid-profile. See our sizing guide to confirm your profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Kampa Traverse worth the extra over the Roam?
For regular campers, yes — the improved fabric and 2026 construction make a meaningful difference over multiple seasons. For occasional use, the Roam does the job well at a lower price.
What vans does the Kampa Roam / Traverse Low fit?
Both the Roam Low and Traverse Low fit campervans with a kador rail height of 180–210cm — including the VW T5, VW T6, Ford Transit Custom, Vauxhall Vivaro, Renault Trafic, and Mercedes Vito. Always measure your kador rail height before ordering.
Can I upgrade from a Roam to a Traverse later?
Yes — both connect via the same kador rail system and the upgrade path is straightforward. Many campers start with a Roam and move up to a Traverse after their first season.
Can I buy a Kampa Roam or Traverse in Cornwall?
Yes — Newquay Camping Shop stocks the Kampa Roam and Traverse range at 4 Bamber House, Victoria, PL26 8LQ (Monday to Friday) and online with UK-wide delivery.
Shop Kampa Roam & Traverse at Newquay Camping Shop
Newquay Camping Shop
4 Bamber House, Victoria, PL26 8LQ
Open Monday to Friday
Browse all drive-away awnings online.
