Two of the most popular drive-away awnings we sell are the Kampa Traverse and the Vango Cove III. Both are well-made, well-reviewed, and available in inflatable and poled versions for low and mid connection heights. So which should you choose?
Here's an honest comparison.
Quick Overview
| Kampa Traverse | Vango Cove III | |
|---|---|---|
| Connection heights | Low (180–210 cm) & Mid (230–265 cm) | Low (180–210 cm) & Mid (230–265 cm) |
| Versions | Air & Poled | Air & Poled |
| Fabric | 150D Polyester (Air) / 75D Polyester (Poled) | Sentinel Active 75D |
| Wind stability | Standard guy points | TBS®II Tension Band System |
| Pitch time (Air) | ~10 minutes | ~10 minutes |
| Pitch time (Poled) | ~13 minutes | ~13 minutes |
Wind Stability — Vango Wins
This is the biggest difference. The Vango Cove III Air uses TBS®II (Tension Band System) — a continuous webbing band that wraps around the inflatable structure to keep it under tension in gusts. It's the best wind-stability system in the inflatable drive-away market.
The Kampa Traverse uses standard webbing guy points — perfectly adequate for most sites and conditions, but it doesn't match the Cove III's stability on exposed coastal and clifftop sites.
For Cornwall's Atlantic coastal sites, the Vango Cove III is the stronger choice.
Fabric & Weather Protection — Similar, Slight Edge to Vango
Both awnings use polyester fabric with solid HH ratings for typical UK conditions. Vango's Sentinel Active 75D is a premium fabric with a proven track record in sustained rain. Kampa's 150D polyester on the Air version is heavier-duty by denier count but not necessarily more waterproof.
In practice, both will keep you dry in normal British summer rain. The Cove III has a slight edge in sustained Atlantic conditions.
Living Space — Similar Dimensions
Both the Traverse and Cove III offer similar interior dimensions — approximately 205 cm depth (plus tunnel) and 300 cm width. Day-to-day living space is comparable between the two.
Price — Kampa Traverse is Better Value
The Kampa Traverse is generally more affordable than the Vango Cove III, particularly in the poled versions. If budget is a priority and you camp mostly on sheltered sites, the Traverse represents excellent value.
Premium Performance — Vango Cove III
If you camp regularly on exposed sites, tour Cornwall and the South West, or simply want the most wind-stable inflatable in the market, the Vango Cove III is worth the extra spend.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose the Kampa Traverse if:
- You camp mostly on sheltered or inland sites
- Budget is a priority
- You want a lighter poled option with a smaller pack size
Choose the Vango Cove III if:
- You camp on exposed coastal sites, especially in Cornwall or the South West
- Wind stability is a priority
- You want the best inflatable drive-away awning in its class
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Kampa Traverse as good as the Vango Cove III?
Both are excellent awnings. The Cove III has better wind stability thanks to TBS®II, making it the better choice for exposed sites. For sheltered camping, the Traverse is a great value alternative.
Which is easier to pitch — Kampa Traverse or Vango Cove III?
Both inflatable versions pitch in around 10 minutes and are similarly straightforward. The poled versions both take around 13 minutes.
Do both awnings work on a VW Transporter?
Yes — both are available in Low profile (180–210 cm connection height), making them compatible with VW T5, T6 and T6.1 campervans.
Can I see these awnings in person?
Yes — Newquay Camping Shop at 4 Bamber House, Victoria, PL26 8LQ stocks drive-away awnings. Visit Monday to Friday or shop online with UK-wide delivery.
