Cart
0 items
Cart
0 items
0

£0.00

Your cart

Your cart is currently empty.

PRICE MATCH PROMISE Shop in confidence

FREE STANDARD UK DELIVERY On Orders over £150

Van Life Gear Guide for Cornwall: Everything You Need for Campervan Adventures in the South West

2nd September 2026
Van Life Gear Guide for Cornwall: Everything You Need for Campervan Adventures in the South West

Cornwall is one of the UK's most iconic van life destinations. From the wild Atlantic coast of the Penwith Peninsula to the sheltered coves of the Roseland, the surf breaks of Newquay to the ancient moorland of Bodmin, there's nowhere quite like it for a campervan adventure. But to make the most of it, you need the right gear.

At Newquay Camping Shop we're based right in the heart of Cornwall's camping country. We know what works here — and what doesn't. This guide covers everything you need for a van life trip to Cornwall, from drive-away awnings to inflatable furniture, sleeping systems to surf kit.

Drive-Away Awnings: Extend Your Living Space

A drive-away awning is the single biggest upgrade you can make to your campervan setup. It gives you a covered living area, a place to store wet gear, and the freedom to drive off for the day without dismantling your camp.

For Cornwall's variable weather — sunshine one hour, Atlantic squall the next — an inflatable awning is ideal. They pitch in minutes and pack down fast when the weather turns. Our top picks for Cornwall van life:

  • Vango AirAway Hexaway II Pro — fast pitch, excellent weatherproofing, great for VW campervans and mid-height vehicles
  • Outdoor Revolution Cayman Air — outstanding value, available in low, mid, and high versions
  • Kampa Dometic Ace Air Pro — spacious family option with a separate sleeping area

Browse all drive-away awnings →

Inflatable Camping Furniture: Comfort Without the Bulk

Space is at a premium in a campervan, so furniture that packs down small is essential. Inflatable camping chairs and sofas have come a long way — modern options are genuinely comfortable, surprisingly robust, and pack into a bag small enough to fit under your van bed.

The Vango Inflatable Donut Flocked Chair is a Cornwall favourite — perfect for sitting outside watching the sunset over the Atlantic. The Outwell Laze Inflatable Set gives you a sofa and footstool in one compact package, ideal for longer stays.

Browse inflatable camping chairs →

Sleeping Systems: Stay Warm on Cool Cornish Nights

Even in summer, Cornwall nights can be cool — especially near the coast where the sea breeze picks up after dark. A good sleeping bag rated to at least 5°C comfort is recommended for most of the year, with a 0°C bag for spring and autumn trips.

Pair your sleeping bag with a quality self-inflating mat or airbed for insulation from the van floor. We stock sleeping bags and mats from Vango, Outwell, and Highlander to suit every budget.

Browse sleeping bags →

Wetsuits: Make the Most of Cornwall's Surf

If you're heading to Cornwall for the surf — and let's be honest, most van lifers are — a good wetsuit is non-negotiable. The Atlantic water temperature around Newquay averages 14–17°C in summer, so a 3/2mm summer wetsuit is the minimum, with a 4/3mm recommended for spring and autumn.

We stock wetsuits at our Newquay showroom, so you can try before you buy.

Van Life Essentials Checklist for Cornwall

  • ✅ Drive-away awning (inflatable recommended)
  • ✅ Inflatable camping chair or sofa
  • ✅ Sleeping bag rated to 5°C or lower
  • ✅ Self-inflating mat or airbed
  • ✅ Wetsuit (3/2mm minimum for summer)
  • ✅ Windbreak (essential on exposed Cornish pitches)
  • ✅ Camping kitchen or portable stove
  • ✅ Waterproof jacket (always)

Visit Our Newquay Showroom

We're based at 4 Bamber House, Victoria, PL26 8LQ, open Monday to Friday. If you're passing through on your Cornwall van life trip, pop in — we're happy to help with kit advice, and we stock a wide range of camping and van life gear you can take away the same day.

Can't make it in? Browse our full van life camping gear range online with UK-wide delivery available.

Van Life Gear Guide for Cornwall: Everything You Need for Campervan Adventures in the South West

You may also like to read

Best Inflatable Camping Chairs 2026: Comfort at the Campsite

02.09.26
Gone are the days of uncomfortable folding chairs that leave you with a sore back by sunset. Inflatable camping chairs have transformed campsite comfort — they're lightweight, pack down small, and the best models are genuinely as comfortable as your sofa at home. Whether you're parked up in a Cornish cove or pitched on a busy festival site, a good inflatable chair makes all the difference.This guide covers the best inflatable camping chairs for 2026, from solo loungers to full inflatable sofa sets, to help you find the right option for your camping style.Why Choose an Inflatable Camping Chair?Traditional folding camping chairs are fine, but they have limitations — they're bulky, they can be uncomfortable for long sits, and the cheaper ones tend to sag or break after a season or two. Inflatable chairs offer several advantages: Pack size: Most inflate from a bag smaller than a sleeping bag, making them ideal for campervans and motorhomes where space is tight Comfort: A well-designed inflatable chair distributes your weight evenly, reducing pressure points Insulation: Premium models like the Vango Donut Chair include flocked or foam-lined surfaces that retain warmth on cool evenings Versatility: Many models work equally well indoors, in the garden, or at the beach Best Inflatable Camping Chairs 20261. Vango Inflatable Donut Flocked Chair — Best OverallThe Vango Donut Chair is the benchmark for inflatable camping chairs. Its distinctive donut shape provides excellent all-round support, and the flocked surface feels warm and comfortable against bare skin — ideal for those cool Cornish evenings. It inflates quickly, holds air reliably, and packs into a compact carry bag. A firm favourite with van lifers and festival campers alike. Shop inflatable camping chairs →2. Outwell Laze Inflatable Sofa Set — Best for CouplesThe Outwell Laze Set gives you an inflatable sofa and footstool in one package — perfect for couples who want a proper lounge setup at the campsite. The low-profile design is stable on uneven ground, and the set packs down surprisingly small for what it offers. Great for motorhome owners and longer camping stays. Shop inflatable camping chairs →3. Vango Embrace Chair — Best Budget InflatableIf you want the inflatable chair experience without the premium price tag, the Vango Embrace Chair is a solid choice. Comfortable, reliable, and easy to inflate, it's a great entry point into inflatable camping furniture. Ideal for festival campers or those new to van life who want to try before committing to a higher-end model.4. Outwell Campion Chair — Best for FamiliesThe Outwell Campion is a versatile inflatable chair that works well for adults and older children alike. Its generous seat width and supportive backrest make it comfortable for long evenings around the campfire, and it's robust enough to handle the rigours of family camping.How to Choose an Inflatable Camping ChairComfort level: Consider how long you'll be sitting. For short breaks, a basic inflatable is fine. For long evenings at the campsite, look for models with flocked surfaces, foam inserts, or ergonomic shaping.Pack size and weight: If you're in a campervan or backpacking, pack size matters. Most inflatable chairs compress to roughly the size of a large water bottle — check the packed dimensions before buying.Inflation method: Most inflate by mouth or with a small pump. Some premium models include a built-in pump valve for faster inflation. A footpump or electric pump makes the job much easier if you're inflating multiple items.Durability: Look for reinforced seams and quality PVC or TPU construction. Cheaper chairs can develop slow leaks after a season — brands like Vango and Outwell use higher-grade materials that last significantly longer.Visit Us in CornwallWe stock a range of inflatable camping chairs and furniture at our showroom at 4 Bamber House, Victoria, PL26 8LQ, open Monday to Friday. Come in and try them out — we're happy to inflate a few models so you can compare comfort before you buy.Can't make it in? Browse our full inflatable camping chairs range online with UK-wide delivery available.

Van Life Gear Guide for Cornwall: Everything You Need for Campervan Adventures in the South West

02.09.26
Cornwall is one of the UK's most iconic van life destinations. From the wild Atlantic coast of the Penwith Peninsula to the sheltered coves of the Roseland, the surf breaks of Newquay to the ancient moorland of Bodmin, there's nowhere quite like it for a campervan adventure. But to make the most of it, you need the right gear.At Newquay Camping Shop we're based right in the heart of Cornwall's camping country. We know what works here — and what doesn't. This guide covers everything you need for a van life trip to Cornwall, from drive-away awnings to inflatable furniture, sleeping systems to surf kit.Drive-Away Awnings: Extend Your Living SpaceA drive-away awning is the single biggest upgrade you can make to your campervan setup. It gives you a covered living area, a place to store wet gear, and the freedom to drive off for the day without dismantling your camp.For Cornwall's variable weather — sunshine one hour, Atlantic squall the next — an inflatable awning is ideal. They pitch in minutes and pack down fast when the weather turns. Our top picks for Cornwall van life: Vango AirAway Hexaway II Pro — fast pitch, excellent weatherproofing, great for VW campervans and mid-height vehicles Outdoor Revolution Cayman Air — outstanding value, available in low, mid, and high versions Kampa Dometic Ace Air Pro — spacious family option with a separate sleeping area Browse all drive-away awnings →Inflatable Camping Furniture: Comfort Without the BulkSpace is at a premium in a campervan, so furniture that packs down small is essential. Inflatable camping chairs and sofas have come a long way — modern options are genuinely comfortable, surprisingly robust, and pack into a bag small enough to fit under your van bed.The Vango Inflatable Donut Flocked Chair is a Cornwall favourite — perfect for sitting outside watching the sunset over the Atlantic. The Outwell Laze Inflatable Set gives you a sofa and footstool in one compact package, ideal for longer stays.Browse inflatable camping chairs →Sleeping Systems: Stay Warm on Cool Cornish NightsEven in summer, Cornwall nights can be cool — especially near the coast where the sea breeze picks up after dark. A good sleeping bag rated to at least 5°C comfort is recommended for most of the year, with a 0°C bag for spring and autumn trips.Pair your sleeping bag with a quality self-inflating mat or airbed for insulation from the van floor. We stock sleeping bags and mats from Vango, Outwell, and Highlander to suit every budget.Browse sleeping bags →Wetsuits: Make the Most of Cornwall's SurfIf you're heading to Cornwall for the surf — and let's be honest, most van lifers are — a good wetsuit is non-negotiable. The Atlantic water temperature around Newquay averages 14–17°C in summer, so a 3/2mm summer wetsuit is the minimum, with a 4/3mm recommended for spring and autumn.We stock wetsuits at our Newquay showroom, so you can try before you buy.Van Life Essentials Checklist for Cornwall ✅ Drive-away awning (inflatable recommended) ✅ Inflatable camping chair or sofa ✅ Sleeping bag rated to 5°C or lower ✅ Self-inflating mat or airbed ✅ Wetsuit (3/2mm minimum for summer) ✅ Windbreak (essential on exposed Cornish pitches) ✅ Camping kitchen or portable stove ✅ Waterproof jacket (always) Visit Our Newquay ShowroomWe're based at 4 Bamber House, Victoria, PL26 8LQ, open Monday to Friday. If you're passing through on your Cornwall van life trip, pop in — we're happy to help with kit advice, and we stock a wide range of camping and van life gear you can take away the same day.Can't make it in? Browse our full van life camping gear range online with UK-wide delivery available.

Drive Away Awnings: The Complete Buyer's Guide (2026)

02.09.26
A drive-away awning is one of the most useful accessories you can add to your campervan or motorhome setup. It gives you extra living space, shelter from the elements, and the freedom to unhitch and explore without dismantling your camp. But with so many models, brands, and sizes available, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming.This guide covers everything you need to know — from sizing and height to air vs poled, rear vs side, and which brands to consider — so you can buy with confidence.What Is a Drive Away Awning?A drive-away awning is a freestanding shelter that attaches to the side or rear of your campervan or motorhome via a connection sleeve or awning rail. Unlike traditional caravan awnings, drive-away awnings are designed to stay pitched when you drive away — giving you a base camp to return to.They’re popular with VW campervan owners, motorhome tourers, and anyone who wants extra space without committing to a full tent setup.Side vs Rear Drive Away AwningsMost drive-away awnings attach to the side of your vehicle, but rear (tailgate) awnings are a growing category — particularly for SUVs, vans, and vehicles without a side door. Side awnings offer more living space and are better suited to longer stays Rear drive-away awnings are quicker to pitch, more compact, and ideal for weekend trips or surf days Choosing the Right HeightGetting the height right is critical — an awning that doesn’t match your vehicle’s door height won’t connect properly. Low awnings (180–220cm) — ideal for VW T4, T5, T6, and similar panel vans Mid awnings (220–255cm) — suit taller campervans and smaller motorhomes Tall awnings (255–305cm) — designed for larger motorhomes and high-roof conversions Measure your vehicle’s door height before buying. If you’re unsure, visit our showroom at 4 Bamber House, Victoria, PL26 8LQ — open Monday to Friday — and we’ll help you find the right fit.Air Beam vs Poled Drive Away AwningsThis is the most common question we get asked. Here’s the honest answer:Inflatable (air beam) awnings use pressurised tubes instead of poles. They pitch in minutes, pack down smaller, and are increasingly the default choice for most campers. The trade-off is a slightly higher price point and the need to carry a pump.Poled awnings are more traditional, generally more affordable, and very robust. They take a little longer to pitch but are a solid choice if you’re on a budget or prefer simplicity.For Cornwall and South West touring — where you might be pitching in wind and rain — we’d generally recommend an air beam awning for speed and ease.Which Brand Should I Choose?We stock drive-away awnings from five leading brands, each with their own strengths: Kampa — excellent build quality, great weather resistance, wide range of sizes Vango — the most comprehensive range available, air and poled options at every height Outdoor Revolution — innovative designs, great value, the Cayman range is hugely popular Outwell — premium quality, stylish designs, ideal for longer touring trips Easy Camp — accessible price point, practical and straightforward to pitch We rotate awning models on display in our showroom weekly, so there’s always something new to see in person. Visit us at 4 Bamber House, Victoria, PL26 8LQ, Monday to Friday, to try before you buy.Top Tips Before You Buy Measure your vehicle door height before choosing a size category Check your vehicle has an awning rail or connection sleeve — some vans need an adapter Consider how often you’ll pitch: frequent campers benefit most from air beam awnings Think about how many people need to sleep or sit in the awning space Check the awning’s minimum and maximum height range — most cover a 30–40cm span Shop Drive Away Awnings at Newquay Camping ShopBrowse our full range of drive-away awnings, or shop by brand and type using the links above. We offer UK-wide delivery and our showroom at 4 Bamber House, Victoria, PL26 8LQ is open Monday to Friday.

OLDER POSTS

Leave a comment

Please note, comments must be approved before they are published