Vango Campervan Awnings: The Complete Guide

Shopping for a Vango campervan awning and want the right fit first time? You’re in the perfect place. Since 1966, Vango’s been synonymous with smart design and rugged reliability, from rapid-pitch AirBeam®inflatables to value-packed poled models.

As an official Vango distributor (since 2018), we at Cambridge Campervans stock a wide range in Low / Mid / Tall heights, with expert advice, fast delivery and friendly after-sales support — so you can pick with confidence and get on the road faster.

Key reasons to choose a Vango Campervan Awning:

• Quick, sturdy setups: Vango AirBeam® tech pitches fast and flexes in wind for stable UK-proof camping.
• Fabrics for every budget: From lightweight Sentinel Active 75D/150D to premium Sentinel Eco Pro and Technical Cotton (TC) for comfort and longevity.
• Drive-away freedom: Detach, explore, and return to your pitch in minutes.
• Sized to fit: Low (180–210cm), Mid (215–255cm) and Tall (255–295cm) options to match your van’s attachment height.
• Reassuring warranty: 2-year warranty as standard, extendable to 3 years with Vango.

About Vango – Innovation in Outdoor Living

Since 1966, Vango has been at the heart of UK camping innovation — born in the Scottish Highlands and built around real-world testing in unpredictable British weather. Over decades, the brand has grown from simple ridge tents to cutting-edge AirBeam® inflatable technology, transforming how campervan owners pitch, sleep and explore.

A pioneer in inflatable campervan awnings

Vango’s patented AirBeam® system replaced traditional poles with durable, air-filled beams that can be fully inflated in minutes. It delivers a strong, weather-resistant structure that flexes with the wind and eliminates the hassle of broken poles — perfect for quick weekend getaways or touring holidays.

Designed for the modern campervan lifestyle

Each Vango campervan awning is engineered around drive-away convenience. Whether you want an extra living area, storage room, or space for family and pets, these awnings connect securely to your van yet detach easily when you drive away. The result: freedom to explore without losing your pitch.

Sustainable design and lasting quality

Vango’s Earth Collection demonstrates their push toward sustainability, featuring Sentinel Eco Pro fabrics made from recycled plastic bottles without compromising strength or waterproofing. Combined with high-quality stitching, UV protection, and fully taped seams, these materials are designed to last season after season.

Why this matters for you

A Vango campervan awning isn’t just an add-on — it’s a long-term investment in comfort and reliability. From storm-tested stability to eco-conscious materials, every model reflects Vango’s commitment to innovation and the practical needs of UK van-lifers.

The Vango Range – Find the Right Awning for Your Campervan

Vango’s Campervan Awning range is one of the most comprehensive in the UK, covering everything from lightweight weekend options to spacious touring setups.

Here’s a quick overview of each style and what it’s best for.

1. Vango Drive-Away Awnings

The cornerstone of Vango’s campervan collection.

These awnings attach to your van’s side door via a tunnel connection and can stay standing when you drive away, so your pitch is ready when you return. Ideal for day trips, touring holidays or simply nipping out to explore without packing up camp.

Perfect for: flexibility and extra living space.
Top models: Vango Cove Poled, Tailgate Hub, Faros Poled, 

2. Vango AirBeam® Inflatable Awnings

Vango’s signature innovation — AirBeam® technology replaces poles with high-pressure air tubes that pitch in minutes and stay strong in the wind.

These inflatable campervan awnings deliver fast setup, excellent weather performance and a sleek design that complements modern vans.

Perfect for: quick pitching, frequent touring, UK weather.
Top models: Cove Air, Versos, Galli CC

3. Vango Poled Awnings

For those who prefer a traditional framework, Vango’s poled awnings offer excellent value and proven reliability.

Made with lightweight yet durable alloy or fibreglass poles, they’re slightly slower to pitch than AirBeam® models but provide classic stability and affordability.

Perfect for: budget-conscious campers or longer seasonal stays.
Top models: Vango Cove Poled, Tailgate Hub, Faros Poled, 

4. Vango Tailgate & Rear Awnings

Designed for smaller campervans and compact setups, tailgate awnings attach to the rear door instead of the side.
They provide instant shelter, extra storage, or space for a changing area — ideal for solo travellers, surfers, or weekend adventurers.

Perfect for: micro-campers, VW Caddy, Ford Transit Connect, or SUV camping.
Top models: Arden, Tailgate Hub, Tailgate Airhub

Fabric Choices Across the Range

Every Vango campervan awning is built with a specific fabric that balances weight, waterproofing, durability and price.

Choosing the right one ensures your awning performs perfectly for the kind of trips you take — whether that’s quick weekends or long-term touring.

Vango Sentinel Active 75D

Lightweight & Easy to Handle
The most affordable and compact fabric in the range. Sentinel Active 75D is ideal for occasional campers who want simple setup and easy packing without the extra weight of heavier materials.

Key features:

• 75-denier polyester — light, quick-drying, packs small
• 3,000 mm HH waterproof rating (good for standard UK weather)
• Perfect for summer and fair-weather touring
  
  Best for: first-time awning owners or weekend campers
  Typical models: Faros Poled, Cove Poled, Arden Tailgate

Vango Sentinel Active 150D

Stronger Fabric for Frequent Use
An upgrade in both weight and strength, Sentinel Active 150D offers improved waterproofing and UV protection — ideal if you tour regularly or camp through mixed weather.

Key features:

• 150-denier double-ripstop polyester
• 4,000 mm HH waterproof rating
• Better insulation and reduced flapping in wind
  
  Best for: Shorter Trips, Compact Pack Sizes
  Typical models: Faros III Air, Cove III Air, Galli CC II Air

Vango Sentinel Eco Pro

Recycled & Resilient — Built for Sustainability
Made from recycled single use plastics, this eco-friendly fabric delivers premium weather protection while helping reduce plastic waste. Despite being sustainable, it’s impressively strong and durable.

Key features:

• 420 Double Ripstop Fabric

• 6,000 mm HH waterproof rating
• Excellent UV resistance for long-term sun exposure
  
  Best for: environmentally conscious campers seeking excellent performance and long term durability
  Typical models: Kela Pro Air, Galli Pro Air, Hexaway Pro Air

Vango Sentinel Active TC (Technical Cotton)

Natural Comfort & Breathability
Vango’s luxury option, Technical Cotton (TC) blends cotton and polyester for a soft, canvas-style feel that regulates temperature naturally — cooler in summer, warmer at night.

Key features:

• Polycotton blend — breathable & condensation-reducing
• Natural UV resistance, very quiet in wind
• Reduction in condensation
• Climate Control – Keeps your awning cool during hot weather and warm during colder nights
  
  Best for: extended stays & campers wanting a premium, traditional feel – Ideal for temperature extremes – hot OR cold
  Typical models: Vango Galli TC Low/Mid, Cove Air TC

Choosing Your Fabric

If you camp a few weekends a year, Sentinel Active 75D or 150D gives the best value.

For frequent touring or off-season camping, Sentinel Eco Pro balances strength and sustainability.

For all-season luxury, Technical Cotton (TC) can’t be beaten for comfort — it’s the closest feel to a canvas tent in a modern awning.

Size Guide – Low, Mid & Tall Attachment Heights

Getting the right fit is essential for a secure, weatherproof connection between your van and awning.
Vango’s Low, Mid and Tall height options cover almost every van type — from compact VW campers to high-top motorhomes — but it’s important to measure correctly before ordering.

How to Measure Your Campervan

1. Park on level ground with your van fully inflated (if it has air suspension).
2. Measure from the ground to the highest point of your awning rail, canopy, or roof connection point — this is your attachment height.
3. Match your measurement to the chart below to find the correct Vango size range.

Vango Awning Height Guide

(Always check individual model specs — not every Vango awning is produced in all three height options.)

Why Fit Matters

Choosing the correct height ensures:

• A tight, weatherproof tunnel connection that stops draughts and rain ingress.
• Proper door alignment, so the awning entrance sits level with your van’s sliding door.
• A smoother drive-away seal, reducing tension and stress on zips and beading.

If your measurement sits between two ranges, choose the lower option for a snugger fit.

Need help measuring?

Our team can confirm compatibility for your height vehicle before you order.
→ Contact us for personalised sizing advice or send us your van’s rail height for a quick check.

Setup, Care & Repairs

Setting up and looking after your Vango campervan awning properly will keep it performing season after season.

Here’s everything you need to know — from pitching your AirBeam® awning to quick repairs on the road.

Pitching Your Vango AirBeam® Awning

Vango designs every model for straightforward setup, even solo.
While exact steps vary by model, most follow the same simple process:

1. Lay out the awning flat on level ground, positioning the tunnel toward your van.
2. Attach the connection tunnel using your chosen method (drive-away kit, kador strip, or webbing straps).
3. Peg the back two corners at the base of your vehicle, pull the awning out, then peg the front two corners.
4. Inflate each AirBeam® tube using the supplied pump until firm — usually around 7 psi and starting with those beams closest to your vehicle.
5. Re-peg your awning once fully pitched to ensure its fully extended, then peg out the rest of the awning using the guy lines, ensuring adequate tension.
6. Attach your bracer beams in the roof to increase tension and stability of your AirAway AirBeam®.
7. Adjust for height and seal the tunnel against your van for a tight, weatherproof fit.

Drive-Away Connection Tips

When leaving site for the day:

• Close all doors and windows before detaching.
• Mark your wheel position or use drive-away markers so you can realign easily later.
• Reconnect the tunnel by reversing into the same position.

This saves frustration and ensures a clean, quick reconnection when you return.

Cleaning & Seasonal Care

Keeping your awning clean and dry prevents mildew and extends its life:

• Clean only with lukewarm water and a soft sponge — never detergents or bleach.
• Dry completely before packing away, even after light rain.
• Re-proof waterproof coatings every few seasons using any commercially available waterproofing solutions.
• Store loosely in a cool, dry space — avoid garages or lofts that trap moisture.

Why Buy from Cambridge Campervans

When it comes to Vango campervan awnings, you’re not just choosing a brand — you’re choosing a partner who knows the products inside out.

At Cambridge Campervans, we’ve been helping customers find the right Vango awning’s for their vans and lifestyle since 2018, combining expert advice with personal service you can trust.

✅ Official Vango Stockist

We’re proud to be an approved Vango retailer, giving you access to the full range of genuine awnings, accessories, and spare parts — all covered by Vango’s manufacturer warranty.

That means peace of mind from the moment you buy.

🚚 Fast, Reliable UK Delivery

Most Vango awnings are in stock for next-working-day dispatch, with real-time stock visibility on our website.

Need it for a weekend trip? Just call — we’ll confirm availability and delivery cut-offs to get you camping on time.

🧠 Expert, Honest Advice

Our team knows these awnings first-hand. We can help you:

• Check awning-to-van compatibility
• Recommend the right height or model for your setup
• Suggest accessories that genuinely make life easier on site

We’ll never upsell — just clear, practical guidance to get you the best match.

FAQs – Vango Campervan Awnings

1. What is a Vango AirBeam® awning?

A Vango AirBeam® awning replaces traditional poles with high-pressure air tubes for a quick, sturdy pitch.

It inflates in minutes, stays rigid in the wind, and packs away just as easily — perfect for touring or short stays.

2. Are Vango campervan awnings waterproof?

Yes. All Vango fabrics are fully waterproof with hydrostatic head (HH) ratings from 3,000 mm to 6,000 mm, depending on the fabric type.

Models using Sentinel Eco Pro or Technical Cotton (TC) offer the strongest weather protection for all-season camping.

3. How do I know which height to choose — Low, Mid or Tall?

Measure from the ground to the connection point of your awning rail or roof (depending on your preferred connection method)

• 180–210 cm = Low
• 215–255 cm = Mid
• 255–295 cm = Tall

Check each model’s specifications — not every Vango awning is made in all three sizes.

4. How do you deflate and pack away a Vango AirBeam® awning?

Simply open each deflation valve and the tubes will release air in seconds. Fold the awning from one end, pushing air toward the open valves. Once mostly flat, roll tightly to fit back into its carry bag.
Tip: wipe off surface moisture first so it stores clean and dry.

5. Can I leave a Vango awning up while driving away?

Yes — if it’s a drive-away awning. These are designed to stand independently when detached from your van, so you can drive off for the day and reconnect later using the same tunnel or kador strip.

6. What accessories do I need for my Vango awning?

Recommended add-ons include:

• Drive-away kits for easier reconnection – Watch our quick video guide
• Carpets and footprint groundsheets for comfort and protection
• Storm straps and tension bands for windy conditions
• Lighting and storage accessories for extended stays

8. How should I store my Vango Awning between trips?

Ensure it’s completely dry before packing.

Store in a cool, ventilated space — not a damp garage or loft. Re-proof fabric every couple of seasons to maintain waterproofing.

9. Are Vango awnings suitable for winter use?

Yes, but choose a higher-spec fabric such as Sentinel Eco Pro or Technical Cotton (TC) for extra insulation and durability. Always check weather forecasts and secure guy lines properly in high winds.

10. Do you offer advice before buying?

Absolutely. The Cambridge Campervans team can confirm compatibility, suggest models for your height vehicle, and ensure you get the perfect fit before ordering.