Genuine Products Expert SupportChoosing a Caravan Awning Adapter
An awning is only as good as the way it is fixed to your caravan - and that is the job of the adapter. Get the right one and your awning sits neatly and securely; get the wrong one and it simply will not fit. The good news is that choosing an adapter is straightforward once you know the three types. Here is how.
As a family-run Thule specialist, we match caravans to the correct adapter every day.
What does an awning adapter do?
Caravans are not flat-sided like a wall, so a roll-out awning needs an adapter (sometimes called a bracket) to bridge the gap and hold the awning in exactly the right position against the bodywork. The correct adapter depends on where the awning mounts and the shape of your particular caravan.
The three types of adapter
Rail-mounted The simplest option. A rail-mounted awning (such as the Thule Omnistor 1200) slides straight into your caravan's existing awning rail - the channel that a traditional awning normally beads into - so little or no extra bracketry is needed.
Side-wall mounted For a wall-mounted awning fixed to the side of the caravan. It uses a standard flat adapter as a starting point, with a model-specific bracket where your caravan's profile needs one.
Roof-mounted For an awning fitted on top of the caravan. Roof mounting always uses a model-specific adapter matched to your caravan's roof profile.
A quick word on rails
It is worth being clear on the wording, because it trips people up. A roof rail (the bars some vehicles carry on top) and an awning rail (the channel on a caravan that an awning beads into) are two different things. When we talk about a rail-mounted awning, we mean it uses your caravan's awning rail.
How to choose the right one
Choosing an adapter comes down to two things:
How your awning mounts - rail, side wall or roof.
Your caravan's make and model - so we can match the exact adapter to your bodywork.
We stock a large range of caravan awning adapters developed with, and approved by, the manufacturers, so there is a correct fit for your van. If you are at all unsure, send us your caravan's make and model (and a photo of the side is ideal) and we will confirm exactly what you need - just contact us.
Why buy from Perfect Awnings
We are a family-run business specialising in genuine, award-winning Thule awnings and adapters, with real expert support, our Price Match Promise, free UK delivery over £250, and the comprehensive Thule two-year warranty. Prefer to have it fitted? We can point you to our installation and repair service and its nationwide network of approved installers.
Caravan awning adapter FAQs
How do I know which adapter I need?
It depends on how the awning mounts (rail, side wall or roof) and your caravan's make and model. Tell us both and we will confirm the correct adapter.
Do I need an adapter at all?
A rail-mounted awning that uses your caravan's existing awning rail may need little or none. Wall and roof-mounted awnings do need the correct adapter.
Can you match an adapter to my exact caravan?
Yes - we carry a large range developed with and approved by the manufacturers. Send us your make and model and we will match it.
Related caravan guides
Not sure which adapter you need?
Browse the caravan awning adapters, or call us on 02380 706542 or email sales@perfectawnings.co.uk - we will make sure you get the perfect fit at the perfect price.