The Best Awning for a Motorhome

A good awning transforms a motorhome. It gives you a shaded, sheltered outdoor room to cook, relax and dry the boots off, and it makes even a quick overnight stop feel like home. But with several types, sizes and mounting options to choose from, picking the right one can feel confusing. This guide keeps it simple.


As a family-run Thule specialist, we help motorhome owners choose the right awning every day. Here is everything you need to know to get it right first time.


Why a Thule Omnistor awning?

We specialise in the award-winning Thule Omnistor range, and for good reason. Thule Omnistor was named Motorhome of the Year - Best RV Accessories in 2022, and best awning brand by Promobile three years running. The awnings use robust PVC canvas and strong aluminium profiles, they are beautifully engineered, and every one is backed by the comprehensive Thule two-year warranty.


The range runs from compact 1.95m awnings right up to 6m, so there is a size and style to suit every motorhome, from a compact panel-van conversion to a large A-class.

The three things that decide your awning

1. Where it mounts - wall or roof. Most motorhome awnings are wall-mounted (fixed to the side wall), but if you are short of clear wall space, or the side is busy with windows, a service hatch or a garage door, a roof-mounted awning is an excellent alternative. We cover the difference in detail in our Wall-Mounted vs Roof-Mounted guide.


2. The size. The awning length is set by the clear, flat run along the side of your motorhome, and the projection is how far it reaches out (typically up to 2.5m). It is worth measuring the flat mounting area before you order - if you are not sure, send us the measurement and we will confirm the right size.


3. Manual or electric. A manual awning winds out with an easy hand crank; an electric one extends at the touch of a button. Larger motorhomes and anyone who wants maximum convenience often go electric. See our Manual vs Electric guide for the full picture.

The best Thule awnings for a motorhome

From our caravan and motorhome awning range, these are the models we most often recommend for motorhomes:


  • Thule Omnistor 4200 - a smart, lighter wall-mounted awning ideal for smaller and mid-size motorhomes.

  • Thule Omnistor 5200 - a popular wall-mounted awning for mid to large motorhomes, available with an optional electric motor.

  • Thule Omnistor 8000 - a large-format wall-mounted awning built for bigger motorhomes, also available motorised.

  • Thule Omnistor 6300 - the go-to roof-mounted option when wall space is limited.

  • Thule Omnistor 9200 - a premium roof-mounted awning for larger motorhomes, available motorised.


Not sure which suits your van? Our separate guide, Which Thule Awning for Your Motorhome?, walks through them side by side - or just contact us and we will point you to the right one.

Make it a proper outdoor room

Your awning is only the start. You can add Thule Rain, Sun & View Blockers for shade and privacy in seconds, or one of the Thule awning tents and Smart Panels to create a partial or fully enclosed living or dining area - perfect for longer stays.

Getting the right adapter

Wall-mounted Thule awnings come with a standard flat adapter, but many motorhomes need a model-specific bracket to sit the awning correctly against the bodywork. We stock a large range of motorhome awning adapters developed with, and approved by, the manufacturers - so there is a correct fit for your van.


Prefer to have it fitted?

Many customers fit their awning themselves, but if you would rather have it done professionally, we can point you to our installation and repair service - giving you access to a nationwide network of approved installers (Approved Workshop Scheme members).


Why buy your motorhome awning from Perfect Awnings

We are a family-run business specialising in genuine, award-winning Thule awnings, not a general retailer dabbling in everything. That means real expert support before and after you buy, our Price Match Promise if you find it cheaper elsewhere, and free UK delivery on orders over £250. Every awning comes with the comprehensive Thule two-year warranty.

Motorhome awning FAQs


What size awning do I need for my motorhome? 

It is set by the clear, flat run along the side of your van (for wall-mounted awnings), with a projection usually up to 2.5m. Measure that flat length and contact us if you are unsure - we will confirm the right size.


Should I choose wall-mounted or roof-mounted? 

Wall-mounted suits most motorhomes. Choose roof-mounted if your side wall is short on clear space or cluttered with windows and hatches. Our wall vs roof guide explains it fully.


Can I get an electric motorhome awning? 

Yes. Several Thule awnings (including the 5200, 8000 and 9200) are available with an electric motor for one-touch operation.


Do I need a special adapter? 

Wall awnings come with a standard flat adapter, and we stock model-specific adapters where your motorhome needs one. Tell us your make and model and we will confirm.


Can I fit it myself? 

Many customers do. If you would prefer, we can arrange professional fitting through our nationwide network of approved installers.

Related motorhome guides




Ready to find your motorhome awning?

Browse the full caravan and motorhome awning range. Need a hand choosing? Call us on 02380 706542 or email sales@perfectawnings.co.uk - we are always happy to help you find the perfect awning at the perfect price.