Steep learning curve
Hello
Having enjoyed motorhoming for 8 years we decided to return to caravan ownership, a Sprite Major 4sb. I have psoriatic arthritis so we really need a car when on site and hiring one in France for several weeks is very expensive.
We had a caravan in the 80s but things have changed so much since then so I'm slowly getting to grips with all the new equipment available. We'd like an air awning so are trying to decide which one would suit our needs best. We will tour in the Uk but also like to go down to the South of France and the Bay of Roses in Spain so would like something we can use as an open canopy in sunny weather.
Our local caravan dealership has Kampa Rally Pro air awnings on show and they look well made but Bradcot currently have a good deal on their Aspire. This forum has so many experienced caravanners, I'd really welcome advice.
I'm really excited about the change we're making but my other half has some trepidation about towing again!
Comments
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We have a Bradcot Aspire Air 390 MkI, excellent bit of kit. I can put it up single handed.
Ensure the awning rail is clear of any sealant, as the slap happy gun operator at Swift managed to fill the rail with gunge that caused difficulties on my first solo awning fitting.
With the 2 of us, feed in at the upper rear rail opening and use the step to get you up high to pull the awning through. Ensure you follow the destructions from Bradcot, especially pegging under the caravan before inflating.
Enjoy your adventures.
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Thanks for your replies.
David, I'm enjoying reading about your travels in Europe which prove you can travel just as widely with a caravan as a motorhome.
Our next step is to visit a dealer which has the Bradcot Aspire on show.
Regarding weight, I'm weighing everything we pu in the caravan to ensure we don't go over our payload. Hopefully there will be some space for wine from France. We are awaiting delivery of a VW Tiguan tow car so should be ok.
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Hi David just viewed your photos and i noticed you have rear marker boards fitted which look permanent, have you had any trouble off traffic bobbies. I thought they weren't allowed in the UK. I would like to know because we are going to Spain, Sept to Nov and i know they are required over there. Sorry Tinah for going off track.
Steve
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We have a Kampa 360 fiesta pro and it is very heavy . I find I can’t now pull it onto the awning rail. The pro series are a great awning but weight is an issue. Wish I had gone for the lighter version. Incidentally we aren’t talking the physical weight of the piece of kit in its carrying case, it’s the physical effort required to thread it onto the awning rail and pull it over.
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Thank you for the info Dave it is a very gray area in Spain they are required, in France they couldn't give a monkey, but in Good Old Britain we don't allow it unless the trailer you are towing is over 3.5t ( Stupid isn't it). Have made up a bar to go from grab handle to handle then hang them off that.To get back on track Tinah don't know your size of the van? find the size of awning you would require, then get an Isabella Eclipse this can be fitted directly to the van. Can't guarantee full cover in UK but should give some cover. If you like the Kampa go for that one,i think the Bradcot may have thicker material but they have had some problems with fitting to the van (see the post on Bradcot) and tell the OH to cut the trepidation and enjoy!!
Steve
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We have a Kampa Rally Air Pro 260 and whilst it's a brilliant awning, it can sometimes be a right pain to feed into the rail due to the shear weight of having to drag everything through.
In hindsight I should have thought more about opting for the more lightweight material version.
Saying that its rock solid when erected and has withstood some very blustery conditions.
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