COVERING YOUR BASES: A DEEP DIVE INTO AWNING OPTIONS

Setting off with a teardrop is about more than the miles—it’s about carving out a little oasis wherever you park. A good awning does exactly that. From surprise showers to bluebird afternoons, it extends your living space, smooths out the weather, and adds a calm, shaded place to cook, gather, and breathe.

More than just shelter, an awning turns your campsite into a true base camp—a spot for coffee at sunrise, dinner at dusk, and quiet moments in between. Choose the right one, and you’ll linger longer outdoors, rain or shine.

WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO COVER?

Side lounge:
A classic, side-mounted awning creates a generous strip of shade along the trailer—perfect for chairs, a camp table, and stretching out with a view. It pairs nicely with a pop-up shelter or screen room when you want more hangout space.

Rear galley:
If you love to cook outside, a rear-mounted galley awning keeps the kitchen dry and the cook comfortable, so dinner carries on even when the clouds roll in.

Both (our favorite):
For the most adaptable setup, pair a side awning with rear galley coverage. You’ll have shade where you relax and shelter where you cook—ideal for variable weather and longer stays.

CHOOSE YOUR STYLE

We’ve simplified the lineup to three proven options that cover the most common camping styles—clear choices, clean installs.

MoonShade (Rear Galley or Flexible Use)

A lightweight, packable awning that mounts to our Timberleaf-exclusive rear hatch rail—or to crossbars/magnets on other vehicles. It’s fast to pitch, easy to stow, and perfect for owners without a roof rack.

• Best for: Frequent movers, hatch-focused coverage, and minimalist kits

• Why you’ll like it: Compact, quick setup, versatile mounting options

• Keep in mind: Less storm protection than hard-mounted awnings; use extra guy lines when it’s gusty

23Zero Peregrine 180 (Extended Side Shade)

A wing-style 180° awning that bolts to your roof rack/crossbars and swings out to create deeper side shade than a straight-pull. It’s a bigger living room along the trailer’s side, with excellent protection when paired with poles and guy lines.

• Best for: Extended stays and all-day side shade next to the trailer

• Why you’ll like it: Broad coverage, robust build, proven overland design

• Keep in mind: Requires a solid roof rack and quality brackets; heavier and bulkier than straight-pull styles

23Zero Bushman 90″ (Straight-Pull Side Shade)

A streamlined, straight-pull awning that bolts to your roof rack/crossbars and deploys quickly for generous side shade. It’s the simple, durable everyday option—with room/wall add-ons available if you want more enclosure.

• Best for: Quick, no-nonsense side shade with a clean profile

• Why you’ll like it: Fast deploy, durable canopy, modular accessories available

• Keep in mind: Long packed length rides along the rack—plan bracket spacing around other rooftop gear

ACCESSORIES TO CONSIDER

• Walls & rooms: Add side panels or a full room to block wind, boost privacy, or create a changing/shower space.

• Bug & sun control: Mesh walls tame the mosquitoes; solid panels deepen the shade.

• Tie-downs & stakes: Upgrade for sand, snow, or rocky ground to keep everything planted when weather turns.

MOUNTING + ROOF RACKS

Side awnings (Peregrine 180 and Bushman 90″) require a roof rack or crossbars. We offer rack options tailored to Timberleaf trailers, and we’re happy to help you choose brackets and placement that clear hatches, doors, and rooftop cargo. The MoonShade mounts to our rear hatch rail without a rack, and can also adapt to other anchor styles if you’re using it on different vehicles.

Planning tip: When budgeting for an awning, include the rack and hardware. A smart, sturdy mount is the difference between a flawless setup and constant tinkering.

FINAL THOUGHTS

The best awning is the one that fits your camping rhythm. If you travel light and move often, MoonShade keeps things simple. If you want a larger shaded living area along the trailer’s side, the Peregrine 180 shines. If you prefer straightforward side shade with room to grow, the Bushman 90″ is your go-to. Picture your ideal camp day, pick the coverage that supports it—and enjoy more time outside, comfortably covered.