Cheaper alternative to ARB awning?

[Clawhammer]

I'm looking for an awning to attach to the side of a topper on the back of a truck. I was looking at both the ARB and the Tepui awnings, but honestly, I just don't think they're worth what they cost and you're really paying for the name. Is there a cheaper (but still decent quality) awning I'm overlooking? I feel like Smittybilt made one, but I can't find it online at the moment. Anyone have one they like?

 

[dbhost]

If you are interested in DIY, look into the @evldave design...

How to build a quality awning for less than $100

I'm cheap and lazy, that means (in my own mind) I'm resourceful. Here's how to build a good-quality awning for less than $100. I was mostly drunk when I built this and it was dark so I forgot to take pictures. Keep in mind you'll need some simple/basic tools - hacksaw, screwdriver, beer...

expeditionportal.com

Not ARB exactly, but certainly worth looking into. I am planning on putting one on each side of the truck camper buid I have going on...

Parts list is pretty simple. 4 @ Coleman extendible 8' steel tent poles. https://amzn.to/2GzLUkE $11.73 each. $46.92
Bimini Hing male side x2. https://amzn.to/36HPGDb $14.99 pair
Biminii Hing female side x2. https://amzn.to/2GEjfeo $14.99 pair
3/4" EMT galvanized conduit x2. https://www.homedepot.com/p/3-4-in-x-10-ft-Electric-Metallic-Tube-EMT-Conduit-853429/100400406 $6.20 each. $12.40
8x10 heavy duty white poly tarp. https://amzn.to/2Obnbra $29.88 2 pack. $14.94

Current pricing puts the build at $104.24 each side. This does not include attachment hardware That will vary depending on your needs. I am planning on using several conduit U clamps through bolted to the camper shell and sealed with butyl tape, all items I have in my inventory.

You will also need stainless steel sheet metal screws, stainless steel fender washers, paracord, and stakes. I am going to assume you have those items though...

You will also want some velcro strapping, or better yet, cinch straps to lock the awning and everything in place when closed and going down the road...

 

[Meridian7750]

Iron Man...
6x8 (roughly) about $250, 8x8 about $270.
Includes an LED light strip.
Very nice quality.

 

[rnArmy]

Check out this thread:

https://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/threads/off-brand-awnings.191706/

I mention in that thread the eBay special I bought (6x8 [roughly] about $110), show pictures of it, and discuss some pros/cons. I've used it a couple times and it has done what I asked it to do. I think they're all designed and packaged about the same; details and quality may differ slightly (plastic vs. metal joints, etc.).

https://www.ebay.com/itm/Awning-Roo...?hash=item2cc776c77b:m:moA4A6gzVPKJeGnjtsShaB They have different sizes/colors/prices.

If I were going to spend a few years overlanding in Africa I'd go high-end. Since I'm not, I went this route. It works and keeps me dry when needed.

 

[MOguy]

Not sure if this would work for you?

Amazon.com : Slumberjack Roadhouse Tarp, 3-in-1 tarp for Overlanding, Camping, Hunting, Off-Roading, and more : Sports & Outdoors

Amazon.com : Slumberjack Roadhouse Tarp, 3-in-1 tarp for Overlanding, Camping, Hunting, Off-Roading, and more : Sports & Outdoors

www.amazon.com

 

[MiamiC70]

I have the ARB worth every penny and it’s really not that expensive. Got mine for $260 on Amazon

 

[Regcabguy]

A neighbor showed me his ARB and how nice the quality was and how easy it sets up.Quality product.

 

[alia176]

This site has all kinds of Chinese knock off for RTTs, awnings, ground tents, etc

Welcome to Overland Pros - Overland Pros

1/16/24 – We just received a new shipment of inventory. All 4K and 6K awnings are now back in stock! Check out the video from Overland Bound for our Wraptor 6K: Check out the video from Overland Bound for … Read More

www.overlandpros.com

 

[Hoooogan]

Personally, I enjoy my ARB. The plastic hinges allow the unit to be positioned, safely, at any angle. Once you start using it, and realize what a game changer having an awning is, the price doesn't seem so bad. If you're really worried about price, just buy an EZ-Up tent. They are 10'x10' and usually go on sale for under $100. And those are mobile.

I did that and once I spent the coin on the ARB, I never looked back, even though the area was smaller.

 

[dbhost]

Personally, I enjoy my ARB. The plastic hinges allow the unit to be positioned, safely, at any angle. Once you start using it, and realize what a game changer having an awning is, the price doesn't seem so bad. If you're really worried about price, just buy an EZ-Up tent. They are 10'x10' and usually go on sale for under $100. And those are mobile.

I did that and once I spent the coin on the ARB, I never looked back, even though the area was smaller.

I have a 13x13 EZ Up. It sucks up storage space in the rig to transport, AND it's very vulnerable to wind. You MUST make certain you are staked down REALLY well. I can't tell you how many times I have seen instant canopies tumbling down the beach or campground, and getting all busted up.

 

[Herbie]

Wait for a sale or a good coupon, and the ARB doesn't end up very much more expensive than any of the knockoffs.

But to me, the REAL advantage of the ARB over the knockoffs is the accessories. Being able to add the bug room or shade panels is a much bigger deal than most realize, and those pieces are definitely worth what they cost. Technically one could use a tarp to add a side-shade, but the purpose-built components are lighter, pack smaller, offer better shade, and install much more simply and securely.

I set my ARB awning up literally every week (at my daughter's sports practice) and the fact that I can do this quickly (by myself) is totally key.

 

[outback97]

I have an ARB 2000 and am very happy with it. That said if I were looking for a cheap awning with a similar design, it'd be tempting to try something like this for $68 delivered.

Car Tent Awning Rooftop SUV Truck Camping Travel Shelter Outdoor Sunshade Canopy | eBay

Anti-UV & Water Resistant: Constructed of 420D oxford fabric with 2000mm PU coating and UV50+ protection, this awning gives you a cozy shelter to prevent harmful sun rays and drizzles, helping you enjoy camping, picnic and car travel.

www.ebay.com

 

[TwinStick]

For a super economical option.....


If you have a roof rack/basket, some pvc pipe & a couple adjustable tent poles, you can easily rig up your own.