JAWA Vans Let’s Talk Caravan Annexes! 

You can’t deny that they look impressive, and the extra space would come in handy on your travels, but do you really need a caravan and annex?

If you’re wondering whether a full annex is worth the cost and the extra weight or whether a shade awning will do the job just as well, we’re here to take you through the fundamentals so that you can make an informed decision before you hit the road.

What are the benefits of a caravan annex?

Whilst many people travel perfectly well without an annex for their camper, the truth is that a good quality annex can vastly improve your camping experience. How? Read on!

Additional living space

Whether you’re travelling solo or as a family, an additional living space can be worth its weight in gold. An annex provides an additional storage area for bikes, fishing gear, surfboards etc. Alternatively, it can function as a dining room, lounge, play area, or even an extra place to sleep.

Protection from the elements

In addition to giving you more room to move around in, an annex can also provide shelter from the wind, rain and the unforgiving Australian sun! An annex with adequate UV protection can also help to keep the interior of your caravan cooler and more comfortable during hot weather.

Increased value for money

Whether you choose to buy an after-market annex or opt for a caravan with annex as a standard inclusion (as many of the JAWA models do), the extra room and functionality an annex provides may save you the cost of upgrading to a larger camper. Not only is a camper and annex combo likely cheaper to buy and insure, it’s also lighter and less expensive to tow and easier to manoeuvre than a larger caravan, making it a much more economical and safer option.

What to look for in an annex

Something important to bear in mind about adding an annex to your camper is that they are not all made equal. Don’t make the mistake of buying cheap and paying dear!

Not sure where to start? Here’s what to look for in a caravan annex.

Ease of use

First and foremost, an annex should be easy to set up and pack down and ideally should be lightweight and compact for storage.

Watch the video below to see just how JAWA excels in this all-important area!

Durable material

Your annex must be made from high-quality, water-resistant, durable material that can withstand the elements. In addition to this, it should also have UV protection to prevent sun damage and keep the interior of the annex and caravan cooler.

JAWA annexes are made from vinyl and canvas to ensure comfort, durability and protection on your travels.

Don’t forget to look at the finer details, too, such as whether corners and other stress points are reinforced, and if zips are heavy-duty and designed to last, as these can be common failure points.

Sturdy frame and structure

Blistering heat isn’t the only weather condition you’ll need to take into consideration when travelling. High winds and heavy rain are all part of the Aussie camping experience! Ensure that the annex frame is made from strong materials to provide stability in changeable conditions.

At JAWA, we use aluminium frames for our annexes as they are both strong and lightweight. This also makes them easy to assemble and disassemble. The fact that aluminium is also resistant to rust and corrosion makes it the ideal material for outdoor use. Secure anchor points, in combination with our sturdy frames, allow JAWA annexes to withstand varying weather conditions and give you peace of mind.

Ventilation and windows

Don’t underestimate the importance of good ventilation in a caravan annex it’s crucial for preventing condensation and maintaining airflow. Mosquito netting on windows is also a non-negotiable here in Australia, as it keeps out insects while letting in fresh air.

JAWA annexes typically feature PVC windows with mesh screens with zippered openings so they can be opened for ventilation or closed for privacy. We also offer tinted options in some models for additional UV protection.

Size and fit

Annexes aren’t one-size-fits-all. Ensure that the annex you choose is compatible with your caravan’s dimensions and design.

JAWA campers with a full annex as standard

The added benefit of buying a JAWA caravan and annex, besides the incredible value for money, is that they are a custom fit – ensuring a superior seal and set-up experience.

JAWA camper models that include an annex as a standard inclusion:

• Sirocco Grande
• Infinity 15 Bunk
• Infinity 15 Escape
• Lowdown 13 Bunk
• Lowdown Escape
• Stealth 10
• Stealth 12
• Stealth 16

Now that you understand the full benefits of hitting the road less travelled with a caravan and annex, all that’s left to do is find your perfect JAWA camper. Head to your local showroom and view the JAWA difference for yourself! Alternatively, you can give us a call on 07 5479 6844 or enquire online here.