VW campervan awnings are sized by connection height, not by "T5" or "T6" alone. Since the T5, T6, and T6.1 all share the same body architecture, the deciding factor is your specific van's roof height rather than which generation you own. This guide covers the awning types available, and the actual height figures you need to pick the right one.
Which type of awning do you need?
Four main styles are available for VW campervans, and which one suits you depends on how you use your van.
Driveaway Awnings
Attach along the whole side of the van via a rail, windout channel, or straps, and can be left pitched while you drive off — the go-to choice for extended stops.
Shop driveaway awnings →Tailgate Awnings
Cover just the rear/boot area, giving you dry storage and a small porch without the size or cost of a full driveaway awning.
Shop tailgate awnings →Wind-Out Awnings
Connect to a permanently fitted awning rail (like a Thule Omnistor) already mounted to your van — these wind in and out from the box itself rather than folding away.
Windout fitting service →A fourth option, sun canopies, is the simplest of the four — mainly providing shade and light rain cover rather than a full enclosed living space.
Which height do you need?
Your van's actual roof height is what determines fit, not the model generation. Here's how the real VW factory figures line up against typical awning height bands:
High roof T6/T6.1 vans — get in touch with your van's details and we'll help you confirm the right option.
Always measure from the ground to your actual awning rail or windout channel height before ordering, since roof racks, tyre size, and suspension can shift this by a few centimetres from the factory figure.
Frequently Asked Questions
It depends on your roof height rather than the T5/T6 generation itself. Standard roof vans (around 199cm, by far the most common) usually need the "Low" height option. For high roof vans, get in touch with your van's details so we can confirm the right option.
Yes. Most driveaway awnings include 'up and over' straps as a fitting option if your van doesn't have a rail or windout track fitted.
A tailgate awning covers just the rear of the van, giving you dry storage and a small porch. A full driveaway awning runs the length of the van's side, creating a much larger living space.
Yes — see our Windout Awning Fitting page for details on our supply and fit service at our Liverpool workshop.
Ready to browse? Shop our full range of VW campervan awnings, or get in touch if you're still not sure which one fits your van.