Dometic awnings now carry on where Kampa left off. Many tourers still know them as Kampa, so this guide explains the change. It also covers the current ranges, how Dometic builds them, the warranty and what to check on a used one.
Dometic sells air awnings for caravans, motorhomes and campervans. In addition, the Kampa name lives on for some drive-away awnings.
Dometic is a large Swedish company that makes kit for caravans, motorhomes, boats and camping. You may already know its fridges, toilets and air conditioners.
Its awnings started life as Kampa. A family business founded Kampa in 2006, near Witham in Essex. Kampa then became a leading name in lightweight air awnings.
Dometic bought Kampa at the end of 2018. Soon after, it moved most Kampa awnings under the Dometic name. However, Dometic kept the Kampa brand for a selection of drive-away awnings, tailgate awnings and family tents.
Dometic splits its awnings by size, fabric and use. Here are the main ranges you will find at UK dealers.
Best seller
A traditional-shaped porch awning with a deep 2.75 metre depth. The All-Season version has a striking Dual-Pitch roof.
Large porch
Wider 400 and 500 models with an inflatable canopy built in. Both suit caravans and motorhomes.
Touring porch
A lighter porch with four zip-out panels. Its Multi-Height System fits vehicles from 235 to 265 cm.
Residential
A full awning with oversized air tubes and All-Season fabric for long stays.
Shade
Inflatable sun canopies for caravans and vans. With no metal poles, a gust is less likely to damage the van.
Kampa name
Compact drive-away awnings for campervans. They still carry the Kampa name.
Kampa starts as a family business near Witham, Essex.
Dometic buys Kampa, adding its awnings, tents and furniture.
The new Kampa Dometic range makes its debut at the Caravan Salon in Düsseldorf.
Dometic updates the Club Air, adding twin beading so it fits caravans and motorhomes.
Most Dometic awnings use its Air Frame with single-point inflation. You connect the pump to one outside valve, and the whole frame fills. Then several deflation points help you pack it away.
The fabric is Weathershield, which comes in several grades. For example, Weathershield Tour suits lighter touring models. In contrast, Weathershield All-Season resists UV and suits seasonal pitches.
Many models also share clever extras. The Multi-Height System adjusts the rear seal for different vehicles. Meanwhile, the Dual-Pitch roof adds headroom and helps rain run off. Some awnings also take Limpet suction pads, which hold the rear wall against a smooth caravan side.
Dometic states its awning warranty periods clearly. The inflatable frame has two years on parts. In contrast, poled frames, fabric, other parts and accessories each have one year.
All claims go through the retailer that sold you the awning. Also, note what Dometic does not cover. That list includes wear and tear, UV fading, storm damage and condensation. It also excludes seasonal use, except on All-Season models.
A Dometic awning suits tourers who want a quick, simple pitch. However, it helps to match the range to how you tour.
Not sure whether you need a full or porch awning? Read full awning vs porch awning first.
Used Kampa and Dometic awnings are easy to find. However, the change of name brings one important catch for buyers.
Dometic sells awnings through a large UK dealer network. So the easiest way to choose is to visit a dealer with awnings on display. The Dometic UK website also has a dealer finder.
Then, if you can, visit one of the big shows at the NEC in Birmingham. Kampa has shown new drive-away awnings there in the past.
When buying new, buy from a dealer you can easily reach. Remember, all warranty claims go back through them. Before you buy, also read caravan setup equipment for UK touring.
Is Kampa the same as Dometic?
Yes, in effect. Dometic bought Kampa at the end of 2018 and moved most Kampa awnings under the Dometic name.
Does Kampa still exist?
Yes. Dometic still uses the Kampa name for some drive-away and tailgate awnings, plus some family tents.
Will Dometic extensions fit my old Kampa awning?
Often not. Retailers say the newer extensions only fit 2021-on Dometic models, not older Kampa-branded awnings.
What warranty do Dometic awnings have?
The inflatable frame has two years on parts. Fabric and most other parts have one year, and claims go through the retailer.
Can I leave a Dometic awning up all season?
Only All-Season models suit seasonal pitches. Otherwise, Dometic’s warranty excludes seasonal use.
Where does Dometic come from?
Dometic Group is a Swedish company. Kampa, its awning brand, began near Witham in Essex.
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