Hi Keren,
I have just recently purchased a Swift Challenger 490 and I am also looking for a porch awning. I also new to caravanning and do not consider myself to be an expert, but I am willing to discuss what I have found out so far.
I have looked at several awnings and narrowed my selection down to the Isabella, Ventura and Inaca brands. The awning from Isabella looks like it is a good quality awning, but it's a bit pricey. The Ventura is manufactured by Isabella but is in a cheaper price range and is also good quality. The Inaca awning is only available from Discover outdoors which is located in the North West (I think that's right) so you may not want to consider this.
The width of the porch awning that I am considering is 290 to 320. I have measured the van and I think it will fit between the entry door and the kitchen / front room windows without covering them.
You also need to think about the weather conditions, are you likely to be caravanning during winter, is the caravan on a permanent pitch, etc.. (the all-in-one from Isabella is an awning designed for prolonged use, so that may be your choice, or take a look at the Universal 320 model from Ventura). Also, look at the pole construction(stronger, the better), and storm straps.
I have been told that awnings generally last between 3 to 5 years. Can anyone confirm this please?
The awning that I am about to purchase is the Marlin Verde. This is cheaper than the Isabella Magnum but made by the same company (Ventura). You get all the draft skirts and side pads with the awning which should keep you nice and warm. I will be purchasing this with fibre poles for lightness and strength.
If anyone has any comments on the above, please join in. You may prevent me from making a costly mistake.
Thanks
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