Looking for a lightweight yet robust awning solution for your overlanding adventures? The Dragonfly Tarps Overland Awning offers a compelling alternative to bulky traditional awnings. Weighing in at approximately 20 pounds, this three-part system (tarp, poles, and stake bag) is easily transportable and surprisingly strong. Its innovative design features a durable keter rope system and a clever c-channel mounting system for seamless integration with your vehicle.The Dragonfly tarp boasts impressive versatility, adaptable to various vehicle sizes and weather conditions. Its modular design allows for quick adjustments, providing maximum shade or optimized rain runoff depending on your needs. Enjoy complete weather protection thanks to its gap-free design and the option for standalone setup, perfect for beach camping or situations with limited vehicle access. Read on to discover why the Dragonfly tarp is a game-changer for overlanders seeking superior shade and rain protection.
Pros And Cons
- Lightweight (around 20 pounds)
- Modular design (adjustable pole length)
- Multiple setup configurations for shade and rain protection
- Zero moisture ingress against the camper
- Standalone option available
- Customizable size
- Easy to reconfigure
Read more: 5 Best PVC Camping Tarps for Your Next Adventure
Setup and Components
The Dragonfly tarp system is surprisingly lightweight, weighing approximately 20 pounds. It comes in three parts: the tarp itself, the poles, and a stake bag. This makes it easy to transport and handle, a significant advantage over bulkier awnings.
At the heart of the system is the keter rope, a PVC rope with strong nylon webbing sewn to the tarp fabric. This provides durable attachment points and contributes to the overall strength and longevity of the awning.
The c-channel, a lightweight aluminum piece, mounts easily to the camper using VHB tape and a few small screws (though the screws may not be necessary with strong VHB tape). The keter rope slides into the c-channel for secure attachment.
Versatile Setup Options
The Dragonfly tarp offers remarkable versatility. The poles, roughly nine feet long, can be shortened to six feet for smaller vehicles. The modular design allows for easy adaptation to different vehicle sizes and camping situations.
Two primary setup configurations are described: one provides maximum shade coverage, ideal for sunny days; the other optimizes rain runoff, offering protection from downpours. Quick adjustments are possible by moving the poles and tightening straps.
The cam straps feature heavy-duty elastic, providing flexibility and preventing damage from strong winds. This innovative design makes the tarp incredibly adaptable to various weather conditions.
Advantages over Traditional Awnings
One key advantage is the elimination of the gap between the awning and the camper often found in traditional awnings. This prevents rainwater ingress, keeping the area under the awning completely dry, even in heavy rain.
The Dragonfly tarp’s c-channel mounting allows for setup on either side of the vehicle, providing flexibility depending on the campsite’s layout. This is a significant advantage over fixed-position awnings.
Finally, the standalone option provides great versatility. With a few extra straps and stakes, the Dragonfly tarp can be set up independently from the vehicle, making it perfect for beach trips or other locations where vehicle access might be limited.
Conclusion: Is it Worth it?
The Dragonfly tarp system offers a compelling alternative to traditional awnings. Its lightweight design, versatile setup options, and superior weather protection make it a worthwhile investment for Overland enthusiasts.
The ability to set it up on either side of the vehicle and the standalone option greatly enhance its practicality. The seamless integration with the camper eliminates rain ingress, a major advantage over conventional awnings.
While the initial cost may be slightly higher than some traditional awnings, the durability, versatility, and overall convenience make it a worthwhile investment for anyone looking for a superior and flexible shade and rain solution for their Overland adventures.