Motorcaravanners are pumped up about all the drive-away awnings with inflatable frames now on the market. SunnCamp has joined the fray with its Rotonde, Silhouette and Tourer Motor models, after proving the system in its tents. Here we review the SunnCamp Tourer Motor Air 335, which we tested with an Auto-Sleeper Symbol.

SunnCamp, based in Brentwood in Essex, can boast a strong history of not just producing tents, but caravan and motorhome awnings, too. The Tourer 335 with a conventional frame was a strong seller, so launching the Air 335 makes perfect sense. The support tunnels pump up in seconds so you can erect the awning to fit vehicles with connection heights of up to 270cm.

After inflating with the hand pump provided, add the Air Storm roof bars and peg out the awning. If you’ve got the space in your vehicle, you can leave the smaller beams inflated in transit.

Inflatables withstand heavy winds by flexing and returning to their original shape. Still, it’s better to be safe than sorry, which is why the Motor Air is equipped with storm straps, which glow in the dark.

SunnCamp uses ripstop fabric for the Motor Air series – 100D for the sides and heavier-duty 300D for the roof. The fabric has an impressive 6000mm hydrostatic head waterproof rating and taped seams to prevent leaks.

A practical canopy extends from over the front door, held up by a GRP pole – the only non-inflatable support in the awning. It provides additional protection from the elements.

You can roll back either front door or both. Or, if the weather’s really good, zip out the whole front panel to open up the awning.

An inner tent that can be used as a bedroom is a handy option to consider. Designed to be fitted on either side of the interior, it will sleep two extra people. A Footprint groundsheet – to offer extra protection and insulation if you’re on hardstanding, is another option. The inner bedroom tent will set you back £45 and the Footprint groundsheet is priced at £21. You could also purchase a carpet for £74.

Although condensation is a perennial problem in any kind of all-enclosed awning, SunnCamp does its best here with both low- and high-level ventilation to ensure permanent airflow. In addition, heavy duty zips with weather covers for the main zips stop leakage, plus heat sealed seams will help keep the elements at bay and ensure occupants remain cosy. The SunnCamp Tourer Motor Air 335 also features zip-down external blinds which boost both security and privacy.

So, to summarise, the key selling points of this awning include its inflatable frame, the sewn-in groundsheet, the front canopy, zip covers and storm straps, a mains lead inlet and the figure of eight connection strap.