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You'll also see them called privacy screens, shade walls or annexe walls. Whichever name you use, getting the right fit for your awning is important. Check the privacy screen size guide before ordering.

Awning Side Walls vs End Walls: What's the Difference?

An end wall fits across one end of your awning, between the side of your van and the awning's front edge. It helps block low sun and gives you more privacy from neighbouring sites.

A side wall, usually called a long wall, hangs along the front edge of the awning. It screens a larger area and can help keep the afternoon sun out.

End walls come in two shapes. An angled cut suits a full-height caravan with an awning that slopes down from the van. A square cut is generally suited to a pop top, where the upper awning arm sits more level.

Wall typeWhere it goesWhat it doesSuits
Full caravan end wall (angled cut)Across one end of the awningBlocks low sun and side views from one directionFull-height caravans with roll-out awnings
Pop top end wall (square cut)Across one end of the awningAs above, shaped for a level awning armPop tops with roll-out awnings
Long side wallAlong the front edge of the awningScreens the main open side and the afternoon sunMost roll-out awnings, sized to awning length
Fridge and kitchen side screensOver exterior fridge vents or along a kitchen-side sail trackShades and screens a specific areaVans with exterior fridge vents or a compatible kitchen-side track

Types of caravan awning walls

Once you've worked out which wall shape you need, think about the conditions you'll be camping in. Mesh offers airflow, while waterproof and dual layer options give you more protection from rain.

Standard screens

Standard grey Campsmart end walls use 199 gsm mesh, with a stated 95% shade rating. The angled version measures 2.1 m wide, tapering from 2.35 m to 1.9 m high.

They're designed for shade and privacy rather than rain protection, so they're a good option when keeping the breeze flowing matters more than staying dry.

XD mesh screens

XD end walls also use 199 gsm fabric and have a stated 95% shade rating. The angled version is slightly wider at 2.2 m and tapers from 2.4 m to 1.95 m high.

Some XD product listings state that the fabric has been UV tested and conforms to Australian Standard AS 4174:2018. Check your chosen product’s listing for its specifications.

The mesh lets air circulate on warm days, but it won't keep rain out.

Waterproof XD screens

The XD Waterproof range uses polyurethane-coated Oxford polyester. It's worth considering if you want to help keep your outdoor area sheltered when the weather turns wet.

As with any wall, how much protection you get depends on the conditions and how the screen is set up. The more enclosed fabric also allows less airflow than mesh, which is worth keeping in mind on hot days.

Dual layer XD screens

Want the flexibility to switch between airflow and rain protection? Dual layer XD screens combine mesh and waterproof fabric in one wall.

Roll the waterproof layer up when you want more airflow, then lower it when you need extra shelter. With both layers down, you'll also get more privacy at night.

Check which end you need before ordering. Dual layer end walls are made for specific sides of the awning. The front version fits the end closest to the A-frame, while the rear version fits the opposite end. Use the front or rear end wall guide to identify the correct option.

Single layer shade and waterproof end walls can be fitted to either side.

Black screens

If privacy is your main priority, black privacy screens are another option to consider.

Black XD walls aren't waterproof, although water may run off the fabric rather than pass straight through. In wet weather, a steeper angle or a straight-down position can help water run off the screen.

How to choose awning walls for your caravan

The right wall depends on more than its colour or fabric. Check your awning type, measurements and attachment points before you order.

Match your awning type

Campsmart's end walls are designed for roll-out awnings. Standard and XD product listings specify compatibility with awning brands including Carefree Fiesta, Dometic, A&E and Sunburst. Always check the individual product listing against your setup.

Pop tops generally need a square-cut end wall, while full-height caravans usually need an angled cut. If you're not sure which shape suits your van, contact the Campsmart team before ordering.

Box awnings, such as the Fiamma F45, use a smaller spline and need a dedicated product. Check the product details to make sure you're choosing the right screen.

Traditional bag awnings use a different attachment system, so these privacy screens aren't designed for them. Campsmart's bag awning compatibility guidance explains why the fittings aren't interchangeable.

Measure your awning

For a long side wall, measure the awning vinyl along the roller bar or measure between the centres of the two awning arms. Then compare your measurement with the privacy screen size guide.

Screens are made slightly shorter than the awnings they're designed to fit. For example, a 3.7 m screen suits a 13 ft (3.96 m) awning.

For end walls, Campsmart's roll-out options are 2.1 m or 2.2 m wide, depending on the product. Check the listed width and height against your awning's projection (how far it extends from the van) and the height of the awning arm above the ground.

Measure carefully before ordering. Campsmart’s change-of-mind policy excludes awnings and annexe walls. Check the returns policy if you need to understand what's eligible for return.

Check how the wall attaches

Many awning walls attach using a keder spline: a rope sewn into the top edge that slides into a channel or track.

Campsmart's guidance is that roll-out awnings generally take a 6 mm spline, while box awnings take a 4 mm spline. Some end walls slide into an anti-flap kit or sail track, where fitted. Others use Velcro straps around the awning arm.

Check the attachment details for your chosen screen and awning rather than relying on the measurements alone.

Choose a fabric for your camping conditions

Think about where you usually camp and what you want the wall to do.

  • Busy caravan parks: If neighbouring sites are close, privacy may be your priority. A black end wall facing your neighbours can provide extra screening.
  • Hot inland camps: Standard or XD mesh helps block low afternoon sun while allowing air to circulate.
  • Wet or coastal stops: XD Waterproof is worth considering when you want extra protection from rain.
  • Changeable weather: Dual layer XD gives you the option of mesh airflow or a waterproof layer, depending on conditions.

Not sure which size or style will suit your setup? Contact the Campsmart team before ordering.

How to fit awning walls

Always follow the instructions supplied with your screen, as the fitting method can vary by product and awning type.

Most Campsmart end walls are fitted using these general steps:

  1. Roll out and set up your awning as usual.
  2. Slide the spline into the anti-flap kit or sail track, or wrap the Velcro straps around the awning arm, as appropriate for your screen.
  3. Attach the side D-rings to the awning leg using the supplied fittings.
  4. Peg the bottom D-rings to the ground.
  5. Run out the guy ropes and tension them evenly without overtightening.

Campsmart doesn't offer installation support. If you're unsure how to fit a wall safely, ask an RV repairer for help.

Using awning walls in wind and rain

Awning walls catch the wind and add load to your awning, so secure them as directed in the product instructions.

As a general rule, take the walls down and retract the awning when strong winds are forecast. Don't assume that pegging the walls down will make the setup safe in adverse conditions.

Campsmart's XD warranty conditions exclude damage from use in adverse weather when the Bureau of Meteorology has issued a warning.

It's also worth carrying spare poles, ropes and pegs in case you need replacements while travelling.

Frequently asked questions

What's the difference between an awning side wall and an end wall?

An end wall closes off one end of the awning, between the van and the awning's front edge. A side wall, also called a long wall, runs along the front of the awning.

How do I measure for caravan awning walls?

For a long wall, measure the awning vinyl along the roller bar or measure between the centres of the awning arms. Use the privacy screen size guide to match your measurement to the right screen.

For an end wall, choose the correct cut for your caravan and check the product's listed width and height against your awning.

Do awning walls fit all awnings?

No. Fit depends on your awning's type, length, height and attachment system. Campsmart's end walls are designed for roll-out awnings, while box awnings such as the Fiamma F45 need a dedicated product. These screens aren't designed for traditional bag awnings.

Check the product listing or contact Campsmart if you're unsure about compatibility.

Are caravan awning walls waterproof?

It depends on the fabric. XD Waterproof screens use polyurethane-coated fabric to help protect against rain. Standard, XD mesh and black screens are designed for shade and privacy rather than waterproofing. Dual layer screens combine mesh with a waterproof layer.

Can I use awning walls in strong wind?

Awning walls catch the wind and increase the load on your awning. Secure them as directed, but take the walls down and retract the awning when strong winds are forecast. Follow the product instructions and local weather advice.

Can I return awning walls if they don't fit?

Campsmart’s change-of-mind policy excludes awnings and annexe walls. Check the current returns policy and your product details before ordering.

Your rights under Australian Consumer Law still apply. For information about faulty products, see the warranty policy.

Find the right wall for your awning

Choose your caravan awning walls by shape, size and fabric, and check the measurements and compatibility details before ordering.

To make your outdoor setup more comfortable, add caravan matting underfoot or explore caravan annexes if you'd prefer a more enclosed space.

Have a question about a particular awning or screen? Get in touch with the Campsmart team before you buy.

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