Van Life - Custom Van Awning System - How To DIY Van Canopy

[@JoeCWales]

There was a super on a job site one time that had a saying, "Smarter than a shepherd dog". I chose to take it as a compliment but I think it fits you better than me. Damm fine job right there.

[@chrisluehmann3094]

This is probably the best canopy i have ever seen.

[@topherjoe1]

Brilliant. As a last minute camper I seldom found a spot with shade, so I built something similar to this for picnic tables 20 years ago when I had a van, carried a 6 foot 2x4 with 3 holes drilled in it for the pvc fittings, clamped the end of the 2x4 to each end of the table, placed the pvc pipe in the holes, t section at the top, ran a couple of flex poles tied together through the t and draped a tarp ove rthe resulting "line" , had many variations to tie it off, poles , no poles, what ever I did was able to sit or cook under the tarp and stay dry, even in driving rain. Eventually replaced the middle flex poles with pvc pipe for strength. Got lots of comments, should have patented it, a similar one came out about 5 years after that. Flimsy though lol. you can do it with 2 short lengths of 2x4 or 4x4 at each end of the table clamped down and a pole in the middle of the table to keep the rain from accumulating if your car cant carry the length you need. Bravo, nice set up!

[@gunnarmoeller8606]

Your spot on with : car wants some shade too. I live in Vietnam and heat is always your enemy. Gonna try something like that when i build my awning.

[@JudiChristopher]

"Thank you for serving our Country"

[@paytonfit]

Ever since I discovered your channel, I can't get enough of your vids. You are so talented and creative, what's more you have the skills to create a quality product. This awning is awesome. You should market it. It really is beautiful.

[@BackroadsVanner]

+paytonfit Wow, thank you so much for taking the time to comment. It really means a lot to me and I appreciate it. Comments like yours inspire me to share more of my ideas and create more videos. So stay tuned! Thanks for watching!!!

[@rmbarnes672]

+paytonfit They really could market this. Thank you BackRoadsVanner even MacGyver was taking notes! The one dislike doesn't have a van, and lives under a bridge for shelter:))

[@BackroadsVanner]

+RM Barnes THANKS RM! Haha, MacGyver is our hero. lol. I think he's in my family tree. ;)- We really appreciate your comments. Thanks for watching! Stay tuned for more cool ideas coming up...

[@paulnorberg3869]

Beautiful design! I subscribed! I found a 2000 Chevy Express 3500 that had 100,701 miles. Former head start bus for Merced county, county owned, and maintained, and driven by folks being gentle with kids. It feels like new. Your videos are super helpful!!!

[@normanrowe2831]

Hello, absolutely amazing! I was going thru KZbin looking for patio covers made from pvc pipe and connectors... Lo and behold I found this. I will use your canopy as a guideline for my patio cover. You sir, are a genius. Thanks

[@BackroadsVanner]

Awesome, thanks! You can find more info on it here: www.backroadsvanner.com/all-posts/featured/video-custom-van-canopy-awning-system/

[@billiamc1969]

Guy is a genius...Thanks for your inspirational video...Love the pups!!!

[@ernestpaul2484]

This is a hell of an idea and execution. I used to do something similar but more along the lines of cavemangineering. I now have a 7x16 enclosed v-nose that will be modified to multi-purpose haul/camp/get out of dodge from the hurricanes. Since I will be putting a roof AC in the center with a powered roof vent forward and aft, I am going to buy two pair of RackEm' aluminum ladder racks for the spacing to set up a system you have been gracious enough to share. Excellent video, music and timing was hysterical, very informative. Being disabled now it will take me a bit longer to assemble and disassemble, but as long as I don't bust my butt off the ladder it will be worth every square inch of shade and rain protection it offers. Looking at doing a 20 by 20 tarp. Thanks, EP.

[@dejonsmall9886]

Would love to have a complete parts guide for your set-up. This is the bomb.

[@ADONAIsays-so]

Absolutely vantastic! I've been thinking of an awening on the lines of yours, but you my friend made a huge leap over what I was thinking!

[@BackroadsVanner]

Thanks so much for your awesome comments! Thanks for watching!

[@Morning1217]

Unique, innovative, versatile, and functional canopy. Wonderful, entertaining, clear and explanatory illustrations. Thanks for showing!

[@CaliforniaTravelVideos]

Terrific - QUICK, get a patent while you have time :) As always, mega-awesome information packed with tons of tips. And your choreographed music mix really was the icing on the cake - keep 'em coming! Happy trails, Michael

[@BackroadsVanner]

+California Travel Videos Thanks for your comments! We appreciate you! Thanks for watching!

[@JJ.Ritchie]

FINALLY! In Texas as well and will be travelling with fair weather soon. I've been knocking around a few ideas for full coverage. This concept is similar to what I have in mind, though I'm going to see if I can manage it with some type of roller system installed on the driver's side to pull over the entirety of my van.. My van is small and I'm trying to minimize roof installations aside from fan and awning system, not sure I could afford space for all the equipment in my little rig. This is genius! Thank you for sharing!

[@TheMarielassell]

This is amazing. We have a 2007 Honda Odyssey and it’s necessary to carry items in an on top storage. I’ve looked and looked for DIY awning. We live in Oregon so need an awning that addressed rain, go over top of storage and provide shade. Thank you thank you. You are a genius.

[@jwaynepattillo7344]

You did the descriptive like a pro. Well scripted and delivered.

[@alanwilson2073]

I'll be goddamed. Saved the video, SUBSCRIBED AND NOTIFIED!!! And I like the way the doggies just stay in the area and not run off!!!

[@sharonpugh7877]

Your awning is awesome! I really enjoy your aproach to van camping. Please keep making more videos.

[@BackroadsVanner]

+sharon pugh Thank you Sharon! We appreciate your comments and encouragement. We have more videos coming soon! Thanks for watching!

[@firepwr21]

Thanks Mike....Great design.....I do like the way it goes all the way over the van, if it does rain the water doesn't run down the van in to the doorway.....plus the shade, ok I think I can do this.....I even have old shelter logic pipes....this is great....☺

[@BackroadsVanner]

+Mike Luongo Awesome! You will love it. Thanks for subscribing! We have a list of the products we used on the canopy on our web site if that helps. See www.backroadsvanner.com/all-posts/video-custom-van-canopy-awning-system/. Keep us posted on your canopy! We'd love to hear all about it and see some photos!

[@GordonDLear]

I don't even need an awning. I just happened upon this video. It captured and kept my interest because I like to look at others ideas and it makes all the gears in my head start spinning. Very well done. Informative, well explained. Two things: 1. These thumbs down. Why would anybody give a fail to someone helping others. 2. I think if you carried 3 extension poles in addition to what you have, you might be able to prop up awning with them. Extending down from what was on ladder rack on the main side. Then remove from ladder rack on other side and fold back the part shading the van and drive away... Not sure, but like possible from this video.

[@johnd5790]

Sir, you are an automotive artist. Your work is superb.

[@luisricardohernandezvillas7310]

Hello From Mexico my friend, I was thinking to express my thoughts through words (rather, letters!) regarding your job and creativity, I just need one: GENIUS.

[@BackroadsVanner]

+Luis Ricardo Hernandez Villaseñor Wow my friend, thank you! We have THREE words for you... YOU ARE AWESOME. Thank you for taking the time to watch and write such a nice comment. We appreciate you. Stay tuned for more...

[@tomjeffersonwasright2288]

Ever since I first saw this video several months ago, I have been figuring out how to adapt it to my needs, Texas is hot, but in Florida the humidity races the temperature upward. The morning sun on the roof is the limit of how late you can sleep in the morning here. I like your ladder a lot. I didn't know they existed.

[@BackroadsVanner]

+tom jackson This canopy makes all the difference in the world when the morning sun hits your van. Thanks for watching Tom!

[@vermili0n]

personally i think you have the best camper van on youtube

[@robertrickman3531]

Just picked up a '10 e250 and have been looking for a 'Festy Tarp'/Awning.....thank you. Im gonna make a few 'Tweaks' to accommodate my Solar panels, but your design is Spot On!

[@bloxelectrix]

That's great. I made one once using light gauge softwood banister rail & plastic couplings. It was totally better than a pre-manufactured awning. Yours totally trumps mine though & i'll keep it in mind for future projects. Thanks for sharing.

[@BackroadsVanner]

+Blox Electrix Thank you for your comments and thanks for watching!

[@EatTravelHappy]

That is very smart and very functional. You can open your doors easily. and it packs away nicely. very good my friend. Happy trails.

[@elenasimon1270]

Inspiring idea. Just ordered a tarp. Need shade on our patio. Thanks.

[@clearnewview]

This makes a lot of good sense...👍🙂 You could even stretch more tarps connected to that frame and have even more shade if needed on a hot day to take a nap if you wanted👍🙂

[@rob4631]

Nice! I took a shot everytime you said "canopy system"... Now my keyboard is fuzzy😲 Please do a follow up video demonstrating the emergency getaway 😆

[@BackroadsVanner]

hahahahahahahaha.

[@MikeMaileFoolishBehavior]

YOU sir, are a genius. I think I would add a 4 - 6 in. PVC to the ladder rack to protect the poles. Ran as long as needed and capped at the front with a screw in cap at the rear.

[@CallieCatCuddles]

That sounds like a great idea as it would keep them out of the weather so they'd stay undamaged.

[@BackroadsVanner]

+Foolish Behavior (M-n-M) Thank you for the awesome comments and great suggestions! Stay tuned for a new video as we may be implementing that soon.

[@PapajosTraders]

Great job! I did a similar set-up on one of my vans with black-iron pipe stuck into my roof racks.

[@BackroadsVanner]

+rex woodcutter Awesome! If you want, feel free to share your photos on our Facebook page at facebook.com/backroadsvanner/ Thanks for watching!

[@ing83646]

Thank you for showing us such a great idea to build sturdy canopy. I use PVC & fencing poles for a lot of out door projects. What you did was inspirational. I'm going to try to utilize your van conversion ideas with my 5 x 8 moving trailer to travel trailer conversion. thanks again.....

[@pedroerocha4194]

It would be great if you do an update on this, Great Video! 👍 I want to do this for mine!

[@JohnRobinson-br4vh]

Very cool system , I'm already setting here while watching this and modifying your system for my truck.

[@BackroadsVanner]

That's great! send us some pictures!!! Thanks for watching!

[@RiverBirchFarm]

You do need a patent on this and have them manufacture this, so awesome and I agree with others here you definitely have an engineer's mind not only on this video but on the one with the screen for the windows!

[@Slaytanik.]

That is a fabulous set up! I bet I could do something somewhat like that for my Outback! Time to get planning!

[@BackroadsVanner]

+freakmessiah Awesome! Please feel free to share some photos of your custom canopy on our Facebook page at facebook.com/backroadsvanner/! Good luck!!

[@TheMaryb1]

Best cargo to camper van videos I've seen yet - thank you ;)

[@BackroadsVanner]

+TheMaryb1 Thanks for your awesome comments! We appreciate it! And thanks for watching!

[@wompol7117]

and you can throw up walls and have a large tent!

[@JudiChristopher]

@@wompol7117 OMGosh... I didn't even think about that!!! That's even better... I am so excited to build one of these!!!!

[@alfriedar]

I like how it also saves the van though initially before watching the video does look like it’s a pain in the neck to set up but you’ve given me some ideas and I like that over the top of the van very much concept

[@alexanderweaver9182]

Hi Mike! Brother, I don't know where you live but I'd hire you in a heartbeat to rig one of these setups for my Jeep Compass At 72 I've begun to car camp rather than backpack or trek to potential campsites. I presently use an USMC Marpat tarp and telescoping poles for my shelter/shade and it works but I love the "neatness" of your arrangement. Very innovative and cool looking. Also, using a white tarp in hot climates is totally smart. You also have me thinking about finding an old work van with the roof rack and doing a conversion like yours. Another commenter before me suggested you apply for a patent...great idea! Your setup is an absolute original. Great job. man!

[@Mauromoustakos]

This is the best ideas and design that I have seen for shadow and a tight cover. I will probably use a smaller version for shadow on the car when parking in the city. You mentioned something about securing the legs to the ground? Can you share how this is done? I love pvc pipes. They are cheap, light and strong. My method for securing pipe legs on the ground is first to stick halfway on the ground an iron bar of about 40 cm, 1,5 feet long, then covering it with the pipe. The pipe will stay on the point. If the diameter is about 4 cm or 2 inches, it will not bend.

[@annettesmith6241]

Excellent system for an extended stay.

[@TinManisbugginout]

I love your inventiveness. I too created a similar acting system using my roof racks on the shell of my truck.

[@BackroadsVanner]

I think that is great! I would love to see your system. We created a Backroads vanner group on Facebook, where we encourage people to share their ideas, and photos, please check it out here: facebook.com/groups/backroadsvanner. Thanks for watching Tin Man

[@TinManisbugginout]

+Backroads Vanner I just submitted my request to your fb page, but under my name. FB made me change it to my name just this week.

[@paulmryglod4802]

you have excellent ideas and professional execution. I'm using all your ideas!

[@leprechaunbgc]

Man this system is slick!!!!! I am going to design and build one for my rig. Thanks a million

[@BackroadsVanner]

Awesome! Please share your adventures on our group at facebook.com/groups/backroadsvanner/

[@AlexRodriguez-gw8xt]

Wow that is so cool I have never seen this type of canopy!

[@WizzRacing]

I love that ladder. It makes it easy to service to solar panels. I need to get one for my High Top. As this system can be used without covering them up with some modifications,. As I bought an Ice maker that runs on 90 watts. and can produce 20lbs of ice every 2 hours from China Mart. As I have 680 watts of panels that run everything from AC, Ice Box, Computer\TV screen, WIF, Hot Water shower, and LED lighting. Great Idea and parts can be bought anywhere if you need to fix something...

[@JudiChristopher]

I love this video... YOU need to make Custom "Kits" and sell them!!!

[@jwray6150]

That's really cool! If you need to get to something on top of the van you can.

[@walleyeye]

Greetings from up in Canada. Great set up! Love the music!!!

[@trimthemonkey]

great awning ! as for the roof rack it attaches to, can you show some details about it?

[@BackroadsVanner]

Thanks for your comment and question. We have a link to the ladder rack with details about it on our web site at www.backroadsvanner.com/all-posts/featured/video-custom-van-canopy-awning-system/ (it's the first link under the heading "Items you’ll need in order to build the custom van awning shown in this video:"

[@TSunshineful]

You're either a genius or an engineer.

[@JesseLynnLibertarian]

Moon Dancer or both ;-)

[@TSunshineful]

True

[@campgeek99]

I love this awning. I have a small Jeep Cherokee that I am trying to find an awning for. I am wondering if I could buy kayak holders to put on my luggage rack, bending the kayak holders so that they are straight up and down, and using them in place of the ladder rack shown in your video. Also, my conduit would have to be only 8' long instead of 10'. Your system would allow the awning to be tall enough to stand under without having to slouch. Thanks so much for the video and sharing your expertise!

[@BackroadsVanner]

Sounds like you've got it figured out! Awesome. Good luck. See our page for more info www.backroadsvanner.com/all-posts/featured/video-custom-van-canopy-awning-system/

[@DanSarka_AKA_RabidHamster]

Gotta be the best canopy I've seen ... awesome design and build !!! :-)

[@BackroadsVanner]

+Dan Sarka Thanks Dan! Totally appreciate your comments! Thanks for watching!

[@liamodonnell5261]

Very Cool Setup. I dig the way you raised it. However lots of vandwellers are doing a solar setup so how it goes over the top of the van could pose a problem.

[@BackroadsVanner]

When we are parked, we have solar that sets out on the ground. For traveling, the canopy would obviously be off so solar would be doable. But you are correct - the canopy could block the use of solar panels on the roof. But I am working on some cool ideas regarding this so please stay tuned to a future video on this very subject.

[@rolandoperez8248]

Neat I need to do something like that for my camper van. This is specially useful when staying on campgrounds with friends and family

[@BackroadsVanner]

+Rolando Perez (OutdoorFanatic) Yes! It makes for a great place to park the whole family under some shade and shelter from rain. Set-up takes 15 minutes and you can then enjoy it the duration of your trip. Thanks so much for your comments and thanks for watching!

[@nncoco]

A canopy raised off the van like this is the way to go for desert camping. The airflow space is key for making it cool inside your van. Another thing that helps is opaque silver tarp material. White transmits a lot of light and heat.

[@BackroadsVanner]

+tracy smith Thank you for your comments Tracy! We chose white because it does give great indirect light and you are right, air flow is key! And this canopy in the desert landscape would be perfect. It works great in the Texas heat too! Thanks for watching!

[@GEAUXFRUGAL]

I like your set I think I would rather adapt it where the tarp system was around your trailer and you could park the van under the tarp and take advantage of the shade in the van this way.

[@salliepower8751]

I totally enjoyed watching your video. That is the best canopy I've ever seen.

[@gazzalanche]

17:15 Doggy wants his shade damn it!! Nice set up. Thinking something similar for when I get around to setting up the van.

[@dzydean]

Wow, what an awesome idea, I am going to use this concept on my pop-up amazing 👏

[@timelwood2555]

I concur with all of the other comments - great set up and great job. Would you happen to have a list of all the component and lengths available?

[@BackroadsVanner]

See here: www.backroadsvanner.com/all-posts/featured/video-custom-van-canopy-awning-system/ We are working on adding the measurements of our pipes. Will post that to this link soon.

[@grantdavenport2036]

Good big cover but holy crap, you'd need the patience of a saint to set up and pull down !

[@RonRay]

Excellent awning, Mike! But one thing I just have to ask... In the pictures of the Arkansas music festival (where the storm happened), how is it that everyone else was all crammed together all around you and you had a couple of hundred vacant feet to all directions to yourself?

[@BackroadsVanner]

+RonRay Ha, good question! We got there early and parked far up on the hill. Everyone else wanted to cram in closer to the festivities. Thanks for watching!

[@JohnSmith-tl3kd]

Where can I get one of those telescoping ladders that you used to reach the top of the van? See 10.37 on video clip. I need one of these if they are not too expensive!

[@cluuck4617]

You should setup my 2 room tent with a porch sometime, this is so much easier. Nice awning and the white color makes the setup look great.

[@BackroadsVanner]

Thanks Clu uck! I love this setup and appreciate you watching!

[@Mssummer362008]

I would love to see a closer view of top....so I can see a direct view of top of van and under canopy and where will u put solar????? Also I would love to see video of u creating the backing...in your ceiling

[@BackroadsVanner]

+Summer362008 Thanks for the comments/questions. I am planning a video soon that will show all the details of the upholstery. So stay tuned for that. Also, regarding the canopy, we currently use a portable solar panel that we set outside on the ground and it works great (see www.backroadsvanner.com/all-posts/featured/our-mobile-office-set-up-in-thermopolis-wyoming/). Working on a solution for a roof top mount that will work with the canopy - video on that coming soon as well. I will post an aerial shot of the canopy on our site at www.backroadsvanner.com/all-posts/vans/our-van/video-custom-van-canopy-awning-system/ as soon as I can. Thanks so much for watching.

[@JudiChristopher]

@@BackroadsVanner Thank you again... I am working on 2 RVs... I "Flip" RVs and am getting ready to do body work on a Class A RV... and need something like this... Personally I think this might even help sell the RV... LOL... You are a God-send for this 64 year old woman... I'm Irish, and live in New Mexico... My skin is toooooo white and burns easily ... LOL... BTW... I love TEXAS...

[@virginiarichards4554]

Why did you use metal and pvc instead of all pvc? Ty!!! Awesome!

[@janetstarr9554]

Oh! I have been dream this kind of cover up for months now!!!! Yes!!!

[@Windkisssed]

Very thorough design and description of a great system!! Glad I found you... new subbie!! Lauri

[@BackroadsVanner]

+Windkisssed Awesome! Glad you found us and thanks for subbing!

[@createlovehappy]

Great system. Only draw back I can see is if you rely on solar. I suppose you could create a solar system that could lift up above it. What would you do if you needed lots of solar and shade for full time van life?

[@mountainconstructions]

I really like the idea of this canopy, especially the water protection around the door area. But the set up and pack down time is a real negative for me, as i'm more a camp one night and move on person, plus i like to use my vehicle during the day.

[@beloved13x67]

That is a Major Invention.....! Thanks for the Tips. Do you have list of Parts.

[@BackroadsVanner]

Thanks! Info can be found in the text below the video and on our site at www.backroadsvanner.com/all-posts/featured/video-custom-van-canopy-awning-system/

[@garycloud9631]

Just found your channel today and am so glad I did. This canopy is incredible and I am already trying to figure out how I can modify the idea to fit my 88 Chevy Silverado with a cap on the bed. I have no roof rack but there must be a way to do something like yours. I would like to be able to drive out from underneath it but that's not mandatory.Any ideas would be appreciated. Thanks.

[@JudiChristopher]

How much do you think if I did exactly the way you did this... What it would cost for the materials including the ladder you use. I need a High and Low of this cost... Thank you for your help. You have no idea how much this means to me... God Bless you and your family, Safe travels... "Don't Drive Faster, than your Angel Can Fly"

[@simonlynchsae]

I'm probably late to the awning party, but wow! Great Design! It looks a bit tedious to put up, but very big and nice shade! I would suggest putting some eye bolt at the tarp mounting points on the poles and leaving a small bungie+karabiner one the tarp. So when putting it on, you just clip it. I'm definetly stealing ideas from you for my (yet to be bought) van!

[@TravelswithYoly]

I have entertained the idea of making a heavy duty "rain fly" component to the EZ-Up type 10 x 10 we have and wondered about the use of PVC. I know the tarps are fairly waterproof and inexpensive but still seems like a lot of work. This one you designed is great on so many levels (until you run out of beer) :-) I'd like to see some of the small details like you provided in the bug-screen tutorial such as the type of bungee and how they connect as well as the curved pieces at the outer edge that don't appear to be PVC. I couldn't tell which parts were PVC and which weren't (other than the tee uprights on the ladder rack). Also wondering how the uprights on the ladder rack were attached to the cross members ?

[@BackroadsVanner]

+Travels with Yoly You are right, the "the curved pieces at the outer edge" are steel pipe from the base canopy I started with. All the uprights from the ladder rack are PVC and all other parts are steel. Here's a link to our site that lists all the parts and pieces I used to make this canopy, if that helps: www.backroadsvanner.com/all-posts/vans/our-van/video-custom-van-canopy-awning-system/ Thanks for your comments and thanks for watching! Good luck to you if you decide to make one yourself. PS running out of beer is a good reason to practice taking the canopy down and resetting it up. lol

[@TravelswithYoly]

Thank you Mike for all the additional information. You always seem to provide all the details necessary for a complete understanding of the project.

[@GoodoldCT90]

Great video, good idea. Going to watch all of your videos.

[@BackroadsVanner]

+Goodold Ct90 Thank you! Glad you found us!

[@kathrynkenyon785]

THAT was AAAAAWESOMMMME! Did you say it was the Weatherguard Ladder Rack? And was the canopy system name Shelter Logic? Where do I find these two items?

[@voborny]

Awesome setup! Perfect for having a nice chill spot at festivals. Where can I find the ladder you have? That thing looks like it would be SUPER handy.

[@BackroadsVanner]

Thanks for watching Aaron. here is a link for the ladder. www.campingworld.com/shopping/item/10-5-foot-telescoping-extension-ladder/69450

[@tonym5878]

Wow, you're Batman! Another great vid. Thanks for sharing!

[@BackroadsVanner]

+Tony M LOL. I'll have to give Shannan a new nickname.. Robin. ha. Thanks for watching!

[@rikkiesix]

Great setup you have there. I like it a lot, even if you can't drive away right away its still a awesome awning :-) Greetings from Belgium Erik

[@BackroadsVanner]

+rikkiesix Thanks Erik! Greetings from Texas! The driving away part isn't too big a deal for us because I've gotten really good at taking it down quickly and we usually plan for all the supplies we need in advance. Thanks for watching. Lots more coming!

[@leammeas9425]

Hi, can you please show us how to build your canopy system. Love your channel

[@julieeanderson945]

Thank you a lot for this video. This is very interesting and informative. Keep posting like those amazing videos, this is awesome.

[@bobfulton6201]

you are one talented dude!

[@Snailmailtrucker]

Hi Mike...I have one question for you....What are you going to do with your Solar Panels when you can't mount them on the Van's roof ? Make them portable ? I Love common sense.... creative people like you !

[@BackroadsVanner]

+Screww Googlle I don't currently have them mounted on the roof but plan to soon. When traveling, they will charge. When stopped, if we have the awning set up, we will use the portable panels to charge the generator. However, I have some ideas on making it all work. I'll will try to do a video on that soon. Thanks for watching!

[@JudiChristopher]

@@BackroadsVanner Video???? LOL

[@marilyndriscoll2495]

You did well in your creation. I envy you.

[@BackroadsVanner]

+Marilyn Driscoll Thank you Marilyn. I hope this video helps you to make one for your vehicle. And thank you for subscribing!

[@artisanlifeincolour]

mate thats brilliant, inspired and l'm off to create one thanks heaps for sharing!

[@danielmiller4356]

Very well done ! Love the idea ! Thank you for sharing .

[@BackroadsVanner]

+Daniel Miller Thanks Daniel!!

[@kathrynkenyon785]

Hi Mike, I've been looking into getting the weather guard ladder rack system from Amazon but there are so many that look similar with various part numbers. Can you tell me the exact one you got? I'm buying for a 2016 Ford Transit Cargo Van. I see 3 vertical towers on your which you slide your pvc pipe over, but all the ones I see on line only seem to have two with some type of slide bar for the third vertical tower in the middle. Can you give me a part number? GREAT VIDEO BTW! You really are ingenius!

[@BackroadsVanner]

Thank you so much for the comments. See here for links to products we used! www.backroadsvanner.com/all-posts/featured/video-custom-van-canopy-awning-system/

[@philo2808]

great vid on shade, but what do u do if u have solar panels on the roof.

[@thevikingwolfpack836]

You gave me a great idea for mine to add it to the rack on my pickup

[@lordmarchand6137]

awsome. so how would you do it for a car? can you make a video of on for a car/sedan?

[@thomassinclair4675]

What great idea! Very ingenious!

[@BackroadsVanner]

+Thomas Sinclair Thanks so much Thomas!

[@peteman2980]

Sweet job. what size of pipe are you using

[@raider6511]

Really nice awning.

[@stormthrush37]

Absolutely love it! Thanks for sharing.

[@BackroadsVanner]

Your welcome stormthrush! Keep watching for more ideas!

[@jaysamples7165]

Can I purchase a parts list and instructions for building this canopy? I love it!!

[@BackroadsVanner]

+Jay Samples We have the parts list and more info on our web site and it's all free at www.backroadsvanner.com/all-posts/vans/our-van/video-custom-van-canopy-awning-system/... Good luck!

[@healthEfairy]

OK this is going to be great! I have the connectors, the 15X15 tarp and the bungee balls. I'm going to purchase my pipes but sure would appreciate having a pipe parts list for the exact set up you have. It's hard for me to see exactly what I need from the video. TIA!!!!!! I'm also putting together your snap on screens idea! SCORE!

[@brucedeville3810]

Thanks for some great videos. Was the festival on a mountaintop in Arkansas Mena by any chance?

[@BackroadsVanner]

+Bruce Deville No, not Mena. It was Mulberry Mountain near Cass. The music festival was the Harvest Fest in 2012. However, I was in Mena days after a tornado hit that area - couldn't believe the devastation. Thanks for your comments!

[@davidgrimshaw2316]

Great job! Have you experimented with using solar panels for part of your shade and uncovering the panels when your batteries need charging?

[@BackroadsVanner]

We have portable solar panels that we set out when needed but do plan to add some to the roof. Will do a video on that in the future.

[@JudiChristopher]

@@BackroadsVanner Have you made this video about the solar panels? I'm thinking about keeping the Vintage 1972 Aristocrat Travel Trailer... 17' and would love to put solar panels on it... I got it to "Flip" and sell, but the more I fix it up... (100 hours so far) the more I'm inclined to keep it. I am retiring soon... and would love to travel in it... I love the thought of a solar panel... instead of lugging around heavy propane bottles....