Moonshade Awning Review: Your Complete Setup Guide

If you’re tired of cramped, inadequate shade from traditional camper trailer awnings, you’re not alone. Most RV awnings are simply too small to provide real sun protection or usable outdoor space. That’s where the Moonshade awning comes in as a true game-changer for small camper enthusiasts.

Why Choose a Moonshade Portable Awning?

The Moonshade portable awning isn’t just another small camper camping accessory – it’s a complete outdoor living solution that provides:

• Genuine sun protection with substantial coverage
• Rain protection for unexpected weather
• Comfortable outdoor hangout space
• Sleek, modern design that looks great at any campsite
• Compact storage that doesn’t eat up precious space in small campers

Moonshade Original vs Moonshade XL: Which Should You Choose?

Moonshade Original Specifications

The Moonshade Original offers an impressive 7×9 feet of shade coverage – don’t let the “smaller” designation fool you. This awning provides substantial outdoor living space while remaining manageable for solo setup.

Moonshade XL Specifications

The Moonshade XL takes things to the next level with even more expansive coverage, transforming your tiny camper into a full outdoor living room.

Which one is right for you?

• Choose the Moonshade Original if you’re primarily camping as a couple or have limited setup space
• Go with the Moonshade XL if you frequently camp with larger groups and want maximum coverage area

How to Set Up the Moonshade Awning: Complete Step-by-Step Guide

What’s Included

Your Moonshade awning comes with multiple mounting options, but the suction cup system is incredibly powerful and versatile.

Moonshade Original Setup Process

Step 1: Mount the Suction Cups

1. Position the suction cups against your camper where you want the awning
2. Press down on the lever several times to create a secure seal
3. Test the hold – these suction cups are remarkably strong and won’t budge

Pro tip: There’s a small tab you can pull to release the suction cups when you’re ready to pack up.

Step 2: Attach the Awning

1. Take one corner of the awning and attach the carabiner to the first suction cup
2. Repeat with the other corner and the second suction cup
3. The awning fabric should now be securely mounted to your camper

Step 3: Set Up the Support Poles

1. Take the end of the first pole and slide it into the designated hole
2. Connect the pole sections together
3. Repeat the process with the second pole
4. Each pole has a post and loop system at the top for easy positioning

Step 4: Secure with Stakes and Ropes

1. Insert stakes into the ground at the appropriate angles
2. Attach carabiners to the awning connection points
3. Use the rope system to create tension and stability

Personal recommendation: I replaced the standard stakes with a ratchet system for easier tensioning and more secure hold.

How Long Does Moonshade Awning Setup Take?

Here’s the honest truth: setting up a Moonshade awning is surprisingly quick and easy. Even the larger XL model can be set up solo, and it took me 11 minutes and 11 seconds to set it up.

The key is that both awnings pack down incredibly tight, making storage a breeze for small camper owners who need to maximize every inch of space.

Honest Moonshade Awning Review: The Real Deal

The Good

• Easy to set up (this matters more than you might think)
• Substantial, usable shade that makes a real difference
• Durable construction that handles wind and weather
• Compact storage perfect for small campers
• Versatile mounting options work with various camper types
• Professional appearance that looks great at any campsite

Investment Considerations

Yes, Moonshade awnings are pricier than basic camping tarps. But here’s why they’re worth it:

• Trip after trip reliability – these aren’t one-season purchases
• Year after year durability that outlasts cheaper alternatives
• Actual problem-solving rather than just adding another gadget
• Significant improvement to your camping experience

My Updated Moonshade Awning Rating

I previously rated these awnings 9 out of 10, but after extensive use across multiple camping trips, I’m doing something I’ve never done before: upgrading my rating to 10 out of 10.

Here’s my honest evaluation based on two critical questions:

1. Is it easy to use? Absolutely. The Moonshade awning setup is straightforward enough that anyone can master it quickly.

2. Will I bring it every time and actually use it? Without question. These awnings have become one of my favorite camping upgrades.

💰Moonshade Awning Discount Code

You can save $50 on either the Moonshade Original or the Moonshade XL using my affiliate discount code here:
https://randisadventures.com/moonfab/ (Be sure to use this code at checkout: RANDI)

You can buy the ratchet rope I used on Amazon here (affiliate link): https://amzn.to/4lHBIYo

The Bottom Line

The Moonshade portable awning has completely transformed how I use outdoor space while camping. Instead of being cramped under an inadequate factory awning, I now have a genuine outdoor living room that sets up quickly and provides real weather protection.

For small camper owners who want to maximize their outdoor experience without sacrificing storage space or dealing with complicated setup procedures, the Moonshade awning system is a game-changing investment.

Whether you choose the Moonshade Original for an intimate outdoor camping space or the Moonshade XL for maximum coverage, you’re getting a premium outdoor solution that will enhance every camping trip for years to come.