Installing the Naturnest 270 Awning: Overland Overhaul Episode 5
If you’re an off-road enthusiast or overlanding adventurer, you know the importance of comfort and versatility when setting up camp. One piece of gear that can elevate your setup is the Naturnest 270 Awning, offering 172 square feet of shade and protection. In Episode 5 of my Overland Overhaul series, I installed this impressive awning on my Jeep, and I’m here to break down the process for you in this blog.
Why Choose the Naturnest 270 Awning?
For those new to overlanding, or even seasoned adventurers, adding an awning to your rig provides essential protection from the elements. The Naturnest 270 Awning is a great option because it’s:
• Spacious: Covers up to 172 square feet, enough to provide shade from the front to the rear of your vehicle.
• Durable: Made from high-quality, waterproof fabric that blocks 99% of UV rays, ensuring sun protection and keeping you dry in rainy conditions.
• Quick Setup: The six retractable aluminum alloy support poles are lightweight yet sturdy, and the entire setup takes just five minutes.
• Built for Adventure: LED lights make it perfect for night use, while the ability to stand freely without poles makes it versatile for any camping situation.
Now, let’s get into how I installed this awning on my Jeep.
Unboxing the Naturnest 270 Awning
The Naturnest 270 Awning arrives with everything you need for a smooth installation:
• The main awning unit.
• Six adjustable aluminum support poles.
• Fixed ropes and hooks for securing the awning.
• Built-in LED light kit.
• All necessary hardware.
Before starting the install, I made sure I had my tools ready—socket wrenches, a ratchet, and a drill for securing the hardware to my roof rack.
Step-by-Step Installing the 270 Awning
1. Mounting Brackets
First, I installed the mounting brackets on my Jeep’s roof rack. The Naturnest 270 Awning comes with universal brackets that fit most roof racks, making the install process hassle-free. I ensured the brackets were securely attached, since they’ll bear the weight of the awning while off-roading. This took about 10 minutes, and the brackets locked into place firmly.
2. Securing the Awning
Once the brackets were ready, it was time to attach the awning itself. With the help of a friend (this part is definitely easier with two people), we lifted the awning and aligned it with the mounting brackets. Using the provided bolts, we securely fastened the awning to the brackets. This part of the install was surprisingly simple and only took around 15 minutes.
3. Deploying the Awning
With the awning in place, I deployed it to see just how well it extended from the side of my Jeep. The 270-degree coverage is impressive, extending from the front to the back of the vehicle. This provides a massive shaded area for camping, cooking, or just relaxing. The six aluminum poles are retractable, making it easy to adjust the height based on the terrain.
4. Setting Up LED Lights
The Naturnest 270 Awning also includes a built-in LED light kit that I wired into my Jeep’s auxiliary power system. The LED lights are perfect for providing illumination after dark, making this awning not just functional for daytime use but also ideal for late-night campfires or evening cooking sessions. The LED kit installation was a breeze, and it blends seamlessly with the awning’s design.
Testing the Awning in Real-World Conditions
Once installed, I took the awning out for a test run. We faced some strong winds and a bit of rain, and I’m happy to report that the Naturnest 270 Awning held up beautifully. The adjustable aluminum poles stayed strong in the wind, and the fabric kept us dry throughout the rainstorm. I especially appreciated the ease with which the poles fold away when not in use—simple, effective, and sturdy.
Why You Need the Naturnest 270 Awning for Overlanding
Whether you’re camping, overlanding, or just enjoying a day at the beach, the Naturnest 270 Awning is an essential piece of equipment for any outdoor enthusiast. Here’s why:
• Quick Setup: The entire install took less than an hour. Future deployments will be even faster—just pull it out, adjust the poles, and you’re good to go.
• Spacious Coverage: With over 170 square feet of coverage, it provides more than enough room to keep your gear, kitchen, or family shaded.
• Durability: The high-quality materials and construction can withstand various outdoor conditions, making it a reliable part of your overlanding kit.
• Lighting for Night Use: The built-in LED lights make it functional after the sun goes down, perfect for extending your camp experience into the evening.
Final Thoughts
The Naturnest 270 Awning was an easy, effective upgrade for my Jeep. With its fast installation, superior coverage, and durable construction, it’s the perfect addition for anyone looking to enhance their overland adventures. If you’re interested in seeing the full process, check out Episode 5 of the Overland Overhaul series on my Road Rash Off-Road YouTube channel for all the details.
Stay adventurous, and I’ll see you on the next trail!