ARC 270 Mesh Storage vs Awning Room: Which to Choose?

Quick Answer

If you need quick overhead stowage for light items, choose the ARC 270 Overhead Mesh Storage; if you need a fully enclosed shelter for weather protection, choose the Standard Awning Room.

Storage vs Shelter: Different Jobs

The ARC 270 Overhead Mesh Storage and the Standard Awning Room both attach to your awning, but they solve different problems. The mesh storage is about keeping small items off the ground and within reach, while the awning room creates a protected, enclosed space that can be used as a changing area, dining shelter, or extra sleeping quarters.

Your choice depends on what you prioritize: lightweight organization or full weather protection. If you mostly need a place to toss a jacket or towel while cooking, the mesh storage is the simpler, more affordable option. If you want to extend your campsite with a room that blocks sun and rain, the awning room is the way to go.

Setup and Portability Trade-Offs

The mesh storage is a lightweight accessory that clips into the awning frame and takes seconds to install. It adds minimal bulk to your packing list and doesn't require extra poles or ground anchoring.

The Standard Awning Room, by contrast, is a more substantial structure. It includes a waterproof polycotton ripstop canopy and a 720GSM PVC floor, which means more material to pack, more setup time, and a higher price. The benefit is a durable, weather-resistant space that the mesh storage simply cannot provide.

If you're a minimalist overlander who values quick setup, the mesh storage wins. If you're camping in unpredictable weather or need a private room, the awning room justifies its added weight and effort.

Weather and Durability Considerations

The mesh storage is not a weather barrier. It's designed for stowing items within the awning frame, and while it keeps things off the ground, it won't protect them from rain or wind. For that, you need the awning room.

The Standard Awning Room is built to endure the elements, with waterproof polycotton ripstop material and a durable PVC floor. It offers real protection from sun and inclement weather, making it a better choice for extended trips or harsh conditions.

If your adventures frequently involve rain or strong sun, the awning room is the more robust investment. If you only need a place to keep a few items dry under the awning, the mesh storage is sufficient.

Trade-Offs at a Glance

• Storage capacity: Mesh storage holds light items like jackets and towels but cannot store heavy or bulky gear. The awning room offers floor space for larger items like chairs, tables, or coolers. Assess what you actually need to store before deciding.
• Weather protection: Mesh storage provides no protection from rain or wind. The awning room is waterproof and can shield you from sun and inclement weather. Choose the awning room if weather is a primary concern.
• Setup and portability: Mesh storage installs in seconds and adds minimal weight. The awning room takes longer to set up and adds significant bulk to your packing. If quick setup is critical, the mesh storage is the better fit.
• Price: Mesh storage is a budget-friendly accessory, while the awning room is a major investment. Consider how often you'll use the added shelter. Weigh the cost against your actual camping frequency and conditions.

Product Facts

• ARC 270 Overhead Mesh Storage: The ARC 270 Overhead Mesh Storage fits between the frame of the ARC 270 Awning and allows quick stowage of a jacket, blanket, or towel. This gives you a convenient, low-cost way to keep frequently used items off the ground and within arm's reach under the awning.

  

• Standard Awning Room: The Standard Awning Room is made of waterproof polycotton ripstop material with a durable 720GSM PVC floor and fits 6.5' or 8' awnings. It provides a fully enclosed, weather-resistant shelter that can serve as a changing room, dining area, or extra living space.

  

Which Should You Choose?

Best for

• Overlanders who want quick, lightweight storage for small items under the awning
• Campers who rarely need a fully enclosed shelter and prioritize minimal setup time

Not for

• Campers who need weather protection or a private, enclosed space
• Those who want to store bulky gear or create a dedicated room for changing or sleeping