Awning Bracket Guide: Quick-Release vs Fixed Mounts for Your Rooftop Tent
If you've started shopping for an awning bracket, you've probably noticed there isn't just one option. Vantura Outfitters alone stocks five different bracket systems, and picking the wrong one usually means a return, a redrill, or an awning that rattles down a corrugated fire trail. Here's how to work out which mount actually suits your rig.
Start with one question: RTT rail, or roof rack/platform?
Every awning bracket decision comes down to what you're bolting into:
- Hardshell rooftop tent side rail – you'll want one of our RTT-specific brackets below.
- Roof rack, tray or canopy – skip ahead to the L Platform Awning Brackets, which are built for exactly this.
Heavy-Duty Quick-Release RTT Awning Brackets
This is the bracket most people ask for once they've owned an awning for a season. Instead of unbolting the whole assembly every time you want to pull the awning off, the Quick-Release RTT Awning Brackets use a two-piece interlocking design with removable retaining pins. The fixed mounting plate stays on the tent, and the awning simply lifts off.
- 8mm carbon steel construction with a black powder-coated finish
- Elongated mounting slots for height and position adjustment
- Sold as a pair with retaining pins and mounting hardware
Best for: anyone who swaps the awning on and off regularly, or wants to run the tent without the awning attached in summer.
Adjustable Stainless RTT Awning Mounting Brackets
If you're after a permanent, direct-mount setup rather than a detachable one, the Adjustable Stainless RTT Awning Mounting Brackets give you a wide multi-slot plate with plenty of adjustment on both the tent side and the awning side. The offset centre section creates clearance between the RTT and the awning canvas, which helps stop rubbing on rougher tracks.
- Stainless steel construction, black finish
- Large vertical slots plus extended side wings for fine positioning
- Suits a broad range of hardshell RTT and awning combinations
RTT L Support Brackets
Not every rooftop tent rail is built the same, and some flex under load once you've added an awning bracket. The RTT L Support Brackets sit underneath the mounting rail to spread the load and reduce localised flex — cheap insurance if you're running a heavier 270-degree awning off a lighter hardshell tent.
RTT Awning Pole Elevator Bracket
A common complaint once an awning bracket is fitted close to the tent body: the rainfly pole no longer sits where it used to. The RTT Awning Pole Elevator Bracket raises the support point to restore clearance, without changing the load rating of the tent, awning or pole system.
Quick-Release Awning Wall Storage Brackets
If you've gone with the quick-release system above, the matching Wall Storage Brackets let you hang the whole awning assembly on a garage or shed wall when it's not in use, off the ground and out of the way of the boot.
FAQ
Can I fit an awning to my rooftop tent without drilling new holes?
Most Vantura hardshell tents have an existing side channel or rail that these brackets bolt into, so no drilling is needed. Always check your specific tent model's rail against the dimension photos on each product page first, since channel spacing varies between brands.
Will these brackets fit a 180 or 270 awning?
The RTT bracket range is designed to work with Vantura's VO 180 and VO 270 awnings. If you're running another brand's awning, compare the backing track or mounting profile against our dimension photos before ordering.
Do I need the L Support Brackets as well as an awning bracket?
Not always. They're a reinforcement, not a requirement — worth adding if you're mounting a larger 2.5m or 270-degree awning, or if your particular tent's rail feels light for the load.
What if I'm not sure which bracket fits my setup?
Send us a photo and the measurements of your rail or roof rack channel before you order — we're happy to check compatibility so you're not guessing.
