Thule Omnistor Awning Rail fitting with Kinmel Campers , have you ever imagined pulling up at a beautiful beach in North Wales, sliding open your van door, and instantly rolling out a stylish awning for shade and comfort? That’s exactly what our latest customer can now do after we fitted a Thule omnistor awning rail system onto their VW campervan.
At Kinmel Campers, based in Rhyl, we specialise in making campervan life easier, more comfortable, and more fun. From awning rail installations to full campervan conversions, our workshop team works on everything from Volkswagen Transporters to Japanese imports like the Mazda Bongo, Toyota Alphard, and Nissan Elgrand.
This project is a perfect example of how a simple upgrade can transform the usability of your campervan – and why professional fitting makes all the difference.
Why Awning Rails Are a Must-Have for Campervan Owners
Many campervan owners spend years without an awning and then wonder why they didn’t install one sooner. A professionally fitted awning provides:
- Extra living space – perfect for families, couples, or solo travellers who want to cook, eat, or relax outdoors.
- Shelter from rain – keeping your van interior clean, dry, and mud-free.
- Shade on hot days – ideal for long summer road trips and keeping your van cool.
- Quick setup – modern designs like the Thule Omnistor can be extended in minutes.
- Increased van value – upgrades like this add appeal if you ever decide to sell.
If you’ve invested in a campervan, it makes sense to maximise every inch of space – and an awning rail is one of the smartest upgrades you can choose.
The Campervan and the Challenge
For this project, our customer brought in their VW campervan, ready for a summer of touring. They wanted a high-quality awning that could withstand the unpredictable UK weather and provide a sleek, professional finish to match their van.
After discussing options, we recommended the Thule Omnistor, one of the most respected brands in the campervan world. Combined with a multirail system and Clearcut Conversions brackets, this setup ensures strength, reliability, and smooth operation for years to come.
Fun fact: The Thule Omnistor is used on thousands of professional camper conversions across Europe and is known for its premium build quality.
Step-by-Step: How We Installed the Thule Omnistor Awning Rail
At Kinmel Campers, we pride ourselves on precise workmanship. Here’s how we carried out this Thule omnistor awning rail fitting installation from start to finish:
1. Free Pre-Installation Inspection
Before we touch a tool, we carry out a free inspection of the van. This ensures the roof rails are solid and there’s no hidden rust or damage that could affect the installation. Our checks confirmed that the campervan was in excellent condition.
2. Preparing the Multirail
Next, we carefully prepared the multirail system, cleaning the surfaces to remove dirt and debris. A clean surface is essential for ensuring the brackets sit flush and the installation looks seamless.
3. Fitting the Brackets
Using Clearcut Conversions brackets, we fixed mounting points along the rail. These specialist brackets are engineered to distribute the weight evenly, preventing stress on the van bodywork.
4. Installing the Thule Omnistor Cassette
With the brackets secure, we lifted and bolted the Thule Omnistor cassette into place. This is the core of the awning system, designed to sit flush against the van for a smart, aerodynamic look.
5. Extending and Testing the Awning
Finally, we extended the awning fully to test stability, smoothness, and coverage. The result? A perfectly balanced canopy that can be rolled out in minutes, providing instant shade and shelter.
The Results – A Campervan Ready for All Seasons
The transformation was immediate. The campervan now has a professional-grade awning that blends seamlessly with the bodywork. The customer can pull up at campsites, festivals, or coastal stopovers and instantly create a comfortable outdoor space.
Here’s what our happy customer had to say:
“I’d been thinking about getting an awning for ages but was worried about fitting it myself. The Kinmel Campers team made the whole process simple. They explained everything, fitted it perfectly, and showed me how to use it. The finish looks brilliant, and it’s rock solid – I couldn’t be happier!”
Why Professional Awning Fitting Matters
It might be tempting to attempt a DIY awning fitting, but here’s why professional installation is worth every penny:
- Precision alignment – ensures smooth rolling without stress on the cassette.
- Leak prevention – badly fitted awnings can allow water to seep into roof rails.
- Strength & durability – professional bracket fitting means your awning will withstand years of use.
- Warranty protection – many awning brands require professional fitting to validate their warranty.
- Peace of mind – no rattles, no movement, no worries.
At Kinmel Campers, we’ve fitted hundreds of awnings across every major campervan model. Whether it’s a VW T5/T6, a Ford Transit Custom, or a Japanese import like a Nissan Elgrand, our expertise ensures a flawless result.
Tips for Campervan Owners Thinking About an Awning
If you’re considering an awning, here are some top tips:
- Pick the right brand – Thule and Fiamma are industry leaders.
- Choose the correct size – we’ll help you match your van’s length and roof type.
- Think about accessories – side panels, LED lighting, or privacy rooms can enhance your setup.
- Book early – fitting slots fill quickly in spring and summer.
- Get a free inspection first – we always check your van before fitting.
Other Services We Offer
At Kinmel Campers, we do far more than just awning fitting. Our workshop specialises in:
- Elevating roof conversions
- Rust repairs, welding & bodywork
- Diesel heater installations
- Campervan imports – Mazda Bongo, Toyota Alphard, Nissan Elgrand
- Custom interiors, rock and roll beds & leisure battery systems
Whatever you need to upgrade your campervan, we’ve got the skills and experience to bring your vision to life.
Book Your Awning Rail Fitting in North Wales Today
Ready to upgrade your campervan? Our thule omnistor awning rail fitting is available now at our workshop in Rhyl, and we also offer mobile fitting across North Wales.
📍 Visit us: Kinmel Campers, Rhyl
📞 Call: 01745 771 231
📧 Email: info@kinmelcampers.co.uk
🌐 Contact us online
Don’t wait for the summer rush – book your free inspection today and let us help you enjoy your campervan to the fullest.
