Truck Tent Awnings: How to Choose and Attach the Right One

Quick answer

To choose a truck tent awning, match the awning's mounting system to your tent model and decide how much extra covered space you need. For a fully integrated setup, the Sportz Link adds an 8' x 8' ground tent area to a compatible Sportz or Backroadz Truck Tent, while the Sportz Truck Tent Basecamp Bundle includes the tent, link, and air mattress together. Attach the awning before you stake out the main tent so you can adjust tension evenly.

Match the awning to your truck tent model and bed

Not every awning fits every truck tent. Start by identifying your tent model and bed size, because mounting points and attachment methods vary. The Backroadz Truck Tent (13 Series) uses a secure truck bed fit and comes in multiple sizes, so you need the size that matches your bed before adding any accessory. If you already own a Sportz or Backroadz Truck Tent, the Sportz Link is designed as a direct expansion, adding an 8' x 8' ground tent space that accommodates up to four more campers. If you are starting fresh, the Sportz Truck Tent Basecamp Bundle pairs the Sportz Truck Tent with the Sportz Link and a Napier Truck Air Mattress, so the attachment points are already compatible.

Decide between a full enclosure and a simple awning

A traditional awning provides shade and rain cover over a doorway or side area, while a ground attachment like the Sportz Link creates a fully enclosed extra room. Your choice depends on how you camp. If you need overflow sleeping space or a bug-free hangout, the Sportz Link is the more useful add-on. If you mainly want a dry entry and a place to sit outside, a standard awning may be enough. The Sportz Truck Tent Basecamp Bundle is the most integrated option because it includes the tent, the link, and the air mattress in one package, saving you from matching separate pieces later.

Prepare your truck and tent before attaching anything

Park on level ground and set your parking brake. Remove any cargo from the bed and make sure the tent is fully set up and tensioned according to its instructions. For a Sportz Link, you will need to unzip or open the connecting panel on your main tent. Do not attach an awning or link to a partially pitched tent, because shifting fabric will pull the mounting points out of alignment. If you are using the Backroadz Truck Tent (13 Series), confirm that the tent is centered and secure in the bed before adding accessories.

Attach the awning or link and tension it evenly

Follow the manufacturer's instructions for your specific awning or link. In general, you start by connecting the awning's sleeve or clips to the tent's attachment points, then secure the poles or frame. For the Sportz Link, the connection is made to the compatible Sportz or Backroadz Truck Tent, expanding your setup with an 8' x 8' ground tent space. Work from the tent outward, and tighten guy lines gradually in a cross pattern so the fabric stays smooth. Avoid over-tightening, which can distort the tent or stress the zippers.

Test the setup and adjust for weather

Once attached, check that doors and windows still open and close freely. Push gently on the awning frame to confirm it is stable. If rain is expected, make sure the awning slopes slightly away from the tent so water runs off. In windy conditions, use all provided guy lines and stakes, and consider lowering the awning or link if gusts are strong. Remember that the Sportz Link adds significant floor space, so you may need to reposition stakes or choose a larger campsite.

Step-by-step: how to attach an awning to your truck tent

1. 1. Confirm compatibility: Check that your awning or link is designed for your tent model. The Sportz Link fits Sportz and Backroadz Truck Tents, but other awnings may need specific mounting hardware. Checkpoint: if the attachment points do not line up, stop and verify you have the right accessory.
2. 2. Set up and tension the main tent: Pitch your truck tent fully and secure it to the bed. A loose tent will make the awning sag or pull out of shape. Common mistake: attaching an awning before the tent is taut, which leads to uneven tension and zipper strain.
3. 3. Open the connection panel: Unzip or unroll the panel where the awning or link attaches. This is usually on the side or rear of the tent. Checkpoint: make sure the panel is fully open and not caught in the zipper.
4. 4. Connect the awning or link: Slide the awning sleeve onto the tent pole or clip the awning to the attachment points. For the Sportz Link, align the edges before zipping. Common mistake: forcing a zipper. If it sticks, realign the fabric and try again.
5. 5. Secure poles and guy lines: Assemble the awning frame and stake out all guy lines. Tighten gradually in a cross pattern to keep the fabric even. Checkpoint: the awning should be stable but not so tight that it distorts the main tent.
6. 6. Test and adjust: Open and close all doors and windows. If rain is likely, adjust the awning so it slopes away from the tent. Next step: in wind, add extra stakes or lower the awning to reduce strain.

Products that make awning setup easier

• Sportz Link: Expands your Sportz or Backroadz Truck Tent with an extra 8' x 8' of ground tent space and accommodates up to four more campers. Turns a two-person truck tent into a group basecamp without buying a separate ground tent.
• Sportz Truck Tent Basecamp: All-in-one package includes the Sportz Truck Tent, Sportz Link Ground Attachment, and Napier Truck Air Mattress. Eliminates guesswork about compatibility and gives you a complete sleep-and-living setup in one purchase.
• Backroadz Truck Tent (13 Series): Dependable classic with secure truck bed fit and straightforward setup that gets you camp-ready in minutes. A reliable base tent that accepts the Sportz Link, so you can add an awning or extra room later.