Privacy Room vs windbreaks: what to use, and when

The quick chooser

• Pick windbreaks for maximum airflow, fast pitching and the lowest pack size.
  (Link idea: Windbreaks → /collections/fiamma-windbreaks)

• Pick side panels for a simple wind stop and a defined cooking space.
  (Link idea: Side panels → /collections/fiamma-side-panels)

• Pick Privacy Room for a proper extra room in shoulder seasons or long stays.
  (Link idea: Privacy Room → /collections/fiamma-privacy-room)

How each option works

Windbreaks

Freestanding barriers that block gusts and create a bit of privacy without enclosing the awning space. Ideal for beach days and short stays.

Pros: light, quick, flexible layouts
Watch for: soft sand or hardstandings need the right pegs and guys
(Link idea: Peg sets & guys → /collections/fiamma-accessories)

Side panels

Panels that zip or clip to your awning to stop cross-breeze and light rain. Good for cooking, gear storage and evening comfort.

Pros: faster than a full room, smaller to pack
Watch for: must match awning family and case length
(Link ideas: F45 → /collections/fiamma-f45, F80 → /collections/fiamma-f80)

Privacy Room

A full enclosure with front and side panels that turns your awning into a living space. Best for autumn trips, longer holidays and sites with mixed weather.

Pros: real extra room, better draught control
Watch for: sizing to case length and mounting height is critical
(Link ideas: Privacy Room → /collections/fiamma-privacy-room, Draft skirts → /collections/fiamma-draft-skirts)

Seasonal guide at a glance

Spring – Unsettled but milder

• Windbreak or side panels for wind and light showers

• Add a draft skirt to cut airflow under the van
  (Link: Draft skirt → /collections/fiamma-draft-skirts)

Summer – Warm, more stable

• Windbreaks for airflow and shade zones

• A single side panel on the windward side helps at coastal sites

Autumn – Cooler nights, more gusts

• Privacy Room plus storm straps for comfort and security

• Reversible mat to define dry floor space
  (Links: Storm straps → /collections/fiamma-storm-straps, Mats → /collections/fiamma-mats)

Winter – Short days, regular rain

• Privacy Room with careful run-off

• Lower one leg to shed water, ventilate to reduce condensation
  (Link: Turbo-Vent → /collections/fiamma-turbo-vent)

Sizing rules that prevent returns

• Match awning family first: F45 wall mount or F80 roof mount

• Confirm case length on your product label or spec page

• Measure mounting height from ground to case centre so panels sit square

• Choose the Privacy Room kit that lists your awning and height range
  (Link ideas: Awning size guide → /pages/awning-size-guide, Fitment checklist → /pages/install-checklist)

Stability and water management

• Use storm straps whenever wind is forecast

• Add a centre rafter to reduce fabric pooling and improve door seal

• Peg corners first, tension evenly, then fine-tune panel zips
  (Links: Storm straps → /collections/fiamma-storm-straps, Rafters → /collections/fiamma-rafters, Peg kits → /collections/fiamma-accessories)

Comfort upgrades that make a big difference

• Draft skirt and wheel cover to cut draughts under the van

• Reversible mat for a clean, dry floor

• LED lighting for low-glare evenings
  (Links: Draft skirts → /collections/fiamma-draft-skirts, Mats → /collections/fiamma-mats, 12V lighting → /collections/12v-power)

Common pitfalls to avoid

• Buying a room that matches case length but not mounting height

• Mixing panels from different awning families

• Pitching flat so rain pools at the door

• Skipping straps on exposed sites
  (Link idea: Care & spares → /collections/fiamma-care-cleaning)

Example setups

• Coastal weekender: side panel on windward side, windbreak facing the view, draft skirt for evening warmth

• Autumn tour: Privacy Room, centre rafter, storm straps, breathable mat, Turbo-Vent on trickle to manage condensation

• Family base camp: Privacy Room plus a windbreak wing for bikes and sandy kit

Ready to choose your enclosure? Match your awning family, confirm case length and height, then add stability and comfort pieces so the setup works in the weather you actually camp in.