Unless you plan to stay longish time in one spot, i wouldn't take the annex. Maybe one end wall for weather protection, and front privacy screen, which can be extended with poles to make more seating area.
The time spent putting annex up would be better spent sightseeing, i feel.
__________________
jules "Love is good for the human being!!" (Ben, aged 10)
Using a full annex is very much a personal decision I reckon. There are some who would not travel without one and others who see no value to lug the weight.
I have been travelling full-time now for eight years and have never felt I had the need for a full annex. Despite the weight, it is the space to carry it and then unless I was going to be still for a week or more then I wouldn't use it anyway.
This is my set up if I am staying more than three days somewhere ... otherwise I just roll the awning out while the sun is on that side and then roll it back in as soon as the sun is off that side of the van. I prefer to sit under a tree - 'specially if next to a creek than be under the awning.
I also reckon that if ya sitting under just an awning then it is more "inviting" for other travellers to wander over and chat.
If I want a bit more privacy I put out my 'shade wall'. I also have one end wall that I have probably only used once in four years.
However, as I said, there are people I encounter on the road that set up a full annex even if they are only staying for two days.
Totally dependent on personal choice and preference.
Cheers - John
__________________
2006 Discovery 3 TDV6 SE Auto - 2008 23ft Golden Eagle Hunter Some people feel the rain - the others just get wet - Bob Dylan
Leave the annex at home, if your going to mossie and midge infested areas such as Mary River or Daley River get yourself a large midge tent all mesh except the top, so you can still enjoy the night. The mossies and midges are ferocious up the Territory.
I just use my awning as per John. Leave the awning poles attached to the van, anchor awning to ground and a pair of de-flappers. I think that's the most stable configuration should the wind come up and quick & easy to take down. If required, the extra shade on the side and end is handy. All quick & easy to set up and take down.
Travelled lots in the 1980/90s with the annex that never once got used. Just took up space. Finally left it at home.
Hi Col. I too do the same as rockylizard. I used to cart around an annex but not any more. Even in the middle of winter. If it is cold and wet, I would be inside.
If I was to be heading to a particular place and staying for weeks on end then returning, I would only then consider taking an annex.
Enjoy your trip.
Cheers, John.
__________________
"My mind is made up. Please don't confuse me with facts."
I too have the weight problem with the van so the xtra for an annex is not needed. I have had no need for a full annex either. I couldn't survive without my 'awning' though.
__________________
Live Life On Your Terms
DOUGChief One Feather (Losing feathers with age)
TUG.......2014 Holden LT Colorado Twin Cab Ute with Canopy
DEN....... 2014 "Chief" Arrow CV (with some changes)
We did the lap last year and used our full annex once . But used individual ends or sides when necessary for a wind break for example.
I would say if you can take it along you never know .
Dhutime
__________________
Keep your eyes open so you can see where you are heading
We haven't got an annex and have never wanted one. We do have a shade side wall which we put up sometimes for extra shade or extra privacy. We love sitting outside, the idea of sitting inside an annex doesn't appeal.
We thought we needed one in the beginning. only used it when strop was laid up after surger6 n chemo. Since then it has been in storage. Good luck with whateve4 u decide.
Extra weight & if you're moving on frequently too much work to erect & pack up. By the time you've got it up it'll be time to take it down. Leave it at home, you won't regret it.
__________________
Cheers Keith & Judy
Don't take life too seriously, it never ends well.
Trip Reports posted on feathersandphotos.com.au Go to Forums then Trip Reports.
We do the same Awning, privacy screen and ends - We used to take the full awning but never used it, they are OK for families staying put in one area for a week or two but too much hassle when we are just travelling.
__________________
Possum; AKA:- Ali El-Aziz Mohamed Gundawiathan
Sent from my imperial66 typewriter using carrier pigeon, message sticks and smoke signals.
than be under the awning.
