Camping Gazebos

Camping Gazebos: Reliable Shelter for Every Kind of Getaway

Whether you're pitching up at a caravan park, heading off-grid with your tent, or parking the campervan for a week by the coast — a pop-up gazebo is one of the most versatile bits of kit you can bring.

Unlike budget awnings and makeshift shelters, a Gala Tent camping gazebo offers dependable protection from sun, rain, and the unpredictable British breeze — with none of the faff. If you're after a shelter that won't let you down halfway through your bacon butty, you're in the right place.

Why Camping Gazebos Are Making a Comeback in 2025

Camping and caravanning are booming again. A Mintel report estimates over 16.7 million camping holidays were taken in the UK in 2022, with over 1 million registered touring caravans, holiday homes, and motorhomes still in action. People are embracing the outdoors — and they need gear that keeps up.

Enter the pop-up gazebo. Also known as an easy-up, these compact shelters expand from a small, portable unit into a fully covered space — ideal for campsites, coastal breaks, music festivals, and motorhome touring.

While supermarket models with plastic poles might be fine for one sunny afternoon, Gala Shade gazebos are designed for years of use — with commercial-grade materials, fire retardant covers, and strong aluminium or steel frames.

What Size and Strength Should You Choose?

Pop-up gazebos come in a variety of sizes, from compact 3m x 3m units to larger 4m x 8m shelters. For camping, a Pro Compact 3m x 3m is the go-to — folding down to just 105cm long, easily stored inside a caravan cupboard, trailer box, or car boot.

If you need more headroom or space for extra guests, the Pro 50 or Pro 60 ranges offer heavy-duty frames that handle tougher conditions, from coastal gusts to rural storms.

When it comes to cover material, don’t be fooled by GSM (grams per square metre) alone. Look for a 600-denier PVC-coated polyester canopy — like ours — for proper UV protection and water resistance.

5 Top Uses for a Pop-Up Gazebo on Your Camping Trip

1. Caravan Awning Alternative

Set your gazebo flush against the side of your caravan to create instant shelter. It’s easier to set up than a full awning and far more affordable — prices start around £350 compared to upwards of £500 for branded caravan awnings.

Got a static caravan or chalet? Add some rattan furniture and create a shaded terrace to sip your evening tipple under.

2. Dining Area or BBQ Shelter

A 3m x 3m gazebo comfortably seats 8–12 people with a fold-out table and chairs underneath. Perfect for breakfasts, barbecues, or family card games.

Pro tip: If you’re using a stove or BBQ under the gazebo, make sure your canopy is fire retardant — all Gala Shade gazebos meet this standard.

3. Children’s Outdoor Play Tent

Keep the kids dry and the mess outside. From messy painting sessions to giant Connect 4 games, a gazebo becomes a play space you can easily hose down later — without sacrificing the inside of your caravan.

4. Temporary Sleeping Quarters

Need extra space for guests or older kids? Add sidewalls and transform your gazebo into a secondary sleeping space. Pop in an airbed or camp bed and let them experience a night under the stars — with a roof.

5. Outdoor Storage Tent

Store your wetsuits, bikes, barbecue gear, and bulky kit out of the elements. With 18 cubic metres of storage in a 3m x 3m gazebo, there’s plenty of room to stash your gear securely and keep your main sleeping area uncluttered.

You'll also want to consider a few different types of accessories that will work well with your pop-up gazebo, including:

• Sidewalls - for turning your shelter into an enclosed, private space. Priced from just £144.99

• Weights and Tie-downs - Just like your camping tent, a gazebo will need anchorage to ensure the safety of you and your property

• Ground Bars - These turn your structure from 4 legs and a roof, to a fully cubic frame, which provides superior strength and stability

• Heating - Even though it's almost summer, the evenings will still drop cool, so prepare for that with an infrared heater!

• Lighting - Weatherproof LED Globe Lights provide a warm glow through the night

If you're planning a camping holiday or getaway and you're feeling the need to bring an additional shelter for any eventuality, give our team a call on 01709 242454 and have a chat about your plans, and they'll be absolutely delighted to help. Out of hours, you can always visit our store or advice centre to have a dig around other useful articles. Remember, it's not a holiday event without Gala Tent!