What size awning needed to be useful?

Alright, we all know the general answer to this thread is, "that depends on how much shade you want."

This question is for a specific application. I've been looking at the various 270 awnings on the market and am looking for some feedback on whether the shade footprint on the freestanding versions gives you enough coverage to justify the cost.

Examples:
Alu-cab 270 Shadow https://www.alu-cab.com/product/270-shadow-awning/
OverlandPro Wraptor 4K https://overlandpros.com/product/wraptor-2500/

I'm not one that's going to stop in a meadow and post up for hours. This is more for pulling off by a river to have lunch and beer, then move on 30 mins later kind of deal. I'm looking for a quick solution to escape the Colorado sun. I don't want to mess with guy lines, stakes, poles, etc.

For both the Shadow and Wraptor, it looks like you'd really have to position the awning side away from the sun in order gain any substantial benefits. If the sun is right overhead I assume you'd have to be glued to the side of the vehicle.

So, is that short awning side coverage really worth it, or does it make more send to stick with a simple 4ft ARB right off the back?

 

At least 80sf for each person. That's a 8x10 for each. The last thing you need is bumping into, or being nut to butt with whoever you're with. Trust me. You're already pissed it's raining and now you got "Fred up your ass"...LMAO
Zim

 

I haven't used mine yet but plan to add one of the extension/tent-walls to add just a bit more on one side.

 

what do you have?

 

I have the OVS 270 LT.
https://overlandvehiclesystems.com/...7-dark-gray-cover-with-black-cover-universal/

 

Any feedback on the awning yet? Is it pretty sturdy when freestanding with no poles?