How To Deflate an Air Awning: Easy Tips and Tricks

Jan 14, 2025

Struggling with a stubborn air awning? Many campers have been there. To deflate an air awning, locate the air valves at each end and release the pressure slowly. While it sounds straightforward, mastering this camping essential can save time, prevent damage, and make packing up a breeze.

Preparing for Deflation

The key to a smooth deflation process lies in proper preparation. Rushing this stage often leads to damaged equipment or forgotten pieces. Taking time to prepare helps prevent those frustrating moments of discovering missing pegs or tangled guy lines back at home.

An orange caravan awning connected to a caravan in a field

Removing Pegs and Guy Lines

Start with the guy lines, working methodically around the awning. Each line should be loosened completely before removing its peg.

Collect pegs systematically, moving from the corners inward. This prevents any forgotten pegs from becoming hazards for other campers or lawnmowers.

Store guy lines by wrapping them in figure-eight patterns. This simple technique prevents tangles and makes setup much easier next time.

Clean pegs thoroughly before storage. Even small amounts of dirt can lead to rust or degradation over time. A quick brush with a stiff brush removes most debris.

Detaching from the Caravan

Storm straps should be the first items removed when detaching from the caravan. These heavy-duty straps can damage paintwork if dragged across the surface.

Check the rail connection point carefully. Any debris caught here could scratch the caravan during removal. A quick wipe with a soft cloth prevents costly damage.

The beading needs gentle, even pressure when sliding out of the caravan rail. Jerky movements can cause the beading to stretch or tear.

Having a helper makes this process significantly easier. One person can guide the beading while another supports the awning's weight.

Deflating the Awning

Proper deflation technique preserves the awning's condition and makes the whole process more efficient. Rushing this stage often leads to trapped air pockets or uneven folding.

An awning connected to a caravan in a field with the sky at dusk behind it

Opening the Valves

Modern air awnings typically feature multiple valves along their beams. Knowing their locations beforehand saves time and frustration.

Begin with valves furthest from the caravan. This creates a natural flow of air toward the exit point.

Open each valve gradually. Sudden pressure release can strain the fabric and potentially damage the internal structure.

For multi-chamber awnings, open all valves simultaneously. This ensures even deflation and prevents stress on any single section.

Rolling the Awning to Expel Air

Start rolling from the point furthest from the open valves. This pushes air naturally toward the exit points.

Keep pressure even and steady throughout the rolling process. Avoid pressing too hard in any one spot.

The fabric should remain straight during rolling. Twisted sections can create permanent creases or weak points.

Use broad, sweeping movements rather than short, sharp ones. This helps maintain control and prevents fabric damage.

Let gravity assist where possible by working downhill if on slightly sloping ground. This makes the process less physically demanding.

Folding and Packing the Awning

Proper folding techniques extend an awning's lifespan considerably. This stage requires patience and attention to detail.

Folding Techniques for Compact Storage

Choose a clean, dry surface for folding. Grass or concrete is fine, but avoid rough or dirty areas.

Fold sides inward to match the storage bag's width. This creates neat, even edges that pack easily.

Close up of the deflation valve on an air awning

Keep air beams parallel during folding. Crossed beams create pressure points that can damage the internal structure.

Make each fold deliberate and precise. Rushed folding leads to creases that can become permanent over time.

Storing the Awning in its Carry Bag

Position the folded awning with valves accessible at the top of the bag. This allows for quick adjustments if needed.

Never force an awning into its bag. If it seems too tight, unfold and try again with different fold positions.

Store pegs and guy lines in separate compartments or bags. This prevents metal parts from damaging the awning fabric.

Choose a storage location that's dry and well-ventilated. Damp conditions promote mildew growth and fabric degradation.

Check the packed awning periodically during storage. Early detection of any issues prevents long-term damage.

Maintaining an air awning properly significantly extends its service life. Each step in the deflation and storage process contributes to the awning's longevity.

Regular inspection of valves, seams, and beams helps identify potential problems early. Small repairs made promptly prevent more serious damage later.

Keep the storage area temperature moderate when possible. Extreme heat or cold can affect the awning materials over time.

Consider using dehumidifier sachets in the storage bag during long-term storage. These help prevent moisture build-up and subsequent mould growth.

Mark the outside of storage bags with the contents and any special instructions. This helps prevent accidental damage when moving or storing other camping equipment.

By following these systematic steps and maintaining regular care routines, an air awning can provide many years of reliable service. The time invested in proper deflation and storage pays dividends in durability and performance.

Remember that each awning model may have specific requirements. Always consult the manufacturer's guidelines for any special instructions or considerations particular to your model.

The effort put into careful deflation and storage makes future camping trips more enjoyable. Nothing spoils an outdoor adventure quite like discovering damaged or poorly maintained equipment.

Other content you might like:

Back to Air Awnings