How To Pack Away an Air Awning

Jan 14, 2025

Ever wrestled with a rebellious air awning on your caravan? The quick answer: Release guy lines and pegs, slowly deflate air beams, then fold carefully from edges to centre. Caravan air awnings don't have to be your nemesis – with the right technique, you'll master the takedown dance in no time.

Preparing for Take Down

Taking down an air awning demands careful planning and the right tools. Just like packing for a camping trip, successful awning removal starts with good preparation. Rushing the process often leads to mistakes, damaged equipment, or frustrating delays.

A grey caravan air awning with orange guylines in a field with a cloudy background

Start by gathering essential equipment: valve adaptors for deflation, a soft brush, cleaning supplies, and your storage bag. Having everything within arm's reach makes the process smoother and prevents unnecessary interruptions.

Clear the surrounding area of camping chairs, tables, and other outdoor gear. A clean workspace prevents tripping hazards and gives enough room to fold the awning properly. Remove any debris like leaves or twigs from the awning surface - these could create permanent marks during storage.

Checking Weather Conditions

British weather loves throwing curveballs at the worst possible moments. Trying to take down an air awning in strong winds resembles wrestling an angry octopus - chaotic and potentially dangerous.

Choose a dry, calm morning for the task. Early hours typically offer gentler conditions, with less wind to complicate the process. Keep an eye on weather forecasts and plan the takedown accordingly.

Rain poses its own challenges. Packing away a wet awning risks mildew growth and fabric damage. If rain catches you off guard, try to wait for a dry spell. When that's impossible, make sure to unpack and dry the awning thoroughly at the earliest opportunity.

Step-by-Step Take Down Procedure

Success lies in approaching the takedown systematically. Think of it as a reverse puzzle - each piece needs to come apart in the right order.

An air awning mesh panel set folded away in a bag

Start with the outer securing points. Remove guy lines first, working from the furthest point toward the caravan. Coil these neatly to prevent tangling. Next, remove ground pegs carefully - yanking them out risks damaging both the pegs and awning attachment points.

Check all zips, windows, and doors are properly closed. Open panels can snag during deflation or create awkward air pockets. Store any removable panels separately to prevent creasing.

Refer to the "How to Deflate an Air Awning" section above

Deflation requires patience and attention to detail. Locate the air valves on each beam - these typically sit near ground level for easy access.

Release air slowly and systematically. Start with outer beams, working toward the centre. This controlled deflation prevents strain on attachment points and keeps the structure stable for longer.

Watch how the fabric behaves during deflation. Guide it gently to prevent sudden collapses or twists. Think of it as slowly lowering a sail rather than letting it crash down.

Folding and Packing the Awning

Proper folding technique makes future setup much easier. Lay the deflated awning flat on clean ground or a groundsheet. Remove any remaining air pockets by smoothing the fabric from centre to edges.

Create straight, even folds working from the sides toward the middle. Each fold should match the width of your storage bag. Avoid sharp creases - gentle folds prevent fabric damage and maintain the awning's waterproof coating.

Think of folding an air awning like packing a sleeping bag. Neat, consistent folds make storage easier and prevent fabric stress points. Use compression straps if provided - these help maintain compact folding during transport and storage.

Cleaning and Storing the Awning

Cleaning before storage prevents long-term damage and extends awning life. Bird droppings, tree sap, and general grime can permanently stain or damage fabric if left untreated.

Use a soft brush to remove loose dirt and debris. For stubborn marks, warm water and mild soap work best. Avoid harsh chemicals - these can damage waterproof coatings and weaken fabric fibres.

Pay special attention to air valves and attachment points. Dirt around these areas can cause complications during future setup. A small brush helps reach these tricky spots.

A couple taking pictures in front of their awning next to a bbq

Thorough drying prevents mould and mildew growth. Even slightly damp fabric can develop problems during storage. Air dry completely - UV rays help eliminate lingering moisture, but avoid prolonged sun exposure which can fade and weaken materials.

Choose storage location carefully. A cool, dry place away from direct sunlight works best. Avoid damp garages or unventilated spaces where moisture might accumulate. Consider using a breathable storage bag rather than plastic containers which can trap humidity.

Regular maintenance checks during storage help spot potential issues early. Look for signs of moisture damage, pest activity, or degrading seams. Small repairs done promptly prevent bigger problems later.

Remember that proper storage significantly affects next season's setup experience. A well-maintained, correctly stored awning makes future camping trips more enjoyable and stress-free.

By following these detailed steps, taking down an air awning becomes a manageable task rather than a dreaded chore. Each time gets easier as muscle memory develops and confidence grows. The key lies in treating the process as part of the camping experience - not a frustrating afterthought.

Other content you might like: