How to Pack Away a Wet Caravan Awning Efficiently
- IDS Camping & Leisure
- Jul 27
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 4
Intro:
We’ve all been there. The holiday ends, the sky opens up, and you’re left facing one of the most frustrating parts of caravanning—putting away a soaking wet awning. It’s messy, it’s awkward, and if not handled right, it can lead to mildew, staining, and a heap of hassle later on.
Here’s how to pack away a wet caravan awning efficiently and avoid nasty surprises the next time you pitch it.
1. Don’t Panic—Just Prioritise
If it’s raining when you’re packing up, your priority should be getting the awning down and packed as neatly as possible—not perfectly dry. The main goal is to prevent damage and make re-drying easier later.
2. Shake Off Excess Water
Before you start dismantling, give the fabric a good shake to remove as much surface water as possible. Use a soft broom or squeegee to help sweep water off the roof and walls. This step alone can save kilos of water weight and prevent water pooling in the bag.
3. Disassemble Smartly
Take the awning down in sections:
Walls First: Remove the sides and front panels before the roof.
Poles Next: Carefully lower and collapse the frame to avoid damaging the wet fabric.
Roof Last: Fold it as neatly as possible without worrying too much about perfection.
Keep pegs and poles in their separate bags to avoid puncturing the fabric in storage.
4. Use a Groundsheet or Tarp
Lay out a clean groundsheet or tarp to fold the awning on. This keeps the fabric from picking up more dirt and mud while you’re rolling it up. If it’s really muddy, roll it loosely to avoid grinding the grime into the fabric.
5. Bag It Right
Use the original awning bag or a large breathable holdall. Don’t stuff it in tight—looser packing allows air to circulate and makes it easier to dry later. If your awning came with a waterproof stuff sack, consider using a mesh laundry bag inside it to prevent mildew build-up.
6. Dry It ASAP
The golden rule: never leave a wet awning packed for long. As soon as you’re home (or even better, on a dry day mid-trip), unpack the awning and let it dry fully. You can:
Hang it over a washing line or fence
Set it up in the garden
Use a garage or shed if the weather doesn’t cooperate
Use fans or a dehumidifier to speed up drying indoors, but avoid direct heat like radiators which can damage the fabric.
7. Inspect Before Repacking
Once dry, give it a quick inspection for dirt, mildew, or damage. Brush off dried mud, wipe down stubborn stains, and make sure zips and seams are intact. A bit of care now saves future frustration.
8. Store It Dry and Off the Floor
When fully dry and clean, store the awning in a cool, dry place—ideally off the ground to avoid damp. If you’re storing it long-term, open the bag now and then to let it breathe.
9. Consider Upgrading Your Awning
If packing away a wet awning becomes a regular event for you, consider investing in an inflatable air awning. They’re often quicker to take down and pack wet. Also, a separate awning drying kit or even a second-hand spare awning can be worth its weight in gold during a soggy season.
10. Additional Tips for Maintenance
Regular maintenance can prolong the life of your awning. Clean it regularly with a suitable cleaner, and reproof it as necessary. This will help maintain its waterproof qualities and keep it looking good.
Conclusion
Packing away a wet caravan awning isn’t fun, but it doesn’t have to ruin your trip or your gear. With a little preparation and a plan, you can manage it calmly and confidently—and hit the road without dread.
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