These Wet Awning Tips for Caravan Touring will help you protect your awning, prevent mould, reduce condensation, and manage rainy weather more effectively. While wet pack-aways are sometimes unavoidable, knowing how to dry and store your awning correctly can prevent expensive damage and keep your equipment in excellent condition.
Rain is part of caravanning in the UK. Even during summer, it’s not unusual to wake up to a damp awning, muddy ground, or a wet pack-away before heading home. Fortunately, a few simple habits can make bad weather touring much easier.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to dry your awning properly, reduce condensation, prevent mildew, and make rainy caravan trips far more manageable.
If you’re new to touring, you may also find our First Caravan Trip Checklist useful before heading away.
Why Wet Awnings Can Become a Problem
A wet awning is completely normal after rain. The real issue comes when moisture becomes trapped inside the fabric during storage.
Leaving an awning damp for long periods can lead to:
- Mould growth
- Mildew stains
- Musty smells
- Fabric deterioration
- Damaged waterproof coatings
The Camping and Caravanning Club recommends ensuring awnings are clean and dry before storage whenever possible to reduce the risk of mildew and long-term damage.
Pack a Wet Awning Correctly If You Have No Choice
Sometimes the weather simply doesn’t allow you to pack away a dry awning.
If you’re leaving site during heavy rain:
- Remove as much surface water as possible before packing away
- Shake off excess water from roof panels and walls
- Separate wet fabric from other equipment if possible
- Use dedicated waterproof storage bags
- Avoid tightly compressing the awning for long periods
Most experienced caravanners accept that an occasional wet pack-away is unavoidable. The important thing is what you do when you get home.
Dry the Awning as Soon as You Return Home
This is the most important step.
One of the most important wet awning tips for caravan touring is to dry the awning as soon as possible after returning home.
As soon as possible after returning home, unpack the awning completely. If you have space, erect it in the garden. Alternatively, drape sections over washing lines, drying racks, or other suitable supports to allow air to circulate freely.
- Unpack the awning completely
- Pitch it in the garden if space allows
- Hang sections over washing lines or drying racks
- Allow full airflow around the fabric
- Leave it out until completely dry
According to Everywhen Caravan Insurance, allowing an awning to dry thoroughly before folding and storing helps reduce mould growth and prolongs the life of waterproof treatments.
Reduce Condensation During Wet Weather Touring
Many caravanners mistake condensation for leaks.
In reality, warm air meeting cooler awning fabric creates moisture on the inside of the awning.
When following wet awning tips for caravan touring, managing condensation is just as important as dealing with rainwater. Good ventilation can prevent moisture from building up inside the awning.
To reduce condensation:
- Keep roof vents open where possible
- Create airflow through doors and windows
- Avoid drying large amounts of clothing inside
- Use a small dehumidifier on longer stays
- Keep wet boots and jackets near entrances
Good ventilation is one of the simplest ways to keep an awning comfortable during extended periods of bad weather.
Create a Wet Zone and Dry Zone
One of the biggest advantages of having an awning during rainy weather is creating a buffer between the outdoors and your caravan.
Use the awning as a dedicated wet zone.
Store:
- Waterproof coats
- Wellies
- Muddy walking boots
- Dog towels
- Wet outdoor equipment
This helps keep moisture outside the caravan and makes the living area far more comfortable during extended wet spells.
If you’re planning a longer tour, our What to Pack for a Caravan Holiday guide includes additional wet weather essentials.
Choose Your Pitch Carefully During Wet Weather
Pitch selection becomes even more important when rain is forecast.
One of the most overlooked wet awning tips for caravan touring is choosing a pitch that drains well during wet weather.
Try to avoid:
- Low-lying areas
- Visible drainage channels
- Areas where water naturally pools
- Soft grass that becomes waterlogged
Instead, look for:
- Slightly elevated pitches
- Well-draining hardstanding areas
- Firm ground beneath awning sections
- Natural shelter from strong winds
Understanding pitch selection can make a huge difference to overall comfort during bad weather touring.
For more help choosing pitches, read How to Choose the Right Caravan Site.
Use Storm Straps and Check Tension Regularly
Rain often arrives alongside strong winds.
When following wet awning tips for caravan touring, it is important to prepare for windy conditions as well as wet ones. Strong gusts can put significant strain on awning fabric, poles, and fixings.
To protect your awning:
- Use storm straps when bad weather is forecast
- Check guy lines regularly
- Retention straps after heavy rain
- Inspect pegs for movement
- Watch for pooling water on the roof
Fabric can stretch slightly as it becomes wet, meaning adjustments may be needed throughout your stay.
Check for Mould Before Every Trip
Before your next caravan holiday, always inspect the awning carefully.
Look for:
- Black spots
- Musty smells
- Discoloured patches
- Damp storage areas
- Sticky sections of fabric
Catching mould early is far easier than trying to remove severe staining later.
Consider Carrying a Small Awning Care Kit
A simple maintenance kit can save a touring holiday.
Useful items include:
- Microfibre drying cloths
- Spare pegs
- Storm straps
- Repair tape
- Waterproof storage bags
- Awning cleaner
The Camping and Caravanning Club also recommends carrying basic repair supplies for quick fixes while touring.
Final Thoughts on Wet Awning Tips for Caravan Touring
Wet weather doesn’t have to ruin a caravan trip. With the right preparation, a good setup routine, and proper drying practices, you can avoid most of the common problems associated with damp awnings.
The key is acting quickly after a wet pack-away. Dry the awning thoroughly, maintain good airflow during your stay, and never store fabric while moisture remains trapped inside.
By following these wet awning tips for caravan touring, you can protect your equipment, prevent mould and mildew, and enjoy more comfortable caravan holidays whatever the weather.
Bad weather is part of UK touring, but a well-managed awning can make rainy trips far more comfortable and far less stressful.
One Response
We’ve all packed away a wet awning at some point! â
What’s your best tip for dealing with a wet awning after a rainy trip?
Do you put it back up when you get home, use a washing line, or have another method that works well? đ