This pre-season camping checklist is designed to help you prepare your tent or awning for camping season, avoid last-minute surprises and extend the life of your equipment. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or planning your first trip of the year, this friendly tent and awning preparation guide will help you start the season stress-free.

1. Set Up and Inspect Your Tent or Awning at Home

One of the most important steps when preparing your tent or awning for camping season is doing a full setup at home. It might feel like extra effort, but it’s far easier than discovering a missing pole when daylight is fading on the campsite.

Look out for:

  • Tears, holes or thinning fabric
  • Bent, cracked or loose poles
  • Missing pegs or guy lines
  • Stiff or broken zips and fastenings
  • Air beam leaks or faulty valves

Catching small issues early gives you time to repair or replace parts rather than scrambling for solutions mid-trip.

2. Clean Your Tent or Awning Properly

Cleaning your tent or awning before the season begins helps protect the fabric and keeps it fresh for use. Dirt, mud and tree sap can slowly weaken materials if left untreated, even when packed away neatly.

Cleaning tips:

  • Use lukewarm water and a soft sponge or cloth
  • Avoid strong detergents or bleach, as these can damage waterproof coatings
  • Brush away loose debris before wiping down
  • Allow the fabric to dry completely before packing it away

Storing a damp tent or awning is the fastest route to mould, mildew and that unmistakable “garage smell” nobody wants on holiday. Check out all our cleaning products here.

3. Re-Proof Waterproofing

Waterproof coatings naturally wear down over time, especially with regular use or long-term storage. If water no longer beads on the surface, it’s a clear sign your tent or awning needs re-proofing. Skipping this step of the camping checklist is often only noticed once the rain starts, and by then it’s too late!

Re-proofing helps:

  • Restore water resistance 
  • Extend the lifespan of the fabric  
  • Protect against unexpected weather
  • Improve overall performance in the rain

A quick waterproof spray or treatment once a season can make a huge difference to comfort and durability. Read our blog on how to reproof here.

4. Check Poles, Frames and Air Beams

The structural parts of your tent or awning take the most strain, so giving them extra attention is well worth it. While pitching at home, check that everything feels secure and stable.

Make sure to:

  • Inflate air beams and listen for slow leaks
  • Examine pole joints and elastic cords
  • Inspect metal frames for rust or bends
  • Test pumps, valves and connectors

Packing a small spare pole section or repair sleeve can be a real trip-saver if the unexpected happens.

5. Replace or Restock Essential Accessories

Small accessories are often the first things to go missing in storage — or get thrown away after one too many bent pegs at the end of last season. Taking a few minutes to restock can prevent frustration later.

Common essentials include:

A handful of spares weighs very little but can make a big difference when the weather turns or the ground is tougher than expected.

6. Check Ventilation and Seals

Good airflow is key to reducing condensation and keeping your camping space comfortable. While preparing your tent or awning, check ventilation points and weather seals to make sure everything still functions as it should.

Ensure that:

  • Vents open and close smoothly 
  • Mesh panels are free from tears
  • Door and window seals sit correctly
  • Flysheets align properly

Better ventilation means fewer damp mornings and a much fresher living space.


7. Practice Pitch Before Your Trip

If it’s been a while since your last adventure, a practice pitch can be incredibly helpful. It refreshes your memory, highlights any missing parts and makes your first campsite setup far quicker and less stressful. Check out Mike's pitching videos on YouTube for guidance!

A final note from us

Completing a tent and awning pre-season camping checklist before your first trip of the year can save time, money and unnecessary stress. Well-maintained camping equipment performs better, lasts longer and ensures every adventure begins smoothly.

With your tent or awning cleaned, checked and ready to go, all that’s left to do is choose your destination, pack the snacks and enjoy the outdoors with confidence. Follow us on socials @attwoollsoutdoors for more tips and ideas to make camp life that little bit easier.