When we first started to research caravans we decided that an air awning was definitely the way forward for us. They have less heavy poles to carry around and seemed to go up very quickly. When we purchased our van it came with a Bradcot tradition awning which we were more than happy with to get us started.

During a trip to Derbyshire and following a very opatune conservation in a camping store we purchased a second hand Kampa Air Awning with bedroom and conservatory annexes.

While still waiting for the towbar to be fitted to our car we decided to have a go and putting the awning up on our front lawn.

As we purchased the awning second hand we didn’t know the last time or if ever it had been rewaterproofed. Thinking it would be fine for a whole we didn’t do anything about it. Unfortunately, this was a mistake as the second time we used it and had heavy rain water poured in!

After having the awning leak during rain showers we researched various waterproofing products. Fabsil Gold Universal Protector seems to be the best available so we felt it was worth the expense.

Unfortunately no amount of water proofing would stop raining from coming into the awning, it had gone to far. On top of this it had appeared to have developed a slow leak near to one of the deflation valves. We did try to repair it but to know avail!

During our stay at Somers Wood Caravan Park we decided (after waking up to a flat awning again) to cut our loses and purchase a replacement. As we had purchased the annexs for the awning, carpet etc we decided that another Air Rally Pro was the best way forward. After some research we found that there are a number of camping and caravaning stores in the area. Firstly we visited a local caravan dealership who stock Dometic Awnings however they had no stock, we then visited Jacksons of Arley. This is an aladdins cave for all things caravanning and camping. They stock a full range of different awnings, assessories and tents, with many on display.

Our first use of the awning was during our visit to Clumber Park Club Site, we loved it, it provided lots of extra space for us and the dog.

After using the new awning for a few of our travels we look forward to giving it a full review, check back!