Canopy Tent Care, Transport and Storage

Protect your tent during transport, check it before the next event and pack it carefully between uses.

Protect the tent during transport

Plan where the packed tent will sit before loading the rest of your event equipment. It needs a place where it can stay secure without other gear pressing down on it.

  • Use the appropriate carry bag. Keep the tent and its hardware in the bags intended for them. Check that loose hardware is contained before closing the bag.
  • Keep heavy loads off the tent. Do not use the packed frame or canopy as the bottom layer of a stack of tables, boxes or other equipment.
  • Secure it against movement. Position and secure the packed tent so it cannot slide across the vehicle or fall against other gear during the journey.
  • Separate sharp hardware. Keep stakes and other sharp parts away from the canopy fabric, including inside the vehicle.

Check the load again before leaving. A tent that was packed carefully can still be exposed if another item is placed on top of it during loading.

Tent carry bags shown upright and lying flat

Check the fabric, frame and hardware

Look over the equipment when you unpack it, before beginning setup. Check the same areas each time so changes are easier to notice.

  • Canopy fabric: look for tears, holes, worn areas and visibly damaged seams or attachment points.
  • Frame: look for bent or cracked parts, visible corrosion, or anything that no longer lines up as expected.
  • Hardware: check for missing, loose or visibly damaged fasteners and fittings. Compare what you have with the instructions for your tent.
  • Carry bag: check for damage or loose sharp items before putting the fabric back inside.

A visible check helps you identify a problem; it is not a repair procedure. Follow the supplied instructions for adjustments or repairs. If you find damage or are unsure about a part, contact MVP Visuals with a photo and your order number before using the tent again.

Handle the tent carefully during setup

Follow the setup sequence and crew requirements supplied with your tent. Avoid yanking the fabric or forcing frame parts that are not moving as expected. Stop and check the instructions instead of trying to push through resistance.

Pack and store the tent between events

If the canopy needs washing, follow How to Clean a Canopy before packing it.

  1. Check that the fabric is completely dry. Look at both sides and check folds and seams. Open out any damp areas and give them more drying time.
  2. Pack the frame and top as instructed. Follow the folding and packing method supplied with your tent. Use the appropriate bag rather than forcing the equipment into a space that does not fit it.
  3. Keep sharp hardware separate. Put stakes and other sharp items in their separate storage compartment or bag so they cannot contact the canopy.
  4. Choose a dry storage space. Keep the packed tent clear of moisture and place it where heavy equipment will not be stacked on it.
A folded canopy top being placed in a tent carry bag

Keep the matching instructions and equipment easy to identify. If you noticed a problem during the event, record it with the kit so it is addressed before the next setup.

Before the next event

Check the packed equipment against the instructions for your tent and base or anchoring equipment. Make sure missing parts or damage noted at the last event have been resolved before loading the vehicle.

Use the supplied instructions for setup, placement, anchoring and operating limits. Check the event's requirements ahead of time so your crew has the right equipment and information when it arrives.