Inflatable Tunnel Setup and Takedown Guide
Getting your tunnel ready should not feel like guesswork. Start with the right kit, clear the site, and give your crew one simple plan. Keep the instructions for your tunnel close by because the air connection, anchoring, and packing method can vary from one build to another.
Start by matching the tunnel to its kit
Before you move anything to the setup area, use the order number to match the tunnel, blower, equipment, and instructions. Standard tunnels and custom shapes may use different hardware or setup methods.
Something does not match? Stop before setup and contact MVP Visuals with the order number.
| Air system | How it works | What your crew needs to know |
|---|---|---|
| Continuous air | The blower supplies air while the tunnel is in use. | Power and airflow must remain available during use. Follow the connection and shutdown instructions supplied with the tunnel. |
| Sealed air | The tunnel retains its inflation air without a continuously running blower. | Follow the supplied instructions for inflation, closure, inspection, and air release. |
Every inflatable tunnel purchase includes a blower at no additional charge. Use the blower and operating method supplied for your quoted build.
Get everything together before event day
A few minutes of preparation can save your crew from sorting out equipment, power, and responsibilities in front of a waiting team.
- Keep the order number and tunnel name with the kit.
- Bring the current setup, anchoring, takedown, and packing instructions.
- Check the packing list against the tunnel and equipment.
- Confirm the setup location, access route, setup window, and event start time.
- Identify the power location and who is responsible for it.
- Confirm the venue-approved anchoring plan for the surface and tunnel.
- Name one crew lead and one person who can pause the entrance.
- Keep MVP Visuals contact information with the order number.
Tip: Give one copy of the plan to the setup crew and keep another with the person running the entrance.
Know the Standard tunnel basics
Standard tunnels are available in 18 ft and 25 ft lengths. Custom shorter or longer sizes may also be built, but the practical limits depend on the durability and stability requirements of the quoted design.
| Standard lengths | 18 ft or 25 ft; custom sizes are quoted separately |
|---|---|
| Included equipment | Blower, carry bag, ropes/stakes, and D-rings |
| Power | Grounded 120V three-prong outlet or a generator rated at least 650W |
| Approximate inflation time | Standard 18 ft: 15–20 minutes with the included blower |
The inflation time is an estimate for the Standard 18 ft tunnel only. Surface area and the finished build affect how long inflation takes, so do not apply this range to a 25 ft or custom tunnel. Your crew should still inspect the finished setup before anyone enters.
Choose a clear setup area
Walk the full setup area and run-through route while the tunnel is still packed. It is much easier to change the plan before setup begins.
- Remove sharp or abrasive objects from the surface and route.
- Check overhead and side clearance against the quoted build and approved site plan.
- Keep the tunnel away from traffic, doors, equipment, and other activity that could contact the fabric.
- Make sure the power source is accessible and matches the instructions for the supplied blower.
- Confirm that the venue permits the anchoring method specified for the build and surface.
- Review current site and weather conditions against the instructions and venue plan.
- Keep spectators and participants outside the setup area until the crew lead opens the route.
If the instructions do not state the wind or ballast limits for your build, ask MVP Visuals before setup. Do not create a limit from a different tunnel or event.
Make these final checks before the entrance opens
This is your final walk-through. It does not replace the setup sequence supplied with the tunnel.
| Check | What to confirm |
|---|---|
| Tunnel and equipment | The tunnel, blower, hardware, and instructions all match the order. |
| Fabric and attachments | No tear, seam issue, damaged hardware, or unexpected condition is visible. |
| Air system | The tunnel has reached its intended shape and the air system is working as described in its instructions. |
| Anchoring | The installed anchoring matches the approved instructions for the build, surface, and venue. |
| Route | The entrance, interior path, exit, and surrounding area are clear. |
| Crew handoff | Everyone knows who is monitoring the tunnel and who can pause use. |
If something changes, pause the entrance
Clear the route and return to the tunnel instructions if:
- The tunnel loses its intended shape or the air system stops working as expected.
- The tunnel moves unexpectedly or an attachment point no longer matches the approved setup.
- You see a tear, seam issue, damaged fitting, damaged cord, or another visible problem.
- The surface, power supply, venue plan, or weather changes after the setup check.
- The crew cannot confirm which instructions or equipment belong to the tunnel.
Do not guess at more ballast, a different anchor, an electrical workaround, or a field repair. Follow the instructions for the build or contact MVP Visuals with the order number.
Take it down with the next event in mind
The air-release, folding, and packing method depends on the tunnel configuration. Follow the supplied sequence, then complete these checks before your crew leaves.
- Close the run-through route and clear participants from the work area.
- Follow the build instructions to stop or disconnect the air system and release air.
- Keep the fabric away from sharp or abrasive surfaces during takedown.
- Before folding, check the tunnel and packing area for loose stakes, stones, or other objects that could be caught in the fabric.
- Do not pack damp fabric. Use the care, cleaning, and storage guide when the tunnel needs cleaning or drying.
- Count the tunnel, blower, instructions, and every item on the packing list.
- Record damage, missing equipment, or an operating issue before the kit returns to storage.
Event-day crew checklist
- Correct tunnel, blower, equipment, and instructions
- Surface, clearance, route, power, anchoring, and conditions checked
- Tunnel fully shaped and inspected before use
- Named crew lead monitoring the entrance
- Route closed immediately if setup conditions change
- Fabric clean and completely dry before packing
- Equipment counted and issues recorded before storage