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Quote: Originally posted by LesD on 11/8/2011

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This is the camping under canvas forum so I can say Tin tenters always expect the worse, we trust our kit for better or worse.
Les D

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Our Outdoor revolution 4.2 had storm straps.

Maybe its because unlike a tent which has 4 sides an awning only has 3 - one of which is just 'zipped' to the caravan.  If the wind gets underneath the awning it will blow it out and up and rip it off the caravan. ?????

3 reasons:

1) Caravan awnings are frequently left unattended for days/weeks at a time so need to be as secure as possible in all weathers, unlike tents which always go home with the owner,

2) Awnings don't need normal guys as the caravan provides sufficient anchorage in normal weather. But strong wind could get underneath and lift the whole structure causing expensive damage to the caravan and its neighbours. A strap provides extra insurance against this.

3) Awnings usually have strong steel poles which can withstand the downforce of a storm strap. Most tents are too lightweight and unstable and would just crumple under the pressure. Some do come with the option of extra storm guys though.

You do find them on the semi-permant Euro tents which are pitched year-round.

Quite recently I saw a large tunnel tent with two storm straps attached. I think the straps were intended to go over two of the poles from one side to the other. The trouble is that one of them appeared to have slipped off the pole and was lying across the roof of the tent. I would imagine in windy conditions they would probably wear a hole in the tent roof. Even if the straps went across the poles I think some friction would be caused as the tent flexed.

I carry spare guy ropes and if I get caught in a storm I will attach these directly to the tent poles or double up in a 'V' shape to give added but flexible support.