Hi I always keep I an eye out on the weather....that being said If I am gone from the campground I always put the awning away. Why?? Go price the replacement and you will have enough reason to protect it. And yes I have gotten woke up in the middle of the night and been out there bringing the awning in. But most of the time I keep it tilted and watch it if its raining so if I need to bring it in I can. I lost mine a few years ago driving in high winds and thank god insurance helped cover the replacement but I saw the price without and that in itself is enough to scare you into protecting it.