Using an outdoor Carcoon
An outdoor Carcoon is an inflatable storage bubble for a car. This guide combines how I use mine with how the product is described by its maker and by other owners.
How I use mine
I have two outdoor Carcoons and use them when a car needs one, depending on where it is being kept. The rest of the time my cars are in a stone garage or a portable garage.
What an outdoor Carcoon is
As its maker describes it, a Carcoon is an inflatable two-layer cover over a ground sheet, the two zipping together around the car. Two air units run continuously, moving filtered air through the bubble to keep the car dry.
It runs from the mains. A 12V lead connects to the car battery, which the maker says can act as a trickle charger and can keep the fans running in a power cut.
Choosing a spot for Carcoon storage
- Level ground, with no sharp stones or objects that could puncture the ground sheet.
- Close to an outdoor-rated socket, with an outdoor-rated lead.
- Away from boilers, vents and garage doors, where warm moist air could be drawn in.
Setting one up
Lay the ground sheet with the fan end nearest the power. Drive the car on and connect the 12V lead. Lay the cover over the car, zip it to the ground sheet, then feed the leads through and secure them against the wind. Inflation takes around a quarter of an hour. Owners report setup taking from half an hour to an hour the first time.
Living with one
Check it after high winds. Keep the power supply raised off the ground. Carry out patch repairs promptly rather than letting a small hole grow.
What it does and does not solve
A Carcoon keeps the car dry and dust free. It does not replace a sound battery routine, regular use or checks for rodents.
Outdoor Carcoon or portable garage?
A Carcoon controls the air around the car. A portable garage gives you working space around it. Many owners use both.
For the wider picture, see classic car storage.
Questions people ask
How does an outdoor Carcoon work?
The car sits on a ground sheet, and a two-layer cover zips to it. Two air units run continuously, moving filtered air through the bubble, which the maker says keeps the car dry.
Does a Carcoon need mains power?
Yes. It runs from the mains. A 12V lead to the car battery can act as a trickle charger and, as described, can keep the fans running in a power cut.
Can you leave a car in a Carcoon all winter?
That is what it is designed for, but check it after high winds, keep the power supply off the ground and repair any damage promptly. Keep up a battery routine and check for rodents.
Carcoon or portable garage?
A Carcoon controls the air around the car. A portable garage gives you working space around it. Many owners use both.
Sources: Maker's description of the Carcoon Evo outdoor system; An owner's account of an outdoor Carcoon.
Checked 19 October 2026