I’m so stoked to be able to use this! It’s much smaller than I anticipated. Here’s some photos with a 4X sticker that we all have for size comparison. 

Does anyone have any experience with these? Anyone have any tips/tricks/hints about using them? Anyone know any good jokes or puns? Anything? 

I also ordered what I think to be a good budget buy of traction racks with these: Maxsa Innovations 20333 Escaper Buddy Traction Mats for Off-Road Mud, Sand, & Snow Vehicle Extraction (Set of 2), Orange, standard https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00AV2HONS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_4JH198T42JWXFRGV7BKA

All the reviews I’ve seen of them are positive with only a handful of specific complaints. Like they don’t have metal reinforced ends for digging out loose material, ie: sand, dirt, snow. However in my opinion if you are relying on your traction racks to dig out excess material and you don’t have a shovel with you then you have failed yourself in emergency preparation planning. 

So anyways I feel pretty good about getting them, but I am wanting to run them by the 4X team member world to get some feedback, advice, tips, tricks, cheat codes (up, up, down, down, left, right, left, right, B, A, start really has only helped me in Contra and never in real world applications although I do get quizzical looks when I try it) or whatever about my recent purchases. I also got my RockPals Member giveaway the other day, so I’ll post unboxing pics soon. As soon as I have time to get it unboxed and take pictures.

Keep Adventuring! 

Here's a link if you don't get the magazine and are interested in learning more:

https://subarudrive.com/articles/correct-tires-for-subaru 

Cheers!

I chose the Yescom 7.6' x 8.2' Car Side Awning Rooftop Pull Out Tent Shelter - PU 2000mm UV50+ in the color grey. I was able to easily install it to my roof rails without any issues using the supplied hardware, and after using it for some time now, I am very happy with the quality, integrity, and overall features. For $149, I think I got my money's worth on this deal and more.

The Amazon reviews were mostly positive (there had been an issue with older versions where the awning had been installed in the track upside-down that had been fixed by the time I purchased mine).

NOTE: The grey version of the awning is no longer available on Amazon; however, they do have a beige version in the same size, as well as a couple of slightly smaller versions that cost less. Also, the tie-downs and stakes are a bit different from what I received. I might suggest you use sturdier stakes to ensure the awning isn't compromised in windy conditions.

I put the awning to good use recently at the Ironwood Forest Desert Rendezvous that took place mid-April, and using the factory tie-downs and stakes, it stayed put even when the wind got really gusty.

If you're interested in an inexpensive option for an awning, I highly recommend Yescom's product. On Amazon, search Yescom Car Awning to see what's currently available.

Cheers!

When out camping or on an adventure, I am often asked about my gear. Attached to this post is a PDF of all of my current gear with links to the products (US).

Enjoy!

UPDATE: After I posted this list, I purchased an emergency Satellite Communicator. I've been spending a lot of time in areas where cell service is spotty or non-existent, and I think it behooves me to be able to call for help if needed, whether I am adventuring alone or with others. I've updated the PDF I originally attached with this information.

Here's a link to what I purchased on Amazon: Garmin inReach Mini GPS Satellite Communicator

I've been looking at getting the lift kit from either ADF or from LP Adventure. 

https://lpaventure.com/products/lp-aventure-lift-kit-outback-2020

https://awdadventure.com/collections/2020-subaru-outback/products/2020-outaback-1-5-strut-spacers-w-multi-link-spacers

I saw on Scott's Subaru he has the LP Adventure lift kit, but ADF is local for me. Both companies have good reviews online.

Does anyone have experience with either and any words of advice?

Also..

    I spoke with a guy at Anderson Design & Fabrication and he said with the 2021 outback he would recommend the 1 1/2" lift, because anything more than that (2") can cause wobbling and issues (He's had a lot of people reaching out for another product they sell to prevent the wobbling). 

I'd rather have no wobbling than an extra 1/2" lift, has anyone else had any issues with the 2" lift?

Thanks for the help.

Pros:  It has a lot of shade!  There are a few different configurations.  The tarp seems pretty durable yet still light weight.  The tent poles are steel and a little heavy but I like that they are not flimsy.  The tent stakes are also pretty tough and should last a while.  It only cost around $115 on Amazon, so very reasonable.  It can be used with the vehicle or on its own.

Cons:  It is relatively easy to set up, however, not as easy as I thought it would be.  It takes some time and is easier with two people (although I managed to set it up on my own after figuring out a few tricks).  After you get it all staked and taught, it does pull down the hatchback a bit.  To circumvent this, I can use hiking poles or extra adjustable tent poles to prop the hatch up (or even a couple of wood dowels).  Not that big of a deal.  The stuff sack is pretty small (as they usually are!).  I'm able to get it all back in the bag but it takes some persuasion.  

Overall, I really like this tarp and will be using it a lot.  For me, it fits the bill for shade without having to spend the cash on an expensive awning and it can just be thrown in the back of the car without any fuss.

Regards,

Pete (Chandler, AZ)

Anyone in the valley (AZ)  have any suggestions on a quick place to get away and off the beaten path for a quick overnighter?  I was thinking of the place Scott stayed for the bike excursion but wanted to get the Subaru a little dirty as well!

Pete (Chandler, AZ)