First things first, installation is a breeze. It mounts directly onto your roof rack, meaning you don’t have to drill any holes or do any major modifications to your vehicle. Plus, it’s compatible with a variety of roof racks, so even if you’ve got a brand that’s not Thule, you can still make it work. The whole process took me less than an hour, and the included instructions were clear and easy to follow.
Once it’s mounted, the Thule Hideaway Awning 8.5 is incredibly easy to use. It’s essentially a roll-out canopy that attaches to the side of your vehicle and provides shade and protection from the elements. When you’re not using it, it rolls up neatly into a compact, low-profile package that won’t take up too much space on your roof.
The real highlight, though, is the quality of the materials and craftsmanship. Thule is known for making top-notch outdoor gear, and the Hideaway Awning 8.5 is no exception. The awning itself is made from a durable, water-resistant fabric that will provide shelter from both rain and sun. It’s also UV-resistant, so you can feel confident that it won’t fade or degrade over time. The hardware and support arms are made from sturdy aluminum, which is lightweight yet strong enough to withstand wind and other weather conditions.
One thing I really appreciate about the Thule Hideaway Awning 8.5 is that it’s adjustable. You can set it up at different angles and heights depending on your needs, which makes it even more versatile. If you just want a little bit of shade while you’re sitting outside, you can bring it down to a lower angle. If you need more coverage or want to create a little extra room to move around under the awning, you can adjust it to be taller or wider.
Another plus is that the Thule Hideaway Awning 8.5 is compatible with a variety of accessories that can enhance your outdoor experience. For example, you can add sidewalls to create a fully enclosed shelter, or attach a lighting kit to brighten things up at night. There are even magnetic awning tie-downs available, which are a really clever solution for keeping the awning secure in windy conditions.
Finally, I have to say that the Thule Hideaway Awning 8.5 just looks really cool. It adds a rugged, adventurous vibe to your vehicle and makes it stand out from the ordinary cars and trucks on the road. Plus, if you’re into outdoor sports like camping, hiking, or mountain biking, it’s a visual cue that you’re a fellow enthusiast and you’re ready for anything.
So there you have it—my pitch for why you should consider the Thule Hideaway Awning 8.5 for your next camping or outdoor adventure. It’s easy to install, easy to use, made with high-quality materials, adjustable, customizable, and stylish. Whether you’re looking for shelter from the sun, rain, or wind, this awning has got you covered.
