A Is your Subaru Designed for a Hitch Cargo Carrier or Cargo Box?
The compatibility of your vehicle with a hitch carrier depends on a few factors. First is Tongue Weight Capacity (TWC). This refers to how much weight your vehicle's hitch receiver can support. Generally, smaller vehicles will have a lower TWC and larger ones will have a higher capacity. To find out a specific TWC, consult your owner's manual or your dealer. Next what size hitch do you have? Hitches typically come as a 1.25" or 2" square receiver, and occasionally 2.5” for larger, heavy duty vehicles. StowAway Racks and the Standard Cargo Box are available for either the 1.25” and 2” hitch size, while the Max Cargo Box is made only for a 2” hitch.
BWhat kind of and how much gear will you be carrying?
Racks can be the best choice for gear that does not have a regular shape – bikes, grills, inflatable boats and more. The StowAway Cargo Boxes may be a better option if you have multiple pieces of luggage or gear that you want to keep covered. 1.25” hitches typically offer tongue weight capacity ranging from 100 lbs up to 300 lbs. Vehicles with 2” hitches typically have a tongue weight capacity of 300 – 500 lbs. The StowAway Carrier is not suitable for the lighter (Class 1) 1.25” hitches but can be used with hitches with capacities of 200 lbs and higher. Always be sure to stay within the stated capacity on your hitch and your vehicle.
CHow important is protection from the elements, and security?
If you are concerned about the security of your gear and protecting it from the weather, a hitch cargo box might be your best bet. StowAway Cargo Boxes are molded from a strong flexible polymer and include a locking latch, taillights and a water channel to prevent water from getting to your gear.
DWill you be doing more than transporting gear?
StowAway offers several models and accessories If you plan on doing more with your StowAway than transporting gear. The buffet board option provides a platform for preparing or serving food. The StowAway Ski Carrier converts the vehible into a ski shuttle for carrying skiers and skis to the mountain. The StowAway Grill Station is your ideal tailgate party grill for college or pro games.
EHow important is clear access to the back of your vehicle?
If you need clear access to the back of your vehicle without having to unload your gear, the swingaway frame is a definite must. Remove the frame safety pins, lift the release pin and swing open your frame for access to your back doors, liftgate or tailgate.
OK, you’ve assessed your needs and looked over your vehicle and hitch. Now select the StowAway that will work best for you.