We also have a rack without the sidescreen stowage.
On long journeys, where luggage is carried on the rack, we tend to keep the sidescreens in place.
Once at the destination and unloaded, The sidescreens come off.
Though we love driving with sidescreens off, having them on does make for a more comfortable longer journey, especially on motorways or dual carriageways.
Bud
4/4 - Stanley