WELL ARE WE?... STILL GLAD WE BOUGHT OUR EKKO AFTER 1 YEAR?
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 30 มิ.ย. 2024
- AFTER ONE YEAR OF OWNING OUR 2022 EKKO ARE WE STILL GLAD WE BOUGHT IT? IT HAS BEEN THE MOST PROBLEMATIC RV PURCHASE WE'VE EVER MADE SO IT WOULD BE UNDERSTANDABLE IF WE WERE READY TO GET RID OF IT... RIGHT?
Today we'll take a few moments and tell you all about our experience... so maybe you can learn from what we've gone through with our Ekko. We'll talk about:
00:00 Things we LOVE about our EKKO
05:18 Where our EKKO has taken us
06:25 Things we HATE about our EKKO
10:51 Our favorite EKKO mods this year
16:46 Are we glad we bought it?
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We hope this review doesn't come across as bashing Winnebago or too whiny! Research things we mention in the video here: www.amazon.com/shop/VanTrekkingLifestyle // We also answer your question about the rear view camera we mention in this video: th-cam.com/video/F9_tCCmcAo8/w-d-xo.html // You'll see in the video that the pros definitely outweigh the cons when it comes to our EKKO and if you know us you already know we love her... warts and all. Good news on the noise we mentioned int the video too. We spent some time trying to pinpoint the exact spot of the noise and found the entry door was the biggest culprit. So Owen taped a few seams (for now) to see if it helps and also determined the door wasn't closing completely because the screen door wasn't allowing it to. He made some adjustments to make the screen door close better and wham!!!!... significant noise reduction. Still not what you'd call quiet but we made a 2-hour drive yesterday and it was way more quiet than before!
Not whiny at all! Well rounded and honest!
Your honesty is important and appreciated. Maybe Winnebago will take note and improve on their products.
Not whiny at all. By honestly sharing the bad with the good, you make your feedback so much more believable. Some Ekko fans and advocates only tell the good and are mute about the problems. Thank you for your honesty. Your feedback is so valuable, and because it’s balanced it’s more believable!
We bought our Ekko gently used (almost new). Some of the things were fixed but we're still doing some recalls (generator, stove) and the rest is not under warranty so I'm not happy about some of the problems. But, like you it really fits us and how we want to travel after I retire next year. I wish early models came with 2-3 year warranties so you'd be covered for the bugs. A year isn't enough if you're not doing quality control.
We keep our insulated curtain up all the time, and it makes a world of difference in the noise. Our door is very noisy though😕.our assessment matches yours for pro s vs cons. We’ve been getting about 12.9 mpg on a regular basis for the last 4000 miles. Maybe we don’t drive the interstates or the interstate speeds as much as you do 😊.
I think the best thing that will come out of the Ekko is that all the other manufacturers will see how successful it has been and will copy it (and some already are), which means that the "niche" you speak of will grow considerably in the years to come. It really is a great niche, providing a "van life" experience while overcoming the major shortfalls of class B vans (small/non-existent bathrooms, insides that are too cramped, lack of storage, tank sizes) while still being relatively nimble and fairly easy to park. Overall, I expect more European-style semi-integrated campervans (like those made by Hymer and others) to become much more commonplace in North America.
Thank you for your comment. Very well said.
@@VANTREKKINGlifestyle Just after I posted this comment I noticed the new Jayco Granite Ridge, which is an almost exact copy of the Ekko.
I LOVE my Berkey. It’s a little pricy but in the long run it’s more cost efficient and I believe more environmentally friendly. The filters with good care last a long time. The water tastes great. Enjoy. Looking forward to your future adventures.
We've used a Berkey since 2010.
The price has been what kept me from buying one in the past… but I think it will be a good investment. Good to hear that you love yours.
Maybe look closer into those berkys. Lot of reports of water quality issues.
Thank you both! Love the Ekko concept / style but hearing about all of the recalls have stopped us in our tracks in considering the Ekko until the reps can prove the existing recalls are not going to exist on the 2023-24 model. Best to you both in getting those resolved.
I totally understand. There is nothing worse than being thousands of miles from home on a trip and something break on your RV. Believe me we know and then there’s the stress of knowing something might/will go wrong like the alternator.
Thank you for a clear and honest review!
Woohoo! Looking forward to your new adventure! Be safe and happy tails you three! 🥰💕🙏😎
This is one of the best in your face reviews about the problems of the EKKO. I'm currently in the research stage of our RV search. For a few months this #1 on our list. Then all the issues that you and so many others have expressed to be honest scared me away from it. I've heard from friends and done my fair share of looking at/reading the reviews out there that Winnebago has the best floor plans but their quality/workmanship was much to be desired. Your brutal/honest review has put the EKKO back on as the #1 RV we are looking at for our impending retirement. We are sooo looking forward the adventures that otherwise would not be obtainable with another RV. Keep up the great work and ENJOY. r/Charlie
It’s a hard decision to make. There are so many things we love about the Ekko… but the quality is so disappointing. I hope the newer models are a lot better. Good Luck!
I think the reason you can still enjoy Ekko is your experience with so many different RV,'s and Owen's do it yourself skills..Brand new motorhomes also have issues and the money you saved buying used gives you more economic breathing room. As far as mpg is concerned slowing down helps but you already know that and really haven't spoken about how fast you drive. Our 1999 Chinook with a V10 gets between 10.5 and 11.5 on flat highway but I'm pretty chill with the speed. Not dangerously so and impeading traffic. The mountains are mountains and 8 to 9 mpg is going to happen. You didn't mention your cassette toilet but that must mean it's serving you well. Thanks for sharing and I pray you have a great trip but attitude is half the battle and you guys have the right attitude.
Thanks for the thoughtful comment. Yes, I sometimes go 4-5 over the speed limit and could benefit from staying around 60mph or so. And we totally agree with extra $$ to spend and justify on rig since we bought used, especially compared to today's MSRP prices. And that number is not accurate either. I will take us filling up, starting a GPS route and then stopping after 100 or so miles and see how far we've actually traveled. With bigger tires it shows less miles than we're actually going which plays with the MPG calculation. I'll post an update one day soon I hope. And yes, we love the cassette crapper as much as one can love a crapper... but forgot to mention that.
You guys are great fun! Have a safe trip! I'm looking forward to following along!!
Thank you, we appreciate you following along.
Well I’m sure Canada will welcome you with open arms !! This was enjoyable and interesting of the pros and cons of the Ekko!!
Always enjoy your channel with the inside of your journey of travelling in your RV !! As always BS & BK & BC !!!
Best thing about the Ekko is you guys in it! And the poteatoes. I can’t stop eating them.
You are so sweet… glad you liked the poteatoes.
Wow! Newfoundland! Exciting. This was a great review of your first year in the Ekko. Love the new wooden tables.
Thanks so much, we appreciate you following along.
We had a Promaster custom built for what we want. Solid build on a van that takes us everywhere and makes easy u-turns(!). Guatemala last winter Panama this year we hope. But as you know going is more important than what you drive in the end. Keep having fun as we enjoy following along!
It is a lot less stressful when you can go without worrying what’s going to break on a trip. It’s a first for us. Sounds like you have a great setup. We appreciate you sharing.
When you put your new seats in, make sure you put in seats that will swivel when the door is closed!
Thanks for the reminder. Our seats will not swivel now with the door closed.
I feel exactly the same. More that I love then hate. The layout and use is really perfect for our use. Great video as always.
Thanks so much for the comment. A lot of people don’t understand our love/hate relationship with our EKKO.
I am so excited to hear about your next trip to the Canadian Maritimes! My husband and I camped in Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island over 40 years ago when we were in our 20's and tent campers. I have always thought we need to go back one day with our RV. I'll be watching to maybe plan a trip for next year! Well, I watch your program no matter where you go, but for your upcoming trip I will be taking notes! Safe travels and enjoy all that great seafood. 😋
Can’t wait to see that part of the country and really looking forward to some great seafood. Thanks for following along.
Sorry that you have had problems, but thankful that you are still enjoying the rig! I really love the floor plan!
The problems are worrisome especially when you are getting ready to go on a long trip outside the country. We will see…
Glad to hear you are finally going to Nfld. There are lots of little towns all over Newfoundland and friendly folk who are eager to help out if you need it. Roads are paved everywhere,even up to St Anthony in the Northern tip. That's a long ride up there! We've been all over Newfoundland and I know you'll be fine. Pack for all kinds of weather situations. Lots of places to boon dock even in small fishing communities. You'll see a bunch of RV's travelling around there.Have fun! I look forward to hearing your adventures.
Thanks for all the great advice. We are looking forward to seeing/experiencing this part of the country.
I’m so glad that you two bought the Ekko, because that’s how I found you guys, and I just love watching your adventures. I get to live vicariously through y’all. Thank you! ❤
Thank you, glad you found us.
What a great summary of thoughts about the EKKO. As you know, we have one as well and our thoughts are very similar to yours. The positives outweigh the negatives but it is not short on issues. Ours just came back from another month in the shop yesterday. One of our best upgrades was at Freedom Van Go where they added a 50A DC to DC charger and upgraded the solar (+1 115X panel, Victron MPPT charge controller). I am routinely seeing 32+A of solar charging. My Balmar alternator died and I disconnected it 6,000 miles ago. With the upgrades I can be very patient waiting for WGO to figure out a solution. Thanks for the Rotopax info as I saw them a few videos ago and was wondering. Have a great trip. Can't wait for the videos!
We are planning to go back to Freedom Van Go to get the DC to DC charger, I wish we would have done that when we were there… but at that time the balmar wasn’t an issue for us. Good to hear you are pleased with yours. They are great guys.
Time flies. Sry y'all have had so many problems. Good to share, and when you're in contact with the company for repairs, it helps them too. It's not just Ekko, that's for sure. Main thing, you still like it. Can't wait to see the next adventure!! Be safe. 🙂👍
Thanks so much for following along. All in all we still like it, but it is very frustrating when we are in the middle of having an issue.
I think the Ekko fits you both. I like it myself. It fits in spaces that you would think it would not fit. With pros and cons I think the pros has it. I am so glad you are happy with the Ekko. I like the fact as well that you have an outdoor kitchen. Very nice! Hope you both have a great week and happy Fourth of July! 🎆🇺🇸🇺🇸
We hope you have a Happiest 4th as well.
No RV is perfect. Great comment. Like more things than we don’t!!
What a great and honest video spoken by people that know. I found myself shaking my head in agreement, laughing at Owen and preparing to spend money (Car Play device). Can’t wait to follow along on your next adventure. It will help us to prepare for our 2024 eastern Canada trip. ❤
If we had known you were going in 2024 we would have waited on you. We are pretty excited about this trip… I just hope everything holds up, it does add some extra stress.
Y'all are inspiring! I have said some of the same things about our 07 Roadtrek Sherman. We are going to take July and August to refine and improve Sherman then get out of Florida in September before the hurricanes hit. Don't stop eating corn flakes, be careful and have a great adventure. Happy tails and safe travels.
Thank you David. Sounds like you have a good plan. Owen will never stop eating his corn flakes.
I hope you are going through Nova Scotia on the way to Newfoundland! Cape Breton and the Cabot Trail are something you have to see.
Was just there in my Travato and Cabot Trail is a sight worth seeing!
We are going through Nova Scotia and we do have Cape Breton and Cabot Trail on our list. Thanks for the suggestions.
Thanks so much for your review! We have paid our deposit on our Ekko for delivery next year and will hope that the issues are resolved. Also seeing we do not live in the USA so we cannot afford to spend a month at a hotel while warranty repairs are made 😬. Much appreciate all the sound advice and tips from viewers too! 🙂
Hopefully all the issues will be fixed by the time you get yours… We love our even with all the issues so I’m sure you will love yours too. Good Luck!
We love your channel. We purchased a 2022 Winnebago View and have done 17 trips so far. We love it. I know it isn’t the latest concept, but it is a rock.
That is awesome! No one should ever worry about the latest craze. We'd give anything to make 17 trips with nothing breaking or needing repairs. Good for you. And, we love the View too.
I always thought they would look alot better if they color matched the body and cab. Yall Have a Blessed Day 😎✌
I agree. Thanks for watching.
Yes, I’ve thought the same. 🤷♂️
I think it would look much better as the same color.
Great video! Sorry to hear of all the issues the EKKO has. I know you were having major issues with your blind spot light, but didn't know about the noise and such. Wish Embassy had their Class B plus (yes, I know... Class C) ready to go so you could go see it. I think you would be pleasantly surprised.
Am glad to hear you are glad you have it! Be seeing you!
Owen has worked on the noise and has figured out a lot of it was coming from the door. It’s a lot better now. Weill have to keep a look out for the Embassy class B plus. Thanks for letting us know.
Thanks for your honesty. We have put some much time and money into our 2022 Revel with upgrades and we've only had one issue in over 2 years of ownership (a water leak that I fixed myself) that we are going stay put.
We love the layout but the problems not so much. It’s comforting knowing how realizable your rig is.
I can't wait to see your next adventures! Canada is awesome! :o)
We are already loving Canada.
Glad you still love your EKKO. We love ours. Our cab is quiet so keep working on that noise issue. Our balmar still works, had the blind spot fixed at the factory and it still works 20k miles later.. hang in there!! Get the generator recall done and that will be a good backup charging for your trip. Have fun.
Glad to hear you love your EKKO and everything is working. Owen has worked on the side door and it helped with the noise a lot . Thanks for sharing your positive experience.
Thanks so much for your candid review-happy you like it still. You did not address the cassette toilet though-how did you get along with that? Safe journey, Owen and Lynn!
We are ok with the cassette toilet, we’ve had one before so I guess we just didn’t think about adding it to this video and we have lots of videos about the cassette.
Live your honest review. Ive wished we had more tank size, a dedicated bench seat/table and a garage; but I still liking our Travato KL for its nimble size. Font think you were too tough on WIN as the problems with the systems are pretty major and surprised they haven’t resolved them. Looking forward to your NE adventure. We were going to go out west this month but decided to get a new puppy (ala maggie) so our adventures will wait till fall when “we” are fully trained.
Congratulations on your new pup, there is nothing better. The Travato is a good size for sure. Thanks for watching.
We're still glad we bought our EKKO and like you I have a pile of recalls sitting on the desk! We ran our unrepaired generator for three afternoons in Delaware without any issues but I do carry a few hose clamps it something starts to leak. We're getting a overall average of 12.5mpg and we usually drive with water tank full Replace those washers on the inside burner valves. Enjoy your trip, see y'all when you return!
Replaced washers already per your advice. Do you know what size clamps you keep with you for the generator?
Can't believe it's been a year already! I had guessed you were getting an Ekko right before the garage opened. I almost fell out of my chair when there actually was an Ekko in there. Hope she stops peeing in your corn flakes! I think a Berkey will be one of the first things I buy when I get a camper van because everybody loves them! I'm excited to see your trip up the east coast and into Canada! Safe travels!
I can’t believe it’s been a year either. We appreciate you following along.
@@VANTREKKINGlifestyle love watching the other Poteete’s adventures with sweet Maggie!
We are glad you both love your Ecko! We have enjoyed watching your travels. Maggie is adorable.
We are in the market for a rear view mirror too. Which one did you buy? Where did you buy your small out door table as well?
Thank you both. I hope we have the opportunity to meet you all someday. Thanks again for sharing your journey with us
.❤😊
Owen put a video out on the rear view mirror since we were having so many questions about it, here’s a link th-cam.com/video/F9_tCCmcAo8/w-d-xo.html. We got our little green table at REI.
This was a good honest review. I agree with everything you said. Winnebago needs to get their act together.
Hopefully they will… it does add additional stress when you are leaving for a trip and you are worried about what’s going to break next.
Oh, boy! Cool road trip ahead. Always trade off no matter the rv, but the reward is worth the squeeze. I too am getting 10mpg on my 2020 24B Jayco class c, but it’s fuel capacity allows for a no-worry ride. I bought this MH new and first thing I had to do was a wheel alignment so while in the shop I had them put better shocks on. After a couple of trips I added a Steer-safe system to it and it was a great improvement. Luckily, I have not had any other issues to contend with as far as mechanical or maintence issues. But it is also low mileage too. I do wish I had a sofa instead of the uncomfortable u dinette ( I just leave it down in the bed mode and me and the dog relax there a lot, and she can see out very easily)but that is an easy fix, and it has no self leveling or solar. I bring my Big Blue power station with portable solar panels. All in all, these items can be easily remedied if I wish to do so, but for me, not a big deal. I have camped since the 80’s without them and probably will continue the same way. A little more outside storage would be nice, but not a deal breaker. So far, My rig is comfortable, is quiet driving down the road, and well, It has performed without issues or breakdowns. Oreo and I are really liking it. Hope your trip turns out the way you planned, give that a sweet pup dog a little love, and safe travels. Hope the Canadians get their fires and smoke under control soon. 🙋🏼♀️❤️🐕🚗🇺🇸
Sounds like you have a great setup. Thanks so much for sharing. In our first motor home we had a dinette set that we kept in bed mode all the time, it was a great place to longe around.
You two are awesome..😅
I look forward to your Newfoundland trip.
It should be interesting. Thanks for following along.
First time I saw your video, very helpful! We received our Ekko last year, ordered in 2021. Same issues, however we still like ours. Most of the issues are or can be over come. Like you we are working on it. Your upgrades & mods, were helpful. Where did you have the go-pro camera set up for front and rear installed? Just finding safe, quality and approved work-arounds for some of the issues to keep us on the road for now. Thank you. Great comparison of the puppy & ekko. too funny.
If your talking about our Wolfbox mirror system the rear camera is mounted beside the EKKO one at the back tip middle of the rear wall. The front one is part of the mirror itself so no installation needed.
I think the recall is more than just EKKO related. We recently purchased a 23k Travato and we've had 3 recalls - Awning, Stove and Generator plus a couple Ram issues but in all it's the best class b for our needs............Looking forward to follow VTL next adventure. Happy Trails 🦮
I hate to hear you are also having recalls. We appreciate you following along.
Glad that you're happy overall with your EKKO. Hopefully, Winnebago will get any flaws/faults rectified for all owners. You mentioned the uncomfortable seats - have you ever heard of Cushion Lab? They make ergonomic seats that you can use on your office chair, in vehicles, etc. that really make a huge difference for sitting comfortably. My Brother drives 11 hours to get here and he loves to added comfort; it's made a huge difference for his long trips.
Stay well and safe travels; hugs for sweet Maggie too.
Thanks for the suggestion… we will check out Cushion Lab.
The couple on the We're the Russos channel have a Transit-based Storyteller Overland and they also mentioned the seats and replaced theirs with ones they seem to really like. I don't recall the name of the brand but it might be worth looking into.
what a great video. You guys are so cute.
Thank you. And... it might be time to renew you eye prescription. 😂 😂👍
Boy I hear ya about all the issues, same for us in our 2023 Ekko. We are experiencing better mileage than you are though. 55-60 is easy 14-15 mpg without big passes. At 65-70 we get 12.5-13.5mpg unless there are lots of passes to climb. You might check your mileage with Gps. The larger tires might be throwing the Ford computer off. The seats are terrible, the blinds spot is out for the 2nd time, gray tank gauge reading failed 2nd time, Sound bar fell off the other day and there are more little things wrong. But, I still would buy it again--it just fits so many needs so well! Winnebego if you are listening--GET YOUR ACT TOGETHER ON QUALITY CONTROL!
We feel the exact same way. Thanks for sharing.
We have a Thor a class B camper Van, and we are having similar experiences. We love where it can take us but the recalls, etc. are annoying. Tomorrow morning it goes in for the generator recall. So we totally understand your position.
Thanks for sharing. It seems all RV’s are having issues these days, I think it’s just the nature of things right now. I do hope we can get to a point where all the problems get fixed. It puts more stress when taking a trip if you can rely on what you are traveling in.
Love your show, where did you get those swing chairs? Thanks
We got our Nemo chairs at REI but they do have them on Amazon. They are pricey, but REI does put them on sell. We love them.
I lol when I see a video like this bc I’m sure that Winnebago monitors channels like yours and when they see that ur still happy u bought it despite the numerous ongoing serious problems u have experienced they likely breath a sign of relief and then see no reason to build a quality product. My first rv was a Winnebago View which was such a piece of crap that I dumped it a few months later. I learned from that experience.
I get it… It’s a love hate relationship. We hate all the issues, but we love the layout and all the storage.
What a great start to this video!!! Thanks.
And then that guy in the blue shirt acting like one of those blow up toys…what a dope, in a good way .
You are so funny… thanks for making me smile.
Wow, Iowa.
We are so glad your coming this way to Nova Scotia. I am sure you will be doing the Famous Cabot Trail in Cape Breton. Where we live!! Hope we cross paths when you are this way.( we are in Sydney & Baddeck) If you need anything while your in the area .. drop us a DM. Cheers and Safe Travels!!
You are so sweet… thank you! Yes, Cabot Trail and Cape Breton are on out list. Let us know if there is anything else that we don’t want to miss. Thanks again.
Great one year review. We are looking to downsize from our 5th wheel and the Ekko is in the running for us. I'm curious what your OCCC rating is and how you manage the weight (we are two people and a dog, but thinking tool weight, e-bikes, musical instruments (keyboard and guitar)), etc. Looking forward to following your Canada trip.
From what I’ve read it’s 1500-1200, but after you fill water and propane it’s around 750. So you do have to manage your weigh.
I agree they should have included that full-time rear view camera! We have one in our little stripped down Solis Pocket. Don't understand why they wouldn't prioritize it in something much more expensive than my little toy van. (We finally unloaded the Travato and got the Pocket last month - sold the T for what we paid for three years earlier, which was enough to pay for the Pocket. And I am enjoying it so much more than the T. We're having a great time modding it and make it our own.)
Glad to hear the Pocket is working out for you. It’s amazing you got what you paid for your Travato, that is amazing.
@@VANTREKKINGlifestyle We were lucky enough to buy the Travato late-Feb, 2020, two weeks before lockdown. I don't think they were even calling it Covid yet, just "a bad virus"… Had no idea how bad it would get or how quickly - or how high the prices of RVs would go so quickly! And when we sold it three years later, we caught the tag end of the crazy RV demand. So we lucked out on either end. Dumb luck.
Although it doesn’t fit all your needs we are SO happy with our Leisure Travel Van Wonder RL. It’s been completely trouble free which reduces our stress level because we aren’t wondering what’s going to break next. If only LTV had a 4 season more off road version on the Transit AWD platform. Kudos to you two for persevering through all the issues with your EKKO as we just couldn’t do it.
I often "Wonder" if we should have done that. We went in one in Alaska and loved it. Hard to get too though right?
@@VANTREKKINGlifestyle we did wait 2 years 2 month and 29 days to get ours but it was definitely worth it and as we are still working. If we were to do it again we would have just bought a used one like you did with the EKKO.
while in Newfoundland...make sure you try bakeapple cheesecake and get "screeched in" somewhere, both are happy dance worthy.
Thanks for the suggestions, they are now on our list.
I really like your fog light setup. What did you use? I would really like to have light for those dark curvy roads for when dark making turns.
The fog lights are Diode ss3 white. We got them from Freedom Van Go. We think they are a real good addition.
I'm not sure the issues are Winnebago's. New Travato owners are frustrated as well and from what I gather is that most of the time it's the components installed within the rig or in the chassis.
I think you are correct. The components are not as good as they use to be. But i will say there are some design flaws with the EKKO that are questionable, but we do have the first year and most of those flaws have been addressed with new models and recalls.
Thanks for sharing all your travels, good and bad. I also have an Echo, a 9 month old Lab puppy. She hasn’t peed in my corn flakes yet. 😂
That’s good to hear your pup or your Ekko doesn’t pee on your corn flakes. We appreciate you following along.
Thor, Leisure Travel, Chinook all make Class B+ motorhomes that are very similar to the EKKO
All RVs have issues….glad you’ve found ways to to turn lemons into lemonade 😉. Can you share a link (or more info) on the (rear view mirror) camera that you spoke about? That’s exactly what I’m looking for. Can’t wait for your East coast trip. Putting my little class B thru her paces myself and making lists of repairs and mods that she needs. I just need to learn how to pack better and maybe not so much. 🤣
We totally agree that all RV’s have their issues. I also need to learn to pack better. Owen put a video out on the rear view mirror, here’s a link th-cam.com/video/F9_tCCmcAo8/w-d-xo.html
Im excited that you guys are using a Berkey. I have one at home that i planned to take with us in our camper van. Do you guys do anything soecial to secure yours during travel?
We did strap it to the seat. It worked great for us.
We just got back from a 45 day trip through Newfoundland and Labrador and we loved it so much we are headed back in mid to early August through mid September. We'll keep an eye out for you. If you want any good boon docking site locations or what we found to be must see locations let us know, I'm sure you're getting a lot of pointers from subscribers already. Love the channel, long time subscribers.
That is so awesome that you are going back already. I’m sure it will be a lot different that time of year. We would love and very much appreciate any advice you can share on boon docking sites and places to see. Hope you see there.
Such troubles with it that are important. Especially the charging system and generator. Sounds awful and dangerous. Great information. Good luck and be safe.
Thanks for watching.
We just purchased a Starlink dish and immediately chopped it to a flat dish and converted it to 12v and glued it to a space on the roof :)
How’s that working for you?
@@VANTREKKINGlifestyle It works just the same but a lot less power use and without the hassle of storing etc..
Enjoyed your video as usual! Can you share what device you are using to get wireless Apple CarPlay? Thanks!
Here’s a link to the one we use www.amazon.com/dp/B0BBG4QRPX?linkCode=ssc&tag=onamzvantrekk-20&creativeASIN=B0BBG4QRPX&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.18Z0B46LNTGD4&ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_s_ofs_mixed_d_asin.
Viewing from Europe I will say that the EKKO is very influenced by European motorhomes. That clever shower/toilet room is European but also the layout inside has been very popular in Europe for along time now and finally the garage at the rear is common here as well. I think that Winnebago have blended all this together in a very creative way.
Of course the layout is the best thing about the EKKO. Glad the European influence is catching on here.
@@VANTREKKINGlifestyle - I might be moving to the USA permanently in two or three years. If that happens then the EKKO would be an RV that I would be very interested in getting. I've heard the lead time on orders is massive, so maybe I should order it now! 😆
Not just Europe but Australia/New Zealand as well. I would personally love to see more Hymer-style semi-integrated motorhome options for sale here in North America. Right now we mostly just have very expensive and hard-to-get options like those sold by Leisure Travel Vans to choose from. Just got back from 11 days in northern Italy and couldn't begin to count how many small, Fiat Ducato-based campers I saw all over the roads there.
Hey guys I love your videos. so I just started living out of my van and embracing the van life. but I'm having trouble sleeping at night I notice my nose is very sensitive. do you guys have a issue like this or do you take anything? would you recommend good camping spots around the Midwest! Thank you and stay safe!
We do not have any issues with sleeping in the van other than just the getting use to sleeping in a different place at first.
I’ve been teetering on the edge about buying an EKKO but your review has convinced me to back away. Deal killers are:
1. MPG - 10.5 is unacceptable. I’ve seen 14-16 advertised but have yet to see an EKKO owner report anything over 12. I’ll be putting 15-20k per year full timing and $8,000 a year in gas isn’t in my budget.
2. Maintenance issues - Going full time doesn’t leave room for my rig to end up at the service center for a month at a time.
3. Seats - With spine issues, I can’t afford to sit in a seat that will play havoc with me.
4. Noise - I’ve heard this from several EKKO owners. An indication that the insulation and fit and finish of the EKKO is not as good as touted.
5. Insurance - I’d always heard RV insurance was cheaper than for a car. Not so! At 73 and with an excellent driving record, I pay $1000 a year for my 2020 Outback. Progressive quoted me $1800 a year for the EKKO and I only selected part time use!
Back to the drawing board! I originally planned on buying a Class B from one of the independent outfitters known for their quality craftsmanship. I was lured over to the EKKO by its huge garage, water storage and bathroom. I’ll compromise and make the best of it.
It is all about compromise… I hope you find something great.
Owen, the seats in our Promaster are to me the most uncomfortable and I looked for about a year in replacing the seats, but I created some custom cushions out of foam and matting the make them as comfy as my MB car. I’ll send you some pictures to your email. This mod has made me decide to keep the Travato as my back doesn’t ache no more.
Can’t wait to see what you have done, we need some ideas.
I have enjoyed your videos on your travels & trials… have you seen the AEON RV yet? What do you think of it in comparison if so…?
We have not seen one, but we will check it out. Thanks for the suggestion.
Great Ekko review. Has the smoke subsided enough to travel the east coast of Canada?
We think so from what we are reading.
We love our Berkey. Like you, we worry about all those plastic bottles.
The Berkley is really working out great on this trip.
Hi again, what brand continuous rear camera did you purchase? Did you install this yourself? Thank you again for the information.
Yes I did. Here's the video we did for the install th-cam.com/video/F9_tCCmcAo8/w-d-xo.html
We are looking to add an additional rear view camera / mirror. Would love a video on yours. Hope to see you in NFL.
Owen but out a video yesterday on the camera. Here’s a link th-cam.com/video/F9_tCCmcAo8/w-d-xo.html.
Be prepared for the cost of the nufie ferry as well LOL
If the year flew then it’s OK
If the year dragged on then it must have been in the shop a lot
Question for you... who installed your dash/rear camera? I would love to have one but am really nervous about having a clueless installer.
Owen installed the rear camera, he put out a video about it yesterday. Here’s a link th-cam.com/video/F9_tCCmcAo8/w-d-xo.html.
WOW... Thyme Phlyz... 😎 p.s. This episode gave me Chair Envy... [any chance for source?]. 💛
The chairs are Nemo Stargazers, we got ours at REI, we got ours on sale. You can also get them on Amazon. We have them in our Amazon store, here’s the link if you are interested www.amazon.com/shop/VanTrekkingLifestyle. We do love them!
What size Berkey do you have? Thx for the review.
We got the travel size, we just got it so we are hoping it works out well.
Or the AEONrv?
Both may have some of what you love about the Ekko without the problems.
That is a viable option. Thanks for the suggestion.
Do you miss your Travato? I'm thinking about buying a 59GL, but was looking at the EKKO. Thanks in advance for your input.
We loved our Travato, but we love the space we have with the Ekko more. However, we do miss being smaller.
Have you looked at some Ekko competitors like the WINGAMM OASI 540?
We have not seriously looked at anything but we do like the looks of the Wingamm.
Not yet, but the Wingamm looks awesome.
I have a 2022 Travato GL and have had a lot of issues. I love it but it is very frustrating when issues occur especially when it is a safety issue. I disagree that Winnebago is trying to fix these issues because some of these issues have been going on for years. I recently started having issues with my blind spot assist it also stopped working. I contacted Winnebago and they said it is a RAM issues. I recently contacted Pioneer and River Park. River Park is the distributor for Pioneer. Maestro is the component that links the two. River Park is sending me a new radio and the Maestro component but I need to find someone who will install it. I am curious if you contacted the company to get this issue taken care of? I also find it frustrating to figure out who should be taking care of these issues especially when Winnebago or RAM try to push it off on the other. My van is a little over a year and the radio and Maestro is considered out of warranty. For the price we paid things need to be warrantied for more than a year.
So sorry for all your issues. I guess the Ekko is not the only Winnebago that’s having issues.
I liked the Ekko but the wife didn’t. We saw it debuted at the Tampa show. Sorry to hear about the problems though but it’s to be expected. We compromised on our 21’ 4wd Phoenix Cruiser. It’s a little shorter then the Ekko and lacks storage and tank size but makes up for it in quality and power with the V10. Still only getting 8-10mpg. I wish they put the Ekko on the E450. They initially had a dry/split bath E series design but scrapped it.
Sounds like you made a good decision. I didn’t like the Ekko at first either, but it grew on me enough to buy one.
Winnebagos are nice
Where did you get those chairs at
We got our chairs at REI, they also have them on Amazon. They are call Nemo Stargazers. They are in our Amazon store, here’s a link if you are interested www.amazon.com/shop/VanTrekkingLifestyle.
Question, is it true, you cannot swivel the seats unless you open the doors? Which would mean if there is an emergency, or bad weather you have to open the door to swivel them back?
Yes, you have to open the door to swivel the seats, but you don’t have to open if very far to get it turned around. We only turn the passengers seat so you can drive if you need to without having to swivel it back. If we are just boon docking for the night we rarely turn either seat.
@VANTREKKINGlifestyle that would be my thought. At night was locked in, keep the driver's seat ready to go. I just love the idea of the seats turned, it opens up the can even more. It's not a deal breaker, it would just be nice not to have to open the door to turn them back.. At tines I can be a what-if guy. Thank you for confirming that for me.
Where do I get those chairs?
We got our Nemo stargazer chairs at REI, they also have them on Amazon. Here’s our link if you are interested in looking at them on Amazon www.amazon.com/shop/VanTrekkingLifestyle. We love them.
WOW we feel your pain with RV repairs and fuel economy. One helpful trick is to change your engine oil over to Amsoil with Amsoil high efficiency oil filter. Plus use K&N high efficiency air filter. These town changes should yield you 2-3 more miles per gallon. I do this is all my vehicles. Love your videos and hope to join you all sometime.
Best regards,
Eugene & Cynthia Cole
Thanks for all the great information. We will try that next time we need to get the oil changed.
Have you considered Coach House? I've seen their videos but don't know about their long term quality. I've heard 1 TH-cam creator had serious quality issues with a Leisure Travel.
What about Pleasure Way?
We have not, but we will check into Coach House.
Man Mr. Owen, I'm disappointed for you and for me. I've been searching for a new B class rv for my wife and I. She likes the roomier C class rv's and I was looking at the Jayco Swift or Travato. Watching this video and I saw how roomier it is, I said hotdog! This could be the one for us. But with the problems you've had I'll just keep looking. Great review and God bless the both of you!
With all the problems it is wise to keep looking. Good luck.
You guys need a LTV
You might be right. They have a very good reputation.
@@VANTREKKINGlifestyle we love our 2022 UTB however it’s off-road capabilities are next to none. You would probably be better with the Transit.
Gallon?? What's a gallon? Hehe 🇮🇹🇮🇹
It looks like we'd remember we're the only ones with gallons as much as you connect with us... and if we get to go to Newfoundland we'll have to do that whole gallons to liters conversion again. Hope all is good on your side of the pond. Maybe one day you can teach me the math of liters and such in person.
@@VANTREKKINGlifestyleOwen, we’ll have to teach you about kilometers too. Miles per gallon is so confusing because a US gallon is 3.78 liters and a Canadian gallon is 4.54 liters. The simplest way is to use liters/100 kms. My old Winnebago Brave uses an average of 22 liters/100 kms. That’s with a big ole V-8. This is equal to 10.74 miles/US gallon. So here’s some comparisons for you to use in 🇨🇦.
12 miles/USgal = 19.7 liters/100 kilometers = 31.5 liters/100 miles. So, you’re using less gasoline than 31.5 liters every 100 miles you drive then you are getting better than your average 12 miles per gallon in the USA. Enjoy👋😁.
A great part of your trip is that for every US$ you spend you get about 1.3 Canadian$!
Lesson 2 will be what is the equivalent price of gasoline in US$/gallon when it’s priced in Can$/liter? Let me know if you want to know.
The Ford transit has to have the worst seats as far as being comfortable…. 1 star out of 10. Have had out transit for 7 years. 98,000k miles…,, terrible seats!! Lol
That’s a lot of miles in those seats. It’s good to hear you have had your transit for 7 years.