There are a lot of very good van life style videos on YT, but yours stands out because of your honesty and focus on practically. Thanks! The quality and QC at Winnebago are concerning.
I really appreciate videos like this where the pros and cons and irritations are shared. As someone who is literally at day 1 of my search for an RV similar to yours, your perspective will help me decide what to buy. Thank you sir!
I appreciate the balance in this video: hearing about the pro's, along with the con's. I also appreciate the editing effort that went into this video. Safe travels!
I guess im asking randomly but does anyone know a way to get back into an instagram account? I somehow lost the account password. I love any tricks you can give me.
@Bryson Gannon I really appreciate your reply. I found the site thru google and I'm trying it out now. Looks like it's gonna take quite some time so I will reply here later with my results.
Hey CMC, retired OSCS here. I just saw your video as my wife and I are looking at a Travato K. Also looking at Airstream. Subscribed and will be watching more!
My 59K is 6 years old with 50k miles. No broken buttons, no broken sinks. I did have to replace the refrigerator light switch and troubleshoot no power to the cooktop ignitor along the way. The microwave also went out and I replaced it at one point. The shower area takes some getting used to, it could be improved upon. Overall this is a fantastic class B for 1 to 2 travelers. We love ours.
The build quality aspect is why alot of guys like to just build their own. That way you maximize the space usage to how you want. I like the open concept of yours but it has alot I don't need and if you're a builder you can save alot of money.
it would be worth getting a good custom place.. to take out the aft shower section and wardrode and put a custom stainless sink bath and back accessible storage area -- frankly I would rather have a cassette type toilet in the van than a black tank type
If you have the skills and time to build your own RV you can end up with something that suits your needs better than any off the shelf model. It can even be fun to design and build. But, assuming you want all the features of a commercial RV, you're probably not going to save any money. If you want a fully functional kitchen, plumbing, quality cabinetry, A/C, heat, etc, you're going to end up paying almost as much or as much as buying one. The DIY jobs that save a ton of money are usually because they have a van they can camp in, not one that's a rolling apartment.
@@steventoney4018 cassette type why? black tank is so easy to empty, i looked at both and the thought of emptying a cassette in a public bathroom?! pass on that
lots of pit and vault toilets in NF and other places.. I tend to frequent.. so many more emptying options -- cassette toilet are simpler... no stinky slinky and having to find dump stations -- I just would prefer the cassette for ease and multiple ways to dump . I I I get a GL -- which right now is my goal -- I will deal with the black tank dumping as it is the only choice in a travato
Get the thing to an authorized dealer ASAP to get everything repaired. Remember, there’s always fine print on every warranty and you really don’t know what’s covered until you know. I’d prioritize it now. Wow. Build quality shouldn’t be that bad. Check on whether the speakers are covered, not just the broken stuff?
In my experience, RV speakers are usually not going to pass muster. You oftentimes get some basic speakers which will blow, and you almost always wind up with a Jensen stereo. IMHO, It is better than the Concertone stuff, but not by much. From what I read, the 2021 Travato will be upgrading that, which is a good thing. However, I'd probably just see what can one get for speakers that are better quality, and toss the receiver for something better. I'm no car audio expert, but Pioneer, JVC, Alpine, or something like that can likely be tossed in without much effort. Hopefully the dealer can fix that. I remember people griping about those flip-down sinks back in the days of the Winnebago Rialta.
Hi Kevin! Thank you for your service! I am a retired USAF E-7 living in a 2019 GMC Savana 2500 cargo van for three years. I love it even though I cannot stand in it. I spend most days outside doing activities. My DIY conversion is just a rolling man cave and it is very comfortable for my lifestyle.
Considering all this after four months, I think Winnebago has some serious issues. I know you are trying to be diplomatic but, for the amount of money Winnebago is asking for a Travato these problems are unacceptable 😞
@@30AndAWakeUp Please update us after your appt. Mine is new and have the same button (I'll try the tip below) and rear screen issue. We can already see the sink is poorly connected.
@@30AndAWakeUp If you run into problems dealing with the company reach out to Robin @ Creativity RV on youtube. She had success getting the company of one of her previous rigs make things right, and she may be able to help you navigate the process.
@actioncam Yes it has issues, it comes with buying ANY RV. Whether it's a Travel Trailer, Fifth Wheel, Class A,B, and C. And no matter how much it costs things will break, it comes with the territory, if you "sweat the small stuff" then don't get ANY RV because you will always have something that might not be working correctly and unless your hand, you wait to get you warranty and service work to fix the issues.
Greetings from Spokane Valley, WA! My Dad was a radio operator on a water carrier during WW2- they took water out to Johnstone Island, and he was at Pearl Harbor less than a month before the attack. Great to see a Navy plane there in the video- Dad loved our country, and served in the Washington State Senate for 31 years. Somehow, every time I see a Navy plane or ship, it brings back great memories of Dad- thank you for that, and thank you for your service to our country! Bob
So you like all the stuff that winnebago bought and put in your van. The more I see other people's videos about their vehicles the more I am happy for the van I found. 1998 Xplorer, might not be new but I have yet to have any of the funky stuff I see happening to a lot of these newer rigs.
Its a T-28A -D Variants mostly used by the Military as Training aircraft/ Very Popular in use among other nations. Thanks for the Video, I wish they have made the Winnebago Travato in a Ford Chassis with AWD. To complement the Offroad capability.
Very cool. Thanks for the info, I kind of knew it had to be a training aircraft but I wasn't 100% sure. So I really appreciate your comment. Yeah, it would be nice to have an all-wheel drive version of this vehicle I would have definitely spent the extra money for that.
Kevin - I look forward to seeing your weekly vlogs, you do a terrific job. Idyllwild is a great place, I used to go there to tale a break from the heat when I lived in Palm Springs. I know how much you are enjoying the cool weather. Currently watching you from central Florida where I now live. Also ret usn. Good luck with your repairs.
Welcome to RV life. Friends who've purchased brand new rigs, regardless of the cost or type all report cosmetics issues or worse electrical/mechanical issues within the first year. Used RV's, although have some miles on them tend to be "the best" purchase. I love my used Class C and have been fortunate, I've only had a few cosmetic issues (all repaired my me or under the extended warranty) and no mechanical/electrical issues. You have a great van & I hope all the warranty repairs go smoothly! Maybe Travato will take your advice to improve their future vans. BTW, great new shirt color for the fall from your usual black 😊
That makes a lot of sense for sure. Im getting warranty work done soon....so hopefully, it'll all be resoloved. Thanks...I figured I'd shock everyone with a different color shirt! :)
This is really important to acknowledge. Our Airstream had issues, our Rockwood had issues. None of them major, all of the annoying. When you put these things on wheels and roll them around everywhere, the weak spots and stress points show themselves eventually! That said, I feel like Kevin is on the money with the overall review - if the major systems continue to hold up to hard use, that’s the most important, as those are critical to living safely and independently.
He's right: RV's are taking a beating just going down the road; and the industry really doesn't seem to give a "rats ass" past a certain point.They all suffer from "quality" issues"for the Money we put out for them!
I did considered getting this van when I first started my research and I do love that Volta System you demoed. But thankfully I’m still doing my research and great honest reviews like yours are definitely helping.
In terms of the shower, you should install a flexible shower curtain track. It is so much easier to use than snapping in the OEM curtain, and no worries at all about damaging the wardrobe.
That's a good tip, I think I'm going to do that in the future for sure. I have a lot of friends that have already done that I just wish it was already included in the design.
@@30AndAWakeUp 2022 has a track for the shower curtain, replaced the Jensen with a JBL sound bar, and removed the button latches with new ones. Thanks for the review. Hoping to get one in spring of 2022.
Love your new intro!!! Reminds me of a Cold Play song I love. Yep, I heard that they have been having crazy hot temps out there! Great video content Kevin...:-)
I hope Winnebago is watching. Finishes are always the main problem in Rv’s. They definitely need to be addressed because we’re paying too much for the inconvenience they cause!
I’ve owned 2 Winnebago….. never ever again! While I love the Volta system and would included it If I gave in an bought a ‘winnie’ I really want to order, design with maker Ready. Set. Van. Much more affordable with more choices in floor designs!
There's no such thing as perfect. At least on this planet. Though I get your intent and meaning. For the price, you'd think all the building materials and construction would be top notch.
Glad it was helpful! I just published a video about the 5 things I love about the van and in a few days, I'll publish one about the things I dont like, if you're interested. Thanks for watching and commenting. 🚌
Another Great Video Kevin! That Ghost Town was pretty cool! Sounds like for the most part your loving the Van and happy with it! I have owned numerous RVs and their is pros and cons with all of them... I dont think their is a perfect one..... Its just finding the one you mesh with the best! Funny you mentioned the Jensen set up and TV... I have that same set up in mine and its horrible... I have the exact same complaints that you have about it...lol. However... the good thing is that you are overall happy with your purchase and the things that are broke or need replaced are easy fixes! Keep up the great videos!👍
Interesting piece. I’ll be watching to see if winnebago stands tall and warranties these items. Seems to be a lot of problems for 3 months of use. There is no excuse for the sink coming apart so soon. Maybe Winnebago didn’t manufacture the sink and some other failing components but they sure did choose what they installed in their product.
You wanted us to list where we are from - "Fort Lauderdale". A suggestion on your drawer issue in your bathroom, move the top drawer to the bottom drawer which you use the least. Also, maybe a little lubricant around the drawer button. Second, your sink issue can be resolved on a temporary basis by buying some "Clear double sided Gorilla Tape" which is sold at Home Depot or Amazon - It's incredibly strong and can be removed easily later on, plus it's helpful when something else breaks. A question for you, do you wish you had a 24 Ft RV like the Leisure Vans where they have Murphy Beds and a storage garage in the back where you can slide in your bike so you don't have to worry about theft issues, I'm using Leisure just as an example for size purposes. Enjoy your videos, Robert
Just discovered your vlog. I like your style. Direct and clear approach. I’m gonna start following you for sure! Im a new fan from Brussels,Belgium This vlog will explode soon!
I agree! I thought, “Woah! THAT’S a lot of pink. Good for her on living life on her terms. Hope her Mr. also loves pink or has something that’s just his somewhere in there.
One good thing is you do have a warranty if you had a van built you might not have a warranty that comes with it especially if you built the van yourself Another RU-vidr put it in a way I could understand it's like driving a house down the highway or a house during an earthquake things will shake loose and probably break but you're right there were and are quality issues with every company But for how much money your RV sold for, you shouldn't have any issues so soon into ownership Good luck with the RV I hope you have many more years with it and many more experiences thank you for sharing
Yeah, that's a good point. most of the issues are really small minor issues, I haven't had any major major issues with systems or anything like that. but considering what we pay for these there should definitely be some higher end finishes.
I like your van, but really love the places you travel. You take such great photos! I’m sort living my traveling dreams through you for now. Stay safe and continue having fun.
Brother dont give up on your videos, your voice matters. Self-Care & Stay Positive. You are a survivor & a leader. The people need you, keep Pushing Forward ➡️🙏✌️
Great to meet you Kevin ! I am new to your channel watched a few episodes and have really enjoyed your honestly and subjects. I am looking at a Travato for 2021, I am learning a lot about van life and what it takes to be on the road and that sense of adventure that comes with it. As a ex-Navy guy myself, I traveled the world (not attached during that time), looking back it was hard at times but rewarding and always that sense of adventure. Thanks, Stelios.. BTW coming at you from San Diego, CA (a Navy town)
Hi again! I'm my 2020.5 59K, the bathroom drawer buttons sometimes stick, like yours. Spraying silicone lubricant (like WD40 except silicone) helps a lot.
We for our Sportsmobile and there is a bestoke aspect to it where we could design our back area to be wet and dry without a huge hassle and we love that part. Dealing with wanting a softer bed as the gaucho pulls out. A bit hard. Working on that🧐 best of luck!
Nice video. Really good information regarding your van. Good to hear that you would purchase again despite some of the quality issues. Viewing from Missoula Mt. Happy travels 😊
Nelson Ghost town is such a fun stop. My photographer friends love going out there. How in the world did you find that pink RV? It looks amazing. Can’t wait for that video.
The button issue in the bathroom....well, try spraying a small amount of WD-40 on it, then work the button a few times. Maybe moisture got into it and corroded it a little.
I would be pretty frustrated myself. Those might seem like Minor issues but at the end of the day when you are a full time van lifer, being able to use everything especially in the bathroom area are essential. Of course driving these on a daily basis things are going to break from time to time. But with in 3 or 4 months to have your sink, mirror, drawers, and headliner falling apart plus having the radio/ TV not be the greatest is kind of a let down. For the price you have to pay for this stuff quality materials is essential. I hope this isn't a sign to come with things. I agree that it comes with a great battery system especially the fact you have 3 ways of charging and the fact you can run your AC for 9 hours in 100 degree weather. That's a big-time relief to know you're going to be able to stay comfortable when needed! I hope Winnebago steps up there game a little bit on beefy hardware and good solid materials. And hopefully figure out a better bathroom design with out having to change the inside layout. I know they have the one with the bed in the corner. That layout seems a little better for the wet bath. But you don't get that open concept feel. Anyway I hope they get everything fixed up for you and you enjoy that nice California weather 🌞👍😎
Really enjoyed your video. I'm considering a van like this as I get close to retirement and it helps to get straightforward talk and reviews like this. Thank you!
I'm in Massachusetts. Enjoying your video very much. I have had such an itch to get a Smaller RV and just take off. I keep watching to get to know more and more. Really like this video and will look for more done by you. I want to continue watching your video again. Gotta Go Stay Safe
My dad always said if you were going to own an RV, you need to be a do-it-yourselfer. Have a good set of tools, cordless drill/screwdriver and lots of miscellaneous screws, nuts, nails abdn bolts. Something always loosens up. And watch those tires and brakes! Me, I have enough to do with my honey-do list in our house that stays in one place. But as a Hi-Fi guy, I would have replaced all of the speakers in the first month, both the chassis and coach. They are always the weakest point of all factory sound systems. The only factory vehicle system I have left alone is the THX sound system in my wife's Lincoln. Enjoy your NPE and don't let the little things worry you. Rich - Streamwood IL
Hello from Eldridge, IA. We own a 2020 59G since the end of May this year. Have used it extensively going on many trips in the Midwest. I agree with you about the annoying aspects, but in general buying the Travato has worked out well for us. We have had no major issues, but inconveniences like the grey water tank switch was defective (it would turn itself on) and was replaced, the front REMI blinds broke and was replaced (both warranty repairs) and the bathroom amenities are cheap in the G too. Had to replace the shower holder with a command holder and the door is awful. I love driving it and we have gone to places we wouldn't have otherwise especially during a pandemic. Would have liked to buy the lithium system, but $20, 000 more was just too expensive. We are doing fine without it. Safe travels to you.
You may want to push for a new bathroom door from Winnebago too. Based on other owners' comments, the sliding door either works flawlessly or gives nothing but trouble. It must be a quality and/or installation issue at the factory.
I have a 2019 promaster Simplicity Short 159 wb ..I love it after I remodeled it my way....the travato has too much open room, its all bedroom ...i would take one of the beds out and put in a cabinet with a nice counter...your right about the bathroom sink...when I looked at Travato the sink is very cheap for the money....best of luck to you....
@@30AndAWakeUp ...I remodeled mine so if you want help ..let me know..I live in Ga and have all the tools and know how...come by and we can remodeled it...Im also retired from the Army after 20 good yrs of service...
Many of the other Travato RU-vidrs have expressed similar, but many of those are applicable to all RVs. Interesting to see custom builders (self and professional) are putting in really big lithium systems and 12v a/c, but as far as I know only Travato (and Aktiv?) have that auto start. Glad you re enjoying! Caught the travel boss podcast, good info! ✌🏻
30 And A Wake Up for sure, either the 2nd alternator or the DC to DC charger (I’m not mechanically inclined so I don’t totally understand the difference), but I haven’t seen the capability to run it automatically.
DEAR ALL @WINNEBAGO BOARD OF DIRECTORS: "What steps is your world- class company going to take to fixing these (Unworthy of your famous name cheap designs), in the TROVATO?
Great video! I agree that the quality should be better at that price point. I would use the heck out of that warranty and send a letter to their corporate office detailing all of these issues.
it is a shame that those thing have happened. Your pics are amazing. You are so real about what is going on. It is much appreciated. See you next week.
After spending 23 years in the RV business for large companies I will agree with you on quality issues. All manufacturers have them. But to just touch on a few things you mentioned. RV’s ARE NOT made to be lived in full time. Some manufacturers have different warranties if you live full time. Your drawer latch broke, not a quality issue. It’s a price issue, better quality latch, higher price. Tightening of hinges, little petty things should be done by you. It’s a house on wheels. Everything vibrates loose. Going Offroad, it’s not an Offroad vehicle. It’s a Dodge van with Offroad tires. Enjoy it for what it is.
If these issues should be fixed on newer models by the company in future please make a video discussing what was done. Love your videos so much I'm really learning a lot about van living. Thanks and keep the videos coming.🤎🤍🤎🤍🤎🤍
When they fix it to cover the warranty it will he the same stuff grrŕrrr. Custom build is the way to go. Love history & sharing story like the Ghost Town👍there's more to learn about Nevada itself.
I'm looking at getting a Class B RV and drive around looking for a new place to live since I'm retiring. It has been fun watching your video's. I'm from Alaska
Thanks for a great video. I appreciate the heads up on future problems we might face. The Pure3 system was one of the main reasons we bought our 2019 Travato KL. We have had multiple problems with ours. It is in the shop getting a new alternator, wiring harness, and a rebuilt battery box (similar to what you had done).
Such and honest and great video. Thank you so much for showing this. I will definitely not go for a Winnebago. I'm thinking about a more solid Storyteller. Great floor plan for sure!!! I hope they fix it for you and you can enjoy it for a long time!!
Hey mate watching from Australia love your videos I have a citroën Jumper it lives in Switzerland as I travel to Europe for 2 to 3 months every year. So I love watching van youtubers and some are good and some are shit your one of the good ones. keep it up mate.
Thanks for the video and frank discussion of the challenges the RV has presented. Frankly no RV is without some design and/or quality issues, but that aside the issues you’ve presented are unacceptable . The fact that they have occurred so soon indicates a real concern for component and assembly quality. Given the Winnebago “name” and the associated price premium with it, that makes it a nonstarter in my opinion. Thanks again.
very cool, loving the 3 month recap! I'm still on the fence myself - build a custom camper van, or buy a factory design... I'll likely go custom. I'd be choked as well if things started falling apart after just 3 months, with such an expensive rig. Glad you love it though and would buy again! Have fun in the mountains
No problem! I spent a lot of time in Brisbane Australia when I was in the Navy, I really really miss it. Hopefully after kovid is over I can make a trip to Australia again.
These "quality issues" like not working buttons or so are totally normal to me. These vans are all more or less hand made and all have their little issues at the beginning, whatever brand or model you purchase. I have a Knaus (European manufacturer) and I had it in the first half year at least 5 times back in the dealership in order to repair any - more or less minor - issues. The thing is, if you purchase a brand new vehicle and go immediately on long term travel, you are usually no more close to the dealer and have to find somebody else to repair such minor issues (if you are not able to solve the problems yourself). So I would suggest to everybody purchasing a new vehicle to stay in the first couple of weeks relatively close to the place where you got your rig, let the first things break, and let them repair. If these 'teething troubles' are over, you have normally your peace of mind, it takes then quite a while for new issues to come up. And of course: there will be further issues coming up. Totally normal, whether you own a house or a rig. In a vehicle you will have naturally even more issues than in a house, since everything moves and shakes during driving. Else, yes, your vehicle is great. Wish you to have many happy days and many happy travels there in! And since you asked: I'm watching from Bangalore, Karnataka, India. (But my RV is parked in Germany.)
some observations/tips , loosen up the pushbuttons , mine were sticking also, and rotate knob counter clockwise prevented the sticking, tv sterio interface sucks, i plan on replaceing both units ,my advise, if you get the surround to work leave it there, ive been good to go since i got it working ,but it was a pain, i installed a shower curtain rod/slider so the cutain can slide instead of snapping on and off, mine didnt come with the front window blinds instead they gave me basic reflective shades that work great!, the sink issue i will have to keep my eye on as i dont have an issue yet, same with the mirror, but assume longer wood screws would solve both issues, i only have 7k miles on mine but so far i still love it, good luck with repairs.
Yeah, definitely a little annoying. I'll be getting warranty work done from Winnebago and a couple weeks, hopefully that resolves these issues. I'll let everyone know.
Fun update. It sounds like the first group of dislikes are mostly ‘minor’ but they definitely add up when you live in it every day (ie. Speakers and TV volume). I also agree on the shower - the repetitive nature of snapping in a shower curtain each time would be frustrating. The quality issues in the bathroom from Winnebago are really disappointing for only 3 months of active use. I hope they are watching this and ensure it’s taken care of. So glad to hear the Ram chassis is serving you well!
Yeah, I hope I don't come off two negative cuz I'm not trying to be negative. I love this Travato but there are some issues that I think Winnebago needs to address.
30 And A Wake Up I don’t think so at all. I think you were being very fair and balanced. Not being able to use the bathroom drawer, sink, or mirror... that would be pretty annoying.
Thanks for the info on your van. My husband and I are think of going vanlife soon and all the honest info we can get is helpful! I’ll be watching your videos for more info on vans and were great places to travel are!
If you ever get this way, you can visit the Air Force Museum. I have a driveway you can park on and overnight, or longer. Several nice places to visit here.
Thanks for your candid thoughts on this and all your recordings! How do you level the vehicle on slopes? Does this thing come with a spare tire? Any contingency for an engine breakdown? Any roadside assistance/towing available?
No problem! 1 - I don't ever level...as long as my head is higher than my feet where I sleep...that's all I care about! 2 - No, but it comes with a Mopar flat repair kit. 3 & 4- Triple AAA!
Your video was the first that I chose from all the videos that YT listed on the "Winnebago Travato". I saw one today and thought it looked like a good size fun van for trips. Thanks for your clear and friendly commentary. - Roseville, CA
