In the latest episode of their travel vlog, Kara and Nate take on a new adventure: testing out the Winnebago Ekko. This comes after their previous comparison of the Winnebago Revel and their own Sprinter Van. As a couple from Nashville who have been traveling the world since 2016, Kara and Nate have visited 100 countries and all seven continents. However, in 2020, they decided to explore their own country and bought a converted van. Van life posed its challenges, but they continued to share their experiences through their travel vlog. Now, for 48 hours, they’re giving the Ekko a spin and comparing it to their own van experience. The Ekko boasts more comfort and convenience but also comes with a heftier price tag. They delve into the features of both vehicles, highlighting Ekko’s outdoor storage compartments, retractable awning, gear garage, four-season insulation, and more. Ultimately, they find the Ekko to be a practical choice for the average person, offering a spacious interior and a genius bathroom design.
Introduction
Table of Contents
In their travel journey, Kara and Nate, a couple from Nashville, have explored 100 countries and all 7 continents since 2016. After reaching their goal, they transitioned to van life in 2020 by purchasing a converted Sprinter Van to explore their own country. Adjusting to van life was a significant change for them, but they continued to travel and share their experiences through their travel vlog. They recently rented the Winnebago Ekko, a new addition to the Winnebago lineup, for 48 hours to compare it to their Sprinter Van experience. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive overview of the Ekko and compare its features to the Sprinter Van.
Comparison to Sprinter Van
Before trying out the Ekko, Kara and Nate had previously compared the Winnebago Revel to their own Sprinter Van. Now, they decided to rent the Ekko to see how it stacks up against their van. They rented it from Blacksford, the same company that provided them with the Revel last year. This comparison will help them evaluate the comfort and convenience the Ekko offers at its higher price point.
Exterior Features
One of the standout features of the Ekko is its outdoor storage compartments. Unlike their Sprinter Van, the Ekko has multiple outside storage areas that are convenient for keeping gear and equipment organized. Additionally, the Ekko is equipped with a retractable awning, providing shade and protection from the elements. These features make the Ekko feel more like an RV rather than a van.
In terms of size, the Ekko is similar in length to their 170-inch wheelbase Sprinter Van, both measuring 23 feet long. However, the Ekko feels more spacious due to its extra foot of width and headroom. The additional width provides ample room inside the Ekko while driving, and the extra headroom makes it comfortable for taller individuals like Nate, who is 6 foot 7 inches.
Interior Features
Moving inside, the Ekko offers several impressive features. It features a gravity-fed water system and an outdoor shower, allowing for easy access to water while enjoying outdoor activities. The cassette toilet in the Ekko is also worth mentioning, as it provides easy dumping and maintenance.
The Ekko is equipped with lithium-ion batteries and an inverter, which provide reliable power for various electrical needs. The spacious interior of the Ekko includes storage compartments that help with organization, while the gas-powered system eliminates the need for DEF fluid, which can be a hassle with diesel-fueled vans.
The swiveling seats in the living room area provide additional seating options, and the inclusion of a TV and air conditioner adds comfort and entertainment. Ventilation is ensured by the max air fan, and multiple outlets are available for device charging. The kitchen area comes with storage cabinets and a propane stove, while a refrigerator and freezer offer convenient food storage options. The fixed bed in the Ekko is comfortable and includes storage underneath. Finally, the bathroom features a cassette toilet, sink, and shower with a movable wall to contain water, making it one of the most innovative bathroom designs they have seen.
Comfort and Convenience
Comparing the Ekko to their Sprinter Van, Kara and Nate found several notable improvements in terms of comfort and convenience. The Ekko’s battery performance stood out, as the batteries held up well under heavy use, providing reliable power for various electrical needs. Unlike their previous rentals, the Ekko’s features allowed for charging while using electricity.
The inclusion of three solar panels in the Ekko allows for quick charging, ensuring a steady power supply. The spacious interior and storage options in the Ekko make it easier to keep the living space organized and clutter-free. Moreover, the gas-powered system in the Ekko eliminates the need for DEF fluid.
Additional seating options in the Ekko, thanks to the swiveling seats in the living room area, provide versatility for socializing and relaxing. The presence of a TV and air conditioner adds to the overall comfort and entertainment value. The max air fan ensures adequate ventilation and multiple outlets cater to the charging needs of various devices.
The Ekko’s kitchen area offers ample storage cabinets and a propane stove, making meal preparation convenient. The inclusion of a refrigerator and freezer allows for food storage on the go. The fixed bed in the Ekko is comfortable and includes storage space for personal belongings. Lastly, the bathroom facilities, including the cassette toilet, sink, and shower with a movable wall, provide efficient utilization of space.
Pros and Cons
In evaluating the Ekko, Kara and Nate identified several advantages and disadvantages to consider. The key advantages of the Ekko include its spacious interior, outdoor storage compartments, retractable awning, and four-season insulation, making it suitable for various weather conditions. The all-wheel drive capability adds to its versatility in different terrains.
However, there are some drawbacks to the Ekko as well. The most significant disadvantage is its higher price compared to their Sprinter Van, making it a more expensive option for those on a tighter budget. Additionally, the larger size of the Ekko may be a disadvantage for those who prefer a compact and maneuverable vehicle for their travels.
Conclusion
After taking the Winnebago Ekko for a spin, Kara and Nate have provided valuable insights into its features and compared them to their experience with the Sprinter Van. The Ekko offers a range of amenities that enhance comfort and convenience, such as outdoor storage compartments, a retractable awning, a spacious interior, and all-wheel drive capability. However, these features come at a higher price, which may not be suitable for everyone.
Ultimately, the decision to choose the Ekko over a Sprinter Van, or any other van for that matter depends on individual travel preferences and budget considerations. For those seeking a more luxurious and RV-like experience, the Ekko may be the ideal choice. However, for those who value a simpler and more budget-friendly van life, the Sprinter Van or similar options may be a better fit.