I know you released this yesterday on April 19 but I waited to watch...seemed like 4/20 was a better day to learn about high tops. Anyway, informative rundown, and the rack turned out great.
@Forgvn.Adventures Жыл бұрын
😂
@patricialacey6049 Жыл бұрын
Especially living in it full time I definitely think the high top is the way to go. Seems more comfortable, secure, insulated, convenient, etc.
@kevinplunkett6393 Жыл бұрын
Id agree with you the high top would be my pick. Heat retention, no water/mold issues, longer lasting, standing room all the time. Nice upgrade for your van.
@davemenard5089 Жыл бұрын
Better to live on your feet than die on your knees. Be strong, be courageous, long live the VanLife 🌈✨🌎
@flatlanded22 Жыл бұрын
I can't imagine that the high top is really hurting the gas mileage, and the pop-top would've been miserable in the wind you mentioned at the start of the video. I think you made the right choice.
@bigjohn524 Жыл бұрын
I'm with you on this one the high top is much more durable and sturdy. Also I wouldn't fee safe with fabric sides.
@christiangonzalez225 Жыл бұрын
Dude you're roof rack looks awesome
@peatdeloosha2463 Жыл бұрын
For what you do, you absolutely made the right choice for yourself and us viewers because that high top is cool. Certainly got my attention !
@conchscooter Жыл бұрын
Some things I hadn’t thought about with a pop top. The knees of the pants problem was an eye opener!
@dennisyoung4496 Жыл бұрын
I think the hightop looks awesome. I personally would not want a pop-up, but like you said, that's just me. My main concern would be the heat lost and the fabric.
@bobkent2334 Жыл бұрын
I only have experience with a pop-top, so maybe I'm prejudiced... When traveling the back country on rough roads with a steep side-angle, this experience can be alarming. On such occasions I am glad to have a low center-of-gravity pop-top.
@rodneybooth4069 Жыл бұрын
You did the right thing. Canvas eventually wears out. Plus you can insulate the top a lot better.
@andrewtriumph955 Жыл бұрын
Jason, your channel is really ideal. It has it all. You're straight to the point and you cover all the bases. My bride and I watch all your videos. Your photography skills show and we appreciate that. Keep up the great work.
@kriskris8450 Жыл бұрын
New drinking game... anytime Jason says "on your knees" take a shot of Pendleton ! Haha.
@andrewinaustintx Жыл бұрын
Great video. Let me add, that from experience the weight of an added solar panel array on a pop top requires upgraded gas struts to lift the roof on a pop top. Also, getting the wires to the solar panels to fold properly when lowering a pop-top roof requires a bit of ingenuity.
@stevehori673 Жыл бұрын
Jason I think you made the right decision. I have a high top van and love being able to stand up in it all the time.
@mountainsmoore3657 Жыл бұрын
Dude...The location is so beautiful that it almost looks like CGI! Nice! A pop-up is definitely the best for us weekend warriors! I can definitely see the pros for a high top for van-lifers like you. Beautiful scenery. I would love to make it out to your neck of the woods some day.
@Cws0024 Жыл бұрын
You sure have built that thing into one absolute killer exploration vehicle! Awesome stuff Jason!
@stevej1691 Жыл бұрын
The layout of the van is also crucial. I own a 4x4 Sportsmobile with a pop-top and a lengthy bench. This setup allows me to accomplish numerous tasks while seated on the bench without having to pop the top, rarely needing to be on my knees. Furthermore, I can sleep on the expanded bench for stealth camping or during harsh weather conditions without popping the top. The low profile, adaptability, and significant additional space provided by the pop-top make it highly enjoyable. I only live in my van for a week or two at a time during trips. I concur with Jason that a high-top van is more convenient for full-time van lifers.
@alexanderweaver7066 Жыл бұрын
I've managed to live with the roof on my GMC Savana for two years but I certainly see the advantages of the high top. Your van looks awesome and the railings around the rooftop provide a nice esthetics to the roofline.
@darrenheller2570 Жыл бұрын
More cooking and camping instead of equipment discussions, please. Thanks!
@scottymac5174 Жыл бұрын
My friends and I bought an old, used, Chevy Box van back in the 90's. We rebuilt it to be our MX bike hauler. Room for 5 MX bikes in the back with a full slide out ramp. A tool bench. A space behind the front seats to chill. Bench seats with lift up lids to store your gear bags in.. We did some serious racing. All the west coast AMA Nationals... Not the Pro Class.. All the classes compete. Red White and Blue.. Team A&R Racing. We all rode Hondas. Two Stroke 250's and 500's. I bought a brand new 1990 Honda CR250R back then for less than $3000.
@tonypaz3985 Жыл бұрын
Of course right choice love it
@russelldrey8678 Жыл бұрын
Nice exoskeleton rack but placement of the solar panel in the front could make it vulnerable for low limbs or bird strikes
@skyepilotte11 Жыл бұрын
Your high top looks really great...the only way to go...beautiful camp spot...thx Jason
@harrydawe6585 Жыл бұрын
I installed carpet for 35 years I wore out some jeans😂
@jarodpratt2129 Жыл бұрын
I hope to see a detailed video of your roof rack. I'm curious about the design. There are not a any videos on KZfaq showing a style like yours. Look good . Another good video.
@mikebartosch9892 Жыл бұрын
The new roof rack looks great. I've always liked high tops over pop-ups. Your vans set up awesome.
@503_adventures8 Жыл бұрын
We get it Jason..... You don't like to crawl around! Lol. The van is looking good brotha. Cheers!
@scottymac5174 Жыл бұрын
You spend the bulk of your time living in your rig. A permanent hi top makes the best sense for you. If you just do weekend camping maybe a popup is a better choice. I like that exoskeleton rack.
@richardribot1441 Жыл бұрын
Hey Jason with the set-up you have I tell you it looks awesome what I like about it is you have the solar panels on top which helps a lot you don't have to take them out and put away unless in stream conditions you can use portable ones, if I had to decide I will go with high top nice job be safe🙏🙏🙋♂️🙋♂️
@GATORADDAM Жыл бұрын
All perfectly valid points. I would/will make the same decision.
@jdayscottsdale Жыл бұрын
Awesome camping spot!
@dchurch911 Жыл бұрын
Fabric shelter sucks, except where portability is priority. The video left out a couple of points. A fabric pop up has a relatively short lifespan for an avid camper. Secondly, fabric provides near zero security. Anyone can slice open your shelter with a pocket knife. So if you frequently leave camp to go hiking, fishing... do you leave it popped up? I agree, the height restriction of a high top van (especially lifted 4x4) is a major deal breaker for some. After 40+ years of tent camping we retired and switched to a solid off-road teardrop:) I really like the point about "personal pros and cons". I also like the awning. We have thar feature with optional zip in walls for rough weather.
@jimegan2606 Жыл бұрын
I’m with you I agree with the hightop by the way it looks great
@theadventuresofcheese Жыл бұрын
100% right call. For me the only reason to go poptop is if I have a height restriction. Other then that high top all the way. I assume the high top is better insulated as well
@bobdemichele1542 Жыл бұрын
Your right on. Hard top is the way to go. I have a van and considering it.
@traderryan713 Жыл бұрын
Right on. To each their own. I'd hightop mine in a heartbeat but my parents driveway, i got low clearance. arrrggg lol.
@tomcreekdevil5967 Жыл бұрын
Ditto on the high top! no flapping noise from the wind, even a little flapping noise is a little too much. But also, the van interior has to look of a cabin. I can't tell if your interior is cedar or juniper or something else but either way it looks very nice.
@TheNighthawk00 Жыл бұрын
A big problem with pop tops is heat retention. Due to the big side openings and fabric, a heater will have difficulties heating the place and AC will have difficulties cooling it down.
@drott150 Жыл бұрын
I don't think you mentioned that one pro of the pop top is that it significantly reduces frontal area while driving down the highway, which can offer a significant improvement in fuel economy. Also, when you mentioned that pop tops have the bedding arrangement shown at 4:47, you could also configure a permanent high-top configuration that way as well. Also, another con of pop tops is that it's difficult or impossible to mount much of anything to them as you can with a high top. You might get away with a lightweight solar panel and vent system (maybe), but a rack system like you have and the ability to store anything on top is pretty much out with a pop top.
@dennisbeaver5958 Жыл бұрын
If I were about to build out a van, this video would be helpful! Thanks for sharing your viewpoints.
@mikeswales7839 Жыл бұрын
High top is a no brainer!
@kamikazekunze Жыл бұрын
When I settled on a high top Sprinter over a sportsmobile (to live in) was in wind I didn’t want anything flapping around like a tent. Love the content…. Thanks ❤
@eturp961 Жыл бұрын
I thought the van looked great before the rack, looks amazing with it as well. Can't wait to see you around town to check it out. 🤩
@syncronow1140 Жыл бұрын
I've had both pop top and current high top Syncro. For me the high winds in Scotland and easy park up/set up is ideal for me. I can store bedding etc up top. Nice westfalia arrangement. Love your van and set up, really enjoy the videos. 👍🏻
@MrUltralight55 Жыл бұрын
Great advice, independent decision.
@TheOffroadCamper Жыл бұрын
As I noted in previous video comments you are correct it is all personal preference and how one uses their particular van in for what use. Glad to see The comparison
@marcusoutdoors4999 Жыл бұрын
Excellent advice and the van’s looking great.
@marciabyram6003 Жыл бұрын
Both are cool, but for full time living I think you made the right choice. Good for you. 🤩
@51249ca Жыл бұрын
I grew up camping in a 1977 GMC Vandura up here in BC. Went across Canada many times, down to California, Lombard St too Guess we sold it way way too early.
@jenb.6440 Жыл бұрын
Beautiful video; thank you!
@scottwallis8266 Жыл бұрын
You have great setup with that van. I think youll love the hard top. You dont have ro mess with all the mechanical of the poptop
@Western-Wild Жыл бұрын
I see you taking advantage of the seasonal range closure being over 😆 gotta make it back up to that area to explore more soon.
@markevans506 Жыл бұрын
A couple weeks ago I saw a van, Ford, identical finish to yours with a white high top pulling a trailer heading east on I80 through Iowa.
@adecarlo29411 Жыл бұрын
Looks like Lake Billy Chinook above Perry South campground.
@chuckrf1502 Жыл бұрын
Excellent points as always. I live vicariously through your videos, wish I could camp more often. 😊
@Gunge-vq2ik Жыл бұрын
love the hightop!!!
@paulgardner4931 Жыл бұрын
Totally agree with info, this vid is great for people who don't know anything about the difference between the two, your van is totally built for your lifestyle now, I know you'll enjoy it better now coz its much easier👊
@charbvin Жыл бұрын
As always great video Jason! Happy everything worked out thus fare with your awsome van build.
@stephencourson2504 Жыл бұрын
Congratulations looks great
@sar4x474 Жыл бұрын
Jason, this was a very well articulated comparison of the two options. Nice job! Onward!
@HLsab Жыл бұрын
Agree entirely , we all hone our own particular needs with regards to camping set ups .
@PuffinPass Жыл бұрын
I am a fan of the high top over the pop top for a lot of the reasons you mentioned. The lower height of the pop top does help with fuel efficiency but then if you are in a van you are pretty much driving a brick anyways and fuel economy is a bit further down the list of concerns. Glad you like it Jason, I think it looks good both inside and outside. Curious about the metal rack system you have on there, did you make it or is it an offering from Wasatch?
@gideonporter537 Жыл бұрын
Great review and comparison! (Even though I watched at first because I was interested in the 279batwing!)
@prestonwatts9410 Жыл бұрын
Yeah your rite ,,,I'd rather have what you got im pretty sure the heat is good with that enclosure..
@jameskim62 Жыл бұрын
HIGHTOP 110% ALL PLUS !!!!!!!!!!
@tuckerg1975 Жыл бұрын
The van looks great with the awning on and deployed! 👍
@KnittedSchnauzer Жыл бұрын
Have you covered with your toilet setup? You have a truly beautiful build in your van.
@mtnbound2764 Жыл бұрын
looks like you've got your set up dialed in really well! love it!
@24Alisonall Жыл бұрын
High top for sure when living in it as you do. Love it. So functional and convenient. Gives me more to think about. I'll be in Bend this weekend and will be keeping my eye out for your rig!!!
@wildcatoutdoors Жыл бұрын
Comfort level unmatched!, but wheeew them high tops arent near as sexy as the original body lines😂...big susan coming down the trail lol
@davejackson5597 Жыл бұрын
I like you, live in my vehicle full time. Also I spend winter months in the high deserts of Oregon, and Idaho. When I built my shell I keep it low because of the winds we commonly get, would eat a pop up tent in no time.because my vehicle sits up high I also carry 4 pieces of roofing metal to wrap around the base of the vehicle in the winter. Sure helps keeping the floor warmer.
@sonyak9879 Жыл бұрын
Beautiful
@midnightadventureswa Жыл бұрын
Well Said on the video😊
@richardthomas1743 Жыл бұрын
Hello Jason!
@erickaesman4001 Жыл бұрын
I just bought a Jackery 1500 with two 100 watt panels through Costco for $1599. Normal price is $2399. Killer deal. It was only available online since my local stores did not carry it/stock it regionally. No sweat. Got it in 6 days.
@WanderingBobAK Жыл бұрын
I always wanted a pop-top Sportsmobile, found a hightop version and never looked back. Can literally pull over, climb in back and take a nap. Done! Down side, I have really bad rust at junction of hightop and front of van above windshield. Not sure how to fix it. AND, my hightop seems to be better insulated than the van.
@stuartmays Жыл бұрын
I'm in the process of saving up for a hightop for my VW T5 lwb, I totally agree with all of what you say, Hello from here in Scotland.
@dalecurrier5631 Жыл бұрын
I just a Hihg-Top on my Astro AWD
@RalfAbbt Жыл бұрын
Living since Years fulltime with Poptops, biggest Con is heating in Wintertime and the Mechanics, the other things are ok. I drive so many times deep in the Woods in Europe and Afrika, i can't do this with a Hightop. Tried it before 2 Years, was really frustrating. There is always a Compromise.
@papatravels61 Жыл бұрын
i prefer a pop up top. less wind drage and lower clearance while driving
@jenb.6440 Жыл бұрын
I really enjoyed this video, the camper van looks beautiful!
@davidpatrick1813 Жыл бұрын
Nice upgrade. I bought a 1990 G20 Chinook high top, a touch higher than yours... just because I didn't like trying to put on trousers in my Safari. I got it cheap and put in a new motor and transmission and other things and been restoring it... 15 mpg too ... which might edge up as miles are put on. I like the rack set up ... without harming the integrity of the fiberglass.
@drott150 Жыл бұрын
Do you really get 15mpg? That's surprising with an older gen van like that. What size engine do you have?
@zackdemundo Жыл бұрын
Excellent analysis. As someone who tried to sleep through 30-40 mph winds in a tent on a beach last month, I can say it was maddening. Plus: if you are in bear country - especially grizzly - a pop-up may not be allowed in certain areas at certain times. (What’s peace of mind worth?)
@davidbaldwin9922 Жыл бұрын
I have a pop top and wish I had a high top. Got my eye on a airstream B190 big top. On my pop top I just lift the front up and have it up on a angle on short stops.
@vadrifter3200 Жыл бұрын
Great video Jason. Good pros and cons for both.
@dalefourroux6402 Жыл бұрын
Well your vans come along real nice I like it. 👍🎉🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🥃🥃
@ericmercado33 Жыл бұрын
I sleep better in a hard top. Quieter and warmer with the insulated top.
@lmajeff1577 Жыл бұрын
I really like your setup; but, I wonder if you will ever add the (as I call them) wing kick outs on each side so that you can lay across the van? I guess that if you always travel by yourself then it is not needed. I just feel that with the High Top that you added that the wings would balance the look so that it does not blare out that your vehicle is extremely tall.
@hermitgirlwanders9162 Жыл бұрын
General area you are camped at? So happy that you can stand now! I have a 7x14 converted cargo trailer because I must stand!
@mchunley Жыл бұрын
I really like the rack. I would love to get one on my pickup cap. I have 22 inch lifters and I would like to add a rack to it.... I have been thinking about this for a few years. Upon seeing your rack, I was like this is what I need.
@davidcapalbo5002 Жыл бұрын
Vans looking awesome 👍
@toons5233 Жыл бұрын
great video glade to see a list of both con and pro for both, i thought that pop up it could be used as second bed. now that you have it all done it looks very nice
@sagebrushbob2321 Жыл бұрын
I've built several vans over my lifetime and, in every case, after a few months of use, I was wishing I had put in a high top. As your body gets more wear and tear on it the constant crouching and bending become beyond annoying. I imagine it would be an order of magnitude worse if I were living in the van full-time. At this point, for me, just climbing in and out all the time is annoying. 😃
@Nealeastley Жыл бұрын
Some areas will not allow you to camp with soft sides do to bear.
@eugenioguerra5958 Жыл бұрын
As you said, there are ads and cons. Having a high top it’s more convenient. Jason I know that you don’t want to share the location your are in, but at least give me an approximate location on that beautiful views you are in in this video, please
@trevermccall6762 Жыл бұрын
👍
@jackwalsh1468 Жыл бұрын
Jason, I enjoyed the video. Will you be doing your engine rebuild and transmission install anytime soon? Cheers, Mate.