As full time Vanners my wife & I found your video well balanced and informative. We have also been over the weight discussion with a few people we have met on the road and the biggest issue that we all encounter is weight as you have discussed. Great job on your Vid and thanks, take care and enjoy your travels. Anton & Tania

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

G'day Anton and Tania. Thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts. I appreciate the feedback on the video. Weights are always a bit a of contentious subject and one that so many people are not aware of. Hopefully these types of video's can bring some sort of awareness and action around this subject. Hopefully we'll see you out on the road one day. Cheers, Nathan.

Good on you mate! Your clips have been very helpful! We get our new Journey Outback DX 17-55-8 at the end of January and the first things we do will be the offroad mods you have done...so thank you! Looking forward to watching your next adventure in caravaning! One chapter closes, another opens! Cheers

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks mate, I'm glad the videos have been helpful for you and hopefully they'll be helpful for plenty of people to come. I am genuinely going to miss this van, however its all about trying new things, so that's what we are going to do. Thanks for watching mate, hopefully you'll continue to enjoy the future content to come. Cheers, Nathan.

Fantastic video and such lovely memories you have with the van. It’s been great seeing all your mods. Someone’s just bought themselves one hell of a great van 👍

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

We sure have made some awesome memories and that's what makes it harder to see it go! We'll never forget the 1st van and only have more exciting things to look forward to in the future! Can't wait to catch up!

Cant wait to see whats next.

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks mate! Hopefully we'll have something early next year and hopefully COVID hasn't delayed our plans too much. Cheers, Nathan.

Another great video, we have followed a similar path. Still have our camper trailer which we’ve had for 19 years and now a Jayco Adventurer 19.6.2 which has definitely added a new dimension to traveling.

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks mate! That's awesome, sounds like your definitely getting the value out of the that camper trailer for sure. In the end it's all about what works for you and how you use what you have. All the best with the Jayco Adventurer, they definitely look the part. Cheers, Nathan.

We have had our Jayco 16ft CrossTrak for nearly 12 months now and absolutely love it. Yes we have had some teething issues with warranty etc as many Jaycos do but we have been working through those. It’s only 2m wide and a tare weight of under 1500kg! External kitchen is the best thing ever! Make sure you have a look.

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

Jayco really do have their finger on the pulse in terms of keeping up with market demand. For such a large company, they are able to very quickly pivot and create products that directly meet the demand of the current market. It would seem that the current market is screaming from lighter and narrow vans, that still have the amenities and comforts of a van. I will definitely check them out. Thanks mate, Nathan.

Mate thanks so much for sharing so much information with us. We are about to get our 17.58.3 and can't wait to put your tips to good use. If you are doing the big lap and happen to find yourself around NSW , I'll be great to meet you guys in person, my wife, kids and me are big fans. Thanks!!

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

Awesome news guys! I know how hard that wait for the new van is, good luck with your handover and enjoy that new van! I'll sure keep that in mind mate. I love meeting the viewers from the channel out and about, so when I find myself over that way, we'll see what we can organise. Cheers, Nathan.

Hi Nathan, nice vid ! And explanation also makes 100% sense. Don’t tell us you buy a Bruder !! Haha... for sure we are waiting for your new introduction. Happy camping in mean time and safe trips..... and don’t forget to install the rear locker to the 200series. Cheers Holger

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks Holger! Haha, I wish I could afford something like that! Unfortunately my day job and KZread doesn't quite bring in that much... Hopefully we'll have something early next year, but COVID may have slowed things down a little. Either way, the channel will be the first to hear all about it. Cheers, Nathan.

I look forward to your next adventures

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

Cheers mate 👍

Great video, am looking forward to hearing whats next as we have been researching the big lap, however COVID has delayed our plans. Loved your comment about focusing on what works best for you and your family.

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks Cath, glad you enjoyed the video! Hopefully we'll have something by early next year and hopefully COVID hasn't delayed our new acquisition plans too much either. I believe this is one of the best things about the quality and variety in our Australian market. There is so much to chose from and it doesn't matter what other people think, if it works for you and your family, then it fit for purpose. Cheers, Nathan.

Another great video Nathan. We recently brought a new to us 16.53 Jayco Starcraft Outback and will be doing some of the mods from your previous videos as we want to go off the black top when we head north. We live in Melbourne. We have an older model Prado with only a 2500kg towing capacity hence the size of the van. All the best with your next selection of van and look forward to your future videos. Safe travels.

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks Trevor. I'm glad you got some idea's from my previous videos and I hope they can help you we all get to move around again. Thanks again and look forward to showing the viewers are new home away from home in the future. Cheers, Nathan.

Awww...no more van😔 Look forward to yr new choice tho! I’m planning on buying yr van without bunks. Just bought a Pajero to tow....can’t wait...in the meantime, I’ll just watch you!

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

In all honesty, I am genuinely going to miss this van, but I can only hope the new solution next year will provide better things to come. Awesome, I reckon you will love the van! They are great things and really do add a huge amount of comfort when getting out and exploring the outdoors. Hopefully future content will still be able to help you out somewhat. Cheers, Nathan.

Another great video mate. Keep them up. The van was pretty similar to what would tick the boxes for us, but so much to consider. Looking forward to the next setup- new review, upgrades and adventures. Great job!

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks mate! Don't let me put you off this van, I am genuinely going to miss this van, however everything is somewhat of a compromise. Nothing is perfect is all regards, but its just a matter about finding out what works for you guys and making the best of it. I hope you guys find the best solution for your family and let us know how you go, I'm always interested to see what others come up with. Cheers, Nathan.

Fantastic video, thanks for sharing.

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks Lesley, I appreciate you taking the time to provide the feedback. Cheers, Nathan.

Love your videos, very informative as is this one. Can't wait for your next adventures. Hoping to do WA next year in our Jayco Journey.

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

Cheers mate, I really appreciate the comments. All the best with your travels, hopefully all these restrictions are a thing of the past soon enough. If you're in the Goldfields area of WA, hit us up. Cheers, Nathan.

Very informative and helpful to us newbies great vids well done cheers kel and Louise

Great video. We have the same van and agree with pretty much every thing you say. We use the van as our base and if we do any off road camping with use the swags and get back to "real camping". Cheers.

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

Agreed mate. This is what we have been doing lately as well. We've done a couple of trips recently without the van and it's nice to bring it back to basics from time to time. Don't get me wrong, I am genuinely going to miss this van, but I have to keep telling myself there are better things to come. Cheers, Nathan.

I'm sad to see the van go and it isn't even mine! I liked what you said about choosing the right van for your family. We looked at the same jayco as yours, decided to go with the 15.48-6 with external shower and extra water tank instead. We are due to pick it up next month, can't wait. Our kids being a bit older don't (in theory) require as much gear. Just hope remaining load capacity will be enough. Very interested to see what's next for you guys.

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

You and me both mate. Thanks mate, I will genuinely miss this van, but it's about trying new things and seeing what is out there. We have our eye on something at the moment, so all going well, hopefully we will have something in the new year. Awesome news about your van! I bet it's been a long wait, but it will sure be worth it. That's the best things about the caravanning/camper trailer market in Australia, is there is so much choice and variety, there really is something out there for everyone. Cheers mate, Nathan.

I’m getting excited. I’ve decided to buy a Jayco within the next few weeks. Your videos have helped me decided.

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

Good news mate! I know that feeling, all the best with the collection of your new van, I’m sure you will have some awesome new adventures 👍

@arkhamkillzone

3 жыл бұрын

Don't do it bro. Those caravans are junk and give nothing but trouble. They look nice on the outside but they are made from cheap parts and quickly put together leaving lots of flaws and weak spots.

Thanks for your thoughts

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

No problems, thanks for watching 👍

Hey Nathan, i always appreciate your honost opinion in your video's! Sorry to see the van go. Because of you we made the decision to buy a journey when we go to Australia. Im curious on what will be the next purchase for you guys! And dont worry about you losing views, there is a very big fanbase that will keep following you.. cheers mate🤙

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks mate, I will always provide honest feedback, this is the main reason I haven't worked with any company's yet. Company's always want to influence the content I make, which would go against the reason for starting this channel. Don't get me wrong, this van was awesome and I'm sure a Jayco Journey for yourself will be exactly the same. I have no grievances towards Jayco or this van, I'm just looking to try something a little different to see if it works better for our family. I'm not putting it on for the video, I will genuinely miss the van, but hoping to see good things for the future. Thanks mate, that is encouraging. Hopefully the viewers will continue to support this unbiased content. Cheers, much appreciated as always, Nathan.

Look forward to seeing what you buy next

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

Cheers mate, we are looking forward to a new adventures! Cheers, Nathan.

Awesome mate we are now looking at the Jayco crosstrak 16 as its just the wife and me, we will start of slow and get to do the lap in 2024

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

Awesome mate. Those little Jayco Crosstrak's do look quite capable. All the best with your adventures and planning your trip around Aus. Cheers, Nathan.

Good luck with your new purchase. I have just purchased a jayco expander outback. Love it

@XploringOz

Жыл бұрын

Thanks mate. I hope you enjoy all the new adventures the new Expanda can take you on! 👍

We love our 17.58-3, I weigh it EVERY time I use which is at least once a month. Have come close to ATM but never over, I will increase it once I get a new wagon. For now though, the old BT50 has heaps left in the GVM so anything bulky can go in there. Love the 200, it may well be the new bus 🤔

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

That a good effort mate. Its good to know there are people out there who do take note of the weights and aren't just driving oblivious to it all. That's definitely one advantage of the dual cab Utes, the loading capacity is generally much higher than in wagon vehicles. Cheers, Nathan.

You’re videos are very informative Thx u

Another well produced vid. I’m in a very similar position to you, family and 2015 VX. Seriously considering getting a New age road owl 19ft adventure, semi off road van. Independent suspension and all that for a half lap. But timing is everything and not sure if buying is the best decision right now. Look forward to seeing your next vid.

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks mate, appreciate the feedback. I know the feeling of deciding what to buy, there are soo many options out there it can sometimes be overwhelming, but it sounds like you have narrowed it down. I think if you're going to buy a brand new van, timing won't play a huge role in it, however the wait times at the moment for production and delivery are lengthy. If you're looking at second hand vans, the current market is definitely inflating the prices, at least temporarily anyway. Good luck with the decision mate, I'm sure it will work out in the end. Cheers, Nathan.

So true! Get what suits your way of life, not what suits someone else's! Opinion, opinions opinions ... and the judgement that goes along with it out there on forums etc is amazing - ignorant and unwarranted imho. What YOU want and what YOU need and what YOU can afford is individual and SO subjective. Another great vid, thanks Nathan.

@XploringOz

2 жыл бұрын

100%. Live your life, your way. Judgement is just another part of modern day life, particularly with the ease of communication through social media. Most of the time you need to take it with a grain of salt and do what is right for you and your family. Cheers.

A great video, & it’s true as you buy what makes you happy.

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks mate. Sure is, doesn't matter who or what others think about your choice!

What a brilliant video! Your presentation was so easy, clear and enjoyable to watch. I’ll certainly be following you guys in your journey. Keep up the good work and I’ll be catching up on the content you’ve already produced. Cheers Mat

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks Mat, appreciate that and I'm glad you enjoyed the video. Hopefully you'll find some of other content useful as well. Cheers, Nathan.

Hey there I new to you channel and for the first vid of yours that I’ve seen I love the honesty! I can relate to and endorse everything you said. I too am in the process of purchasing a new van and really keen to know what your considering. Unlike you however, I still haven’t sold my current camper van. Anyway time to go and view some of your other videos. Cheers!!

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

Cheers mate, I appreciate that feedback, it’s much appreciated! I won’t be giving too much away just yet, but I’ll be posting the new trailer next year when it comes along! Hope you enjoy some of the other vids. Cheers, Nathan.

Hi Nathan enjoyed you vid your correct every caravan have comprises with a large number being towed are over weight thus no insurance, we have an AOR Matrix and have been over the weigh bridge 3 times fine tuning to get things right ..sorting out what is really needed when traveling our width is 1950 mm this helps on the narrower tracks but budget pays a big part in the choice of van. We have just returned from a trip to central qld up the gulf then up to Cape York plenty of vans full of dust and damage.I think wading though the facts & figures is the key not the advertising hype .good luck with your choices. Cheers Ian.

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks Ian! The AOR are an awesome trailer. It scares me to think sometimes how many people out there are driving around with no idea of the weights they are legally allowed to carry. It's refreshing to hear that you have done your research and monitor your vehicle combination. Narrow width is definitely an advantage in an off-road situation, however trying to fit a family of 4 into one for a full time lap of Australia is going to be a challenge. Hopefully the solution we have our eye on for early next year is a good compromise for our needs. Thanks for taking the time to share. Cheers, Nathan.

I have been binge watching your videos as I have recently subscribed You have really tried and tested all sorts of camping options I personally like to keep things simple after going “over the top” I’m very curious on your next option Being a boat person I have discovered small boat people want bigger boats and vise versa Sounds like the same with caravans Great video

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

Cheers mate, welcome to XPLORINGOZ. Hopefully you get some value from the channel 👍 Haha, it could be one of the those cases where the grass is greener on the other side. Saying that, when you have a passion for something and do it often, you definitely work out what works and what doesn’t for your particular setup.

thank you for detail video as wish further travelling around Australia

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

Cheers Robert, hopefully we’ll have something to replace this early next year 👍

I really enjoy your talks and info on various extras on the lc200 I have the same model. Just watched the ultra gauge and just ordered one. I have been wondering what your background is as the speak very well on ALL your subjects. Again great videos, my new van arrives in May can’t wait to travel Geoff

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks mate, I appreciate the feedback. I'm glad to hear that you are enjoying the videos and able to get some useful info from them. Awesome news, congrats on the new van and al the best for your future adventures. Hopefully we'll see you out there sometime.

Very interesting and wise!...

Great video, and some real information. 👍

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

Cheers mate.

I knew that patrol looked a bit too familiar, she is still running great after two laps of oz. We just bought a Jayco Crosstrak not the exactly the same but all your videos on the Jayco have been super helpful look forward to what’s next with the channel/family trips.

@XploringOz

2 жыл бұрын

Hey mate! Awesome to hear that the Patrol is still holding up well. Had some great memories with that vehicle, still miss it! Congrats on the Jayco Crosstrak, heard good things about them. We are looking forward to getting our new van soon, sooner rather than later hopefully! Hopefully we'll see you guys out on the road sometime! Cheers, Nathan.

@ConnorBeks4WDAdventures

2 жыл бұрын

@@XploringOz I'm down in Kambalda so it is probably likely. Can't wait to see what van you get. Great job on the channel mate it is truly fantastic. We share your opinion on making videos while travelling, we tried on our lap and just gave up. started to take away from the trip, that we had been planning, our focus shifted from experiencing amazing things to thinking this is going to get so many views etc. I hope you do find that balance because I know your footage will be awesome. We were glad we made the decision when we travelled with a two of the bigger youtubers on legs of the Gibb and Canning and saw how much work they were doing.

@XploringOz

2 жыл бұрын

@@ConnorBeks4WDAdventures Thanks mate, appreciate that! Yes, it can sure be a hard act to juggle and to be honest we'll just go along and see how we do on our trip. We aren't going to place too much pressure on ourselves, after all it's all about getting out there and enjoying ourselves. I can definitely understand and relate how much effort goes into this videos. Most people don't see or understand the time taken both filming or editing that is required! Cheers, we'll see you around

This is how it goes!!.... I started out in a tent, then saw a swag... moved to swag.. then mate went to camper trailer, then pissed off at the canvas and set up/ pack up time....then i went to a van as my mate had his new 76 series with a canopy...he slept on one side, kitchen on another, now he has a van..... we used to bag ppl out with a van, but as your tastes move on and you see some benefits that suit you, go for it i say.

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

I 100% agree. Times changes people and their camping preferences. To be honest, it doesn't really matter what other people think about you setup. Only what matters and works for the people actually using it. Trying out all the different types of camping/caravanning has only solidified and shown us exactly what we want and need when we head out. Hopefully the new solution to come next year will be the perfect compromise for our ultimate get-away. Cheers, Nathan.

@glenod

3 жыл бұрын

@@XploringOz we learn from others set ups, what works for them might not be for you right ? BUT!! there may be one thing that you see and go THATS IT, I CAN USE THAT!!.. so.. you go try it.... work it out for ya self... just never be reluctant to try something.

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

@@glenod Agreed. If we don't try new things, we will never change or develop.

Very wise words.

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

Cheers mate, hope you enjoyed it!

great video. I have a 2013 prado 150. looing for a camper for the family. focusing on light and ligt budget. I wan to stick to Aussie made and seeig allot in the second hand market. A patriot X1 would be amazing but up there in dollars. the concept of that camper is perfect. A base with storage and a kitchen

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

There are so many options out there these days and it can be hard to find that good quality. Patriot sure make some great campers, very capable. We are still awaiting the delivery of our new trailer (hopefully the end of this year) which is Australian made. Not quite as compact as the Patriot, but a good compromise when considering we are living out of it for a year.

@anthony.grisan

3 жыл бұрын

@@XploringOz interesting. i assume you wont tell until you get it! good luck and thanks for the content

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

@@anthony.grisan Haha, keeping it under wraps for now. But you can be assured there will be a release here once it's arrived. Thanks mate, appreciate it.

Thanks again, I pick up something in every video. Great time to sell, bad time to buy, hope you get something well priced and timely. I can tell you Jayco have ramped up production so wait times may soon be reduced?

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the feedback mate, glad to hear you’re able to get some value from my content 👍 It sure is an interesting buyers market. Here’s hoping for the best 🤞

Great video mate

@XploringOz

Жыл бұрын

Cheers mate 👍

Really enjoy your videos mate, we have a journey on the way which is why we got watching you and I will be applying some of your mods to ours. Also, you mentioned it was 2.47m wide?, the body is actually less than 2.3m wide. I was as a little confused how you got that figure. We have the -1 model, and will have 6 of us in it!

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks Mark, appreciate the support by watching the videos on this channel and I'm glad they have been useful to you. That's correct, the body is a little narrower, however you have to include the awning and any other external piece attached to the van. Although it's not the actual body, the awning on the far side and the hot water cover on the near side are the widest points and measure at the 2.47m mark. That's awesome mate! I'm glad you are enjoying the van and I hope you continue to have many more adventures. Hopefully we might see you out there one day. Cheers, Nathan.

Good luck guys... Yeah.. When u travel full time.. You spend 90% of your time outside... A big van to me seems pointless unless you have a family. 2a2k... We bought a 16 ft jayco journey outback.... Semi off road...leafspring and shocks And plan to travel for 4 years......cant wait... Plan to take it everywhere..... I beleive a lot of older people buy these massive vans... And i still have no idea whyy.So the difference between tare and atm is the amount u can add? Safe travels c u out there......

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

I agree 100% Richard. Sometimes I can see the benefit of travelling with a large family in a larger van, but what I don't understand is those massive 22" vans for only 2 people. But then again, no judgement here, everything is personal preference and if that's what works for them, good for them. For me though, I love getting to those places less travelled. Living minimalistic takes away the distractions of fancy gadgets and appliances and helps you focus on the real reason you travelled to the bush in the first place. Thanks again for watching and sharing your thoughts. PS. Thats correct mate, the legal loading capacity is the difference between the tare and the ATM. Cheers, Nathan.

Considered and informative. The best videos on KZread have both and you always provide. I couldn't think of anything worse than caravanning, but I still watched the vid for your take.

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

Haha, I love it. Thanks mate. That comment is encouraging! Well, probably very little caravanning content to come in the future. Hopefully you'll enjoy the future videos. Cheers, Nathan.

Next, We sold our 200 for a y62 🥰😍😘

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

Woah woah, let's not go too far... Mate, I love the Y62, but it would take a lot to sell my 200 series. I'll try and convince the wife to get a Y62 as the second car haha.

Love todo what you guys do..just a little problem..Money$$

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

I know it can sometimes seem that way and as cliche as it sounds. Great adventures can be had on many types of budgets. We have been planning our full time travel around Australia for over 2 years and still have 2 years before we can make it happen. I hope you guys are able to make your plans work in whatever capacity possible. Cheers, Nathan.

Any update on getting a new van? My wife and I are looking into one now, a Jayco also hence why I watched this.

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

Still waiting mate. Its been ordered and deposit paid, but definitely wasn't the right timing with COVID around. We are now looking into the start of the new year. I can confirm though it's not going to be another Jayco, however saying this, we don't regret buying this van one bit.

Great video!! Can I please ask how you found the 150 prado towing & the weight limit? Our 17.58-3 is due to arrive & since ordering, we have since heard so many negative comments on the 150 prado towing this van. We are getting a bit nervous now, didn’t plan on a car upgrade too!!

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks Kirsty. We found it did just fine. You can definitely feel that the van is behind the vehicle, but you still get to the places like everybody else. We towed our van across three states, down the Great Central road, around the Mereenie Loop in the NT and did just fine. Don't listen to everyones comments until you've driven it yourself. If your only planning on towing a few weeks here and there, then the Prado 150 is absolutely fine. If your travelling full-time then maybe start to consider something larger. That's the only reason we upgraded. All the best with your new van, I'm sure you'll love it! Happy to help with any other questions if you need. Cheers, Nathan.

Great video with a good honest review. You mentioned the sales and service were not outstanding, was that the dealer or Jayco. How was the Prado towing the van with regards to power and stability as it is a considerably lighter and less powerful vehicle than the 200 series you now have. I ask this as I have a duel cab that has a similar weight and power output to the Prado, even though rated to tow over 3 tons I wouldn’t like to go over 2.5 due to the van then being heavier than the tow vehicle. Given you do a lot of off grid camping do you think an external shower is a worthwhile option so as to keep the combined toilet shower cubical dry.

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks mate. Yes, the service was from our only Jayco dealership in Western Australia. It was more the sales service then after sales service. When speaking with the salesman, there was no option for any extra outside the standard box. Options I was asking for (example, rear mounted spare wheel) was declined although speaking with eastern states dealership is an option that can be requested. There were several items like this as well. If you wanted a standard easy van, no problems, if you wanted anything that required a small amount of work they didn't want to know... In terms of the power from the Prado, it did just fine. Obviously we were maxing the weight ratings out, but we had no issues. The Prado would obviously slow right down when attempting mild hills, however fuel consumption and temperatures were all reasonable. There is no doubt the 200 series is in a league of its own, however it's not worth the huge investment for a small gain if you aren't planning on lapping the country time and time again. Personally, although an exterior shower would be handy on some occasions, for us we definitely prefer the interior en-suite. It allows us the wash the kids (and ourselves) just prior to bed without walking dirt through the van. The only other hesitation with an exterior shower for me (from Jayco anyway) is there plumbing quality is average and adding further plumbing could just be adding further potential for issues. All fixable though and we did personally didn't have any issues. All the best with whichever direction you choose to go. Cheers, Nathan.

You seem to nail every single video you produce, Nathan. I enjoy how you structure them. We're about to pick up our caravan end of next month in readiness for an unlimited trip exploring Oz :) . I picked up on your point about selecting a caravan that suits your own needs because we ended up choosing a van that will allow my wife to continue sleeping when I have to get up very early for my sunrise photo shoots. The layout is a little different but will work for us. Hope to see you at some point on our respective travels.

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

Thats awesome, thanks Jim! Hopefully I keep can keep producing these videos to a standard like this. Good news about your van! Hopefully all these restrictions are a thing of the past soon enough. Customisability is the best thing in the automotive scene, whether this be for vehicles or caravans. It doesn't matter how big the van is, what brand it is, what you do with it or what other people think about it. The only people that need to agree with your preferences and decisions are you and anyone else that lives in it! I'd love to see some pictures of your setup when you get it. Feel free to share on our Facebook page, or email through on the email listed at xploringoz@outlook.com. Cheers, Nathan.

@overlandphotography

3 жыл бұрын

@@XploringOz .... shall do ! Cheers

Try AOR, Matrix or Aurora Or leave the kids at home and swag truck etc.

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

They sure are awesome vans! So expensive though, hopefully we'll have something new by the start of next year and we can share our thoughts on that here on KZread! Cheers, Nathan.

Fantastic video as always Nathan. I don’t have a van yet, but am keen in the near future and really value your reviews. So I’ll be looking out for your next steps and take your experience into consideration when I can convince the Minister for War and Finance to support making the investment.

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks mate. There are so many options out there for every type of caravaner/camper. We have our eye on a couple in particular at the moment, so here's hoping something will be organised by early next year. Good luck with presenting the evidence in the case of your new investment. Cheers, Nathan.

good old stralia

How tall are you mate and did you find not having an island bed set up a bit frustrating? Iam 6’3” and thinking I need island style bed. Your right about weight and the minimal Payload with jayco and high towball download..some decent vans out there with low towball and 800-1000kg payloads with mid 2000s tare...happy hunting

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

Hey mate, so I'm about 6" on the mark and didn't find the east/west bed to frustrating. I don't get up at night, so I was tucked away in the corner and it really wasn't much of a notion to get used to. Saying this, being 6" I did take a significant length of the bed in this van, if you were looking at this van, I would probably suggest checking one out in person to make sure you will be comfortable with the length. I could see the advantage in a north/South Island bed for sure, however usually the trade off there is significant increase in the size and weight of the van. For sure, there are so many vans on the market, with a wide variety of gear and construction materials effecting size and weight. In the end, its all a compromise with what you need for the type of trips you plan on doing. Cheers, Nathan.

Great video. Have you done a GVM upgrade for your 200 series? We’re looking at buying one as a tow vehicle for our first caravan, but are struggling with payload once the car has a few accessories, towball weight, and people.

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

Yeah, I know where you are coming from. I sure have done a GVM upgrade. I actually did a video a little while back about how heavy the cruiser is and how's it's definitely required if you are planning on modifying your LC200 - kzread.info/dash/bejne/iaGZrbNpfpCqeto.html

@JoelK

3 жыл бұрын

@@XploringOz thanks mate. I tried doing a quick search through your vids, but I appreciate the link!

We bought a 2105 golden eagle but haven’t yet bought a car/ute to tow it with ! Lol. Any suggestions ?

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

Awesome mate! To be honest, sometimes it's better to buy the vehicle after the trailer, it makes sure all your weights and needs are in order. Personally mate, and I'm bias because I have one, there is definitely a good reason as to why there are so many 200 series Landcruisers towing. They are very comfortable, powerful enough and most importantly, serviceable anywhere and everywhere very easily. Saying this, it's really going to be a matter of personal circumstances, things like, day to day driving, if your travelling full time, destinations you plan on visiting, likelihood or amount of off-road travel etc. that will really determine a good fit. I love my Toyota's not necessarily for their features, but there overall reliability and their ease and cost effective service. I know there are plenty of arguments against that, however I've lived in regional WA for the last 8 years and Toyota's have always dominated the market. It isn't a coincidence. Cheers, Nathan.

Great video, ever considered an earthcruiser?

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks mate. Definitely love the look of them, however after completing some of the harder tracks we do, something as big as this simply wouldn't fit where we go. It might be something we look at way down the future, maybe when it's just the two of us, but for now, like the idea of a base camp and exploration on 4WD track from there. Cheers, Nathan.

Thank you for the great review, very informative 👍

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

Cheers mate. I hope it can help guide some people into considerations when buying a van, especially for the first time.

Hi have you bought a new van as yet 😃👍 and what is the main thing you are looking for.cheers .

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

Hey mate, so in the process now. Obviously COVID has changed some plans. We are looking for something a little more off-grid and agile for smaller tracks. All will be revealed in the future. 👍

I suspect a Bruder EXP-6 is on order :)

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

I wish mate, I love those vans, but the price tags to match are huge. I'll never say never, but I'm not sure whether these will be in the budget for next year. Cheers, Nathan.

@henryvanas5813

3 жыл бұрын

@@XploringOz agree mate. Aim for the stars and land on the moon! Good luck on your next purchase 👌🏻... looking forward to the videos and mods to come.

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

@@henryvanas5813 Cheers mate. We are looking forward to the new adventures to come. Thanks for watching.

@andycochrane4131

2 жыл бұрын

I’m tipping a reconn r4.

I was looking fwd to viewing this vid but the wind noise was terrible. How long you been doing this and you haven't worked out the fuzzy mike.

@XploringOz

2 жыл бұрын

Getting there mate, unfortunately camera gear and the associate equipment isn't cheap. I'm always working on improving and hopefully this can be noted in my newer videos. Cheers, Nathan.

love the vids but I think it would be wise to spend to get mic with wind blocking device.

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

Yes, I agree and would have love to have used to wind suppressor that I received the day after filming this video. Hopefully videos to come will have improved audio quality. Cheers, Nathan.

Nath. Might as well order an LC300 ? Looks like after all these "Vampire Virus" Lockdowns and travel restrictions, the countryside is being turned into a latrine and plans might need to be for 2023 ? V.

@XploringOz

2 жыл бұрын

Haha, the 300 series look like very capable vehicle, too bad the manufacturing suspension, demand and price are going to make that very easy any time soon....

Could you give some advice on how to find a woman who's happy to go camping/bush rather than Hotels and expensive restaurants ?

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

Haha, I wish I could mate! I been very lucky finding my wife. Don't get me wrong, she still likes the fancy things, but also puts up with all of my outdoor obsessions! Best of luck mate. Cheers, Nathan.

@marcianmoon6143

3 жыл бұрын

just do all those expensive things multiple times in a row and go for the best most expensive ones, as they are all the same she will eventually get bored of it and would want something different , mine been like that, she still enjoys occasional spoil but enjoys the nature a lot more now,

No more donaldson pre cleaner?

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

It's still there mate, won't be taking that off anytime soon! Still catches heaps.

Will your new van still be a pop top? We have a similar size van albeit an older unit. It’s a pop top. I really can’t see any downsides to the pop top but I know many don’t like them. As you like us have done the gradual progression from sleeping on the ground to eventually a caravan. Do you think the progression is also to ditch the pop top? Cheers🍻

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

So I'm not going to give too much away at this point in time, however put it this way. I love the pop top concept. I can understand the advantage of having a full van for convenience and extra storage inside, however I love the practicality and travel size of the pop top. As soon as we have a replacement van, we will be sharing plenty of information on the channel. Cheers, Nathan.

Great vid, have you gotten a new van yet?

@XploringOz

2 жыл бұрын

Ordered, but just waiting the COVID delays. Hoping to have one end of this year/start of next...

@shannonpelly2548

2 жыл бұрын

Oooo what did you get?

@XploringOz

2 жыл бұрын

@@shannonpelly2548 Haven't released any details publicly yet... building the suspense, but you can bet that I'll be releasing the choice here on the channel when it comes.

How well did the 150 tow the jayco?

@XploringOz

2 жыл бұрын

It did well. You knew the van was there and couldn't always hold speed up inclines, but it didn't let us down and went everywhere we pointed it. Very underrated vehicle the Prado.

@aaronmckibben262

2 жыл бұрын

@XploringOz thanks mate. I love my 150 and looking at a journey for our next upgrade. Happy with the van and your vid has confirmed a few things I had been wondering. Nice to know the the old girl will be up to the task. Thanks again.

@XploringOz

2 жыл бұрын

@@aaronmckibben262 All the best with whatever you upgrade too. I'm sure the 150 will do well! Cheers.

What van are you getting to replace it?

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

Not releasing too many details yet, haven't signed on any dotted lines. We are hoping to have something lined up for early next year. Updates and clues will be released in time. Cheers, Nathan.

@boxheadmr

2 жыл бұрын

U got your new van yet?

@saltydog888

3 ай бұрын

New van?

Opus is the way to go for 4x4 off grid holidays. Watch 4x4 24/7

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

They are great vans, hopefully we’ll have something new early next year 👍

What is your next van ?

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

Not gonna give too much away just yet. We'll be releasing details via video when we get something. Cheers, Nathan.

What you end up buying?

@XploringOz

2 жыл бұрын

Haven't released any details on the channel yet. I will definitely put something out when it has arrived....

When’s the new van coming?

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

Taking longer than I want thats for sure. Unfortunately due to COVID and a few other factors out of our control, the wait for this van has been pushed out significantly. Definitely still on it's way, but it might be a little time off yet.

@djp4nfa

3 жыл бұрын

Did you go another Jayco? Our 19.61.3ob doesn’t arrive until mid June. We ordered in Sept 2020

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

@@djp4nfa Negative, we ended up going a different style of trailer for this new one. I won't be releasing too many details until our delivery later this year...

@djp4nfa

3 жыл бұрын

@@XploringOz fair enough. I hope it’s Aussie built 👍🏻

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

@@djp4nfa Sure is!

I think Jayco are ok to be honest.

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

I agree. You get what you pay for and they are great value for money. Nothing wrong with this one, we are just going to try something a little different. Cheers, Nathan.

First thing I'd be asking Jacob "why the Saturn simbolism" ...yet more big company occultists....

@stephenwilkinson949

3 жыл бұрын

Jaco not jacob

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

Who’s knows mate, to be honest, not something I’ve considered before 🤷‍♂️

As a chippie and i do fabricate my own trailers , the qaulity and fit and finnish on Jaycos are very ordinary , some very ordinary second rate shit they do .

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

Yeah, they may not be perfect, but for families that can't afford 100k+ vans, these are a reasonable and viable option. As we are all aware fit and quality come at a price, a price that not all Australian's can afford to spend on a recreational vehicle. They're not perfect, but they are value. Cheers, Nathan.

@stendecstretcher4983

3 жыл бұрын

Hey Alex, you need to work on your spelling and punctuation before posting.

Jayco = Junko

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

Not sure I would entirely agree with that statement. I understand the quality may not match competitors on the market, however, keep in mind, the price doesn't match either. Jayco's are a great option to get into the caravan scene without spending a fortune, especially if you are not 100% sure whether this type of travel is for you or not. Cheers, Nathan.

@Ted...youtubee

3 жыл бұрын

@@XploringOz I think you may have a point. $48k vs $60k in my comparisons so far between Jayco and others.

Check out www.thehitchpro.com.au

I watched this to see the answer to 'why' that you promised. Click bait sends me elsewhere. I won't be back.

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

Hmm, seems you may or not heard the clearly explained 3 reasons I mentioned in this video. Regardless, doesn't sound like this channel is for you. Good luck finding other free to watch content that suits your needs.

You ain't camping if you're in a caravan!!

@XploringOz

Жыл бұрын

Each to their own. I don't really think it matters what you call it, as you as you're happy while expiring the outdoors 🤷‍♂️

@kenvanlit402

Жыл бұрын

@XploringOz just kiddin with ya's. Power to yous. Have fun!!!

Blah blah blah you just don’t get it what ever you buy🤣

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

Nah mate, this van has been great for our family over the last couple of years and I'm sure it will continue to be for the new owners.

Jayco vans are rubbish!

@XploringOz

3 жыл бұрын

Not sure I would agree with that one mate. I've loved this van for what it is. I've found a significant spread of feeling towards these vans by their owners, whether its expectations, the unlikely poor build quality, poor sales/service or lack of correct maintenance, there are soo many things that could put an owner off a brand. Personally, this van has been perfect for our families need to date and hopefully a slightly different option will continue to fit these needs in the future. Chees, Nathan.

@shreckm6470

3 жыл бұрын

And what would you recommend that would do the job for the same money.

@buticks6388

3 жыл бұрын

Better known as junkos in the business. I know caravan businesses that won't trade them.

@Ted...youtubee

3 жыл бұрын

There is another video on problems with a jayco. Surprisingly it included electronic brakes not working. That concerned me greatly.