I started out with pick ups and no topper. That was a long time ago - of course it was a money issue, but somehow always had money for fun at the bar
somewhere in my early 30’s went with the cheapest aluminum topper I could find - and have had a topper ever since - plus - aluminum toppers are light, so I would often take it off. in retrospect, should have made it a priority sooner. The dogs are protected from the elements, the biggest factor for me - although it’s nice to keep everything out of the elements. these days you could likely find a used one relatively cheap - and you have almost 3 months to find one - just an option to keep in mind - it doesn’t need to look pretty - just functional