Jayco Caravan - Aussie Icon or not?

Welcome to Episode 4 of our journey to discover the perfect caravan for us! In this episode we explore the biggest brand in Australian Caravans, Jayco. is this the Aussie Icon Brand it's made out to be? You'll could be as surprised as we were. This is a feature episode so grab a cool one and sit back and enjoy.
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[@chrisandshazza01]

I’m in NW WA, lived and worked here for 20 yrs. Everything up here is either a 76/79/200/300/patrol or Ram, with another 20/30 on accessories. Big money, big toys - boats, bikes etc. There are a heap of Jayco vans also - guess the brand snobbery doesn’t exist up here cause no one cares, if it works that’s good enough. My parents came through on their round Oz trip back in 06’ in their Jayco and parked up at our place for a while . That was after a half lap a few years earlier in the same van. No dramas, they loved the van, was a pop top ‘journey’. Any manufacturer that has half of the market sewn up will be discussed most of the time, including any issues. Given most vans -irrespective of brand- run similar appliances, issues would be across the board. Build quality, they all have issues. For others with more expensive brands bagging Jayco’s, I steer clear of those ‘sorts’ around any campfire at all costs. Usually the Jayco mob are like people here in NW WA, just enjoy life without the BS of brand snobbery. Mum and Dad have a JB now, they’re just hoping after a lifetime of travelling in Jaycos that the JB will serve them just as well on their next round Oz trip🤘🤘

[@caravansbythecampfire]

I agree with your comments. The Jayco offers considerable value at their price point. The fact you can get them looked at anywhere around the country is important to a lot of people.

[@bobkats]

Well we did it, purchased a spec built jayco 17.55-9, had it two months and............. What a ripper, as an ex truckie, this thing is awesome I can safely tow at, or just above the limit, no sway, thanks to ebs etc, twin axle low ball weight, fully loaded still with 300kg to spare, we have been away on and off for 20 days, So let's look at our Shitwah. 18' not 17, Outback Model, upgraded, toilet, suspension, aircon, batteries ( lithium ) Fridge, drawbar and water tanks. Tare 1910, ballwight 148kg, grey water tank, equal length single beds, with a bbq slide in the front, extra xupboards x 4, pot drawer in place of microwave. We paid $67,000 from the guy who paid $82,000 and could not use it, so it was brand new unused but 6 months old.... The BEST thing we ever did was purchase this, and you guys inspired us........

[@caravansbythecampfire]

Fantastic news!! I hope to catch up on the road 1 day! Sounds like a bargain and full of value - excellent!

[@SallySwinbourne-u1n]

Love what you’re doing. Truthful evaluation of all vans, breath of fresh air. Thanks guys

[@caravansbythecampfire]

@@SallySwinbourne-u1n thank you! Much appreciated.

[@stuartderham4620]

We love watching your reviews, I have a "Jayco Discovery Outback" 2009 model and I couldn't be happier with it, I have been on some rough roads, travelled over 3000klms in three weeks on a round trip at X'mas my van performed very well. If I needed anything for the van, no matter where I went there was a Jayco dealer (in many of the smaller regional towns as well). They were helpful and excellent to deal with in Melbourne, I dropped in on the Adelaide dealership it was the same. I even got a freebie from them whilst on the road, I accidentally smashed a plastic foot jack base, they had a second-hand one there in the service dept in great condition (just dusty), and the service manager gave it to me for free!. So if you are reading the comments here and you see people bagging them. I suggest you balance what is being written by others here, against the size of the network Jayco has, which can and will help you if you do encounter trouble whilst on the road. I spoke with many other different caravan brand owners and each one of them had a list of issues with their van brand and were complaining they had to wait till they got back to whatever major city they brought it from for help! The two things that failed on me were third-party parts used in all vans, (the rubber seal perished after 13 yrs on the loo and a plastic jack foot that I broke). There was a Jayco service centre where and when I needed it, I also saw Jayco dealerships in many smaller towns I went through. I would definitely buy a Jayco again if I was in the market for a new van, I love their network, price point and caravan floor plans/finish, they have a van to suit everyone... Ps. I can't wait to see what caravan you guys eventually decide on.

[@caravansbythecampfire]

Hi Stewart, you make some great points. Good to hear about their after sales service! I agree that every owner of any van brand has a story to tell about their van, good and bad - so many do look the same on the outside these days and you can certainly see the differences on the inside in terms of quality. Our next review is out shortly which equally was a big surprise! Thanks for your comments, we love hearing constructive points of view - cheers!

[@captainkipper86]

We’ve got a Jayco on order (and had an old 1990s Jayco previously). A lot of people have a lot of opinions, but someone said to us that for the $ you save, you can do an awful lot of upgrades/ simple fixes for the bits and pieces you need and want. Also, it’s so nice to know that having such a popular van, any parts are easily available. Great review guys- thanks!

[@caravansbythecampfire]

Yes it did impress! Good luck with your purchase.

[@captainkipper86]

Also interested to know how practical you find the combo toilet/shower?

[@caravansbythecampfire]

@@captainkipper86 it was fine, I don’t like it personally but to get a smaller van I can cope - no big deal really, get a good floor mat. Only issue is going to the toilet after someone showers - I guess a quick wipe down and all is well.

[@AndyH-13]

Really enjoyed your honest review. We are looking at purchasing a Jayco. For us it’s the value you get for your money and the overall finish. The galvanised chassis and composite exterior walls are also a plus. Looking forward to your next video.

[@caravansbythecampfire]

Thank you. We also spent some time at the Newcastle Jayco factory, they were nice but didn’t want to make any layout changes outside their normal ones. They’ve now moved to an 8” inch chassis for their full off road versions. I agree, there appears to be value for careful shoppers.

[@MegaSusanc]

Thank you for sharing your awesome camper. It's pretty cool. GOD BLESS Y'ALL

[@nzmarkb8713]

Congratulations on 500+ It’ll snowball I’m sure,good down to earth content will always attract followers

[@caravansbythecampfire]

Cheers!

[@petercross8620]

Great video, thank you. We currently own a Jayco Eagle camper trailer. We are stepping up and have ordered a 17ft Jayco Journey Pop Top Outback. Cannot wait for delivery. One small point if I may, a 3way fridge gets 12v power from the cars battery when switched to the battery setting, not the vans battery. Gas for off grid, 240v for powered sites and 12v (battery setting) for travelling.

[@caravansbythecampfire]

Thanks Peter, if the car’s not connected it uses the battery in the van unless you select gas or are connected to 240 volts I think you’ll find. That’s what was happening in the van we took out anyway, maybe others are different in some way - will investigate further - thanks again and good luck with your new beauty!

[@ianlloyd1182]

Thanks for the review, helpful for those considering a JAYCO. We are onto our second JAYCO and although it may not be as classy as some you get a lot for your money. JAYCO Quality Control could be better, much better, but with our previous JAYCO we had a number of issue but they were all fixed without any argument. Our current van is a Starcraft 19-3, we’ve has it for six months and there have only been some very minor issues so far and we’ve covered about 5000kms to date.

[@caravansbythecampfire]

That sounds great Ian, safe travels and enjoy! This one impressed on many fronts.

[@simmokidboi7520]

Great video, I found it to be very informative and the two of you are great presenters on camera, dry and a nice amount of subtle banter. We've got a 2020 Journey Outback with two kids and a 200 Series Cruiser so the videos right up our alley, and we somehow have the same green camp table chairs :). I agree on the awning comment too, great work, it is easy for people to bash a successful company (especially an Aussie one), nice to see you bringing fair commentary to the discussion. End of the day, they are exceptional value, but they arent perfect - no surprise

[@caravansbythecampfire]

Their product offers real value, I’m a fan. Well done to you, enjoy and thanks for your comment!

[@UpandAboutPhotography-2025]

Thanks for a great video which is rather timely as I just picked up our brand new Jayco Journey Outback, 17.55.8 model which is slightly different layout to yours. We have already done a 3 day shakedown trip where everything worked as was expected. We have noted some minor workmanship quality issues that need to be rectified at our first service which is booked in early Feb23. Worth noting that the table in your van is not standard but an option, we have the standard table which we will likely replace with what you had which I think is called a 'Mapa' table. It moves laterally in both directions and collapses whereas the standard table does not. We also optioned a tunnel boot slide from On The Go RV for our front tunnel boot which where we stow our Weber Baby Q. We are off on a few trips over the Christmas / New Year period so hopefully all goes well with our new van. Have a great Christmas and an even better 2023 guys.

[@caravansbythecampfire]

Thanks Gary - Jayco has certainly been elevated on our list of considerations - enjoy Xmas and thanks for commenting!

[@OldCaravans]

.

[@jaybomb8371]

We have done a lot of klms with our van (DEFINATELY NOT jayco) and met heaps of jayco owners. We have not met ONE person who did not have a laundry list of broken, damaged, leaking or just missing things. And these were new or not old vans either. I wish you safe travels. Cheers Ausgranny 🇦🇺🇦🇺🤶

[@caravansbythecampfire]

Yes there is a story from every van owner we have found regardless of make, not the best industry for lasting quality by the looks!

[@robertwilson1827]

​@caravansbythecampfire so much for the slogan, "made in Australia"! Shame the caravan industry didn't pick up from the Aussie auto industry, Aussie toughness!?

[@jimmycook872]

Good job guys Good unbiased content. I have been looking around for a new one. It certainly is a daunting task LOL. In the end it's a nightmare trying to compare them for the qualities and price. In conclusion you get what you pay for. The other Factor is it takes 12 months Plus made to order. Big turn off. Cheers keep up the good work. Looking forward to the next episode. 🇭🇲😀👍🍻🍻

[@caravansbythecampfire]

Thanks Jimmy! The light weight of the Jayco is impressive - just need a full off road version of something.

[@ronniegauci3843]

Jayco is built to a price, having said that , the savings can be spent back into improving the van to your liking.

[@caravansbythecampfire]

Sure can

[@billdrennan3329]

Nicely done guys, common sense evaluation with a minimum of emotion and not too technical!

[@caravansbythecampfire]

Thanks Bill - we try to keep it real! Cheers.

[@raymondmumford6255]

Excellent review guys.

[@caravansbythecampfire]

Thank you kindly!

[@keepitmashed7402]

Great work guys love the show we have a 2005 jayco heritage special build 24'' massive bathroom area up front has a full size dometic 3kg front loader washing machine simpson ezyset 500 dryer huge shower toilet big L shaped lounge area kitchen big gas oven queen size island bed down the back we have owned the van for 7 years haven't done much traveling in it yet but can't wait to travel the country soon

[@caravansbythecampfire]

Sounds epic! Get out there touring.

[@brentonl2631]

Fantastic look at the Jayco, we have the Starcraft 13ft and suits us fine as we just do the parks. Tows incredibly well and build is good with lots of storage not all the bells and whistles but we only use it for somewhere to sleep. Perfect for us. First time to your channel so thanks again.

[@caravansbythecampfire]

Thanks Brenton, yes it’s very interesting trying to find the right van! It’s made us have a rethink since we took out the Jayco.

[@leshayward4464]

Well explained

[@Peter57808]

Our new Flamingo started falling apart on its first road trip (Bitumen roads), it got so bad that we traded it halfway through that trip! Would never go near another one.

[@caravansbythecampfire]

Thanks Peter for the comment, it’s amazing the different range of experiences people have with Jayco. One extreme to the other unfortunately.

[@maingey1]

Just a couole of thinks for reflection: 1) Three way fridges struggle to stay cold in the tropics (so the top half of Australia), and pretty much only work reasonably on gas. 2) The good thing about Jaco vans, is they are generally light tare weight, but does reflect in reliability. 3) Jayco have a reputation for not warranting issues once used off the bitumen. But like most things, they will suit a purpose.

[@caravansbythecampfire]

Thanks for those observations - all make sense for sure!

[@mashman84]

@@caravansbythecampfire 2 way 12/240 compressor fridge is an available upgrade on this van, i know because its not available on the starcraft bushpack we have on order.

[@petermckill448]

No one warrants a van after going OFF gazetted roads

[@doncoleman4938]

Loved your review and fascinated that for the first minute or so the wife managed to become invisible then reappear! The biggest problem I hear with many Australian caravans is the build quality. So many people have to take their caravans back to get things tightened or fixed. If the same frequency occurred in the car industry people would be mortified. But the Australian caravan building industry is largely unregulated, so you get a lot of poorly made, nice looking caravans. Years ago, we had a look at a Jayco caravan. This was sitting on the showroom floor and had cupboard doors falling off and a multitude of faults. Thankfully Jayco seems to have picked up their act since then, although there seems to be a 20% chance you'll buy a lemon judging by buyers' comments online. Good to see they're no longer making them with timber frames; a building technique that belongs in the 20th century.

[@caravansbythecampfire]

The wife was getting the food and then directing me around to 40 different camp sites… haha. Thanks for your comments, much appreciated Don.

[@billmorley4772]

Love my Silverline a few water leaks but were fixed with no problem . I am sure a lot of other companies with there vans all have problems just you don't hear about them .

[@caravansbythecampfire]

Agreed. They all have stories and issues but there are a few no fuss manufacturers who act quickly to help owners out. I’m a fan of the Silverline but Tracey has other ideas I think!!

[@juelcome]

We bought a Jayco, had major issues with water ingress after two days , took it back they said it was repaired, actually was worse than ever.Additionally had other electrical problems, I returned the van and got a refund. So I would rather get a Chinese import than a Jayco, they have fewer issues. I don't understand how Aussies aren't more savvy about buying Jayco, they fall apart.

[@4x4tipsmaster70]

Yes, we have a new vid out tonight that looks at an exciting Chinese made van - worth a look! Thanks for your comment!

[@mccoysmakingmemories]

Awesome review, glad I found this vid and your channel, this is the exact van I have been interested in because it just the little bit more compact than the 19 5 footer. Interesting window configuration and your point on the lack of window at the kitchen now makes sense, I did wonder about that... Door in the way. Hopefully find one second hand as I believe they don't make this model new anymore. Cheers guys.. liked and subscribed 👍🏽

[@caravansbythecampfire]

Thanks for your comments!

[@stewartclark1847]

Interesting to read people’s comments. We’ve had Jayco vans from 1978 Dove, 2010 16ft expandable and currently a 2018 19ft Journey tourer. For the price and reliability I wouldn’t buy another brand. To each their own I suppose.

[@caravansbythecampfire]

If something’s serves you well - stick with it! Thanks for your comment.

[@alanhughes1262]

Was minus 4 in ararat vic camping on a lake some vans cost 140,000 and their water froze up lol my Jayco outback journey van had no such problem's as the lines run next to the hot water lines lol .

[@caravansbythecampfire]

Yes there’s always something going on under those vans!!

[@maddogmorgan1]

1000 subscribers and 17K views, you're doing something right

[@caravansbythecampfire]

Thanks Mad Dog! We just attempt to be ourselves and keep things real. Cheers - thanks for the comment.

[@Jamie-dm5dq]

You guys are so funny we would love to meet you. 🎉Happy New Year 🎉🎉🎉🎉

[@caravansbythecampfire]

One day in our or your travels or somewhere else! Enjoy the new year too 🎉🎉

[@Mouldyturnip75]

What you guys are doing is great - if only the rest of the caravan industry had as much integrity as you two, plus a few good laughs on the way!! IMO Jayco has a prime position in the market - its the value they offer and for so many caravan travellers who just go from home to park and back a couple of times a year, no off-road, off-grid, wandering type stuff withouth significant investment. Jayco also capture the first time buyers who are still unsure of what they actually want/need from a van. And it leaves a fair bit of coin left over for any mod's you might want to make should owners decide. Many 'KZbinr's' are buying $100k plus vans then putting another 15-30k into them. While Jayco are not everyones cup of tea, or the brand snobs, they have the market sewn up undoubtedly. The quality was better before COVID madness pushed production through the roof. Dont disregard the Silverline range of Jayco vans for the luxury factor.

[@caravansbythecampfire]

Thanks Brett, much appreciated - can’t wait to tell Tracey about your Silverline suggestion! I want to experience that van myself! Your comment is much appreciated.

[@Mouldyturnip75]

@@caravansbythecampfire we kicked off our van life with a Jayco, 17ft with bunks for kids - bought for a great price and meant we didn't need to be too precious with it since by the end of our time with it, we had dragged it outback and beyond and it survived without an issue. It was a great way to get into van life and decide if we wanted to keep going. We added plenty of mods, solar and lithium and spent plenty of time off-grid. I would recommend one for first time buyers and caravan park only people - it does what it says on the tin. My folks dragged several all over Australia, racking up thousands of km's without issue and loved their big Silverline once they got a bit older and a bit less adventurous and wanted more comfort. Keep up the great work.

[@ClissaT]

So it IS an Aussie company! I see so many Jayco's on videos in the USA. I had begun to think Jayco was a US company. I really like the blinds that cover the windows from the bottom up. All blinds should be like that even in houses. So you can have privacy and light and/or breeze too.

[@markandkim66]

Jayco’s are manufactured in Dandenong, Victoria.

[@robertjohnston3658]

The big Jayco issue, is often very poor wiring and lower quality cabinets but the price is good for the product

[@caravansbythecampfire]

The top of the range large ones with extras are now getting up there in price also so expectations are rising!

[@johnandrews1954]

Glad found you guys I'm in uk

[@caravansbythecampfire]

Great work - Merry Xmas over there!!

[@robertj.b2494]

antiflap kits are a must

[@caravansbythecampfire]

Sure are!!

[@terrymarshall4964]

[933] great video, we are in the market to buy a van and your video is very helpful. PS, you said you hit a milestone of 500 subscribers, I was 933

[@caravansbythecampfire]

Thank you for subscribing #933 (nice number!). It’s hard to find the right van for sure - we have just taken out a JB Gator and a Majestic Navigator - videos are in production now. I guess budget determines everything eh? I’ve seen so many now it will probably come down to lots of little things of personal taste plus after sales service. Feel free to provide more information about your considerations. Cheers!

[@waynekerry2115]

Hi new to your channel Great review we also looked at Jayco didn’t buy one in the end We were surprised at the inclusion’s for the money There’s so many problems reported because there’s so many vans out there Have a merry Christmas guys

[@caravansbythecampfire]

Yes I agree that the volume of vans that are Jayco causes a lot of comments - it will be interesting to see what we do moving forward, the value appears high - I'll have to take out one of their proper fully of road vans to see how tough they are - hard to beat the Zone van we reviewed but you can do a lot with the cash difference!!

[@caravansbythecampfire]

What did you purchase?

[@waynekerry2115]

We finished up with a Snowy river SRC21 had a few upgrades added and we are very happy so far Early days yet

[@caravansbythecampfire]

@@waynekerry2115 sounds good! Well done

[@waynekerry2115]

@@caravansbythecampfire I was worried about the suspension aI had this on a boat trailer 30 years ago and it was great We have been on 1200km of dirt road Tibooburra to Wanaaring and down the darling river The suspension was surprisingly compliant The van stood up well only had to make the microwave mounting more secure

[@ruthryall9363]

Best value we have had three Jayco vans and never had any issues, people call them junko but we personally have seen more top end vans with problems than Jayco’s can’t justify the exorbitant price of other vans. If you are going heavy off roads they maybe don’t buy a Jayco, but down tracks and into bush camps they do ok. and there’s a reason the company has been around since the 70’s if they were truly junk they wouldn’t survive.

[@caravansbythecampfire]

Good points you make!

[@bluecent]

The Couples version of this van look appealing with a low rare and slim ATM. Jayco along with others are now seriously looking at ways to get their vans on a Jenny Craig. With the era of sandwich panels and aluminium framing and cabinets there’s no reason our domestic vans can come closer to European van weights.

[@caravansbythecampfire]

Weight is a big thing, don’t know about the geni (Jenny) if that’s what you mean.

[@petermckill448]

ATMs offered are abysmal. The same formula is being used as was 45 years ago. I had mine raised. Now have 1000kg load capacity.

[@caravansbythecampfire]

@@petermckill448 somebody needs to get some proper rules in place for weights that your average person can understand.

[@fsparkman3343]

ha ha if you love awnings that much you should end up with what our neighbours did. They have Alexa in their van and can just say "hey Alexa, bring the awning in" 🙂 ps we have a Jayco our 3rd

[@caravansbythecampfire]

Outstanding addition that Alexa!

[@gr8pies]

Love your caravan reviews and comparisons As discussed re our Jayco Outback Journey and it’s issues, Seems that the repair agent and Jayco haven’t or as they say can’t find their mutual communications re our warranty claims. However this is now booked in to have warranty issues rectified and whilst in to have the major problems that have been ongoing for a ridiculous time “Looked at” and reassured ? To be done under warranty. Will keep you informed Repairer has mentioned Jayco are one of the better ones to deal with ?

[@caravansbythecampfire]

Hope things go well! Repairs look a bit hit or miss don’t they… things have got to improve moving forward.

[@gr8pies]

@@caravansbythecampfire yes repairs are a bit hit or miss at the moment, This is not only on caravans. What has me worried is that the repairer has mentioned on a few occasions that they submit their quotation to companies and their price is more than what the manufacturer is willing to pay and some “customers” are willing to make up the difference. Which seems to us that they are possibly preying on desperate customers. Which I will be again speaking to Jayco head office to check if the figures are correct. Yes the stress has been immense Yes I have remained civil Yes I am willing to take things further if needed.

[@caravansbythecampfire]

@@gr8pies sounds a bit dodgy the cost difference, I get it if you elect to have a superior item installed otherwise they should fix it like for like at their expense.

[@rossholmes178]

Aaahh yes...the Jayco Highway Sloth 2000 (a generic term you understand)...you can't begin to imagine how much every other driver on the single lane roads wishes you weren't there.

[@caravansbythecampfire]

Hahahahaha! Yes I do see.

[@rossholmes178]

@@caravansbythecampfire Pleased you took it in the lighthearted spirit with which it was delivered. 😏

[@caravansbythecampfire]

Just our style - thanks for your comment Ross.

[@Aphony66]

Why dont you have a rear-view camera fitted? Just get up to the roof and take a look around.. Looks like the pacific ocean waves up there. Idiots at Jayco still haven't moved to the full composite roof or not last I checked...

[@caravansbythecampfire]

I did find it strange that a rear view camera wasn’t installed, or a rear light. These both should be standard these days instead of extras.

[@gdog1443]

Did you see the snake slithering under the mat?

[@caravansbythecampfire]

🧐🏃

[@ironmaiden1236541]

If what is known about Jaycos quality and after sales service doesn't sway you from buying one, then that's probably nothing that would change your mind.

[@caravansbythecampfire]

They are an interesting product - just as good as they are questionable, we’ll keep looking around.

[@stephenlane3078]

Not everyone can afford a Zone at $140000 and $100000 Toyota the jayco is built for those who want to be out and about camping enjoying what you seem to take for granted, remember they employ lots of people, Enjoy your new van and washing machine

[@caravansbythecampfire]

Correct - they can’t but everyone is free to choose. Personally I love Jayco and everything they do to get people out and about - amazing story, product range and support network - pricing is now mid to high range with upgrades. Silverline’s are my favourite and more so now I see the wood grain being removed from some of their products. Plenty of vans and cars out there you don’t have to pay an arm and a leg - bargains second hand everywhere, and with washing machines… 😂. Thanks for your comment, much appreciated. Enjoy whatever you have or are planning on getting.

[@TonyPaterson-c3d]

According to Jayco USA the company was started in America in 1975. This is at odds with Jaco Australia who claim that the product was first started here in Australia. Can you enlighten us on the actual origin of the brand? They share trademarks. It is confusing

[@caravansbythecampfire]

It is fascinating isn’t it. There are 2 Jayco’s - US version first, the founder of Jayco in Australia went and spent considerable time at Jayco US, came back to Australia and started Jayco Australia. There must have been either some agreement, or gift to use the branding at some cost or not at all. Maybe International trademarking was different back then - that’s all we can conclude. Definitely different operations.

[@Sabumnim666]

Sorry mate Jayco started in America The Jayco story began just before 1975, when Founder Gerry Ryan was a Production Manager at Sunwagon Trailers. He was sent to the United States to learn about components that Sunwagon were purchasing for their vans from a US caravan manufacturer called Jayco Inc. This is from Jayco themselves.

[@caravansbythecampfire]

Thanks David - there's been a few comments about this, you are correct that there is also a company called Jayco in the US which did start earlier - Gerry did as you've said above, how he then established his own Jayco Australia company (unrelated to the US company), I don't know - must have been some deal for the name and logo or perhaps with international distance it didn't matter back then. They are 2 seperate and unrelated companies.

[@doncoleman4938]

@@caravansbythecampfire Having the same name, font and logo makes it so confusing.

[@bobkats]

90 kmh????

[@caravansbythecampfire]

Old man speed! It went 110 without a problem

[@bobkats]

@@caravansbythecampfire Cheers mate, my thing is how many people plod along at 90? Our poor uecuses for roads are also workplaces, especially for truckies, I do 100 when I can, and if not, I am quick to get off the road to let others through, love your vids too.

[@caravansbythecampfire]

@@bobkats I get it! Cheers.

[@lizbarber3473]

I think you can do a lot worse than jayco , I’ve owned a couple of them , there’s another brand I think is only second to jayco in sales volume , I like to look underneath them , the other brand chassis’s / crossmembers are made out of coke can , I think jayco is built to be light but strong , if your shopping around I would strongly recommend having a good look underneath .

[@caravansbythecampfire]

Thanks Liz! Yes underneath is important for sure, not many with quality guards on the water tanks or much care taken running the pipes or electricals - Jayco was pretty neat and tidy presentation in those regards.

[@davidmilledge221]

Not keen on shared shower and toilet too much off a hassle and suiside doors on van now that's just stupid 🙄

[@caravansbythecampfire]

Agree re shower, what suicide doors?

[@davidmilledge221]

Van door opens opposite way if ever opened accidentally while travelling like some do it flys off into the sticks

[@mashman84]

@@caravansbythecampfire full ensuite on the non family version

[@johneller5856]

Would not take one as a gift. A long history of failing to honour warranty claims and fix problems. Check out the ACCC for the actions and decisions against them. Buyer beware!

[@caravansbythecampfire]

Sounds like you’ve had a bad experience personally. I’ve seen the reports etc, I think the industry will continue to improve as buyer become more particular - our biggest concern with the Jayco is their inability to make any changes requested to their standard designs. I was surprised by that.

[@MORT-zf3qb]

how can a man wearing leggings comment?

[@brianmaclennan561]

Jaycos are overated. Jmo.

[@tdub5776]

Jayco is the last manufacturer I would buy from. They are purchasing caravan parks and turning them into cabin parks. Leaving nowhere for caravanners and campers nowhere to stay. Moama is a typical example.

[@caravansbythecampfire]

That’s interesting - I’ll look into that. Cheers.

[@ozmid40scouple]

Sorry jayco interiors are like a throwback to the 70's, all that fake dark Woodgreen panelling all they need is some shag pile carpet.....lol. just about all other makes of vans offer bright and modern interiors.... a 3 way fridge doesn't work off your van battery, it only runs on 12v thru your car 12 pin plug in transit, it won't cool a fridge , it's only a means of keeping it cool in transit.....

[@caravansbythecampfire]

Can’t disagree. Better than the 70’s, more like 90’s now!

[@MarkH-vy9ud]

Ever since Jayco changed to the absolutley horrible countertop materials they have begun to look tacky. I hate the countertops.

[@caravansbythecampfire]

I think if all the wood grain was gone we’d be close to buying one!

[@douglasgreen437]

Looks like a RIP off of an American RV..

[@caravansbythecampfire]

You could say that.

[@Robert-mn8gc]

Jayco Vans r over rated Rubbish 🗑 Don't waste of Ur hard earned $$$ cash on this Crap . A mate bought one & 1st trip the Cupboards started falling apart . 2nd trip the same issue but different Cupboards & then the Fridge Died . Talked with many owners & they don't like them .

[@caravansbythecampfire]

Thanks Robert, there are good and bad experiences with all vans we gather. Buyer beware on any purchase. This particular van was impressive but not for us in terms of its full off road capabilities. Still worth a look when comparing options and pricing.

[@Robert-mn8gc]

@@caravansbythecampfire This past week l was fortunate 2 meet a guy who worked 4 Regent Caravans 🚐 And he kindly warned me not 2 purchase a Regent Caravan. Built in China and put 2gether here . Apparently the Que 4 refunds is long . I had heard 4 yrs about Jayco Vans & a mate purchased a brand new van . 1st 3/4 trips sealed roads & the cabinetry started 2 fall apart . Then the fridge expired. The dealer couldn't assist him 4 approx 4/6 weeks. Now we know Why . 2 many returns . People spend big bucks $$$ on Vans & the industry is floored every which way.

[@caravansbythecampfire]

@@Robert-mn8gc I agree that the industry needs another lift in standard for sure - people are paying big bucks and deserve a quality product at any price point.

[@guido0582]

From personal experience Jayco is garbage. Salesman were fantastic after sales and warranty service is like the build quality..... garbage... They were an affordable option once upon a time but not anymore. Over priced garbage

[@caravansbythecampfire]

There is a lot to like and a lot not to like - will be interesting to see what the future is for Jayco. Dozens of competitors out there now.

[@aussiefarmer6012]

Junko jayco, ask any repairer.

[@technicaltraining9725]

All manufacturers have problems, majority of the components are from 3rd party’s our 1st van 14 years ago was a Jayco had some small issues and they fixed them quickly.

[@caravansbythecampfire]

I agree - sticking with big brands gets things fixed quicker!

[@truth-Hurts375]

Not any more...

[@caravansbythecampfire]

So what is s the next Iconic Aussie Caravan do you think?

[@malcolm.john.thompson]

Jayco is a US company. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jayco,_Inc

[@caravansbythecampfire]

Thanks Malcolm - Jayco Australia or Jayco corporation is an Australian company. There is also one in the US now owned by Thor Industries - unrelated although they have the same name and logo. Gerry got his inspiration from there in 1970 so I don’t know what deals were done back then for the name and logo.

[@petercross8620]

Jayco Australia is a different company to Jayco US. The owner and founder of Jayco Australia is Gerry Ryan and it is an Australian company.