Taking the leap into RV ownership is a big (and exciting!) step. Whether you’re dreaming of off-grid escapes or leisurely road trips with the family, choosing the right RV can feel a little overwhelming at first. With so many styles, sizes and features out there, it helps to start with a clear idea of what you need.
Here’s a breakdown of the most important things to consider when buying your first RV—plus a few helpful tips to point you in the right direction.
How many people will you be travelling with?
Start by thinking about who’s coming along for the ride. If it’s just you and a partner, something compact like a J-Pod or a Pop-Top Discovery might be perfect—easy to tow and made for two. But if you’re a growing family or planning on bringing a few extras, you’ll want to explore options like Jayco’s Motorhome or Caravan ranges, which comfortably sleep up to four or six depending on the layout.
Do you have space to store it?
It’s easy to get swept up in floorplans and features, but don’t forget about storage. Where will your RV live when it’s not in use? If you’re tight on space at home, look for models like Pop Tops or J-Pods that are compact enough to fit in a standard garage. Got space to park something bigger on your driveway or front lawn? Caravan covers, available at The Caravan Toyshop, are a great way to store your van and keep it protected from the elements when not in use—shielding it from sun, rain, and debris so it’s in top shape for your next trip.
What’s your vehicle’s towing capacity?
Not every car can tow every RV. One of the first things you’ll need to check is whether your current vehicle is up to the job. Jayco’s online ‘Compare the Range’ tool is a great place to start—it helps match your car to a suitable RV so you can tow with confidence.
What kind of adventures are you planning?
Are you sticking to caravan parks, or heading off the beaten track? Your destination plays a big role in determining what features you’ll need. For basic touring, comfort and convenience might be your top priorities. But if you’re venturing off-grid, you’ll want solar panels, off-road suspension, and extra water capacity.
Jayco’s range covers it all—from weekend-ready J-Pods with Outback upgrades to full-size Adventurer Caravans equipped for remote travel. Optional add-ons like lithium batteries, grey water tanks and washing machines can make long trips more comfortable and sustainable.
Will you have enough storage?
Storage is often underestimated when buying your first RV. Between clothes, food, gear and those all-important toys (think bikes, boards or scooters), space fills up fast.
Jayco builds storage into every design—inside and out. From under-bed compartments to slide-out drawers and external hatches, you’ll find smart storage solutions throughout the range. If you’re bringing big toys along, check out Toy Haulers like the Basestation or our new Crosstrail, which double as part caravan, part garage.
How important is safety to you?
Safety should always be high on the checklist, especially if you’re new to towing. All Jayco RVs are built to meet strict safety standards and go through rigorous checks at their Quality Assurance Centre.
Key features like Sway Command Tow Control come standard, helping to keep your van stable on the road. Jayco Caravans also include an emergency braking system, which automatically activates the brakes if the van disconnects. Reversing cameras and other driver-assist features are available on many models too.
What warranty coverage is offered?
Peace of mind matters. That’s why every new Jayco RV comes with a 2-year manufacturer’s warranty, a 5-year structural warranty, and 3 years of Jayco Assist. Whether you’re near home or travelling the country, support is only ever a phone call away.
Is it built to last?
Australian roads—and conditions—can be tough. You’ll want something strong enough to take it all on. Jayco’s RVs are made with durability in mind, featuring vacuum-bonded Tough Frame construction, aluminium furniture framing, and galvanised Endurance Chassis for corrosion resistance.
These builds aren’t just tough—they’re also lightweight and thermally efficient, helping you stay cool in summer and warm in winter.
Not sure where to start? That’s where we come in.
At Jayco Caravanland, we’ve been guiding first-time RV buyers for over 30 years, helping them navigate their options and find the perfect fit. Whether it’s understanding what suits your lifestyle, tow vehicle, or travel goals, our expert team is here to support you every step of the way.
Located right here in Beckenham, we offer WA’s largest range of caravans and motorhomes—ready for you to explore in person.
Prefer to start online? Use Jayco’s handy comparison tools or get in touch with our friendly team to match you with the right RV for your needs and budget.
Whether you’re planning weekend getaways or gearing up for the big lap, we’ll help you get on the road with confidence.
Lifestyle