When it comes to buying a caravan, there’s no shortage of opinions. Every traveller has their own favourite brand, often shaped by personal experience, trips through rough country, or how well the van’s held up over time. But when you step back and look at the big picture — build quality, resale value, warranty support, off-road capability — a few names rise to the top. Choosing the right brand could mean the difference between a stress-free adventure and frequent trips to the repair shop.
In this article, we’ll take a close look at the most trusted and best-known caravan manufacturers in Australia, and what sets each one apart. Whether you’re gearing up for a lap around the country or just want a reliable home-on-wheels for the odd long weekend, understanding what’s out there can make your decision a whole lot easier.
If you’re currently looking at caravans in Heatherbrae, 7th Street Caravans offers a wide range of the most respected brands in the industry.
Jayco: Australia’s Most Popular Caravan Brand
Jayco has been a household name in Australian caravanning for decades — and for good reason. Built in Victoria, Jayco vans are well-regarded for their affordability, wide range of models, and strong dealer support network. From compact pop-tops to full-sized off-roaders, there’s a Jayco for nearly every type of traveller.
One of their biggest drawcards is the value for money. Jayco vans typically come loaded with features that are often optional extras in competing models. Plus, their national service and repair network gives buyers peace of mind when travelling far from home.
Their “Tough Frame” construction, coupled with a five-year structural warranty, gives Jayco a solid edge when it comes to reliability. While serious off-roaders might lean toward more rugged brands, Jayco continues to evolve with more all-terrain offerings like the All-Terrain range.
New Age Caravans: Sleek Design Meets Modern Comfort
New Age Caravans have carved out a strong position with their focus on innovation and stylish interiors. Now under the Walkinshaw Group umbrella (known for engineering performance cars), New Age benefits from automotive-grade manufacturing and testing.
Inside, you’ll find high-end finishes, clever layouts, and attention to detail that appeals to those who want a bit more comfort. The MY24 range is particularly impressive, blending contemporary design with functional storage and solid construction.
While they’re slightly pricier than some competitors, New Age vans appeal to buyers who prioritise creature comforts and a modern aesthetic. Their off-road XU and OZ Classic models are geared toward adventurous couples and families looking for performance without compromising on liveability.
Lotus Caravans: Built Tough for Serious Touring
If off-grid travel is your thing, Lotus Caravans deserve serious consideration. These high-end, off-road vans are engineered to take a beating — and look good while doing it. With tough-as-nails suspension systems, aluminium composite cladding, and serious underbody protection, Lotus has built a loyal following among those who head deep into the outback.
Their Trooper and Freelander models are packed with premium gear: lithium battery systems, heavy-duty solar, off-road tyres, and intelligent layout design that works for long-haul travellers. While the upfront cost is higher, the long-term durability and resale value are a major selling point.
Lotus is a premium brand, no doubt, but if you’re doing serious off-grid touring, they’re worth the investment.
Supreme Caravans: Practical, Reliable, and Built to Last
Supreme Caravans have been around for over 30 years, building a reputation for dependable, Aussie-made vans that suit a wide variety of travellers. Their range includes touring, semi-off-road, and full off-road models, with layouts suited to singles, couples, and families.
Where Supreme excels is in consistency — no frills, no flashy gimmicks, just a focus on solid construction and comfort. The Classic Tourer is a good example of a well-priced, all-rounder caravan that covers most bases for grey nomads or weekenders.
They’ve also got a loyal dealer network and strong parts support, which helps make ownership easy no matter where you’re travelling.
Wonderland RV: Boutique Craftsmanship Meets Luxury
Wonderland RV may not have the volume of Jayco or Supreme, but they’ve made a name for themselves through high-end craftsmanship and boutique finishes. Each van is custom-built in Melbourne, allowing for personalised layouts, cabinetry, and off-road options.
Their models like the Hornet and Amaroo are loaded with top-tier components — think full composite walls, independent suspension, and smart electrical systems. These vans are aimed at buyers who want something unique and are willing to pay for it.
While not as widely stocked as mainstream brands, Wonderland owners tend to rave about post-sale service and the build quality that stands the test of time.
Network RV: Affordable Touring with Strong Growth
Network RV has emerged quickly as one of the fastest-growing caravan manufacturers in Australia. Their vans strike a balance between affordability and durability, offering modern layouts with basic off-road capability.
Popular with first-time buyers and young families, Network RV’s Dreamline and Terrain Tuff ranges provide strong value and decent build quality. You might not get the premium finishes of boutique brands, but you will get a van that’s capable, comfortable, and easy to tow.
Their growth has been backed by increasing availability across Australia and competitive pricing, making them a solid option for budget-conscious travellers.
What Should You Look for When Choosing a Caravan Brand?
Rather than chasing hype, look for practical features that suit your travel style:
- Build quality: Is it made for blacktop touring, or is it off-road ready?
- Chassis: Steel vs aluminium? Independent suspension?
- Weight: Will your vehicle legally and safely tow it?
- Resale: Is there a strong second-hand market?
- Support: How wide is the service network?
- Warranty: What’s covered and for how long?
Spending a bit more upfront on a quality brand can pay off in fewer repairs, longer enjoyment, and better resale value down the track.
FAQs
What’s the most popular caravan brand in Australia?
Jayco is widely regarded as the most popular caravan brand in Australia, and for good reason. Founded in 1975, Jayco has built a strong reputation based on affordability, reliability, and nationwide service support. Its caravans cater to a wide range of buyers, from couples and solo travellers to families and retirees. One of Jayco’s biggest advantages is its dealer network — with service centres across the country, support is rarely far away if something goes wrong on the road. The brand also offers an extensive range of models and layouts, from compact pop-tops to full-size off-roaders. Features like ensuites, solar, air conditioning, and well-designed kitchens are common even in mid-range Jaycos, making them great value for money. It’s the combination of choice, ease of use, and strong resale that consistently places Jayco at the top of most Australian caravan sales charts. For many buyers, it’s the safest and most practical starting point.
Are premium caravan brands worth the extra cost?
Premium caravan brands often come with a higher price tag, but for many travellers — particularly those planning extensive trips — they can absolutely be worth the investment. The benefits of going premium usually include higher-quality materials, more robust construction, better insulation, and more advanced technology. This can translate into a more comfortable, durable, and safer experience, especially when travelling through harsh Australian conditions. Brands at the premium end often offer custom layouts, off-grid capabilities like lithium battery systems and upgraded solar, and superior suspension for off-road durability. Over time, this can mean fewer repairs, better energy efficiency, and less depreciation. That said, premium isn’t always necessary — if you’re only taking short trips a few times a year, a mid-range van may be all you need. But if you plan to live on the road, travel off-grid regularly, or demand higher comfort levels, paying more up front can save you money and stress in the long run.
Which caravan brand is best for families?
Several brands cater well to families, but Jayco, Network RV, and Supreme stand out for their thoughtful layouts and durability. Jayco, for instance, offers multiple models with bunk bed options, separate living and sleeping zones, and large dinettes for shared meals or homeschooling on the go. Network RV has carved out a strong reputation in recent years for building robust family vans with off-road capability and modern interiors, ideal for adventurous families exploring remote parts of Australia. Supreme’s Territory and Executive lines also include family-oriented layouts, complete with ensuites, washing machine options, and plenty of storage. When choosing the best caravan brand for your family, consider how many people you’ll regularly accommodate, the need for a separate bathroom, and storage for bikes, toys, and clothing. It’s also worth thinking about resale value, servicing access, and how often you plan to travel. The “best” really comes down to matching a brand’s offering with your family’s lifestyle and travel goals.
Is it better to buy new or second-hand?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but both options have their merits depending on your situation. Buying new gives you peace of mind with manufacturer warranties, the latest features, and no risk of hidden damage or DIY repairs. You can also customise layouts, colours, and accessories to suit your preferences. However, new caravans depreciate quickly in the first few years, so they’re not always the most cost-effective choice. Buying second-hand can save thousands, and with a careful inspection, you can land a great deal on a lightly used van that’s already been fitted out with extras like solar panels, bike racks, or upgraded batteries. The key is doing your due diligence: check for water ingress, signs of rust on the chassis, ageing tyres, worn suspension, and dodgy electrical or gas installations. Get an independent inspection if unsure. For many first-time buyers, a quality second-hand van offers the best entry into the lifestyle without blowing the budget.
Do all caravan brands offer off-road models?
Not all caravan brands produce off-road models, but many of the leading Australian manufacturers do offer dedicated off-road or semi-off-road ranges. These models are built to handle rougher terrain, dirt roads, and more remote destinations. Brands like Lotus Caravans, New Age with its XU range, and Supreme with the Territory series all have solid reputations for building off-road-capable vans. Off-road caravans typically feature reinforced chassis, independent suspension, increased ground clearance, stone guards, and stronger coupling systems like DO35 hitches. Some also include additional water tanks, grey water systems, and advanced battery and solar setups to support off-grid travel. That said, not every “off-road” van is created equal — some are better suited to corrugated highways than true bush tracks. Always read the specifications carefully and ask about real-world testing. If your travel plans include extended time away from sealed roads, choosing a brand with a proven off-road track record is a smart move.
Choosing the Right Caravan Brand for You
There’s no single “best” caravan brand in Australia — it all comes down to your lifestyle, budget, and travel goals. Whether you’re seeking comfort, off-road capability, or value for money, the Australian market has something to suit. Spend time walking through different models, speak to owners, and always prioritise quality over bells and whistles.
Start your journey with confidence — visit 7th Street Caravans or give our team a call on 02 4012 6009 for friendly, local advice.