2014 jayco journey outback specifications

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Caravan review: Jayco Journey 17.55-8 Pop Top Outback

Written by: John Hughes; Photographer: Capture Factory

June 10, 2024

It’s no secret that Jayco Caravans ' vans are made for the masses and have made it possible for countless Aussies to experience the joys of caravanning. They are not perfect, and you can see aspects of the vans that are ‘built to a budget’, but they get the job done. I reckon the Jayco 18ft pop-top is one of Jayco’s all-time classic crowd-pleasers.

As caravan journalists, we have the opportunity to review all kinds of beauties. There is probably a bit of a bias towards covering the biggest, fanciest, cutting-edge vans available on the market. It’s partly driven by manufacturers supplying the media with the most upmarket vans they have because that’s what their marketers get excited about. And it’s partly driven by our curiosity to see what the latest and greatest offerings are so we can keep abreast of advancements in the industry. While this may make interesting writing for us and hopefully reading for you, some of these vans are reaching ‘unobtanium’ status for the average punter with some vans pushing price tags towards $300k.

The Jayco Journey Pop Top range is far from unobtanium. This one is an 18-footer that has all the core things you need, including a bathroom, with prices that start from under $60k for the Touring model. In this review, we are looking at the MY23 Outback variant priced at $66,203 which is more rough road and off-grid oriented. I think this is the price bracket a lot of people would be shopping in. Let’s see what you get for your money.

I have reviewed a few Jayco vans now. This Journey Outback Pop Top follows Jayco’s now well-established build regime. Underneath we have the Jayco-designed and in-house fabricated Endurance 2.0 chassis. It is hot dip galvanised and the main rails and A-frame are substantial 150mm x 50mm RHS steel. Additional rails feature cutouts to minimise weight. The chassis is matched to Jayco’s proprietary suspension system known as JTECH 2.0. It’s a trailing arm independent suspension that Jayco first launched in 2014. The JTECH concept utilising coil springs and shock absorbers is used across the Outback models while the Touring models sport a more basic leaf spring setup. 

The van rolls on smart-looking 15in black alloy rims and 235/75R15 all-terrain tyres. Sixteen-inch wheels are more the norm on most vans I see but I don’t think this will hold back the Outback as it appears to have good ground clearance — reportedly 185mm more than the equivalent Touring version when unladen. Upgraded electric brakes are another point of difference for the Outback. Both the Touring and Outback versions sport sway control by Lippert which is a great piece of kit at this price point.

Jayco also makes its own one-piece walls and roofs. The walls start with a welded aluminium frame marketed as Tough Frame. A fibreglass skin, outer and inner ply along with polystyrene insulation is then laminated to the frame in a vacuum press. Jayco claims it is both stronger and lighter than the conventional ‘timber and tin’ aluminium-clad walls and provides great thermal and acoustic insulation. 

Overall, the Journey Outback is a purposeful yet minimalist-looking van. The A-frame is not adorned with the ubiquitous toolbox but instead features a little pod to house two 9kg gas bottles. The optional jerry can holder sitting on the A-frame looks a bit odd to me, but it is highly functional. The rear wall is a cleanskin with no jerry can holders or spare wheel to be seen. The spare wheel resides under the chassis towards the rear of the van.

Talking about underneath, some of the plumbing does look exposed and vulnerable to stone damage. This is something the average DIYer could probably address with pool noodles and zip ties. Some of the plumbing fittings look reminiscent of what you see in home garden irrigation. They probably do the job fine, and this is an example of where Jayco can keep costs down. One of the plumbing lines was squashed though which would severely restrict flow, but this is something that could be fixed in less than five minutes.

Liveability

I like the inside of the Journey Outback. I reckon Jayco generally nails interior aesthetics and creates a stylish look that won’t offend anyone. This model has cosy seating with a compact table and overhead storage space is optimised for a pop-top van. Overhead storage is always a bit harder in a pop-top because you have less height to work with than a fixed-roof van to allow room for the roof to close. Our male model for this photoshoot was very tall and he was at risk of banging his head if he tried to sit under the overhead cupboards. Fortunately, this problem is easily negated by sitting on the part of the L-shaped seating not encroached on by cupboards.

The Journey Outback has a roof-mounted Dometic Harrier Lite air-conditioner which is the optimum position for cooling as cold air falls down. Some pop-tops have the air-conditioner fitted inside the van under furniture to keep weight off the roof. This makes it easier to push the roof up and puts less stress on the roof when bouncing around on rugged roads. We found the roof to be quite manageable to push up with the manual lifting mechanism and the roof construction appears to be sound, so the roof mount air-con is a winner . 

The appliances are all fine. A Thetford four-burner gas cooktop with a built-in griller is as good as you will find in much more expensive vans. The rangehood with 12V LED light and twin fans is up to the task as is the Sphere microwave right underneath the cooker. I am less excited about the old-school Dometic 153L three-way absorption fridge on board. Compressor fridges are capable of getting from ambient to operating temperature much faster than absorption fridges. Plus, compressor fridges can drop from ambient to operating while driving whereas absorption fridges are really only capable of holding temperature while driving. If I were buying this van, I would be looking at what needed to be done to run a small compressor fridge. To find out more about RV fridges and how they work, head here .

The bed area can be showered with natural light thanks to two huge windows and the surrounding storage is really good with side robes, drawers and more overhead lockers. The bathroom is pleasant and functional. A contoured storage nook with a very shallow benchtop allows enough space for the toilet. The nook has a nice big opening for housing towels, but the absence of doors means you wouldn’t be able to put tall items in there for the risk of them falling out when travelling. Showers in pop-tops always look a bit agricultural compared to full-height vans but the Journey Outback example is as good as I have seen. 

External liveability is very minimalistic. It’s nice to have a traditional rollout awning and picnic table included. If you want to cook outside you will be bringing your own little barbecue which can fit in the front tunnel boot. Apart from that, there’s not much to report. 

Minimalist is the keyword here again. You get a 100Ah AGM battery fed by a 200W solar panel working with a basic Projecta controller. There’s not enough oomph here to be doing anything fancy but that’s the whole point. You have to remember at the other end of the scale there are some vans with mind-blowing power packages that alone cost nearly as much as this entire van. If you want to learn more about powering your van for off-grid travel, read this article . 

The two 9kg gas bottles will give you plenty of old-school energy for cooking and powering that absorption fridge that I’m not a fan of. But here’s the thing, powering the absorption fridge with gas is the most initial outlay cost-effective way to do things.

Arguably the three 80L fresh water tanks are too much for this van — refer to the towing section below. A grey water tank does not come standard but can be optioned in. Your balance of fresh water to grey water is something you should give some serious thought to match your needs given that some camping locations mandate grey water storage.

There are a few high-end things missing from this van. Apart from keeping the cost down it also gives you a much lighter van — fully loaded you are looking at 2.5T. Combined with the low profile afforded by the pop-top design this is a highly desirable match for a so-called 3.5T tow-rated dual cab ute . In my opinion, this is the smart way to tow; it takes the stress off the tow vehicle and the driver and provides plenty of margin for error regarding legal towing weights. 

One thing to think about is how much water you want to carry. In round figures, this spec Jayco Journey Outback has a payload of around 500kg. In standard trim, it has 160L freshwater storage leaving you with around 340kg of available payload after filling the tanks. However, the test van had an additional 80L fresh water tank optioned on, bringing the combined water capacity to 240L. If you filled all the tanks, you would only have 260kg of payload to play with. Of course, you don’t need to option in this extra tank and even if you do you don’t need to fill it all the time. 

The bottom line

If a friend came to me and said they want to give this caravanning thing a crack, but they don’t want to break the bank, I would happily suggest they go and check out a Jayco Journey Pop Top Outback. 

HITS AND MISSES

• You get a lot of van for $66k
• A two-year manufacturer’s and five-year structural warranty gives peace of mind
• Light weight and low profile are winners
• I would be looking to upgrade from an absorption to a compressor fridge

JAYCO JOURNEY 17.55-8 POP TOP OUTBACK RATINGS

VALUE FOR MONEY You will find it very hard to get so much for your money from any other local manufacturer

TOWABILITY   I am a big fan of a 2.5T van

SUITABILITY FOR INTENDED TOURING   If you want reasonably priced minimalist travel, this van could be for you

BUILD QUALITY I think Jayco often cops an unfair rap. There are some signs where Jayco reduce cost, but you can’t have your cake and eat it too.

LIVEABILITY Hook up, head off, live simply and have fun

SELF-SUFFICIENCY It’s far from cutting edge but you can easily make it work

CUSTOMER CARE Two-year manufacturing and five-year structural warranty along with an enormous dealership network is reassuring

INNOVATION Not much innovation on show here, but that’s fine with me

X-FACTOR Price, strong local backing and comes with all the essentials

JAYCO JOURNEY 17.55-8 POP TOP OUTBACK SPECS

Weights and measures.

Jayco Journey 17.55-8 Pop Top Outback price from  $64,155

OPTIONS FITTED

• Jerry can holder
• Extra 80L freshwater tank
• External shower
• Reverse camera
• Water filter

Jayco Journey 17.55-8 Pop Top Outback price as shown  $66,203

MORE INFORMATION

To enquire about this caravan or the other models in the Jayco range, head here . 

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Jayco Caravan Weights & Lengths (Comparison Tables)

Jayco are by far the number one caravan brand in Australia. You just have to take notice of how many Jaycos you pass along the highway, versus that of any other brand.

Jayco offer very competitive prices in the caravan market and are 100% Australian owned and manufactured in Melbourne, Victoria, which crosses off any chance of them being imported from Chinese productions lines.

Just like anything, there are lovers and there are haters when it comes to Jayco. I personally owned a Jayco Starcraft for years and loved it, however our own experiences will always shape our opinions.

If you’re seeking out Jayco caravan weights and sizes, I’ve pulled all of the information together and condensed it into some handy tables so that you can easily compare and find what you’re looking for.

Good luck with your caravan research and safe travels!

We are a participant in affiliate advertising programs designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to ebay.com and other affiliated sites. We may earn a commission from your purchases at no extra cost to you. For more information, see our disclosures here .

Key Caravan Weight Terms

Here are the key terms that you will need to know when looking at the following Jayco caravan weights and lengths tables.

• BODY LENGTH  – length of external caravan body, excluding draw bar & rear bar
• OPEN LENGTH – length of the entire caravan once all beds have been opened at the ends (for relevant models)
• TRAVEL LENGTH – full length of caravan from the tip of the draw bar to the end of the rear bar
• TARE  – EMPTY caravan before adding anything (i.e. what it weights as you collect it from the dealer)
• PAYLOAD  – the amount of STUFF you can add to the caravan (accessories, mods, luggage, water etc.)
• ATM (Aggregate Trailer Mass)  – maximum FULLY LOADED weight the caravan is allowed to be (set by Jayco)
• TBW (Tow Ball Weight) – what the Tow Ball Weight is when the van is empty. Tow ball weight will change every single time you load/ unload the caravan.

For the full guide on working out your weights, check out my caravan towing weights explained post.

How to Read Jayco Model Numbers

Jayco make it pretty easy to read their model numbers and to quickly get the information on the caravan’s length and layout (once you know what you’re looking at).

Using the example above, the Jayco model number 22.68-1 means that the caravan is 22 foot or 6.8 metres long, in layout number 1.

However, I did notice a confusing discrepancy as I was putting together the body length information below. Each model on the Jayco website has the body length listed in millimetres, which I then converted (using an online converter) into feet. Sometimes, the conversion length in feet was slightly different to feet listed in the model number.

Therefore, just because a Jayco model states that it is (example) 19 ft, just be aware that the caravan won’t exactly be 19 feet long. It may be 18.8 ft or it could be 19.3 ft. For the exact caravan lengths, always look at the mm.

For more on lengths, here are the 6 ways to measure your caravan’s lengths .

Jayco POD CAMPER Weights & Lengths

Key terms for reading the Jayco J-Pod weights and lengths.

• TARE  – EMPTY caravan
• PAYLOAD  – amount of weight you can ADD
• ATM  – maximum allowable FULLY LOADED weight
• TBW – Tow Ball Weight when van is empty

Check out the full list of pod campers Australia to see all other manufacturers.

Jayco J-Pod

Jayco camper trailer weights & lengths.

Key terms for reading the Jayco Camper Trailer weights and lengths.

For a full camper trailer weight chart (across 35 Australian models), check out the how much camper trailers weigh post.

Jayco Swift Camper Trailer

Jayco lark camper trailer, jayco eagle camper trailer, jayco penguin camper trailer, jayco swan camper trailer, jayco wren camper trailer, jayco pop top caravan weights & lengths.

Key terms for reading the Jayco Pop Top Caravan weights and lengths.

For a full list of Australian pop tops, check out the Pop Top Caravans Spreadsheet .

Jayco Journey Pop Top

Jayco expanda pop top, jayco all terrain pop top, jayco hybrid caravan weights & lengths.

Key terms for reading the Jayco Hybrid Caravan weights and lengths.

For a full list of Australian hybrids, check out the Hybrid Caravans Spreadsheet .

Jayco CrossTrack

Caravan Buyers Guide

Take the stress out of buying a caravan with this interactive step-by-step guide!

• 15-page Guide
• Checklists to tick off
• Interactive prompts to fill out
• STEPS INCLUDE:  Budget, Set-up, Towing Weights, PPSR Check, Handover, Hitching Up & more!
• DIGITAL & PRINTABLE

Jayco CARAVAN Weights & Lengths

For a full list of Australian caravan weights and lengths, check out the The Caravan List Spreadsheet .

Jayco Starcraft – Touring

Jayco starcraft – bushpack, jayco journey – touring, jayco journey – outback, jayco all terrain, jayco all terrain – off-grid x, jayco silverline – touring, jayco silverline – outback, jayco toy hauler caravan weights & lengths.

Key terms for reading the Jayco Toy Hauler Caravan weights and lengths.

For more toy haulers, check out the full list of toy hauler caravans Australia .

Jayco Toy Haulers

Jayco campervan weights & lengths.

Key terms for reading the Jayco Campervan weights and lengths.

• TARE  – EMPTY campervan
• GVM  – maximum allowable FULLY LOADED weight of campervan

Jayco JRV Campervan

Jayco motorhome weights & lengths.

Key terms for reading the Jayco Motorhome weights and lengths.

• TARE  – EMPTY motorhome
• GVM  – maximum allowable FULLY LOADED weight of motorhome

For a full list of motorhome manufacturers and specs, check out the Motorhomes Australia Spreadsheet .

Jayco Conquest

Jayco optimum, australian rv directory.

Fast-track your caravan research with the Australian RV Directory , an interactive spreadsheet. ↓

• 200+ motorhomes & campers
• 2,300+ caravans
• Select the number of berths, RV style, bathroom, tank size, solar power etc.
• Narrow down your search
• Find the price and information details for your caravan shortlist

Jayco Caravan FAQs

A Jayco caravan can weigh anywhere from 1,763kg (Jayco Journey Touring) to 2,897kg (Jayco Silverline Outback), which are their tare weights (unloaded with empty water tanks). You can expect an allowance of between 350kg to 600kg for payload (the amount of “stuff” that you can add). This puts their average ATM (fully loaded) average at 2,138kg – 3,497kg.

The lightest Jayco in Australia is the J-Pod Sport, with a tare weight (empty) of 756kg and an ATM (fully loaded) weight of 972kg. This leaves a payload (loading weight) of 216kg.

The average tare (empty) weight of a Jayco J-Pod is 830kg, while the average ATM (fully loaded) weight is 1,088kg.

The average tare (empty) weight of a Jayco Swift is 983kg, while the average ATM (fully loaded) weight is 1,368kg.

The average tare (empty) weight of a Jacyo Lark is 1,022kg, while the average ATM (fully loaded) weight is 1,437kg.

The average tare (empty) weight of a Jayco Eagle is 1,196kg, while the average ATM (fully loaded) weight is 1,611kg.

The average tare (empty) weight of a Jacyo Penguin is 1,150kg, while the average ATM (fully loaded) weight is 1,465kg.

The average tare (empty) weight of a Jayco Swan is 1,288kg, while the average ATM (fully loaded) weight is 1,790kg.

The average tare (empty) weight of a Jayco Journey is 1,501kg, while the average ATM (fully loaded) weight is 1,832kg.

The average tare (empty) weight of a Jayco Expanda is 1,974kg, while the average ATM (fully loaded) weight is 4,949kg.

The average tare (empty) weight of a Jayco All Terrain is 2,068kg, while the average ATM (fully loaded) weight is 2,586kg.

The average tare (empty) weight of a Jayco CrossTrack is 1,458kg, while the average ATM (fully loaded) weight is 2,015kg.

The average tare (empty) weight of a Jayco Starcraft is 2,037kg, while the average ATM (fully loaded) weight is 2,637kg.

The average tare (empty) weight of a Jayco Journey Touring is 2,114kg, while the average ATM (fully loaded) weight is 2,686kg.

The average tare (empty) weight of a Jayco Journey Outback is 2,245kg, while the average ATM (fully loaded) weight is 2,817kg.

The average tare (empty) weight of a Jayco All Terrain is 2,496kg, while the average ATM (fully loaded) weight is 3,096kg.

The average tare (empty) weight of a Jayco All Terrain Off-grid X is 2,492kg, while the average ATM (fully loaded) weight is 3,092kg.

The average tare (empty) weight of a Jayco Silverline Touring is 2,622kg. while the average ATM (fully loaded) weight is 3,222kg.

The average tare (empty) weight of a Jayco Silverline Outback is 2,759kg, while the average ATM (fully loaded) weight is 3,359kg.

The tare (empty) weight of a Jayco Work ‘n’ Play is 2,065kg, while the ATM (fully loaded) weight is 2,815kg.

The tare (empty) weight of a Jayco Basestation is 2,733kg, while the ATM (fully loaded) weight is 3,543kg.

The average tare (empty) weight of a Jayco JRV Campervan is 3,094kg, while the average GVM (fully loaded) weight is 3,963kg.

If you’re looking for more on caravans, head over and read 160+ Caravan Brands Australia and 11 Types of Australian Caravans .

Safe travels!

Travel Planning Tools

6 thoughts on “Jayco Caravan Weights & Lengths (Comparison Tables)”

I am attempting to get some idea of the weights for our Journey Outback Pop-Top for when i collect it late April/mid may. My order is for a ‘17.55-8 Tandem Axle. This vehicle does not appear in your online. Hope you can assist!

Here are the weights for the 2024 Journey Outback Pop-top 17.55-8 – TARE 1980 kg, TOW BALL 160 kg. You can find all of the Jayco Pop Top weights here https://www.jayco.com.au/range/pop-tops/journey-pop-top

Hi, I was hoping tho find the details for the 1991 Jayco Dove here as I inherited it after my Dad passed. Is there a manual that has the specs anywhere?

Hi Kell, you could either ring Jayco and see if they have the info of that model on file. Or, you can measure and weigh the caravan yourself. Here’s the full guide on how to weigh a caravan – https://myrigadventures.com/how-to-weigh-a-caravan/ . For measuring a caravan, the general length we look at is the outside of the body (not including the draw bar or rear bar etc.). Here’s the full guide on how to measure the dimensions of a caravan – https://myrigadventures.com/caravan-sizes-dimensions/ . I hope that’s helpful in figuring out the specs for your van.

The nayco conquest lenght information is for the current models. Do you have any info for a 2010 model conquest. How do I measure the lenght. Rear of body to where.

That’s right, these are all the most current models. To find out the length of your caravan, you measure the outside of the body only. So, from the rear of the body, to the furtherest point at the front of the body. This DOES NOT include the A-frame or rear bar etc. Here’s an article I’ve written on the topic, which goes into more detail https://myrigadventures.com/caravan-lengths/

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Review: Jayco Journey Outback

In 2014 Jayco combined the best of two models, the Destiny and the Sterling, into a new caravan, the Journey. It’s grown to become the most popular in the range of Jayco’s pop-tops, and continues to find new fans thanks to a line-up of sought-after features.

The Journey range is divided into two basic groups, those designed more for highway touring and those equipped for tougher operations on less accommodating tracks. Designated as the 17.55-8 and -9 or Outback models, these are the biggest sellers in the Journey range.

Jayco’s pop-top vans have always been popular with those looking for a lower roof line for enhanced aerodynamics, fuel consumption or storage reasons. They are also sought after by buyers who don’t want to fork out for a larger tow vehicle.

Today they’re increasingly an option for couples moving up from something like a camper trailer, or those moving up from tent camping and looking for more creature comforts. With good ground clearance in the Outback models, tougher set-up and a smaller travelling profile than most caravans, they can still be taken to many of the places you once sought with your camper trailer or tent.

The Outback kit including Jayco’s popular JTECH independent trailing arm suspension package with heavy duty drawbar (120mm deep instead of 100mm), a front jerry can holder, black checkerplate panelling over the lower portion of the body, external 12-volt power outlet, galvanised rear bumper bar, gas bayonet fitting to the exterior for use with an external barbecue and 120 watt roof-mounted solar panel. These vans have a much better resale value and give you that element of extra flexibility no matter what circumstances might throw at you.

The Outback fitout also introduces larger 235/75R15 tougher all-terrain tyres on alloy rims in place of the touring 185R14 rubber found on the highway models.

The downside to this is the weight increases by an extra 150kg and the ball weight increases by 25kg, although neither is excessive.

Since they have a shower fitted they come standard with a 100 amp-hour gel battery for the water pump, a second 82-litre water tank, and a second 9kg gas bottle to run the water heater unit.

image by: Brett Goldsmith

All of the 17ft vans, including the 17.55-8 and -9, also come equipped with a Truma air conditioning system. These excellent German-made units do a much better job in extreme conditions and are worth having.

Like all Jayco vans, the tandem axle shower-equipped models have a 475kg of carrying capacity to accommodate the extra water.

The fitout provides for a range of features that are worth having. There are 12 internal layout styles to choose from across the range. One of the attributes brought over from the Sterling was the higher walls. This allows for tinted Dometic double glazed windows built-in blinds and insect mesh.

With the larger windows, zip-out panels in the pop-top walls and a roof-mounted skylight over the bed, the interiors of these vans are bright and sunny.

The fully separate all-in-one bathroom across the rear is the stand out feature. It comes with comfortable layout, plenty of storage spaces and the shower has been improved with a single-piece unit eliminating the risk of leaks.

There are a range of bathroom and kitchen options to choose from. The Outback model as tested came without a normal oven to allow for extra storage, but it is an option. There is a microwave, Smev three-burner gas hotplates and single electric hot plate gas stove with griller underneath.

The extra electric hotplate comes in handy, saving gas when mains power is available, as does the dual-mode water heater. The fridge, which was 110 litres capacity in the Sterling, has now gone up to a standard 150 litre three-way unit.

For sleeping, there’s either an island orthopaedic double bed or two singles, with inner spring mattresses. For peace of mind, all the Journey vans are equipped standard with a Camec security door.

While the Outback vans are designed basically for two, there is a $299 option to purchase an additional cushion and baseboard, which converts the dinette into another bed.

A stand out feature certainly not available in the 1970s is the electrical and entertainment systems. Lighting is all LED and completely wireless. This eliminates the risk of any wiring problems and also means you never have to get out of bed to switch off a light – there’s a remote for that. A USB charging point is standard as well as an 18-inch LED television/DVD player with mounting bracket and wind-up antenna. There’s a Fusion CD/radio system, complete with external speakers.

To complete the outside living experience there’s an optional external shower (with free-standing shower tent if desired) and an external TV socket. To extend your options all Jayco outlets offer an annexe kit.

All the Journey models come with a white Euro-style fibreglass body, with sloping aerodynamic nose. Smart graphics set off the finish and give a sharp style to these vans.

There are so many options to choose from across the range. One certainly worth considering for off roaders is the Coast to Coast Control Panel ($207) which monitors water levels in up to four tanks (two standard plus optional third and waste water tanks) as well as battery charge levels   There is also the excellent Al-Ko Electronic Stability Control to keep your van where it belongs, as well as a longer A-frame, Tregg offroad polyblock coupling, and leather seat coverings.

Pop-tops have come a long way since the first humble camper was introduced by Jayco in the 1970s and they remain as popular as ever. The reason for that is undoubtedly due to their value for money in terms of quality, resale value and great list of standard features.

At $41,563 RRP as tested, it is excellent value.

Link: Read the full review and specs in Issue 15 of Time to Roam .

Review by David Cook.

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Home / Reviews / Caravans / Jayco Journey 19.61-3 Outback Review

Jayco Journey 19.61-3 Outback Review

• Published: April 25, 2021

Australian caravan manufacturers have been building family caravans with bunk beds for decades. Although they are an established sector of their market, they are not so common here in New Zealand. But Jayco Auckland say that is changing. The Outback version of the Jayco Journey 19.61-3 reviewed here is a good example of a family caravan.

INTERIOR LAYOUT

At the front is a large east-west double bed; at the rear are two bunk beds kerbside, opposite the driver’s side washroom. The kitchen is centrally located alongside the entry, with the dinette opposite. Separating the sleeping areas provides some privacy and allows continued use of the lounge area once the bunk occupants have retired to bed. The decor throughout is an understated mix of light greys and dark browns.

SLEEPING ARRANGEMENTS

The double bed has an innerspring mattress, and the bunks have foam mattresses. All bed bases have sprung wooden orthopaedic slats. Both floor level beds have good storage space below the mattress, and gas struts take away the pain of lifting the beds for access to this storage.

For added comfort, the lower parts of the walls surrounding the double bed are covered with upholstered panels. Jayco include bed linen, duvet and pillows in the standard package. There are two reading lights at the head of the bed. A TV wall bracket is mounted at the foot, where it can also be viewed from both the kitchen and the dinette. A battery management charger and the house battery occupy a small corner of the storage space under the bed.

For caravanners, bunks are a practical answer to the question, where are we all going to sleep? Tucked away in the rear corner of the Journey, they offer a snug retreat for all ages, especially the younger ones. In the two-bunk option reviewed here, each bunk has a privacy curtain and a window, and the lower one has a light of its own. The upper one shares the corridor light. A curtain screens off the corridor from the front of the caravan so it doubles as a changing room. A three-bunk option is also available.

The dinette provides the only seating in the caravan. It has the distinctive, very comfortable Jayco two-piece back rests. Covered with a soft, warm woven fabric, it makes the dinette an attractive spot for dining or relaxing. Alongside is a large opening window, and there is a ceiling hatch above, so it is a refreshingly light, bright place to be. The drawers below the seats offer more storage.

At around 1800mm long, the kitchen bench includes a four-hob LPG cooktop and stainless-steel sink/dish drainer, with room for meal preparation and serving at the end. It’s a typical Jayco RV bench – you’ll find them in most of their caravans and motorhomes. Jayco fit them because they have met and continue to meet the needs of their RV buyers.

If you like overhead lockers, you will love the array in the Journey: four over the bed, two over the dinette, two with shelves over the kitchen, one over the hob and another in the washroom.

Along with the kitchen under-bench cupboard space, the two pantry cupboards, the drawers and cupboards beside the bunks as well as the 171-litre fridge/freezer, the storage is more than adequate for four people, their clothes, personal possessions and supermarket shopping.

BATHROOM/LAUNDRY

Behind a concertina curtain on the other side of the corridor is the bathroom/ laundry. It’s a four-function set-up with a handbasin to the left, alongside a Sphere washing machine. To the right, behind a three-piece sliding door, is the shower. Roomy enough for the big and tall, it has shelves for soap and shampoo, and a fan vent in the ceiling. The opening window behind the central placed toilet will be an asset. A large wall mirror behind the handbasin makes the washroom feel more spacious. There are cupboards below the basin and a locker over the toilet. A single centre light, two more over the basin and one in the shower provide plenty of lighting.

The bodywork is finished in a light shade of grey, with a skirt of black checker-plate panels down each side, a black bumper across the back, and a black stone-chip resistant panel across the front. The Outback variant, riding on the latest version of Jayco’s JTECH suspension, has higher ground clearance than the standard Journey, adding to its sense of purpose.

Up front is a conventional cast-iron hitch, handbrake and safety chains. An electric breakaway cable system is also fitted to most Journey models. Jayco’s trademark freshwater tap is mounted on the side of the A-frame.

The Journey’s chassis is hot-dip galvanised steel, which is both lightweight and strong. As well as offering increased ground clearance, this chassis/suspension combination is stable, smooth-riding and has excellent handling qualities.

At its core, the body has an aluminium frame. This is inset with high-density polystyrene foam panels for thermal and acoustic insulation, and externally clad with hail and dent resistant fibreglass panels. The rig runs on 15-inch black alloy wheels and higher rated 235/75R15 AT tyres. Altogether a very solid package.

At the front on the kerbside, a tunnel locker that runs the width of the caravan replaces the conventional front boot. It can be awkward to retrieve items from the middle of the locker, but at least they stay clean and dry. There is good external access to storage under the double bed (front) and bunk bed (rear). A fold-out alloy step is fitted below the habitation door to make entry/exit easier. Up above is an electrically powered 5-metre awning, complete with a strip of LED edge lighting. Below is the wall-mounted outdoor entertainment centre, comprised of a fold-down table, 12-volt and 230-volt outlet plugs, a TV aerial plug and a pair of speakers, all under a wall-mounted light. Aussies are serious outdoor entertainers.

Up top is a 160-watt solar panel, two roof hatches – one over the bed, the other over the kitchen – an aircon unit and a TV antenna.

There are two hatches on the driver’s side, one for the toilet cassette at the rear and one for the tunnel storage at the front. A service hatch for the hot-water boiler, a freshwater fill point and a radio aerial round out the equipment list. A well thought out package, well equipped with durable fixtures and fittings.

SAFETY FIRST

Nitrogen-filled tyres fitted to the Journey reduce tyre temperatures and provide more consistent tyre pressures, even on the hottest days, reducing the risk of tyre blowouts. Having the Lippert Sway Command Tow Control Technology aboard reduces the risk of losing control of the caravan in emergency manoeuvres. As mentioned, the electric breakaway system for caravans with electric brakes is fitted as standard to most Journey models. When a caravan accidentally separates from the tow vehicle, the cable connection is severed, activating the electric brakes and brake lights.

OUTBACK UPGRADE

Jayco Journeys are available in both standard and Outback versions. As the name and appearance suggest, the Outback is equipped to cope with more arduous off-road conditions. As well as the suspension/chassis upgrade, it has a larger 160-watt solar panel, Outback corner steadies, an external gas bayonet fitting for the BBQ, Jayco mudflats and an 8-inch jockey wheel.

The interior of the Jayco is pragmatic and unpretentious, quite in keeping with its exterior presentation. A caravan to live in comfortably while you enjoy the things the destination has to offer. Not for the bling-hearted. I find it very appealing.

• Good volume of external and internal storage
• Very practical interior layout
• Efficient use of space in the washroom
• Two slide-out pantries instead of the two pantry cupboards would be good
• No dedicated cutlery drawer

Jayco Journey 19.61-3 Outback Specifications

Price [Updated for 2022 model]: $98,590

Find out more at jaycoauckland.co.nz

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STARCRAFT POP TOP

Journey pop top, all-terrain pop top, all terrain, basestation, jrv campervan, optimum campervan, all terrain campervan, conquest motorhome, optimum motorhome, cleverly designed for your next journey, sleeps up to 6, 200w twin cell solar system with regulator, fully equipped ensuite, 95l two door 3-way fridge/freezer, hot water system, 12v electric awning with led lighting, bright, modern and ready for adventure, floor plans, adventure by day, relax in comfort and style by night.

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16.51-3.OB.JY-MY24

Specifications, 360 virtual tour, australia's best selling caravan, key features, cleverly designed for your next escape, tyre pressure monitoring system, tanked hot water system, external picnic table, reversing camera, projecta lcd control panel, full fibreglass hail resistant exterior including one piece roof, 3.3kg top loader washing machine, 200w twin cells solar panel & 100ah battery, 171l two door 3-way fridge/freezer, innerspring mattress, roof mounted air conditioner, 4-burner cooktop, 24" led smart 12v tv, furrion cd/radio including ext speakers, projecta phone app, overhead storage, hot dipped galvanised endurance chassis, full insulated side walls, updated automotive abs styling, external presure fill plumbing console, front boot storage, 15 inch alloys, picnic table, 12v external lighting, 2 x 9kg gas bottles, grab handle with 12v light, external speakers, sway command tow control, 2 x 95 litre water tanks, battery management system with 240v & mppt charger, jtech independent suspension (outback models only), 12v electric awning with led strip light, 15" rims, interior decor, superb choices to make your second home truly your own, shell (standard), why buy jayco, experience the jayco difference, industry leading support.

When you invest in a Jayco, you are backed by 29 dealerships and 100+ authorised service agent representatives nationwide who know your RV better than anyone. Our support network is here so you have the peace of mind, support, and expertise at your fingertips to adventure with confidence. That’s caravanning, the Jayco way.

Built in Australia for australian conditions

Choose Jayco for quality, value, and local expertise. Our RVs are built in Australia for Australian conditions, using premium components from reputable suppliers. As the largest RV manufacturer in the Southern Hemisphere, we take pride in employing over 1100 locally skilled specialists and supporting more than 900 jobs around Australia and New Zealand across our network of Dealers, Service Centres and Suppliers. Invest in a locally made RV and experience the difference of Jayco today.

Construction you can rely on

Built in Australia at our state-of-the-art manufacturing facility, every Jayco is built from the ground up, using quality materials and the highest safety standards to ensure your RV stands the test of time.

Leading warranty

Guarranteed peace of mind.

Jayco’s comprehensive warranty promise offers 2 years manufacturing and 5 years structural warranty coverage. Our warranty provides added peace of mind for our travelling customers. All warranty repairs are managed by our extensive network of dealerships and authorised service agents, who have direct access to Jayco’s knowledge bank and systems for warranty repairs and delivery of parts.

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*Images shown may have optional extras. Images used for illustration purposes only, please contact your local dealer to view stock in store. Refer to specification and options list. Features subject to change.

Price is RRP based on a standard 2024 model. Drive away/tow away price includes all on-road costs including dealer delivery, stamp duty, CTP insurance, registration and weight tax if applicable in your state/territory according to the postcode you entered on this site. If you did not enter a valid postcode the price displayed is for a NSW registered vehicle. Any optional extras you select may increase the applicable taxes and charges. The Jayco Terms and Conditions apply.

For New Zealand customers, options may vary slightly and we recommend you discuss this with your Jayco dealership

^ This weekly repayment estimate is provided by Jayco Financial Services Pty Ltd (CRN 513573 of Australian Credit Licence: 481374) (“My Local Broker”). Jayco Financial Services is a finance broker.

This repayment is calculated with an interest rate of 7.49% p.a. over a term of 84 months with a 0% residual / balloon payment. Other residual / balloon amounts are available. The Recreational Vehicle price shown may not include other additional costs such as stamp duty, government fees and other charges payable in relation to the vehicle.

The comparison rate of 9.73% is based on a Secured Personal Loan of $30,000 over a 5-year term. WARNING: This comparison rate is true only for the examples given and may not include all fees and charges. Different terms, fees or other loan amounts might result in a different comparison rate.

In order to provide this estimate, Jayco Financial Services is required to make several eligibility assumptions, including full-time employment status and property ownership. To comply with regulations, consideration must be given for credit score and loan to value ratio (LVR), this estimate has been calculated with a credit score of 800+ and an LVR Max of 100%. Home Owner will excellent credit history with 3 Years F/T Employment in the same role and 3 Years in the same residential address.

This estimate is based on several assumptions outlined above and should be used for information purposes only and is not an offer of finance on particular terms. Credit fees, service fees and charges may apply.

Subject to lenders Credit Criteria and approved applicants only, rate and approval are not guaranteed.

A quote, with details of all fees and charges, may be obtained by contacting Jayco Financial Services through our Website or calling 1800 865 262

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Exploring Jayco Journey Range

Jayco's Journey is an impressive range of caravans, with a wide range of layouts and lengths in both caravan and pop-top models.

One of the major benefits of being Jayco, Australia’s largest caravan manufacturer, is that it can produce many models and layouts. Something for every purpose, budget and road condition be it a sealed road, rough road or offroad. 

The models include everything from a camper trailer to a toy hauler, but undoubtedly one of the big sellers is the Journey caravan range. Available as either a pop-top or full caravan, the Journeys are available in multiple layouts with different body lengths. All are offered as either a touring van or what Jayco calls its Outback range, something designed for handling rough road travel, not offroad. That includes two family vans, one a four berth and the other a six berth. 

Measuring up

Starting with the full caravans, there are eight different models. Jayco distinguishes between them by length, that is 16ft, 18ft, 19ft, 21ft and 22ft. In several cases, like the 19ft and 22ft , there are different layouts for the same lengths. What is slightly confusing is that the lengths are not actually an indication of the external body length, so the 16ft van actually has a body length of 17ft 6in (5.34m) and the 22ft van is 22ft 11in (6.99m) long. In between we have 18ft (18ft 8in/5.69m), 19ft (20ft 3in/6.18m) and 21ft (22ft 3in/6.79m). Consequently, all the vans are longer than might be expected. 

Weighty matters

For any caravan purchase, the caravan weight should be a consideration. Jayco does list all the van weights in its specification listings, but that should be taken as a guide only. Individual van weights will vary depending on the accessories fitted. 

Weights will of course be different with increasing body lengths. Just to give a couple of examples, the 16ft van has a tare mass of 1763kg and the  four-berth 22ft van has a tare mass of 2233kg. Although increasing length usually means an increased weight, that’s not always the case. The 21ft van has a tare mass of 2333kg, 100kg more than the 22ft but there’s a reason for that. All the vans have a payload of 600kg, except for the smallest, the 16ft, a single axle, which can carry 375kg. When comparing all the respective weights, it’s not surprising to learn that the Outback models with similar layouts all have a weight penalty, an extra 82kg in the case of the 16ft van and at the other end of the scale something like 190kg for one of the 22ft layouts. 

Layouts to please

Within the Journey caravan range there are several variations of the much-favoured front bed, and full-width rear bathroom layout. The 16ft and 18ft designs have a forward door entry and the 19ft has a rear door. The reason for the shorter vans having a forward door is that it’s a little more space effective. The alternative 19ft also happens to have a forward door entry but that’s because it’s a bunk van layout with accommodation for four people. To fit everything in, the front double bed is east west, not an island bed. 

A unique van in the Journey fleet is the 21ft layout being the only Journey with a slide-out. Hence the weight issue mentioned above. Fitted to the offside, it contains the east-west bed. A van designed for two, it has a full-width bathroom and a front club lounge, something appreciated by many. 

There are a few surprises in the longest vans, the three 22ft models. One is a bunk bed layout for four with plenty of room to move. Another family layout has beds for six, with a somewhat unusual arrangement for the bunks and the third has what many regards as the doyen of layouts, a rear club lounge. That’s achieved by having an island bed up front and a split bathroom next to the front bedroom. 

Fully equipped 

In all cases, the Journey vans are well appointed, with the fully equipped kitchen containing essentials such as a microwave oven, 171 litre three-way fridge and a four-burner cooktop with a separate grill and oven. Most of the bathrooms have a separate shower cubicle and cassette toilet. Items such as air conditioners, house batteries (100Ah), solar panels (200W) and two 9.0kg gas cylinders are all standard items. 

Pop-tops are go

A little surprise in the Journey range is the considerable array of pop-top layouts that Jayco has available. There’s more floor plan variety than the caravan range and in many cases smaller and lighter. The respective tare masses vary from 1110kg to 1817kg with payloads mostly between 350kg and 400kg. 

The pop-top lengths start with a pair of diminutive 12ft (3.83m/12ft 7in) units and extend all the way to four 17ft (5.48m/18ft) designs. Those include single and island bed layouts plus several family van designs. One, the 15ft (4.86m/15ft 11in) is a four-berth unit with an east west double bed and double bunks across the rear. Like the smaller vans, it does not have a bathroom but that keeps the weight down and makes them ideal for lightweight, caravan park style touring. Both the 16ft (5.2m/17ft) rigs have full-width bathrooms and are available in either single bed or double bed layouts. There are four vans in the 17ft (5.48m/18ft) range, two are bunk van designs and the other two are either single bed or double bed variants. Like the 16ft model mentioned previously, one of the 17ft layouts does not have a bathroom but it does have beds for a family of five making it a good budget option.

Similar to full caravans, the pop-tops are also available with Outback specifications. That does add extra weight of course but also gives more choice of touring destinations and ways to get to them. 

While fully fitted out, the pop-top equipment level specifications are a little lower than for the caravans. So, for instance, there’s a smaller fridge, an oven is optional, and the solar panels are only standard on the Outback models. 

It’s not really in the Journey line up but the 17ft Expanda is in a range all its own with just one model. I mention it because it has a pop-top roof. In addition to the roof though, the van also has expandable front and rear sections with beds at both ends. Having an external length of 5.62m (18ft 5in), its open length of nearly 8.0m (26ft 2in) is truly impressive. To say the least, that particular feature allows for much more living space inside the pop top. Not to mention beds, in standard form there being enough for six people. The tare mass of 1846kg and payload of 500kg makes the Expanda ideal for a wide range of tow vehicles. Like the Journey pop-tops, the Expanda is also available as an Outback version. 

Construction

Journey caravans and pop tops are all built the same way with most of the manufactured items done in-house. That starts with the hot dipped galvanised steel chassis, which is built with Rectangular Hollow Section (RHS) rails and drawbar. C-section steel, with a weight saving punched hole design, is used for the cross-section members. The bodywork is definitely not the ‘sticks n’ tin’ approach but one that uses vacuum bonded quad layer construction. An aluminium frame supports the structure which consists of internal 3mm polyester coated plywood board, high-density polystyrene foam for insulation, external 3mm composite board and finally, a fibreglass panel exterior. The latter, according to Jayco, used to be hail and dent resistant, as well as being easy to clean. 

Outback extras

Touring Journey caravans and pop-tops are all fitted with leaf spring suspension as standard. However, the Outback vans come with a few extras like Jayco’s JTECH 2.0 independent coil suspension. Fitted with coil springs, shock absorbers, stub axles and bearings that are suited to using a Lippert Sway Command. In addition, the Outback vans have higher ground clearance, off-road electric brakes and protective side aluminium chequer plates. 

The bottom line

There’s an almost bewildering array of caravans and pop-tops in Jayco’s Journey range but the benefit of that is that there’s something for everyone, ranging from a diminutive 12ft single bed pop-top to a six berth 22ft caravan. 

THE NEXT STEP

If you need help choosing your first RV or are considering upgrading your existing one, check out Jayco  range  available on TradeRVs today.

The sellers will be happy to help and answer any inquiries you may have about the products advertised for sale.

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• Australian Made
• Combined or Separate Shower & Toilet
• Combined Shower & Toilet
• Combined Shower & Toilet (Except for Bunk Layout Option)
• External Ensuite / Optional Internal Ensuite
• Folding Roof
• Full Height
• Full Height or Pop Top
• Made Overseas
• No Bathroom or Toilet
• Option - Combined Toilet & Shower
• Option (Combined Shower & Toilet)
• Option (Seperate or Combined)
• Optional Bathroom + Toilet
• Optional Off Road
• Portable Toilet
• Price Unknown
• Retractable Roof
• Semi Off Road
• Separate Shower & Toilet
• Sleeps Bed Options
• Sleeps Up to 5
• Unknown Size
• Unknown Type

Jayco Journey Pop Top 17.55-9 Touring

Approx price: $56,490.

Journey Pop Top 17.55-9 Touring is a caravan by Jayco and is a caravan that is categorised as being Off Road and can sleep at least 2-3 people .

Click here to find the best price on the market for a Journey Pop Top 17.55-9 Touring by Jayco.

Journey Pop Top 17.55-9 Touring by Jayco is rated as Off Road in terms of capability.

Basic specifications:, is journey pop top 17.55-9 touring a top ranked caravan in australia.

So, when it comes to comparing Journey Pop Top 17.55-9 Touring with the rest, is it in the Top 10 Caravans in Australia? Is it in the Top 20 Caravans in Australia? Well, the best way to find out is to check our Current Australia Best Caravan Rankings and see if Journey Pop Top 17.55-9 Touring makes the list of most wanted Caravan in Australia!

Ready to buy an Journey Pop Top 17.55-9 Touring?

Head over to latest offers .

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River caravans dominator.

- Sleeps 2 - Unknown Size - Off Road - Separate Shower & Toilet - Full Height - Price Unknown - Made Overseas

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- Sleeps 8 - 16 Ft - Unknown Type - No Bathroom or Toilet - Pop Top - Price Unknown - Australian Made

• Price unknown

• Sleeps 2 - 4
• Sleeps 2 - 5
• Sleeps 3 - 4
• Sleeps 4 - 5

* NOTE: This website not affiliated with Caravans Australia or any governing body.

Caravans in Australia is an independent publication that evaluates caravans specs based on available data collected around the web. This website provides content, not advice. When choosing your caravan you should consider a variety of resoures when doing your research. This website is also independent of any government or council body. Web Development

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