First-Time Buyer? Here’s What You Need to Know About RV Layouts

Buying your first RV is an exciting milestone—but it also comes with a lot of decisions. One of the most important? Choosing the right layout for how you want to travel.

From compact camper trailers to spacious caravans, there’s a configuration to suit every lifestyle. But if you’ve never owned a van before, the choices can be a little overwhelming. Fixed bed or fold-out? Rear ensuite or central bathroom? Bunks for the kids or open-plan luxury?

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key layout options, what they’re best suited for, and what to consider before you commit—so you can find the perfect fit for your adventures

1. Think About How You Travel

Before looking at floorplans, take a moment to think about your travel style. This helps narrow your options and ensures your caravan suits your real-world needs.

Ask yourself:

• Will you travel solo, as a couple, or with kids?
• Are you planning quick weekends away, or long-haul road trips?
• Do you prefer staying at powered caravan parks, or venturing off-grid?
• How much indoor space do you need for relaxing or dining?

The answers to these questions will guide your choice between a more compact pop top, a versatile camper trailer, or a full-size caravan

2. Layouts for Couples

If you’re travelling as a couple, you have a wide range of layout options. A popular choice is a front or island queen bed with an ensuite at the rear—ideal for privacy and comfort.

Great layouts for couples:

• Front bed + centre kitchen + rear ensuite
• Side dinette with convertible bed for occasional guests
• L-shaped lounges for extra living space

Best suited to:
Couples who want comfort, storage, and easy towing.

Explore options in our pop tops and compact caravans for maximum liveability without compromising mobility.

3.Kitchen and Bathroom Location

Where the kitchen and bathroom are positioned can significantly affect your comfort and movement through the van.

Kitchen options:

• Centre kitchens offer great flow and balance
• Rear kitchens often come with more bench space
• External kitchens are perfect for summer and alfresco living

Bathroom options:

• Rear ensuites allow for full-sized layouts and more privacy
• Combo bathrooms (shower + toilet in one room) save space in smaller vans

Choose what matches your routine—if you love to cook or travel off-grid, a well-equipped kitchen and ensuite bathroom are worth prioritising.

4.Fixed Bed vs Convertible Bed

A fixed bed gives you instant comfort without setup—but it takes up space full-time. A convertible bed (such as a dinette or club lounge that folds down) can maximise living space during the day.

Fixed Bed Pros:

• More comfortable mattress
• Always ready to use
• Great for full-time travellers or longer trips

Convertible Bed Pros:

• More room for seating and meals
• Ideal for compact vans and weekenders
• Saves space when travelling light

If you’re looking at pop tops or camper trailers, convertible beds are usually part of the layout—whereas most caravans will feature a fixed bed

5.Storage Space and Accessibility

It’s easy to underestimate how much storage you’ll need. Think about whether you’ll be packing for a weekend or a month, and look for layouts that accommodate your gear accordingly.

Smart storage options include:

• Under-bed storage and overhead lockers
• Wardrobes and drawers for clothes
• Full-height pantry space
• External hatches for camp chairs and tools

For many first-time buyers, storage can be the make-or-break difference when choosing between layouts or upgrading from a camper trailer to a caravan

6.Don’t Forget Towing Weight and Tow Vehicle Match

Different layouts come with different weights. Make sure your layout choice is matched to your tow vehicle’s legal limits (and comfort).

• Know your GVM, ATM, and TARE weights
• Balance load distribution for safe towing
• Consider single-axle vs tandem axle designs

Chat with your Jayco dealer to make sure the layout and size you love works with your current vehicle setup.

Find the Perfect Layout for You

The best layout is the one that fits your life, your travel style, and your budget. At Jayco, we offer a wide variety of layouts across our camper trailers, pop tops, and full-sized caravans—each designed with practical Aussie travel in mind