Jayco Expanda - Guide to buying second hand

Don't have a spare $60,000+ to splurge on a brand-new Jayco Expanda? Not to worry! Many people opt to buy second-hand instead. And with our help, it's easier than ever!

In this guide to buying a second-hand Jayco Expanda, we go over:

• The pros and cons of the different models of Expanda

• What you should look for when inspecting a used Expanda

• The price ranges for different year models of Expanda.

• How to earn a return on your Expanda by hiring it out through Camplify

As always, we also suggest that you “try before you buy”. Hire a Jayco Expanda on Camplify before committing to your second-hand purchase. This is the best way to ensure that you’re choosing the best make and model for your camping needs.

Choosing a second-hand model of Jayco Expanda

Jayco Expandas are known as a ‘hybrid’ caravan. The signature feature of an Expanda is its ability to expand internal living space by having fold-out beds at the front and rear of the van. A favourite with families, this innovative caravan is compact when towing and amazingly spacious when set up. Depending on the layout and sizing option, the larger models will comfortably sleep up to eight people.

Expandas come in a number of different variations, but can be broadly categorised within the following models:

• Expanda Touring Pop-Top

• Expanda Touring Full Height

• Expanda Outback Pop-Top

• Expanda Outback Full Height

There are a few important questions that you should ask yourself before you even begin to think about buying a second-hand Jayco Expanda. Some of these include:

• What features do you need in your Jayco Expanda?

• What is your budget? (see section on “Jayco Expanda Prices” below)

• Are spare parts for that model of Expanda still readily available?

• Calculate how much money can you make from hiring it out privately

Let's break down the difference between each model so that you can buy the best second-hand Jayco Expanda for your needs.

Pop-top Expanda

A pop-top Expanda has a collapsible roof for easier towing and storage. When setting up a pop-top Expanda, the roof is extended to its full height using special hydraulic arms and has strong canvas walls.

Pros

• Easier to store in garages or covered driveways

• Less drag (more fuel-efficient)

• Cheaper to buy

• Light weight

• Easier to tow than full-body vans

• Good ventilation

• More of a camping/outdoors feel

Considerations

• Weaker structure and more parts that can get broken

• Pop-top is susceptible to leaks

• Longer set-up time

• Reduced internal storage due to a lack of cupboards at eye level

• Less insulation (hot in summer and cold in winter)

• Can’t fit roof-top aircon

• Can be quite noisy. Not suitable for light sleepers.

• Less security

• Lower resale value

Full-body Expanda

The full-body Expanda is taller and heavier than the pop-top model and has a solid roof. It offers better insulation (temperature and sound) as well as more internal storage.

Pros

• More internal storage

• Faster setup and pack-down time

• Less susceptible to leaks

• Stronger build

• Better for longer trips

• Larger range of layouts

• Rooftop aircon

• Quieter

• Better insulation

• More security

• Higher resale value

Considerations

• Harder to store

• More expensive to buy

• Less fuel-efficient than pop-tops

• Require powerful tow-vehicle due to weight

• Harder to tow and reverse

Standard (touring) Expanda

The standard or ‘touring’ Jayco Expanda model is built for use on regular sealed roads. It comes with basic specifications that are suited to camping in holiday parks and other areas that don't require driving over unstable surfaces.

Pros

• Cheaper to buy

• Lighter to tow

• Good value

• Easier to tow

• Has everything a young family needs

Considerations

• Less ground clearance

• Lower resale value

• Can't handle bumpy roads well

• Not as tough as Outback models

Outback Expanda

The Jayco Expanda Outback model is an upgraded version of the touring model and is built for unsealed roads and off-grid camping. The extra clearance offers more peace of mind when towing the caravan up and down steep embankments, over branches and even through water. However, note that the Outback Expanda model does have its off-road limitations.

Pros

• Higher ground clearance

• Higher resale value

• Checker plate provides extra protection

• Bigger wheels

• Off-road hitch

• Off-road wheels and tyres

• Independent suspension

• Bigger, stronger chassis

• Usually come set-up with solar power

Considerations

• Heavier

• More expensive

Checklist for buying a used Jayco Expanda caravan

Essential questions to ask the owner before an inspection

Once you’ve found a second-hand Jayco Expanda that takes your fancy, speak with the owner before arranging an inspection. A quick conversation can reveal a lot about the state of the caravan. Ask the following questions during your phone call:

• How many people have owned the Expanda?

• How long have they owned it?

• Where has it been stored?

• Where has it been used?

• Are there any issues with the Expanda?

• What extras have been fitted to the caravan and how much are they worth?

• Do they have the service history and relevant certificates?

If you’re happy with the answers and the owner sounds honest, go ahead and set a time to view the Jayco Expanda. Inform them that you would like to take the caravan for a test drive and your inspection will likely last an hour at least. Also, tell them that you would like to view all the documentation when you arrive.

Inspecting the exterior of the Jayco Expanda

Damage

Perform a quick walk around and look for any damage to the exterior of the Jayco Expanda. The things that you should be particularly wary of are signs of an accident, repairs, scratches, chips, dents, hail damage, bowing, repainting or loose parts hanging off (particularly underneath).

Leaks

Look for sealant around the windows, doors and ventilation hatches. This would indicate that water may have leaked into the caravan. Also, look for any leaks or pools of fluid underneath the caravan, which could indicate a problem with the plumbing.

Windows and windscreens

Check the condition of windows and make sure they open and close properly. Keep an eye out for cracks or chips in the glass. Ensure that there are no holes in the bug screens.

Suspension and axles

Check underneath the Expanda for signs of damage, rust, cracks or deformation of the suspension or axles. Also, check whether the body of the caravan leans to one side, which may indicate damaged or worn suspension.

Underbody

Check under the caravan and inspect the water tanks, wiring, piping and underfloor condition. Does the caravan look as though it has been off-road when it isn't supposed to be (e.g. the touring model)? Has it been through sand, water or muddy areas? Is the chassis in good condition?

Tyres

Have a look at the tyres and the amount of tread remaining. Ensure that the spare tyre is included. If the tyres are in poor knick, this can be a useful bargaining tool for you when it comes to negotiating the price.

A-Frame

Look at the tow hitch on the Jayco Expanda and ensure that it is in good condition. Hook it up to a tow vehicle and check that the wiring, handbrake, chain and jockey wheel work properly.

Roof, solar panel and TV aerial

Don’t forget to inspect the roof for damage or leaks. Pay particular attention to solar panels and the TV aerial.

Awning

If the Expanda is fitted with an awning, wind it out and check for any damage to the fabric or the mechanical arms. Old and weathered awnings will likely need to be replaced, which can be an expensive exercise.

Lights

Ask the owner to help you check all the external lights on the caravan, such as the brake lights and indicators.

Electrics

Open the compartment where the battery and charger are kept and check the condition. If you have a multi-meter, you can check the charge of the battery. Ask the owner how old the battery is.

Gas

Open the compartment where the gas bottles are kept and check the condition. Turn on the gas and check for any leaks from the regulator or hoses.

Inspecting the interior of the Jayco Expanda

Cleanliness

One of the first things you should note when inspecting the interior of a second-hand Jayco Expanda is the cleanliness.

Are there any lingering smells from smoking, pets, mould or chemicals? Are there foul smells coming from the kitchen sink or the toilet that may indicate that the water tanks have not been cleaned or treated properly? Are there stains on the floor or walls? Are there any dead bugs or ants in the cupboards?

Damage

Give the interior of the Expanda a thorough lookover, keeping an eye out for any water damage, mould, discolouration, scratches, indents, holes or dodgy repairs. Pay particular attention to the areas around the ceiling, windows and vents, as well as inside storage cupboards and underneath the sofas and mattresses.

Beds

The bedding areas on the Jayco Expanda expand from the body of the caravan. Check for any damage to the bedding area when both expanded and stowed away. Feel the mattress and make sure it’s not moist, which may indicate a leaking canvas.

Kitchen

Inspect the kitchen and ask to test the various compliances, including the hob, grill, oven, microwave and fridge. It’s a good idea to ask the owner to turn the fridge on the day before you arrive, so it has time to cool. Ensure that there’s also a smoke alarm and fire extinguisher fitted.

Bathroom

If the Expanda has a bathroom, check that the appliances are working properly. Again, it’s best to ask the owner to turn the water heater on a few hours before you arrive so that the water has time to warm up. With the water pump turned on, check that the hot and cold water taps in the bathroom work (both sink and shower).

Storage

Open and close the storage cupboards and drawers in the Expanda, checking for broken latches or other damage.

Power sockets

Before you buy a second-hand Jayco Expanda, always check that the power outlets work. Plug an appliance into each socket and ensure they work.

Pop-top and expanding ends

Raise and lower the pop-top roof on the Expanda, ensuring that it opens and closes without any problems. Check the canvas for any signs of damage or discolouration. Do the same for the expanding bed ends.

Security

Open and close the door and make sure that the owner has the keys to lock the caravan.

Jayco Expanda prices

2002 - 2005 models

The 2002 - 2005 Jayco Expanda models are considerably cheaper to buy than later models but there are some considerations to keep in mind:

• Second-hand parts may be harder to source

• More susceptible to leaks (particularly the bed ends)

• Likely have suffered more wear and tear

• Fewer luxury features

• Lower resale value

• Cheaper to insure

The average price range for a 2002 - 2005 Jayco Expanda is as follows:

• Pop-top Outback = $17,000 - $25,000

• Full Body Outback = $25,000 - $35,000

• Pop-top Touring = $15,000 - $20,000

• Full body Touring = $20,000 - $30,000

2006 - 2009 models

The 2006 - 2009 Jayco Expanda models are fairly affordable and come with the following benefits:

• Fibreglass walls

• Hard lid over the bed ends from 2009 onwards

• Fairly decent resale value

• Jayco Millenium Chassis and Tough-frame

The average price range for a 2006 - 2009 Jayco Expanda is as follows:

• Pop-top Outback = $25,000 - $40,000

• Full Body Outback = $28,000 - $40,000

• Pop-top Touring = $23,000 - $35,000

• Full body Touring = $25,000 - $35,000

2010 - 2013 models

The 2010 - 2013 Jayco Expanda models sit within the middle of the pricing scale and come with the following benefits:

• All have hard lids over the bed ends

• Modernised technology

• New layout options

• Higher resale value

The average price range for a 2010 - 2013 Jayco Expanda is as follows:

• Pop-top Outback = $34,000 - $47,000

• Full Body Outback = $38,000 - $45,000

• Pop-top Touring = $28,000 - $42,000

• Full body Touring = $35,000 - $55,000

2014 - 2016 models

The 2014 - 2016 Jayco Expanda models sit toward the higher end of the price scale and come with the following benefits:

• Lots of modern features

• Better build quality

• New layout options

• Higher resale value

The average price range for a 2014 - 2016 Jayco Expanda is as follows:

• Pop-top Outback = $43,000 - $55,000

• Full Body Outback = $48,000 - $65,000

• Pop-top Touring = $40,000 - $50,000

• Full body Touring = $45,000 - $50,000

2017 - 2022 models

Jayco have stopped making the full body Expanda and now only offer a pop-top model. The 2017 - 2022 Jayco Expanda models sit at the highest end of the price scale but offer the most benefits:

• All the latest features

• Best layout options

• Highest resale value

• May still be covered under warranty

The average price range for a 2017 - 2022 Jayco Expanda is as follows:

• Pop-top Outback = $55,000 - $63,000

• Full Body Outback = $57,000 - $60,000

• Pop-top Touring = $50,000 - $63,000

• Full body Touring = $52,000 - $55,000

Hire before you buy a Jayco Expanda

Regardless of whether you want to buy a new or used Jayco Expanda, you can avoid investing in the wrong model by hiring out different options before you commit to buying one.

Once you’ve shortlisted your models, hire each for a few nights and test it out before purchasing your own. Does it meet your needs? Exceed expectations? Is there anything you’d change or an alternative model that is better suited to your style of camping?

Camplify is a platform that makes it quick and easy to arrange Jayco caravan hire. Simply enter your pickup location (plus heaps of optional filters) and search for Expanda’s for hire in your area.

To make life even easier for you, we’ve listed some of the best Jayco Expandas available for hire on Camplify:

• Jayco Expanda Outback (Forresters Beach, NSW)

• Jayco Expanda Outback (Calderwood, NSW)

• Family Adventures (Sydney, NSW)

• Jayco Expanda (Hawkesbury, NSW)

• Kungfu ExPanda (Kiama, NSW)

• Keeno # 4 (Myaree, WA)

• Keeno # 5 (Myaree, WA)

• Keeno # 6 (Myaree, WA)

• The Expanda (Werribee, VIC)

• New Expanda Outback (Coburg, VIC)

• Expanda Outback (Coburg, VIC)

• 2021 Jayco Expanda Outback (Coburg, VIC)

• Expanda Outback (Walkerville, VIC)

• Jayco Expanda (Yarrawonga, VIC)

• Eddy the Expanda (Tannum Sands, QLD)

• Expandables (Brisbane, QLD)

• Murray’s Expanda (Brisbane, QLD)

• Cairns Expanda (Mooroobool, QLD)

• Jayco Expanda (Redlynch, QLD)

Earn a return on your Jayco Expanda

The final factor to consider when buying a second hand Jayco Expanda is the money you can make when it’s not in use.

Instead of letting your caravan sit idly in the driveway, hire it out through Camplify and make money from the comfort of your own home. Jayco Expanda’s are in high demand amongst holidaymakers!

Why Camplify?

Each year, heaps of Aussies earn up to $10,000 by hiring out their campervan through Camplify. It provides a quick and easy way to generate long-term passive income and earn a return on their investment.

And the best part is, Camplify takes care of many of the expenses involved in hiring out your vehicle, including:

• Comprehensive hire insurance.

• 24/7 NRMA nationwide breakdown cover for hirers.

• Dedicated customer support.

• It’s completely free to list your van.

If you’re interested in making money from home after you retire from van life, why not try our earnings calculator and see how much income you could generate each year.