Campervan - do I need a pop-top roof?

Can a pop-top roof be retrofitted? 

This can of course be done. There are also quite good companies where this retrofitting can be carried out. However, you should think carefully about whether this is really necessary and whether you are prepared to invest this very high amount, i.e. whether the costs and benefits are in proportion (price at least €5,000).

For families with small children, for example, this pop-up roof is often worth its weight in gold. As long as the little ones are not yet ready to sleep alone outside in the tent, the advantage is obvious. There is enough space for 4-5 people in the vehicle. Only in conjunction with our VanEssa sleeping system in the lower section of the van, of course.

The gain in space and height should not be underestimated either. It is without question a pleasant feeling to get dressed standing up. Even in bad weather, you are not quite so cramped and it may be easier or longer to stay in the vehicle. 

All in all, it can be said that a van with a pop-top roof - such as the VW T5/T6 California Beach - is an excellent vehicle that has everything you need for camping. 

Nevertheless, from our point of view there are unfortunately also some Disadvantages of the roof, which we do not want to leave unmentioned:

Opening the vehicle can cause noise. It is often perceived as annoying if you cannot get a good night's sleep because there is a certain amount of noise on the campsite (and with the roof up, you are only allowed to stand on campsites).

The tent-like character of the sleeping area does the rest. Wind and rain also quickly create an uncomfortable feeling. Cold penetrates. Similarly, you should not simply close a wet roof. It is always advisable to wait until it is completely dry again, otherwise the fabric may start to mold. 

Please do not lose sight of the safety aspect. An open roof means that the vehicle is open.

We have found a few ways to get along very well without this pop-top roof. With our rear kitchen, you spend most of your time outdoors.
In conjunction with an awning (our recommendation: VAUDE Drive Van) you gain an incredible amount of space and, of course, protection from wind and weather. In combination with the matching Inner tent children or other people can also find a place to sleep close to the vehicle, protected by a mosquito net.

Getting dressed and changed also works wonderfully on the swivel passenger seat, for which you don't necessarily need standing height. 

In conclusion, it can be said that a pop-top roof is clearly an advantage for a certain target group. However, if you, like most campers, are only traveling as a couple, a Bed at the bottom of the Vehicle the best solution.