Benefits of a Pop-Top Roof for VW Transporter Campervans
When it comes to making the most of van life, a pop-top roof is one of the best upgrades you can add to your VW Transporter campervan. From creating extra sleeping areas to improving ventilation and headroom, a pop-top roof takes your van from cramped to cosy and functional.
In this blog, I’ll share why pop-top roofs are such a game-changer for VW Transporter owners. Whether you’re traveling as a family, a couple, or solo, you’ll discover how this simple upgrade can make your van life easier, more flexible, and a whole lot more enjoyable.
You Get Two Extra Sleeping Spaces
One of the biggest perks of a pop-top roof? It turns your campervan into a two-story sleep haven! When popped up, the roof creates a cosy, elevated sleeping area perfect for two people, like a little hideaway above the main cabin.
This is a game-changer for families or groups traveling together. Clients always tell me their kids absolutely love it (it’s like having their own fort), and it frees up the main sleeping area for adults. No need to squeeze everyone into one space or mess around with pitching a tent beside the van after a long day. Just pop the top, and voilà, instant sleeping quarters!
The sleeping platform up top typically measures around 6 feet long by 4 feet wide (that’s roughly a small double bed), which in my experience is pretty comfortable for two adults or a couple of kids. Many pop-tops also come with a foam mattress, offering a comfortable night’s sleep while still being lightweight and easy to lift.
So if you’re road-tripping with the kids, bringing along friends, or just wanting a little extra room to stretch out, a pop-top roof gives your campervan the space it needs without feeling cramped. Plus, let’s be honest, having a second “bedroom” on wheels honestly feels pretty cool!
Pop Tops Give You Better Headroom
Let’s face it—hunching over while trying to cook or get dressed in a campervan isn’t exactly fun. That’s one of the biggest reasons I recommend a pop top installation to customers.
When you pop the roof up, it creates loads of extra headroom, letting you stand upright inside your van. Trust me when I say that this extra space makes everyday tasks so much easier. Think about it: cooking, getting changed, organising all your gear. These tasks get annoying super fast when you’re crouched over.
In my experience, it’s the kind of upgrade that turns your campervan into a much more comfortable living space. Because let’s be honest, being able to stand up straight is one of those small things that makes a big difference when you’re living life on the road.
Improved Ventilation
One of the underrated perks of a pop-top roof is how much it improves airflow in your campervan. Most pop-tops come with mesh windows built right into the canvas, giving you plenty of ventilation without letting in bugs or debris. This fresh airflow makes a huge difference, especially when you’re cooking inside the van. In fact, I’d go as far as to say it’s essential.
If you’ve ever tried frying bacon or boiling pasta in a tightly sealed space, you’ll know how quickly things can get hot, steamy, and, well, a bit smelly! With the pop-top open, the air circulates naturally, keeping the van cool, fresh, and odor-free.
But I should also note that good ventilation isn’t just about comfort, it’s also key for preventing mould and dampness in the van, particularly if you’re travelling in wet or humid weather. Mould is one of the big nightmares of van life because of how hard it is to ward off, so ventilation is key here.
A Pop Top Roof Opens Up More Layout Options
Another thing I love about pop tops on VW transporters is that it gives you a lot more flexibility when you’re designing the layout of a VW conversion.
Most times, without the extra headroom and ventilation of a pop top, the kitchen unit is better off at the back of the van so that you can stand outside to cook. Of course, this isn’t as convenient as cooking inside the van and becomes a nightmare once the weather turns.
Aside from the kitchen unit, it can also restrict layout options needing a sleeping area in the main cabin. Some of my favourite VW conversions that we’ve done at Cosmic Campervans are ones that use the pop top roof as the main sleeping area while keeping the cabin for seating, dining, storage and cooking. It’s a super cosy set-up that’s only possible with a pop top roof.
Pop Tops Improve the Resale of VW Transporters
If you’re thinking about the long-term value of your VW Transporter, adding a pop-top roof is a smart investment. Not only does it make life on the road more comfortable, but it also significantly increases the appeal and resale value of your campervan. In fact, campervans with pop-tops often sell quicker and at a higher price than those without.
VW Transporters are popular vans to convert to campers and are already highly sought-after in the campervan market. This is thanks to their iconic design, reliability, and versatility. Adding a pop-top roof takes your van to the next level, transforming it into a fully functional camper. The extra sleeping space and headroom is a real drawcard for buyers.
Plus, a pop top roof is probably the biggest cost of a VW conversion (both money and time-wise), so having one already installed is more attractive to buyers that aren’t looking to do any conversion work themselves.
So, whether you’re planning to keep your van for years or eventually upgrade to a newer model, a pop-top roof is a win-win. You get to enjoy all the benefits now, and when it’s time to sell, you’ll be glad you made the upgrade!
Pop Tops are Low Profile Compared to High Tops
One of the most practical advantages of a pop-top roof is how it maintains the compact height of your VW Transporter when it’s down.
Unlike other roof modifications, the low-profile design means your van still fits in standard garages, under low bridges, and in parking spaces with height restrictions. For urban explorers or anyone who frequently parks in tighter spots, this is a huge plus.
In my opinion, that’s the key difference between pop-tops and fixed high-top roofs. While high-tops also add sleeping space and headroom, they sacrifice maneuverability and can’t make it under height restrictions most of the time. In my experience, not being able to go where you want, when you want can be a real pain in the long run.
A pop-top roof, on the other hand, gives you the best of both worlds: expanded space and functionality when parked, and compact, easy handling on the road. It’s the perfect choice for anyone looking for a more versatile campervan experience without compromising mobility.
If you want to learn more about the difference between high tops and pop tops roofs, check out my blog!
Upgrade Your Camper with a Pop-Top Roof
Transform your van into a multi-level living space. Pop-Top Roofs add a second sleeping area and more space.
Creates Flexible Living Areas
Okay, so my last point here is that pop-tops don’t just give you extra space, they completely transform the vibe of your campervan. By lifting the roof, you let in more light and fresh air, instantly making the interior feel brighter and more welcoming.
In my opinion, there’s also nothing that beats waking up in a pop-top roof bed. When you’re parked in a spot with a good view, being able to enjoy it from the comfort of your bed is unmatched.
In a pop top, you’re greeted by fresh air, natural light, and the feeling that you’re really in the great outdoors. And you just don’t get that experience when you sleep in the main cabin.
Now, if you really want to take things up a notch, the Storm Pop-Top Scenic Upgrade is an awesome option. This feature lets you completely unzip the canvas, opening up the roof for maximum airflow and stunning panoramic views.
It’s perfect for warm summer nights when you want to feel the breeze, watch the stars, and enjoy nature without ever leaving the comfort of your campervan. It’s the kind of experience that makes van life unforgettable.
Easier To Drive And Manoeuvre
One of the biggest perks of adding a pop-top roof to a VW Transporter is that it doesn’t compromise the van’s overall driveability. I’ve driven plenty of pop-top campers, and the key advantage is that they stay relatively low-profile when the roof is closed.
This keeps the van’s aerodynamics intact and makes weaving through narrow city streets or tackling multi-story car parks much less stressful. It can sometimes be difficult when driving in the inner city if you are making a stop through the city.
If you’ve ever tried parking a tall camper in a tight spot, you’ll know how frustrating it can be. With a pop-top, you won’t have to worry about those dreaded “low clearance” signs or feeling like your van is a giant sail on the motorway.
Clients often tell me how much more confident they feel when driving a pop-top camper compared to full-height conversions. It just handles more like an everyday vehicle, especially if you’re dealing with windy roads or crosswinds.
Enhanced Natural Light
There’s nothing quite like waking up in your camper to soft morning sunlight filtering in (if you know then you know) and that’s exactly what a pop-top roof provides. Most pop-tops come with built-in mesh windows and zippered openings that let the light flood in while giving you the flexibility to control ventilation and privacy.
When I’m out on the road in my VW Transporter, I always appreciate how the pop-top creates an open, airy feeling inside the van. It’s a game-changer, especially when you’re parked up in scenic spots (BTW here’s my guide to the best road trips in the UK), think of coastal cliffs or forest clearings and want to enjoy the views without stepping outside.
A client once told me they didn’t expect the pop-top to make such a difference to the light, but after their first trip, they couldn’t imagine going back to a dark, closed-in space.
Adding natural light makes the whole interior feel bigger and more inviting. If you love the idea of a cosy-yet-bright camper setup, a pop-top is definitely the way to go.
Transform Your VW into the Ultimate Camper
Save yourself the headache and let us do the heavy lifting! We’ve converted over 500+ VW Transporters.
Key Takeaways
A pop-top roof truly elevates the VW Transporter campervan experience – literally! This is honestly one of the best upgrades you can make to your campervan, and I would recommend it to anyone that has the budget. It’s a practical upgrade that adds comfort, versatility, and a cozy vibe that makes life on the road feel like home.
So whether you’re planning weekend escapes or full-time adventures, a pop-top roof is the ultimate way to make your campervan work for you. Trust me, once you experience it, you’ll wonder how you ever traveled without one!
If you’d like to leave the task of installing your VW pop top roof to the professionals, get in touch with us!
