Pop-Top vs High Roof: Which is Best for Your VW Transporter Campervan?
When it comes to converting your VW Transporter into the ultimate campervan, one of the biggest decisions you’ll make is choosing between a pop-top roof or a high roof. It’s not just about looks! Your choice will affect how your van handles, how much space you have, and even the kind of adventures you can take it on.
In this guide, I’ll break down everything you need to know about pop-tops and high-tops, from driving experience to fuel economy, storage, and convenience. Plus, I’ll share my personal recommendation to help you find the roof that fits your travel style best.
Driving Experience
When it comes to hitting the road (or the trail), pop-tops and high-tops have some key differences in how they handle. Let’s break it down!
VW Transporter pop-tops
If you like zipping through winding roads or tackling bumpy trails, a pop-top might be your best bet. With the top down, the van has a lower center of gravity, making it feel stable and sure-footed, even on sharp turns or uneven terrain.
Plus, its compact height means fewer worries about low branches or tight spots, making it ideal for off-roading or squeezing into urban parking spaces. Bonus? The pop-top’s aerodynamic design means you’re less likely to feel the push-and-pull of crosswinds when cruising down the highway.
VW Transporter high-tops
High-tops, on the other hand, bring a little more height, so you’ll face some trade-offs. The fixed roof raises the van’s center of gravity, which can make it feel a bit top-heavy during quick maneuvers or sharp turns.
And yes, in my experience crosswinds can be a bit more noticeable, especially on wide-open highways or breezy bridges. That said, a well-balanced interior setup can help keep things stable. Distribute your gear thoughtfully, and you’ll be good to go.
The bottom line
Basically, if you plan to take the van on some backroad trails, a high top probably isn’t for you. I’ll also say that I recommend a pop top for people who aren’t used to driving vans. It can be pretty scary taking corners or driving in wind with a high top if you’re not used to a top-heavy vehicle.
Convenience
Time is precious, especially when you’re on the road chasing adventures or finding the perfect sunset. Here’s how pop-tops and high-tops stack up in the convenience department.
Pop-Top for a VW transporter conversion
So, obviously a pop-top requires a little more set up than a permanent high top. But in all honesty, a well made pop top will make this so easy that it’s not going to be a hassle.
The Storm pop tops for VW Transporters that I install are stupid easy to set up and pack down – you can literally set it up in 10 seconds. The pack down takes a little longer, but even then it’ll be no longer than a few minutes and it can all be done from the interior of the van thanks to a pull strap and gas struts.
If you’re living in your van full-time and like to move around, though, the daily pack down might feel like an extra step – but hey, it’s a small price to pay for the versatility of a compact rig.
High-tops for a VW transporter conversion
High-tops are all about convenience when it comes to full-time living. The fixed roof means no setup required. Just park, and you’re good to go. The extra height and permanent space make everything a little more seamless.
That said, the trade-off is that you’re committing to a taller vehicle, which might limit access to certain spots (and adds a little more height stress when driving under low-clearance bridges!). Check out my ideas for small campervan layouts to get an idea of what might be best for weight distribution.
The bottom line
Quality pop-tops are easy to set up, but they do require an extra step for everyday van life if you plan on changing sites every day. If you’re just taking the van for shorter trips, this isn’t an issue. But full time van-lifers, especially the ‘grey nomads’ that might have back issues or limited mobility to handle the pop-top pack down, may prefer a high top for that reason.
Storage
Campervan pop-top storage
With a pop-top, the focus is on maximizing your living space when the roof is up, so there’s generally no storage in the actual roof. The elevated sleeping area frees up the main cabin, and you still get extra headroom and ventilation.
If you need more room for gear, rooftop storage is an option, but it’s best for lighter items like surfboards or a light bike because the weight capacity is usually limited. Another thing that will affect the storage space on your roof is solar panels. We can install both roof racks and solar panels on a pop top roof, but we have to plan ahead so it’s good to think about it now.
If you get custom furniture like we include in our VW campervan conversions, you’ll have plenty of storage space that maximises the spare space in the cabin.
Campervan high-top storage
High-tops offer more storage space than pop tops because of the permanent nature of them. You can install overhead cabinets, shelving, or even a second sleeping area, making them perfect for longer trips or full-time living.
The bottom line
High-tops offer better storage space, but in my opinion sometimes it’s honestly too much. The idea of van life is living minimally and simply, and I just don’t think all that extra storage space is always needed, especially for short trips. .
You will have heaps of cabin storage in a pop-top van as long as you build smart to maximise the space. This is especially true in a long wheel base (LWB) van.
Overall, in terms of storage I’d definitely recommend the pop-top for those who just plan to take short getaways in their van. But, if you’re planning on packing your whole life into the van and live there, the high top could be good for the extra storage space.
Fuel Economy
Let’s talk about something that’s always on our minds when hitting the road: fuel efficiency. Here’s how pop-tops and high-tops measure up when it comes to weight and aerodynamics.
Pop-tops for a VW Transporter campervan
Pop-tops are lightweights in the best way possible! Their lower weight means better fuel efficiency, especially when the top is closed. Plus, because they are more aerodynamic than the high tops so that helps to reduce drag too.
High-tops for a VW Transporter campervan
High-tops, on the other hand, carry a bit more heft. The fixed high roof and any added buildouts can make them heavier, which does impact fuel economy. The extra height also creates more wind resistance, so you might notice a bit more drag at higher speeds.
It’s not a dealbreaker for many, but something to consider if you’re planning long road trips or prioritising fuel savings.
The bottom line
Pop-tops win in the fuel efficiency department. That’s why when for those who plan on taking their vans on long-distance trips, I’d recommend a pop top. Trust me, you’ll notice the difference at the pump after the first few hundred kilometres!
Camping Experience
When it comes to the vibe and feel of your van life, pop-tops and high-tops each bring something different to the table.
VW Transporter pop-tops
Pop-tops offer that classic, adventurous camping feel that just can’t be beat. There’s something special about popping up the roof and feeling like you’ve transformed your van into a cosy little retreat.
One of my favourite things about Storm pop tops is their Scenic Canvas Upgrade. This lets you unzip the whole top for an incredible indoor/outdoor feel. Imagine sleeping under the stars or catching a summer breeze while still being sheltered. It’s perfect for summer camping and enjoying awesome views.
High-tops just can’t compete with that kind of immersive experience.
VW Transporter high-tops
High-tops are more about practicality than novelty. They’re functional and reliable, giving you a permanent, spacious interior that works for everything from rainy days to long-term living. While they might not have the same “wow” factor as a pop-top, their value is in everyday ease.
The bottom line
Pop-tops deliver on adventure and that unbeatable camping feel, especially with cool features like the Scenic Canvas Upgrade. High-tops focus on practicality, keeping things simple and functional. It’s all about what kind of experience you’re chasing!
Conspicuousness
Okay, so I know that some people in the campervan community don’t always stay in designated camping spots. The idea of ‘stealth’ camping is to discreetly park up for free in a public or private area and spend the night. If you’re planning on doing this in your van, your roof design will make all the difference.
Camping with a pop-top
Pop-tops are a stealth camper’s best friend! With the top down, your van looks like any other regular vehicle, which helps you fly under the radar when you’re parked in urban areas. Just keep in mind that if you pop the top, you’re instantly signaling “camper mode,” so stealth goes out the window.
Honestly, whenever I’ve had to camp in an urban area, I make sure that everything that requires my pop top to be up (cooking, organising, etc.) gets done super early. Then, I drive around with the top down, find a good spot and head straight to bed. That way, you won’t disturb anyone and you’re less likely to be disturbed.
Of course, if you sleep in your pop top and don’t have any other sleeping options in the main cabin, stealth camping won’t work for you.
Camping with a high-top
In my experience, high-tops are a bit harder to disguise. The tall, fixed roof gives away the van-lifer vibes immediately, making it more obvious that someone’s likely inside.
That said, with a well-designed, unassuming exterior, you can still get away with stealth camping in a lot of areas. Plus, the ability to move freely around inside while you’re parked up means it will be a lot more comfortable.
The bottom line
Pop-tops win the stealth game when the roof stays down. High-tops aren’t as subtle, but it can still be done if you’re lucky.
Basically, if you’re planning on traveling on a budget and don’t want to pay for campsites most nights, I’d recommend a pop-top with downstairs sleeping arrangements. That way you’re giving yourself the best chance of avoiding the dreaded midnight ‘knock-knock’.
Speaking of budgets, if you’re strating to wonder how much your VW campervan conversion should cost, check out my blog post where I do a deep dive on exactly that.
My Recommendation
When choosing between a pop-top and a high-top roof for your campervan conversion, the decision really depends on your travel style and priorities. Both have their strengths, but I’d strongly recommend a pop-top roof for most adventurers.
Pop-tops are unbeatable for their versatility, compactness, and iconic camping experience with upgrades like the Scenic Canvas for a true indoor-outdoor feel. They’re easy to drive, offering better fuel efficiency, a low profile and maneuverability. If you need to camp in urban areas, pop-tops can pass as regular vans to blend in.
High-tops shine when it comes to convenience and storage for full-time van-lifers. The permanent interior space and extra storage options make them ideal for long-term setups. However, they can feel a bit bulky on the road, and their less stealthy profile and impact on fuel economy might not suit everyone.
Personally? I’m all in on pop-tops – they combine the freedom of van life with an authentic, adventurous feel that just can’t be matched.
