Pop Top Camper Van Essentials: What You Should Know Before Buying

Pop top camper vans are among the favorite favorites of every type of adventure-seeker—weekend warriors, road trippers, and full-time van lifers. Combining small size with the versatility of additional headroom and sleeping area, a pop top camper van converts a regular van into an adaptable home on wheels. There are quite a few very crucial things to look at before you make any kind of commitment—layout, usability, or upkeep and expense in possessing a pop top camper van.

Here's your ultimate guide to learning van pop-top basics prior to purchase.

1. What Is a Pop Top Camper Van?

A pop top camper van is a roof extension mechanism van, typically canvas-sided, which can be opened up to create additional interior space and provide standing room or additional sleeping space. When it is not in use, the pop top closes down, maintaining the aerodynamic shape of the van and making it convenient to drive and park.

Pop top vans come in many shapes and configurations, from factory conversions like the VW California or Ford Transit Custom Nugget to one-off builds on platforms like the Mercedes Sprinter, Ram ProMaster, or Ford Transit.

2. Advantages of a Van Pop Top

There's a reason van pop-top design has been so popular over the decades. Some of the key advantages are:

More Headroom: A pop-top has room to stand up straight, which allows for simpler cooking, dressing, or stretching.

Extra Bedspace: Many pop tops feature a sleeping loft, which can sleep two additional individuals, perfect for families or guests.

Compact and Inconspicuous: Folded down, a pop top camper van travels with a low profile, which is perfect for city parking and less apparent overnight stops.

Improved Aerodynamics: Pop tops tend to be aerodynamic compared to high-roof vans, which, in turn, equates to improved gas mileage.

Versatility: Pop top vans accommodate both long and short trips since they can be easily fit into every type of traveling style.

3. Pop Top Roof Types

Pop tops are not the same. Learn about different pop-top mechanisms below:

Rear-Hinged Pop Top: Blinds from the rear, forming a sloping roof area—perfect for bed areas and ventilation.

Front-Hinged Pop Top: Blinds from the front, typically utilized to provide a raised standing area close to the kitchen or lounge area.

Electric Pop Tops: Controlled by a switch or remote, electric models provide convenience but could be more maintenance-heavy.

Manual Pop Tops: Simpler and more dependable, they need human effort in order to lift and put down the roof.

Select a model that is most suitable for your use, access, and comfort needs.

4. Look at the Build Quality and Materials

Examine the materials that make up the pop top and verify them prior to buying. Weather-resistant canvas or vinyl walls, robust zippers, sufficient weatherproofing, and a heavy-duty lifting mechanism are vital to comfortably be able to utilize the van long-term.

Don't forget to inspect:

Waterproofing and insulating in the pop-top walls

The zippered windows' bug screens

Robust bed platforms if you will be sleeping in the roof

A secure locking feature when closed

These information can make or break your camping adventure, especially during extreme climatic conditions.

1. 5. Ventilation and Climate Control
2. Pop tops provide excellent ventilation through mesh windows but will also be chilly in colder weather. Choose those with optional insulation kits or thermal liners. Diesel or propane heaters are also found in some camper vans that circulate warm air into roof space, which is a good thing for four-season use.
3. 6. Maintenance and Durability
4. While pop tops are easy to maintain, they must be inspected from time to time for wear and tear. The fabric or canvas must be conditioned and cleaned periodically to prevent mold and damage caused by the sun's UV rays. Lifting struts, hinges, and seals must be lubricated and inspected from time to time.

Make sure that the pop top was installed by a certified upfitter or manufacturer. Defective installations will cause leaks, rattles, or structural issues.

7. Cost and Value Consideration

A pop top camper van will generally be more expensive than a regular van but less expensive than a high-roof camper van fully converted. The ultimate cost will be determined by whether the van has a factoryinstalled pop top, is a DIY constructed vehicle, or was upfitted by a third-party conversion firm.

Pop-top used vans are a huge money-saver, but always inspect the roof mechanism and inspect for leaks or damage.

Final Thoughts

A pop-top van exposes a whole new world of adventure and comfort. With the ability to sleep more people, stand inside, and drive incognito, it's a genius option for those who want to hit the highway without spending an arm and a leg on a ginormous RV or high-roof configuration.

Before buying, make sure to consider your travel lifestyle, budget, and future circumstances. Whether weekend beach escapes or full-time van dwelling, a pop top camper van could be perfect for you and your travels.

At BTR Outfitters, we're passionate about helping you experience the great outdoors in style and comfort. We're your one-stop shop for everything you need to make your next adventure unforgettable, whether you're a seasoned camper or just starting.