More and more vanlifers are choosing to install a camper van pop up roof—and for good reason. Not only is it a practical upgrade, but it also adds a whole new level of comfort to your van life experience.

With a pop up roof, you can stand up inside your camper and enjoy breathtaking views right from your bed in the morning. It expands your living space, adds much-needed headroom, and often includes an extra sleeping area—perfect whether you’re on a short road trip or living full-time in your van.

That said, adding a camper van pop up roof isn’t something to take lightly. The installation process requires a clear budget, some technical know-how, and often, the help of experienced professionals.

In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know before installing a pop up roof on your camper van. We’ll cover the key requirements, the estimated costs, and also recommend certified installers who can get the job done right.

Why Install a Camper Van Pop Up Roof?

A camper van pop up roof is a foldable structure that can be added to the top of your van. Depending on the model, it opens and closes either manually or with an electric system.

When parked, you can lift the roof to create extra headroom inside your van. This added vertical space makes a huge difference—especially in smaller vans like the Renault Trafic or Volkswagen T6. It turns a compact vehicle into a much more livable space.

The comfort boost is especially noticeable on longer trips, where being able to stand up and move around freely really improves daily life on the road.

When driving, the roof stays closed and flush with your van’s body. That means your vehicle keeps its compact size, making it easier to park, drive, and stay stealthy.

It’s the perfect solution for vanlifers looking to combine comfort and mobility.

✅ Benefits of a Camper Van Pop Up Roof

Installing a camper van pop up roof comes with a number of practical benefits:

• Better ventilation: Most camper van pop up roofs include mesh windows or vents. This helps air circulate and improves overall ventilation. In fact, these roofs are often considered a form of permanent high-level ventilation (source: equipage-camper-van.com).

• More standing room: One of the biggest advantages is the increased headroom. You can stand up comfortably, cook, and move around inside your van with ease.

• Extra sleeping space: A pop up roof often includes a built-in bed, making it ideal if you’re traveling as a couple or with friends. It’s a smart way to maximize the interior space in compact vans.

• Keeps your van low-profile: When the roof is closed, your van maintains its original height. That means you can still access low-clearance parking garages and avoid extra highway tolls—especially in Europe where vehicle classification matters.

❌ Drawbacks to Consider

Of course, while a camper van pop up roof has plenty of perks, there are also a few downsides you should keep in mind.

• The cost: Pop up roofs can be expensive, especially if you go for a high-end model. Plus, professional installation is often required, which adds to the overall price.

• Choosing the right setup: Not all pop up roofs are created equal. To avoid issues like leaks or premature wear, it’s important to compare different models and work with a trusted installer.

• Maintenance is a must: A pop up roof needs regular care and upkeep to stay in good shape over time.

Types of Camper Van Pop Up Roofs

There are several types of camper van pop up roofs, each with its own design and benefits.

3 Main Styles of Pop Up Roofs for Camper Vans

Front-Hinged Pop Up Roof

Let’s start with the most common and classic option: the front-hinged camper van pop up roof. As the name suggests, it opens from the front of the van.

This setup creates more headroom toward the front of the vehicle—typically around the sliding door area. It’s a popular choice because it usually includes an extra sleeping space in the roof, which is a big plus when you’re traveling with others.

Rear-Hinged Pop Up Roof

Another option is the rear-hinged pop up roof. This one opens from the back, giving you extra standing height in the rear section of your van or camper.

It also often comes with a built-in bed. This layout works well if your main living space—or kitchen area—is located toward the rear of your van.

Mushroom-Style or Full-Length Pop Up Roof

Finally, there’s the mushroom-style pop up roof, also called a full-length pop up roof. It opens upward evenly, either across most of the van’s roof or just a specific section—usually toward the front.

Unlike the front- or rear-hinged models, this type of roof doesn’t offer a sleeping area. It’s designed purely to add standing height when the van is parked. This style became popular thanks to Westfalia and is often found on vintage VW T3 camper vans.

Pop up roofs can be either manual or electric. Manual models are generally more affordable, while electric versions offer more convenience—but come at a higher price.

Top Camper Van Pop Up Roof Brands

Some camper van pop up roof manufacturers are better known than others—and for good reason. These brands are known for producing high-quality, reliable products.

Here are a few of the most trusted names:

• REIMO
• SCA
• Sky Up
• Moon

Well-established brands like REIMO and SCA offer pop up roofs for a wide range of camper vans and utility vehicles. They have product lines to suit various budgets, from entry-level options to premium setups.

Most importantly, many professional installers across Europe are certified to work with these brands. That means you can count on expert installation and long-term support when you choose a reputable manufacturer.

Requirements for Installing a Camper Van Pop Up Roof

Legal and Regulatory Considerations

Before installing a camper van pop up roof, it’s important to understand the legal requirements that may apply.

First of all, contrary to what some might think, installing a pop up roof doesn’t necessarily require reclassifying your vehicle or changing its registration—at least not in many European countries. If the roof is installed by a certified professional, no modification to the vehicle’s registration (gray card) is required.

If you’re planning to go through a full camper van certification process—like the VASP Caravane classification in France—to officially validate your full interior conversion, the addition of a pop up roof won’t be a problem. Most roofs on the market are certified and meet current safety standards.

Professional installers will also provide all the necessary documentation, including:

• Manufacturer approval for cutting the roof and support beams
• CE certification for the installed pop up roof
• An invoice proving that the installation was completed by a certified professional (Source: FLV Van)

Which Vehicles Are Compatible with a Camper Van Pop Up Roof?

Not every vehicle is suitable for a camper van pop up roof installation. Your van must have a strong enough structure to handle the necessary roof cut-out and the added weight of the pop up system. Vehicle weight is also a key factor—going over the legal limits can be a real issue, especially when the van is fully loaded.

Here’s a list of some of the most compatible and popular vans for installing a pop up roof:

• Volkswagen Transporter T5, T6, T6.1 & Multivan
• Renault Trafic, Opel Vivaro, Fiat Talento
• Nissan NV300 & Primastar
• Peugeot Expert & Traveller
• Ford Transit Custom
• Citroën Jumpy
• Mercedes Sprinter
• Fiat Ducato, Citroën Jumper, Peugeot Boxer
• Volkswagen Crafter

These models are well-suited for this kind of modification. Their design and structural integrity allow for a safer, long-lasting installation. On top of that, many certified installers are experienced with these specific vehicles, making the process smoother and more reliable.

How Much Does a Camper Van Pop Up Roof Cost?

Installing a camper van pop up roof is a significant investment—but one that pays off in terms of comfort, space, and overall quality of van life.

Average Price of a Camper Van Pop Up Roof

The price of a camper van pop up roof depends on several factors: the brand, the roof style, and any additional features you choose. On average, prices range from €3,000 to €8,500 (around $3,200 to $9,000).

• Basic models without extra features typically start around €3,000.
• High-end models, which may include extra windows, premium materials, or better insulation, can go up to €8,500 or more.

Before making a decision, it’s important to think about how you’ll use your van. If you travel occasionally, a simpler roof might do the job. But if you’re living in your van full-time, a more advanced, better-insulated model could make all the difference in daily comfort.

Installation Labor Costs

In addition to the price of the roof itself, you’ll also need to factor in labor costs for the installation. It’s highly recommended to hire a professional for this job—improper installation can lead to leaks, structural issues, or even compromise your vehicle’s safety.

Installation fees generally range from €1,000 to €2,000 (roughly $1,100 to $2,200), depending on the complexity of the work and the installer you choose. Some companies offer all-inclusive packages that combine the roof and installation costs. These bundles can be a smart choice to avoid unexpected expenses.

All in all, you should expect to spend around €7,500 (about $8,000) on average for both the camper van pop up roof and its professional installation.

Installing a Camper Van Pop Up Roof

Installing a camper van pop up roof is a technical process that requires specialized skills. To ensure both safety and long-term reliability, hiring a professional is highly recommended.

Why You Should Hire a Professional

Doing the installation yourself might seem like a good way to save money—but it comes with serious risks. A poorly installed pop up roof can lead to leaks, structural issues, or even damage to your van.

Several vanlifers who attempted DIY installations have ended up with water infiltration, misaligned roofs, or worse. These types of mistakes are not only expensive to fix but also stressful and time-consuming.

Hiring a professional guarantees a clean, secure installation. Certified installers have the experience and tools to make precise cuts, seal everything properly, and follow all safety standards. Many companies also offer warranties on both parts and labor, and they’ll provide all the documents you need for legal or resale purposes.

In short, working with a pro gives you peace of mind and a result you can trust.

Trusted Professional Installers in France

If you’re based in France or traveling through Europe, here are some well-known professionals who specialize in camper van pop up roof installations:

• Mécacamp – Located in Chavelot (88), they offer custom van, 4×4, and camper conversions, including pop up roof installation.
• Van System – Based in Monteux (Vaucluse), they focus on camper van conversions and are certified for pop up roof installations.
• FLV Van – Located in Martigues (13), they offer full van conversions, electrical installations, insulation, and certified roof installs.
• Anjou Van Équipement – Based near Angers, in Tiercé, led by Jérôme Germain—a true vanlife enthusiast with expertise in pop up roofs.
• Van and Roof – Located in Bains-sur-Oust (35), this company specializes exclusively in pop up roof installations for various vehicle models.
• SCA Distributors – If you’re interested in an SCA pop up roof, their certified installers are available throughout Europe. Check their website for the full list.

These companies are known for their expertise, but it’s always a good idea to request a personalized quote before making a decision.

How Long Does Installation Take?

Getting a camper van pop up roof installed may take some time. The waiting period can vary depending on parts availability and the installer’s schedule. If the parts are in stock, you might get an appointment within a few weeks. However, due to high demand, delays of several months are not uncommon.

Once your appointment is set, the actual installation typically takes about one week. During that time, your van will stay at the installer’s workshop, so make sure to plan your travel schedule accordingly.

Post-Installation: What to Check

After your new roof is installed, a few checks are essential to make sure everything works as it should. Most importantly, inspect the roof’s waterproofing—especially after heavy rain—to make sure there are no leaks.

If anything seems off, don’t hesitate to contact the installer. Most professional installations include a warranty, so any issues should be covered.

Conclusion

Adding a camper van pop up roof to your van or camper is a smart way to expand your living space—without changing the size or profile of your vehicle.

That said, proper planning is key. From budgeting and understanding legal requirements to choosing the right installer, every step matters if you want a safe and long-lasting result. Working with a certified professional ensures quality workmanship and peace of mind for the road ahead.

So, take the time to think your project through. Decide which type of pop up roof fits your needs, and don’t hesitate to request quotes from several installers to compare prices and services.

If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment or reach out to us by email: [email protected].

👉 What do you think of the pop up roof concept? Would you consider adding one to your camper van build?

See you soon,
Johanna & Gabriel