POPTOP CAMPER VAN CONVERSIONS
Discover the freedom of extra space, stunning views, and unmatched versatility with a pop-top van built for every adventure.
Pop-top camper van conversions for extra headroom and sleeping space. Stealth camping, better fuel economy, fits in standard garages.
Frequently asked questions
What is a pop-top van conversion?
A pop-top is a fiberglass roof section that raises on gas struts or an electric motor to create additional headroom and an upper sleeping platform. When lowered, the van sits at stock height for stealth parking and better fuel economy. Most pop-tops can be opened or closed in under 30 seconds.
How much does a pop-top conversion cost?
Pop-top installations range from $18,000 to $25,000 depending on manufacturer, van model, and options like electric lift. This covers the unit, professional installation, and electrical integration into your van's system.
What are the benefits of a pop-top vs a high-top?
A pop-top offers stealth (looks like a regular van when closed), better aerodynamics and fuel efficiency, the ability to fit in parking garages and under drive-throughs, and less added weight. A high-top provides permanent standing height but is always tall and less fuel efficient.
Can you sleep in the pop-top area?
Yes. The pop-top platform provides a full sleeping area, typically large enough for two adults. This effectively doubles your sleeping capacity and frees up the lower level for living space during the day.
More Questions
Is a pop-top waterproof?
Yes, when properly installed. Quality pop-tops use weather-sealed gaskets and a convex fiberglass shape that sheds water naturally. Periodic inspection of seals and zippers is standard maintenance to ensure long-term weather resistance.
How much headroom does the pop-top add?
Most pop-tops add between 24 and 30 inches of headroom when fully raised. On a low-roof Sprinter or Transit, this provides enough height for most people to stand comfortably in the area under the raised section.
Can you add a pop-top to any van?
We install pop-tops on Mercedes Sprinter and Ford Transit low-roof and mid-roof models. We work with manufacturers like SCA, Sportsmobile, and Colorado Camper Van. Not all van models are compatible, so we help you determine the best fit during the design process.
How well insulated is a pop-top in cold weather?
The canvas walls insulate less than solid van walls, so the upper sleeping area will be cooler on cold nights. A good sleeping bag plus a diesel heater running below makes a big difference. Pop-tops are best suited for three-season use, though many owners use them year-round with proper heating.
Why choose a poptop van?
Extra headroom when you need it
The pop-top raises to give you full standing height inside the van, then lowers flush for driving and parking in garages.
Stealth and aerodynamics
When closed, a pop-top van looks like a standard vehicle. Lower profile means better fuel economy and the ability to park anywhere.
Dual-level living space
The elevated sleeping platform in the pop-top frees up the entire lower level for kitchen, seating, and gear storage during the day.
Panoramic views and ventilation
Sleep under the stars with canvas side panels that open for fresh air and unbeatable views from your elevated bed.
Why choose a poptop
For van lifers, adding a pop top to your van is a game-changer, whether you're looking for extra headroom, sleeping space, ventilation, or like many of us—all of the above. With an array of options available, it's important to understand the features, benefits, and costs of each option.
We will work with you to select the pop-top that best suits your needs. We can explore SCA, Poprak, Sportsmobile, or Colorado Camper Van's rooftop sleeping options so you can decide which one is best for your build.
Built for fun, designed for exploration
Whether it's beachside camping or mountain escapes, pop-top vans offer the ultimate combination of practicality, comfort, and breathtaking views. The raised roof creates a breezy sleeping loft while the lower level stays fully usable as your living space.
Maximize your van life with a pop-top
Add versatility, comfort, and panoramic views to your travels with a pop-top—the perfect upgrade for any adventure-ready van. Our builds integrate the pop-top seamlessly with your electrical, heating, and ventilation systems.
Elevate your journey
Discover the freedom of extra space, stunning views, and unmatched versatility with a pop-top van built for every adventure. From weekend getaways to full-time living, the pop-top transforms a standard van into a spacious home on wheels.
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Pop-top van conversions by The Vansmith
A pop-top van conversion gives you the best of both worlds: the compact footprint and stealth of a standard-height van with the standing headroom and extra sleeping space of a high-roof when you need it. At The Vansmith, we have been building pop-top vans in Boulder, Colorado since 2016, working with leading manufacturers like SCA, Sportsmobile, and Colorado Camper Van to deliver a finished product that integrates seamlessly with your full build.
Our pop-top installations are not bolt-on afterthoughts. Every pop-top we install is part of a complete conversion that includes insulation, electrical integration, interior finishing, and weather sealing. The result is a van that drives like a car, parks in any garage, and opens up into a spacious living and sleeping space at camp.
Pop-top vs high-top: which is right for you?
The choice between a pop-top and a high-roof van comes down to how you plan to use the vehicle.
- Stealth and parking: A pop-top van sits at stock height when closed. It fits in parking garages, under drive-throughs, and blends in on city streets. A high-roof van is always tall.
- Fuel economy: Lower wind resistance when closed means noticeably better fuel economy on highway drives compared to a high-roof.
- Sleeping capacity: The pop-top platform adds a second sleeping area, effectively doubling your bed space without lengthening the van.
- Standing height: A high-roof provides permanent standing height everywhere inside. A pop-top gives standing height only when raised, and primarily in the area under the raised section.
- Weight: Pop-tops add less weight than a full high-roof conversion, which helps with payload capacity and handling.
What to expect from a pop-top installation
A professional pop-top installation involves cutting the factory roof, fitting the pop-top unit, sealing and finishing the edges, and integrating it with your van's electrical and ventilation systems. Here is what we include:
- Manufacturer selection: We help you choose between SCA, Sportsmobile, Colorado Camper Van, and other manufacturers based on your van model and needs.
- Professional installation: Our team handles the full cut-and-fit process with factory-level precision.
- Weather sealing: Gaskets, canvas, and drainage channels are installed to keep rain and wind out.
- Electrical integration: Lighting, fans, and optional heating in the pop-top area are wired into your main electrical system.
- Interior finishing: The pop-top area is insulated and finished to match the rest of your build.
Ready to Start Your Build?
Our team in Boulder is ready to help you design the perfect van for your lifestyle.
Or call us at (303) 414-6834 · info@thevansmith.com
Frequently asked questions
What is a pop-top van conversion?
A pop-top is a fiberglass roof section that raises on gas struts or an electric motor to create additional headroom and an upper sleeping platform. When lowered, the van sits at stock height for stealth parking and better fuel economy. Most pop-tops can be opened or closed in under 30 seconds.
How much does a pop-top conversion cost?
Pop-top installations range from $18,000 to $25,000 depending on manufacturer, van model, and options like electric lift. This covers the unit, professional installation, and electrical integration into your van's system.
What are the benefits of a pop-top vs a high-top?
A pop-top offers stealth (looks like a regular van when closed), better aerodynamics and fuel efficiency, the ability to fit in parking garages and under drive-throughs, and less added weight. A high-top provides permanent standing height but is always tall and less fuel efficient.
Can you sleep in the pop-top area?
Yes. The pop-top platform provides a full sleeping area, typically large enough for two adults. This effectively doubles your sleeping capacity and frees up the lower level for living space during the day.
More Questions
Is a pop-top waterproof?
Yes, when properly installed. Quality pop-tops use weather-sealed gaskets and a convex fiberglass shape that sheds water naturally. Periodic inspection of seals and zippers is standard maintenance to ensure long-term weather resistance.
How much headroom does the pop-top add?
Most pop-tops add between 24 and 30 inches of headroom when fully raised. On a low-roof Sprinter or Transit, this provides enough height for most people to stand comfortably in the area under the raised section.
Can you add a pop-top to any van?
We install pop-tops on Mercedes Sprinter and Ford Transit low-roof and mid-roof models. We work with manufacturers like SCA, Sportsmobile, and Colorado Camper Van. Not all van models are compatible, so we help you determine the best fit during the design process.
How well insulated is a pop-top in cold weather?
The canvas walls insulate less than solid van walls, so the upper sleeping area will be cooler on cold nights. A good sleeping bag plus a diesel heater running below makes a big difference. Pop-tops are best suited for three-season use, though many owners use them year-round with proper heating.
