What is a High-Top in a Campervan?
A high-top is a permanently raised roof fitted to a van conversion, providing standing headroom without any raising/lowering mechanism. Unlike pop-tops, high-tops offer full insulation and security of solid construction, and you can move around inside while driving (though seatbelt laws apply). High-tops are common on larger campervans and small coachbuilts. They come in various styles from subtle raises to full coach-height roofs. The trade-off is a taller, bulkier vehicle that cannot access height-restricted areas, uses more fuel, and looks more obviously like a campervan.
Advantages
- Permanent standing headroom
- Full insulation
- Secure solid construction
- No raising/lowering needed
- Can move around while stopped
Considerations
- Cannot access height-restricted areas
- Less aerodynamic
- Higher fuel consumption
- More obvious as a campervan
- Harder to manoeuvre in tight spaces
Best For
Popular Campervan Layouts
Frequently Asked Questions
Typically 2.5-3m depending on base vehicle and roof style. Always check height and know your clearance for bridges and car parks.
Yes, they increase wind resistance and raise the centre of gravity. Most drivers adapt quickly, but they are less car-like than pop-tops.
Yes, companies specialise in adding high-tops to standard vans. It is a significant investment and affects vehicle weight and warranty.
Related Terms
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