The Best Roof Racks For Van Life – DIY and Store Options
When I built my DIY campervan I knew a roof rack would be a non-negotiable for me. It’s limited the number of holes I need to drill into my van roof because my outdoor lights, and solar panels are attached directly to my van’s roof rack.
A roof rack for van life has many benefits, including making it much easier to install lights, awnings, and solar panels, as well as for hauling extra cargo and building a roof deck.
There are many options when it comes to deciding on the best roof rack for your van. And, it can be a pricey investment and tricky installation. Don’t let that scare you, though! I installed my roof rack in an afternoon – it’s not as tricky as it seems and just requires some patience.
In this article I will:
- compare the best camper van roof racks
- explain the available accessories
- outline my DIY roof rack installation
- share some discount codes
- discuss what to consider when selecting a campervan roof rack
Disclaimer: This article features some affiliate links. I only endorse things I’ve personally used or that come highly recommended by trusted peers. If you purchase anything I mention using my referral links from Amazon, REI or other retailers I may receive a small commission. However, there is never extra cost to you. You can read more here. Thank you for your support.
1. Unaka Gear Co 8020 Roof Rack For Camer Van
The Unaka 8020 Roof Rack for vans is one of the best on the market, at one of the best prices.
Kits include roof rack mounting brackets, 4 cross cross bars and the side rails. Additionally, they allow for full flexibility to add to delete accessories in the future.
You’re also able to customize these roof racks with wind fairing, awning brackets and additional crossbars as needed.
Model Variations:
Mercedes Sprinter
Ford Transit
Ram ProMaster
Options & Add-Ons
Upgrades include an acrylic wind fairing, WeBoost antenna mount, tie downs, ladders, light bars, awning mounts and additional cross bars.
Because these roof racks are made from 8020 the potential additions are endless. I added eye-bolts to my 8020 roof rack in order to mount my MoonShade awning.
2. Aluminess – Touring Roof Rack
Aluminess roof racks are great for van life. They’re built with strong aluminum alloy tubbing which gives them durability while remaining lighter than most roof racks.
Installation is easy because they use the factory track mounts of your van. Even if you don’t have factory roof rails installed you are still able to remove the roof plugs and mount directly into your vans roofing structure.
Model Variations:
Mercedes Sprinter – 144 / 170 / 170 Extended
Ford Transit – 130 / 148 / 148 Extended
Ram ProMaster – 136 / 159 / 159 Extended
Options & Add-Ons
Touring comes with two flooring options: slats or a perforated sheet.
The slat floor is made of 3″ wide slats which will support your weight so you can walk or sit on your roof rack.
The perforated sheet is more like a full floor, but with less weight. This would be ideal if you’re looking to incorporate a roof deck on your van.
Aluminess also offers a ladder and a surf pole which install easily with the Touring roof rack for your van.
3. Aluminess – Weekender Roof Rack (Previously Named Double Loop)
The Weekender roof rack for camper vans by Aluminess is similar to Touring. Both are made with durable and lightweight materials and can be easily installed into the factory roof rails or roof plugs of your van.
The primary difference between the Weekender and the Touring is the front shape of the roof rack.
Weekender is an enclosed basket (previously named Double Loop basket) whereas the Touring has a front drop down which makes it more aerodynamic. If you’re planning to carry cargo on your roof the Weekender will have more ability to tie down and carry large objects.
Model Variations:
Mercedes Sprinter – 144 / 170 / 170 Extended
Ford Transit – 130 / 148 / 148 Extended
Ram ProMaster – 118 / 136 / 159 / 159 Extended
Options & Add-Ons
Just like Touring, the Aluminess Weekender offers easy intergration with the Aluminess ladder and surf hooks.
4. DIY Roof Rack For Camper Van (8020 Custom Build)
When I built my camper van in 2020 there weren’t as many affordable options for roof racks for camper vans as there are now, so I opted to install a DIY roof rack made from custom 8010.
The hardest part about this is figuring out the right dimensions and the correct fasteners. But, the installation is easy and you’ll save some money.
The second reason I chose a custom roof rack for my van is because I needed custom dimensions that would allow me to install my van roof vent fan at the far rear of my Ford Transit, which meant the roof rack needed to extend farther back than the out-of-the-box options would allow.
I chose to use 15-series 8020 extruded aluminum. The difference between 15-series and the more common 10-series is the width of the aluminum. 15-series is 1.5 inches thick while 10-series is 1 inch thick. Either will work, but 15-series will be stronger and most mounting brackets are made for 15-series so you’ll have an easier time finding the right parts.
The second challenge to my DIY roof rack was finding the right mounting accessory to attach the rack to the van’s factory mounting points. What I chose works, but it’s not ideal. There are better options now, like these Ford Transit DIY roof rack mounts from Unaka. They also sell brackets for Mercedes Sprinter roof racks and Ram ProMaster.
Next, you’ll need to decide how to connect the 4 perimeter sections of 8020 at the corners. I chose to cut at a 45 degree angle and use internal fasteners, but if I did another custom roof rack I would cut square 90 degree angles and use a corner fastener to attach the two pieces for more structural stability.
Materials List:
15 series 8020 lengths (4 sides + internal cross beams)
Corner fasteners
Mounting brackets
Slide-In T-nut to attach accessories
Internal fasteners for attaching cross beams to perimeter pieces
Miter saw with aluminum-grade blade for cuts
What To Consider When Choosing A Roof Rack For Camper Van
The best roof rack for your camper van is a personal choice based on several things, including how you plan to use it and what your budget is.
How you’ll use it
If you plan to have a roof rack, for example, you may choose to buy a roof rack that comes with slat flooring, like the Aluminess Touring roof rack.
However, if you plan to carry cargo on your camper van roof rack then the Aluminess Weekend is a good option.
Cost
Roof racks for van life can be extremely expensive. If you’ve got budget and don’t want to spend time on a DIY roof rack then opting for an out-of-the-box solution like the Unaka 8020 van roof rack is a good option.
Otherwise, you can save a few hundred dollars by going the DIY van roof rack route.
Weight
Weight is a primary consideration for all parts of a van conversion. Each van is rated for a maximum weight, so you have to consider every additional build component you add and whether it’s worth it.
Ultimately, the lighter the roof rack is the better gas mileage you’ll have, and the more choices you have for additional build components that won’t push you over your legal weight limit.
Installation
Installing anything on your van can be nerve wracking. Most roof racks make use of the factory mounting points on the top of your van, so no drilling is necessary! You’ll simply peel off the heavy-duty sticker to expose the mounting bracket and bolt into it.
Your vehicles BEMM (Body & Equipment Mounting Manual) can help you determine what capabilities your vehicle has for after-market changes. These are generally free downloadable PDFs you can google for your specific make and model.
Clearance
Clearance is so important to consider, especially if you’re already starting with a high-roof van. Any additional accessories you install to the top of the van will increase it’s clearance, and you’ll want to keep this in mind when driving under bridges, train tracks, and any road overhangs.
If you’re already nearing the limit for your desired clearance consider a low profile roof rack instead.
Accessories
If you want to add accessories, like a ladder, it’s important to make sure that the roof rack you are installing will be compatible with the accessories you’ll install later on.
Exclusive DIY Van Build Discount Codes!
Cuddy CompoCloset: $30 off with coupon code “EVERYWHERE30” | composting & sealing toilets
Trelino: $15 off with coupon code “EVERYWHERE15” | composting toilets
MoonShade: $30 off with coupon code “EVERYWHEREWITHCLAIRE” | portable camper awnings
VanMadeGear: 15% off with coupon code “EVERYWHEREWITHCLAIRE” | insulated window covers
MobileMustHaves: 5% off with coupon code “EVERYWHEREWITHCLAIRE” | mobile internet solutions
The Swivel Shop: 5% off with coupon code “EVERYWHEREWITHCLAIRE” | cab seat swivels
Heatso: 5% off with coupon code “EVERYWHEREWITHCLAIRE” | 12v heaters, AC, refrigerators, power systems, & more
Vancillary: 10% off with coupon code “EVERYWHERE10” | headliner shelf & door stop kits
SimpliSafe Security System: 50% off automatically with this link | with smoke, temperature & water leak alarms
Necto Pet Temperature Monitor: 10% off with coupon code “EVERYWHERE”
MarCELL Pet Temperature Monitor: $10 off with coupon code “EWC10”
I’ll also send occasional emails with new sales, discounts and other goodies!
You missed Orion Van Gear roof racks! Oregon made, model specific and form fitted! Love my sprinter rack with full roof deck of modular panels and walkable solar!!! Also has built in rear lighting which none of these other racks have!
Hi Anthony! Thanks for your note. Unfortunately, I specifically do not recommend Orion Van Gear anymore because of their business practices & ethics. I only recommend companies and products I would buy from myself.