MAN TGE Roof Racks & VW Crafter Roof Racks
A roof rack is one of the most useful upgrades you can add to a campervan. Whether you're carrying bikes, recovery tracks, surfboards, solar panels or a roof box, a properly designed roof rack helps free up valuable interior space while making your vehicle more capable for longer trips and outdoor adventures. Roof racks are particularly popular on VW Transporter, VW Crafter, MAN TGE, Mercedes Sprinter and Ford Transit Custom campervans, where storage space is often at a premium.
Buying Guide: Choosing The Right Campervan Roof Rack
Not all roof racks are designed for the same purpose. Some systems use simple roof bars for mounting accessories such as roof boxes and bike carriers, while full platform roof racks provide a larger load-carrying area and multiple mounting points for additional equipment.
For campervans and adventure vans, platform-style racks are often preferred because they can support a wide range of accessories including awnings, LED lighting, solar panels, ladders and recovery gear. Many modern systems are also modular, allowing you to add or reposition accessories as your setup evolves.
Material choice is another important consideration. Aluminium roof racks are generally lighter, corrosion resistant and better suited to long-term outdoor use, while heavier steel racks can offer additional strength but may increase vehicle weight and fuel consumption.
What To Consider Before Buying A Roof Rack
The most common mistake campervan owners make is focusing solely on the rack's load rating without checking the roof load limit of the vehicle itself. Your van's roof capacity ultimately determines how much weight can be carried safely.
Vehicle compatibility is equally important. A roof rack designed for a VW Transporter will not necessarily fit a Volkswagen Crafter, MAN TGE or Mercedes Sprinter. Pop-top roofs may also require specialist mounting systems that allow the roof to continue operating correctly.
Think about what you actually need to carry. If you're only transporting occasional luggage, a roof box mounted to roof bars may be sufficient. If you're building an off-road campervan or overland vehicle, a full roof rack platform provides far greater flexibility for carrying expedition equipment.
Finally, consider wind noise, vehicle height and access. Adding equipment to the roof can affect aerodynamics and may increase overall vehicle height, which is worth remembering when using car parks, ferries and height-restricted routes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a roof rack or just roof bars?
Roof bars are ideal for mounting accessories such as a roof box or bike carrier. A full roof rack offers greater versatility and is usually better suited to campervan and overland builds.
Can I fit solar panels to a roof rack?
Yes. Many campervan solar panel installations are mounted directly to roof racks, allowing easier access and greater flexibility than bonding panels directly to the roof.
Are roof racks suitable for pop-top campervans?
Some are, but not all. Pop-top roofs often require dedicated roof rack systems designed specifically for elevating roofs.
How much weight can a campervan roof rack carry?
This depends on both the roof rack and the vehicle manufacturer's roof load limit. Always follow the lower of the two ratings.
Which vehicles do these roof racks fit?
Roof rack systems are available for many popular adventure vehicles including the VW Transporter, Volkswagen Crafter, MAN TGE, Mercedes Sprinter and Ford Transit Custom. Always check individual product compatibility before ordering.
