A VW Bus, colorful curtains, music from the radio and pure freedom: This is what many hippies’ dreams looked like in the 70s. Back then, the VW Bus symbolized more than just a vehicle: it stood for a way of life, for adventure and community. People traveled across the country, parked on the beach or in the middle of the forest and lived the real feeling of independence.
The VW Bus – whether T3, T5, T6, T7 or the electric version with the VW ID Buzz – is a cult classic again today and brings back the special spirit of the 70s. However, with a new trend: Instead of sleeping on mattresses in the interior, the classic is now being turned into a fully-fledged camper with a roof tent. A modern upgrade for the iconic lifestyle of yesteryear – with more comfort, more space and the same desire for adventure.
Camping Guide
Summary – VW Bus Roof Tent
🛌 Sleeping space above the bus: Comfortable, dry and with a perfect view – pure freedom!
🌍 Road trips & Festivals: Stay overnight spontaneously, whether by the lake, in the mountains or directly on the festival grounds
🎒 More space in the bus: Inside there is space for luggage, kitchen or cozy lounge
⚡ Quick setup: Ready to go in 1-3 minutes – more time for adventure, less stress when camping
🌿 Retro feeling meets comfort: Classic Vibes, modern roof tent, perfect combination for nature, friends and unforgettable trips in your 20s and 30s
VW Bus & Roof Tent: Why they belong together
The VW Bus is a cult classic. Back in the 70s, the “Bulli” was the symbol of a generation that simply wanted to drive off – with friends, guitars and an open destination. It was colorful, loud, free and always a little imperfect. That’s exactly what made it so special.
But anyone who has ever slept in a VW Bus knows that the feeling of freedom rapidly decreases, especially when you squeeze into the bus with several people. In the past, the back seat was converted into a mattress, but it was rarely really comfortable. Today there is a simple solution: the roof tent.
A VW Bus roof tent transforms your vehicle into a fully-fledged home for all your trips. You sleep on the roof after a hike or a day at a festival, while there is space below for a kitchen, equipment or simply cozy evenings.
Regardless of whether you drive a VW T6, T5, T7 or the legendary T3 – roof tents can be mounted on almost any model. This also applies to the new, fully electric VW ID Buzz! The best thing about it: The iconic character of the VW Bus remains, the camping feeling becomes more modern. More comfort, less effort – and the same freedom that your parents or grandparents loved.
You can discover all roof tents here!
Road Trips & Festivals with the VW Bus Roof Tent
Road Trips:
The very word “hotel” makes you cringe. Logically: Real outdoor types also want to experience real nature and not lie bored and cramped by the hotel pool.
But campsites often have to be booked in advance, and the real outdoor adventure feeling is lost here too. With a roof tent, you can stay overnight exactly where you like!
In the morning you wake up with a view of the lake, in the evening you sleep under the stars. The built-in mattress ensures cozy nights, the ventilation protects against moisture and you have the ultimate view of nature and freedom. If you want, somewhere different every day!
Festivals:
Anyone who has ever camped at a festival knows that a dry, safe place to sleep is worth its weight in gold. With a roof tent, you sleep directly on your VW Bus, far away from the mud and hustle and bustle. And the best thing about it: The VW Bus with a roof tent is an absolute eye-catcher on any festival grounds.
Your Advantages at a Glance:
- Sleeping space in 1–2 minutes
- No lugging around tent poles
- Drier, safer and more comfortable than ground tents
- Cult status guaranteed – VW Bus + roof tent = unbeatable combination
You can find out more about roof tent installation on the Bulli or VW Bus here.
Top 5 advantages of a VW Bus roof tent
More comfort when camping:
A roof tent offers an integrated mattress, good ventilation and insect protection. You sleep peacefully, dry and away from the ground, perfect for any season.
More freedom when traveling:
Whether on road trips through Germany or camping vacations in Italy: A roof tent lets you stop, sleep and continue driving at any time.
More space in the vehicle:
While you sleep upstairs, the interior of your VW Bus remains free for luggage, a kitchen or a small lounge.
More sustainability:
A VW Bus roof tent enables minimalist travel. No hotel, no large CO₂ footprint, no unnecessary luxury – just you, your bus and nature.
More lifestyle:
A Bulli with a roof tent is more than just practical, it’s a statement. Retro meets modern technology, nostalgia meets a thirst for adventure.
Practical tips for everyday life with the VW Bus roof tent
Installation & roof load:
Before you install your roof tent, check the permissible roof load of your VW Bus:
- VW T3/T7: approx. 75 kg
- VW T5/T6: 100–150 kg
- VW ID Buzz: approx. 100 kg
Choose a high-quality roof rack system that can safely support the weight of the tent and people. CAMPWERK offers suitable roof racks for roof tents, ideal for VW buses and Bullis.
Care & Longevity:
After every camping trip: let the tent dry, check the zippers and tarpaulins. Store in a dry place in winter. This way your roof tent will remain your faithful companion for many years.
Extra tip for the real van life feeling:
With colorful curtains, carpets, LED fairy lights or a hammock, you can create the perfect retro atmosphere. Thanks to the additional space in the vehicle, you can always have your camping equipment – chairs, cookers, guitars – within easy reach.
Checklist: Which VW Bus roof tent is right for you?
Different types of travelers, different roof tents! Find out which model is the perfect companion for your next adventure:
The Good Vibes roof tent from CAMPWERK: for freedom lovers and minimalists
Suits you if…
…you prefer to travel with light luggage
…you value design and an open view of nature
…you are traveling as a couple and like it cozy but uncomplicated
Discover Good Vibes roof tent here!
The X-Cover roof tent from CAMPWERK: for sports enthusiasts and adventurers
Suits you if…
…you enjoy surfing, cycling or generally love a lot of outdoor action
…you are looking for a roof tent that is robust and quick to setup
…you are traveling with friends or family (up to 4 people)
Plenty of space, stable construction and extra crossbars for your equipment – the all-round carefree tent for active people.
Discover X-Cover roof tent here!
The Skycamp roof tent from Campwerk: for connoisseurs and family people
Suits you if…
…you like to look at the stars in the evening
…you appreciate comfort and space when camping
…you are traveling with several people
Discover Skycamp roof tent here!
Conclusion
A VW Bus roof tent is probably the easiest way to turn your Bulli into a real motorhome, without any conversion stress or complicated technology. You always have your bed with you, sleep elevated and protected from the weather and don’t need an extra campsite with a power connection.
It is particularly important that the roof load and roof rack match your model – whether T3, T5, T6, T7 or modern variants such as the VW ID Buzz. Most roof tents weigh between 50 and 80 kilos, so it’s best to check your vehicle’s specifications in advance.
The setup also differs: hard-shell roof tents are particularly quick to use, while folding tents offer more space. And of course, with all the thirst for adventure in nature or at festivals, comfort also plays a role – from the integrated mattress to ventilation, everything is possible here.
In the end, you decide what is more important to you: more space or less weight, more luxury or more flexibility. The VW Bus is more than just a car – it’s a way of life. A VW Bus roof tent from CAMPWERK stands for freedom, flexibility and a thirst for adventure. Or, in short: It’s not an accessory – it’s your key to unforgettable trips and memories in the 70s spirit.
Frequently asked questions about the VW Bus roof tent
1. Does every roof tent fit my VW Bus?
Most roof tents from CAMPWERK are compatible with VW buses. Just pay attention to the roof load and a suitable roof rack system.
2. What is the roof load of a VW Bus?
For the VW T3 and VW T7 it is usually 75 kg, for the T5/T6 between 100 and 150 kg and for the VW ID Buzz 100 kg.
3. Can I drive with the roof tent open?
No, the roof tent must be completely closed and secured when driving.
4. How long does it take to setup a roof tent?
Depending on the model, between 1 and 3 minutes – without any tools.
5. Is a roof tent waterproof?
Yes, CAMPWERK roof tents are weatherproof and offer reliable protection even in heavy rain.
6. How many people fit in a VW Bus roof tent?
Depending on the model, between two and four people – ideal for couples, friends or small families.
7. Do I need special roof racks?
Yes, they must match the roof shape of your VW Bus. You can find the right roof racks here.
8. Can I also use a roof tent in winter?
Yes, many roof tents are suitable for winter use. A good mattress and insulation layer provide warmth.
9. Is a VW Bus roof tent difficult to install?
No, with two people the roof tent can be safely installed in a short time.
10. Where can I find more information or prices?
You can find all models, prices and technical details in the CAMPWERK online shop for roof tents.
