When it comes to campers, you can’t beat a Japanese pop-top, especially if you’re looking for a larger vehicle to fit your family in for a holiday.
Vehicles from Japan are often seen as extremely reliable and come at affordable prices, making them the perfect marketplace for you to find your first or latest campervan.
Here we explain what a pop-top camper is and look at the best options available on the market.
What is a pop-top camper?
A pop-top camper, sometimes referred to as a pop-up roof camper, is a campervan that has a collapsible roof section.It is raised to create additional headroom for cooking, changing and moving around easier inside the van, a sleeping platform for a bed or to fit guests, and to create more room in general.
Having the roof popped open also allows for better airflow and ventilation within the camper.
When the roof is lowered it makes the camper more compact for driving and provides a lower profile.
The elevated roof is on hinges that lift the van’s roof upwards either with a hydraulic system or gas struts whilst some are raised and lowered manually.
Best Japanese pop-top campers
The reason Japanese pop-tops are popular is because they’re compact in size, are generally more affordable and are extremely reliable. Here are some of the best on the market.
Mitsubishi Delica
We’re kicking off with one of the most famous Japanese manufacturers, Mitsubishi. The Delica is known for its off-road capabilities which makes it the perfect choice for drivers who are more accustomed to adventure holidays and like to go off the beaten path.
In fact many opt for a campervan conversion that retains the 4×4 capabilities of the original vehicle to get the best of both worlds.
The major downside to this camper is it can be more expensive than the others on this list, and parts can be somewhat hard to find should anything go wrong.
Mazda Bongo Friendee
The compact Mazda Bongo Friendee is almost always readily available and comes with a factory-installed pop-top roof.
It may be an older camper compared to others on this list, but there’s a reason why it’s so popular. It’s ideal for roadtrips, whether short or long, and you have the choice of the two-litre four-cylinder engine, the two-and-a-half-litre four-cylinder turbo diesel or the two-and-a-half V6 petrol version.
The back seats can be removed to create extra space, whilst the front seats can face backwards if need be. However, due to most models being very old now, you will need to carefully check everything is in working order when purchasing this eight-seater.
Nissan Elgrand
The Nissan Elgrand is a spacious converted camper that has a luxurious interior to make any fellow traveller feel like they’re in a private jet, making it perfect for those who value comfort high on their requirement list.
And it’s not just the interior that looks great, the exterior is supremely smart too, and with a three-and-a-half-litre V6 engine it can fit up to seven passengers depending on the chosen trim.
It has a keyless start and radar cruise control meaning it is one of the more technically advanced on our list. There’s even a speaker sound system and roof-mounted DVD screen to keep little ones entertained on the journey.
Toyota HiAce
Not typically a campervan, the Toyota HiAce can be converted into a pop-top camper easily and is made by one of the most reliable manufacturers in the world. It’s spacious, comes in various sizes and offers a lot of flexibility in terms of the layout and the amenities onboard.
It comes in various models including those with different roof heights, but comes with all the mod cons you need for a getaway including a dining and storage space, a sink area and a stove to make your meals.
Newer versions of this vehicle can be considered as quite expensive, which will provide a negative for some.
Nissan Caravan
The Nissan Caravan is another excellent choice for those who are looking to convert a van into a camper. This light commercial vehicle offers terrific balance, comfort, space and above all excellent fuel efficiency, making it perfect for those looking for short getaways.
The large cargo area and high-load capacity is the top reason why people opt for this van to convert, especially as it can come with an elevating pop-top roof.
Nissan also offers a factory-built camper version if you don’t fancy converting the caravan yourself.
Honda Stepwgn
This minivan is extremely popular in Japan thanks to its practicality and versatility. The fifth generation of the Stepwgn seats eight people and looks rather stylish whilst doing so.
A popular choice for campervan conversions, some models are specifically designed with a pop-top roof, offering extra headroom and sleeping space. These conversions commonly feature a rock and roll bed and a side conversion making them ideal for camping and recreational activities.
The Stepwgn is one of the more popular Japanese camper imports in the UK, meaning you are able to pick one up without the added hassle of paying import fees.
What to consider when choosing a Japanese campervan
- Budget: Prices vary greatly based on model, age and condition
- Size and layout: Determine your spatial needs for sleeping, cooking and storage
- Off-Road capability: For adventurous explorations, prioritize good ground clearance and four-wheel drive
- Parts availability and maintenance: Research the ease of sourcing parts and servicing the van in your location
Insuring your Japanese pop-top camper
Insuring a Japanese import will require specialist insurance, that’s where Adrian Flux can help. We can tailor a policy to you and your needs, removing any unnecessary fuss.
Not only do we offer comprehensive imported car insurance, we also offer insurance specifically for Japanese imports.
Call 0800 369 8590 for a swift, no-hassle quote or book a callback at a time that suits you.
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