Ladders are sometimes needed for vans, trucks, and other large vehicles to allow easy access to the roof. Ladders may be permanently mounted on the vehicle, or they may be stored in or on the vehicle to be used as needed. If there is a roof hatch, the ladder can be used from inside the vehicle.
Portable ladders
If you have room in or on your vehicle to store a telescoping/collapsible ladder, that may be the best option unless you need to go to your roof every day. A portable ladder may also come in handy at camp sites, to reach high branches, etc.
If the ladder is stored inside your vehicle (for example, in the "garage") then it is much less likely to be stolen. If you store a ladder on an exterior rack, you will probably need to use a lock or chain to keep it safe.
Permanently installed ladders
Vehicle-mounted ladders are available from a number of manufacturers.
Attached ladders can easily be worth their cost if you regularly need access to things on your roof, such as solar panels (to clean them or remove snow), roof decks for relaxation, or if you have roof-mounted storage of cargo, spare tires, etc.
Attached ladders do mean that anyone can climb up to your roof at any time, which is a liability for you. Depending on the laws in the local jurisdiction, someone who climbs on your vehicle and injures themselves could be your responsibility.
If your ladder is mounted on either side of your van, it most likely will cost you a non-negligible amount of fuel over the life of your vehicle, due to increased wind resistance. (See fuel efficiency for more information.) Side-mounted ladders are also more likely to snag on branches, etc. that you drive next to, especially if you regularly do off-road travel. Due to these disadvantages, side-mounting is generally not recommended unless the rear of your vehicle cannot be used due to other necessary items like hitch racks and other vehicle exterior features. Some rear-mounted ladders may prevent use of one of the rear doors.
Rooftop tent ladders
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Many rooftop tents and campers with a pop-up roof come with their own attached or removable ladder.
Ladder alternatives
Door latch steps are temporary footholds that are attached to the door latch of an open vehicle door, so you can get up to the roof with a small, removable step. These are probably the best option for those with smaller vehicles or limited storage space.
Ladders gallery
Additional photos of campervan ladders are available in the Ladders category.
