What is the best van for tall people?

How tall travelers should evaluate a van

Height comfort starts with real interior headroom. Published specs list maximum standing height at the metal, not after flooring, insulation, wiring runs, and ceiling panels go in. Expect to lose two to four inches once a build is complete. Tall travelers near six foot six should target the tallest factory roof options and a slim build approach that preserves headroom.

Driving ergonomics matter as much as standing height. Look for long seat rail travel, adjustable steering reach, and generous pedal spacing. Test fit with boots on and check the knee angle, thigh support, and head clearance with the visor down. If your knees angle up or your helmet hits the headliner, longer seat rails or a different platform may be required.

Bed length is the other non negotiable. A standard twin is about 75 inches. Many adults over six foot two will touch both ends. Aim for an 80 inch sleeping surface at minimum. A lengthwise platform bed reliably hits that mark. Crosswise beds can work for tall people only if the van side walls are widened with flares that recover enough shoulder to shoulder length.

Vans with the most standing height

Among common platforms, Ford Transit high roof posts one of the tallest factory interiors at roughly 81 inches. That extra inch or two over others can be the difference between crowned posture and a natural stance after the build is finished. Mercedes Sprinter high roof sits around 79 inches and is popular for its driving dynamics, long wheelbase options, and flat walls that finish cleanly. Ram Promaster high roof typically measures about 76 to 77 inches inside, but its boxy shape and near vertical walls make cabinetry and crosswise sleeping easier, especially with flares.

Wheelbase also influences tall comfort. Longer wheelbases unlock layouts that keep the bed lengthwise without stealing space from the galley or lounge. They ride more smoothly but turn in a larger arc. If you are near the upper end of the height spectrum and plan to stand and cook inside, long wheelbase with a tall roof is a strong baseline.

Pop top roofs add standing height when open but do not change interior headroom with the roof closed. For full time living in variable weather, a fixed tall roof is more predictable for daily use. Roof raises exist but involve significant structural work, and the better answer for most tall travelers is choosing a factory tall roof and preserving height with smart build choices.

Real world interior height after the build

A typical insulated floor with sound deadener, foam, plywood, and finished surface can take one to two inches. Ceiling furring, insulation, wiring, and a finished panel can take an additional one to two inches. Add a ceiling fan trim ring and you have pinch points. On a van with 81 inches at the metal, a thoughtful build can finish around 78 to 79 inches at the center bays.

Seating and driver comfort checks

Sit with the seat fully back and test the recline without hitting the bulkhead or B pillar. Check head clearance with a cap or helmet. Confirm that your knee does not interfere with the wheel spokes when you brake. Many tall drivers prefer a Transit cockpit for knee and head space, while others like the Sprinter seat height and driving feel.

Shower, galley, and workspace heights

A tall person friendly shower should match your top reach and allow a relaxed stance under the fixture. Galley counters near 38 to 40 inches suit taller cooks, especially with thick soled footwear. If you work on the road, a bar height desk with a swivel seat can keep knees clear and shoulders neutral.

Bed strategies for tall sleepers

Lengthwise platform beds are the surest route to an 80 inch sleep length. Choose a mattress that fits your height without compressing into cabinetry. If you prefer a crosswise bed to save space, side flares can add four to six inches of width in the shoulder zone, bringing total sleep length near 78 to 80 inches depending on the van. A sliding extension or foot box over the galley can add a few more inches without crowding the main aisle.

Mind the tradeoffs. A taller garage under the bed lifts the mattress closer to the ceiling which can squeeze posture when sitting up. If you are six foot four or taller, keep the bed height as low as your cargo plan allows and prioritize a ceiling profile that preserves headroom over the pillows.

Fit the van to you with expert help

When you are ready to turn these measurements into a real layout, OZK Customs builds tall friendly vans that preserve standing height, dial in seat position, and hit true 80 inch sleep lengths. Explore our Recreational vans, see what is possible with a Custom build van, or start from a platform that finances through our Mainstream vans. We are based in Fayetteville Arkansas and hand off builds at Adventure Point so you leave fully oriented and road ready.

OZK designs around your height from the first sketch. We minimize floor and ceiling thickness, set counter and shower heights to your frame, and choose a platform that meets your standing and sleeping targets without compromise. Bring your measurements and a wish list, and we will map a layout that feels natural on day one and mile ten thousand.

Strong next steps

• Share your height, sleep length, and must have gear
• Tell us where you travel and how you cook or work
• Choose Transit, Sprinter, or Promaster based on your fit

You deserve a van that fits like a tailored jacket. OZK Customs will build the interior around your height and habits so every day on the road feels easy. Tell us your measurements and timelines and we will create a tall friendly plan that works.