VW California Accessories 2026: The 15 Best Upgrades for Your Bulli
The VW California comes well-equipped from the factory – but with the right accessories, it becomes the perfect travel vehicle
Whether T6.1 or the new T7: The VW California is one of the most popular campervans on the market. And despite its high standard equipment, there are many areas where aftermarket accessories add real value. Organization, security, comfort – these 15 upgrades are worth it for every California owner.
1. MOLLE Board for the Tailgate
The MOLLE Board is a classic among van upgrades. Mounted on the tailgate, it instantly creates accessible storage space for tools, outdoor gear, and camping accessories. Compatible pouches, bags, and brackets can be flexibly attached and rearranged. The 040parts MOLLE Board is made from 2 mm aluminum (AL 5052 H32) – lightweight, stable, corrosion-resistant. Weight: approx. 1.2 kg. Compatible with T5, T6, T6.1, and T7.
2. Tailgate Support Strut
The VW California tailgate can only be fully opened as standard. In low-ceiling garages, underground parking, or tight parking spaces, this is a problem. A tailgate support strut allows the door to be held in multiple positions – from slightly ajar to fully open. Practical in rain, when you want to limit the covered living area.
3. Lashing Rail System
Cargo securing is essential in van life – not just legally under traffic regulations, but also for safety. A lashing rail system in the cargo area allows you to safely secure bicycles, boxes, bags, and camping gear. Once installed, it's flexible to use: lashing points can be shifted and adjusted.
4. Roof Box Adapter for the California
If you transport a lot of outdoor equipment, the California quickly reaches its capacity limits. A roof box adapter that's compatible with the standard railing system expands your storage space without taking up interior room. Important: Only mount the roof box with approved carriers.
5. Rear Seat Protector
Dogs, wet swimwear, muddy shoes – the rear seat area of the California takes a beating in everyday use. Matching seat protector mats protect the original upholstery and are mounted and removed in minutes. Water-repellent, non-slip, and ideally also usable as a dog blanket.
6. Cooler Box Mounting Bracket
A portable compressor cooler is part of the standard setup for many California drivers. A fixed bracket that secures the box while driving and keeps the power connection accessible makes using it much more convenient. 040parts offers suitable brackets for all common cooler models.
7. Outdoor Kitchen Module
Cooking in the open air is van life. But stoves never really stand securely on wobbly camping tables. An outdoor kitchen module that attaches to the tailgate or rear area creates a stable cooking surface with space for pots, spices, and utensils. Optionally with an integrated sink.
8. Window Covering and Blackout System
Sleeping in the California works well with the original roof – but the side windows and windshield let in light and cold. Custom-made thermal insulation mats made from aluminum foam combine insulation and blackout. Almost essential for winter campers.
9. Additional Battery System (LiFePO4)
The California's standard equipment includes a secondary battery, but its capacity is limited. If you want to camp off-grid for longer or run power-hungry devices (compressor cooler, laptop, camera equipment), you'll benefit from an additional LiFePO4 battery. A 100 Ah LiFePO4 provides more capacity with less weight than AGM lead.
10. Bicycle Rack for the Towbar
To the trail with the California and back – that's easiest with a towbar-mounted bike rack. Foldable, for 2–4 bicycles, with lighting. Important: Check the permissible towbar load rating (varies depending on engine on the T6.1).
11. Outdoor Shower
After a surf trip or hike: The outdoor shower on the California makes rinsing off sand, mud, and salt easy. Connection to the fresh water tank, small water heater optional. Some models can be integrated directly into the bumper.
12. Drawer System Under the Seats
The space under the rear seats of the California is barely used as standard. Custom-made drawer systems – often made from aluminum or plywood – create accessible storage space for tools, first aid kits, or kitchen utensils.
13. Wing Mirror Camera System
Reversing with the California isn't always easy because of the high roof and rear area. A reversing camera that integrates into the standard display makes tight parking spaces much easier. Retrofit kits are available for all California generations.
14. Solar System for the Roof
Solar power for off-grid operation: A solar system on the California roof powers your cooler, lighting, and USB chargers even without shore power. 100–200 Wp is enough for most camping scenarios. Important: Use flexible film modules for the California's high roof.
15. MOLLE Pouches and Organizer Set
Once you have a MOLLE Board, you need the matching pouches. A starter set with various sizes – small for tools and knives, medium for first aid kits, large for jackets and towels – makes the MOLLE system fully functional. All 040parts MOLLE Pouches are made from water-repellent 500D Cordura nylon.
Conclusion: Turn Your California Into an Expedition Vehicle
No upgrade makes sense for everyone equally. If you mainly stay at campsites, you'll prioritize differently than someone who wants to camp off-grid in the wild. As a starting point, we recommend: MOLLE Board, tailgate support strut, and window covering. These three upgrades deliver the most everyday value at reasonable cost.
Check out the complete 040parts product range for the VW California – all made in Hamburg, crafted from aluminum, with direct support.
