VW California Accessories 2026: The 15 Best Upgrades for Your Bulli
The VW California is already 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 camper vans on the market. And despite the high standard equipment, there are many areas where aftermarket accessories add real value. Organization, safety, comfort – these 15 upgrades are worth it for every California owner.
1. MOLLE Board for the Tailgate
The MOLLE Board is the classic van upgrade. Mounted on the tailgate, it creates instantly accessible storage space for tools, outdoor gear, and camping equipment. Compatible pouches, bags, and holders can be attached and repositioned flexibly. The 040parts MOLLE Board is made from 2 mm aluminum (AL 5052 H32) – lightweight, sturdy, corrosion-resistant. Weight: approx. 1.2 kg. Fits T5, T6, T6.1 and T7.
2. Tailgate Support Strut
The VW California tailgate can only be opened fully from the factory. With low ceilings in garages, underground parking, or tight campsites, this is a problem. A tailgate support strut allows it to be held in multiple positions – from slightly ajar to fully open. Practical in rain when the seating area under the tailgate needs to be limited.
3. Lashing Rail System
Load securing is a must in van everyday life – not just legally required by road traffic regulations, but also for safety. A lashing rail system in the cargo area allows secure attachment of bikes, crates, bags, and camping gear. Once installed, it's flexible to use: lashing eyes can be moved and adjusted.
4. Roof Box Adapter for the California
Anyone transporting a lot of outdoor equipment quickly hits capacity limits with the California. A roof box adapter that's compatible with the standard rail system expands storage space without restrictions inside the vehicle. Important: Only mount roof boxes with approved carriers.
5. Seat Covers for the Rear Seats
Dog, wet swimsuits, muddy shoes – the rear seat area of the California takes a beating in everyday use. Custom-fit seat protection mats protect the original fabric and can be installed and removed in minutes. Water-repellent, non-slip, and ideally also usable as a dog blanket.
6. Cooler Box Mount
A portable compressor cooler box is basic equipment for many California drivers. A fixed mount that secures the box while driving and keeps the power connection accessible makes use much more comfortable. 040parts offers matching mounts for the most common cooler boxes.
7. Outdoor Kitchen Module
Cooking outdoors is part of van life. But on wobbly camping tables, stoves never really stand stable. 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 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-fit thermal cover mats made from aluminum insulation matting insulate and darken at the same time. Almost essential for winter campers.
9. Additional Battery System (LiFePO4)
The California standard equipment includes a second battery, but its capacity is limited. Anyone wanting to stay off-grid longer or running power-hungry devices (compressor cooler box, laptop, camera equipment) benefits from an additional LiFePO4 battery. 100 Ah LiFePO4 delivers more capacity with less weight than AGM lead-acid.
10. Bike Rack for the Tow Bar
Getting to the trail and back with the California – the easiest way is with a bike rack on the tow bar. Foldable, for 2–4 bikes, with lighting. Important: Pay attention to the permissible tongue weight of the tow bar (varies by engine type on the T6.1).
11. Outdoor Shower
After a surfing trip or hike: The outdoor shower on the California makes rinsing off sand, mud, and salt simple. Connects to the fresh water tank, small water heater optional. Some models integrate directly into the bumper.
12. Drawer System Under the Seats
The space under the California rear seats is barely used in standard form. Custom-fit drawer systems – often made from aluminum or plywood – create accessible storage space there for tools, first aid kit, or kitchen utensils.
13. Wing Mirror Camera System
Maneuvering the California isn't always easy due to the high roof and rear area. A rearview camera that integrates into the standard display makes tight parking spots 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 cooler box, 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 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 kit, large for jackets and towels – makes the MOLLE system fully usable. 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. Someone who mainly stays at campsites prioritizes differently than someone wanting to wild camp off-grid. As a starting point, we recommend: MOLLE Board, tailgate support strut, and window coverings. These three upgrades provide the biggest everyday benefits at manageable costs.
Check out the complete 040parts range for the VW California – everything made in Hamburg, crafted from aluminum, with direct support.
