INSIDE Rooftop Tent Access Ladder + Ventilated Hole Cover

September 16, 2025 by Ben Domaschenz Leave a Comment

INSIDE Rooftop Tent Access Ladder + Ventilated Hole Cover. One of the things I love most about van life is figuring out creative solutions to everyday challenges. When I decided to add a rooftop tent to my Weekender Ram Promaster conversion, I knew I wanted an easy and safe way to access it from inside the van rather than climbing around outside.

The solution? A custom DIY ladder paired with a bottom-entry modification that makes the rooftop tent not only accessible but also way more practical for my setup.

Building a Simple Ladder & Bottom Entry Access for My Rooftop Tent

(A DIY Weekender Van Life Ram Promaster Conversion Project)

This project turned out to be simple, sturdy, and surprisingly fun to build. In this post, I’ll break down the key steps and finishes I used, and you can also catch the full build process on my YouTube video.

The Custom Ladder

The centerpiece of this build is the interior ladder that leads directly through the bottom-entry hatch into the rooftop tent. Here’s how I made it:

Materials: I used strong 2×3 lumber for the side rails and 1-1/4″ wooden dowels for the rungs. The wider dowels make for comfortable handholds and sturdy foot support.

Joinery: Each rung was cut to size and precisely drilled into the side rails. I secured everything with a combination of wood glue and screws, ensuring maximum strength.

Result: The ladder is solid, functional, and doesn’t take up too much space inside the van. It’s exactly what I needed for quick, safe access.

This little DIY build proves that sometimes the simplest solutions are the strongest.

The Ventilated Hole Cover

Once the ladder was figured out, I turned my attention to the entry hole itself. I wanted a clean cover that could close off the tent opening when not in use, but still allow airflow when I needed it.

Design:

I built the cover using two layers of 1/4″ plywood, glued together to form a snug-fitting lip. This way, it sits perfectly in place without rattling or shifting.

Ventilation:

I used a hole saw to cut out several circular vents. These allow fresh air to circulate when the cover is closed, which is a huge plus for comfort and condensation control.

Functionality:

When I want full closure, the cover seals up tight. When I need airflow, the vent holes do their job. It’s a small detail, but it really improves the usability of the whole setup.

Finishing Touches – INSIDE Rooftop Tent Access Ladder + Ventilated Hole Cover

Both the ladder and the hole cover were treated with a protective stain and polyurethane sealant. Not only does this give them a polished look, but it also ensures they’ll withstand the inevitable wear and tear of van life.

Why This Matters

If you’re thinking about installing a rooftop tent on your van, or you’re deep into your own Promaster conversion project, this little upgrade might spark some ideas. Having interior access to the tent makes a huge difference in convenience, safety, and comfort—especially when the weather isn’t cooperating.

This project shows that with a few basic materials and a thoughtful design, you can create custom solutions that truly elevate your van life experience.

👉 Watch the full walkthrough here: YouTube Video Link

If you’re tackling a ladder or tent-access mod of your own, I’d love to hear about it! Drop a comment on the video or share your ideas—I’m always inspired by the creative ways this community makes van life work.