PopRak Van Builder of the Month: Tommy Campervans
Posted by PopRak Marketing Team on 25th Mar 2025
PopRak Van Builder of the Month - Tommy Campervans!
With over 15 years of industry experience, Michael “Mikey” Rudman founded Tommy Campervans as a Phoenix-based van conversion company that focuses on creating vans that are well-suited to the Southwest’s adventurous spirit—think exploring the Grand Canyon, Sedona, and beyond. Tommy Campervan’s spacious shop and tight-knit crew allows for both professional-grade builds and close, personalized attention to each client’s vision. As both owner and hands-on leader, “Mikey” is deeply involved in each stage of a van build which is why clients often praise the company for making them feel heard and included throughout the conversion process.
Michael Rudman on Quality
“When we install something on a van, it has to earn its place. We’re always looking for products that work as hard as our clients do. That’s why we love the PopRak.”
What Makes Them Unique:
Stock and Customized Builds
Tommy Campervans emphasizes both standardized layouts and one-of-a-kind interiors that reflect each client’s style—whether that means minimalist modern or rustic cabin vibes. They consult with every client to integrate custom storage, sleeping arrangements, and off-grid power solutions. Specializing in purposeful layouts, they consider how each client plans to use the van. Whether it’s for weekend getaways or full-time van life, you’ll always get a mobile memory maker. Features like thoughtfully placed outlets, easy-to-clean surfaces, and practical lighting all point to a design ethos that prioritizes real-world use over flashy trends.
Attention to Craftsmanship
Skilled tradespeople at Tommy Campervans carefully handle carpentry, cabinetry, and wiring. They’re known for clean finishes and sturdy installations, reflecting pride in their craft rather than just rushing a build to completion. Through local van meetups and social media channels, Tommy Campervans fosters a close-knit van community in Arizona. Mikey and his team often share tips, host workshops, or sponsor local events to help aspiring vanlifers get started, even offering to rent vans to see what you like most before you invest in building the van of your dreams.
The Story Behind Choosing PopRak
Expanding Sleeping Options: Adventure-oriented clients love to share the adventure and have more gear—from bikes and boards to outdoor equipment. The PopRak frees up interior space by offering a queen sized loft bedroom that accommodates two adults without sacrificing any interior space.
Showcasing Innovation: Tommy Campervans is known for offering innovative solutions to the space constraint challenges of #Vanlife that makes van travel easier. Installing a PopRak signals to clients that they’re at the forefront of van-conversion trends.
Listening to Customer Demand: Recent clients requested more vehicle versatility without sacrificing interior space. The PopRak, with its space-saving and tilt-up design, meets that requirement elegantly. In a saturated #VanLife market, distinctive upgrades set builders apart. By incorporating PopRaks, Tommy Campervans can point to a fresh, cutting-edge feature not all builders offer.
Michael Rudman prides himself on using components that will last through rugged conditions. PopRaks’ reputation for sturdy construction aligns with Tommy Campervans’ ethos of quality. Arizona’s climate and topography (mountains, deserts, canyons) that help maximize van space for varied adventures. A PopRak is an excellent solution for a roof-mounted loft bedroom with easy access from inside the comfort of the van.
Fun Fact: Tommy Campervans donates a majority of its proceeds to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
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