Depends on whether you want to set up the panel in a remote location
or just leave it mounted to the roof. It's sure nice to have the panel
in the sun and the van in the shade, if possible. There are several
ways to do this. One option is to stow the panel inside the van while
under way and then set it up when you get to the campsite. The
advantage to this option is portability and ease of use. The downside
is that you have to set it up every time you want to charge up and the
panel is subject to theft. A 50ft cable of the proper gauge would
probably be long enough to do the trick. I use large gage speaker
wire, #12 I think, which has very little voltage drop for the 75 watt
panel I have.

Another option is to mount the panel to a roof rack. Mine is attached
to 2 Yakima cross bars using the standard bar mount brackets and some
SS bolts. This gives me the option to leave the panel on the roof, set
it up remotely or put the rack & panel in storage when not needed. The
upside of this option is that the panel is always charging as long as
there is sunlight. It can also be locked to the rack for security. But
it is difficult to remove the panel for remote setup unless you have a
ladder.

Some volks like the simple approach and permanently mount the panel to
the roof. Using a larger higher output panel will help compensate for
off-angle alignment to the sun and shady campsites.

Whatever option you choose, be mindful of the added weight of the
panel, racks and hardware to the poptop. It will make lifting more
difficult. Lift assist struts solve that problem.

Keith
90 Syncro Westy "VikingWagen"