Hello, fellow Bulli enthusiasts,
I'm Derya from @bullilovers355. Together with my husband Salih and our family, I love traveling in our Bulli. Our own camper life inspired the first ARELA® cockpit bag in March 2022 – and an idea that continues to guide us to this day.
An idea from a campsite at Lake Eibsee
During our first camping trip, lots of little things were lying around in the driver's area. Drink cans, tissues, wallets, and snacks – everything needed a place. I noticed the unused space under our center console. That was exactly where a bag should go.
I looked for a suitable solution but couldn't find one. Even after we arrived at our campsite at Lake Eibsee, I couldn't shake the idea. While my family relaxed by the lake, I was already envisioning the cockpit bag I wanted to sew at home.
From the first cut to the ARELA® Cockpitbag
As soon as I got home, I took the measurements of our center console and sat down at the sewing machine. That's how my first felt cockpit bag came about. It immediately found its place in the Bulli – and our little things finally had a permanent home.
Our family and colleagues at work were thrilled with the idea and encouraged us to do more with it. In October 2022, we hired a patent attorney to help us protect our idea. The bag for our own Bulli became the ARELA® Cockpitbag.
Growing with your wishes
I offered the first bag on Kleinanzeigen. Soon, many inquiries came in: Does it also fit in a VW T6 or T6.1? Is there a version for the Ford Nugget, Ford Transit, or VW Crafter?
We borrowed vehicles, took measurements, and developed suitable cockpit bags for additional models. This is how our range has grown step by step – always inspired by everyday life and with your experiences and wishes in mind.
Today, you can find our bags in our own online shop and on Etsy. I make each bag with great attention to detail in Germany. Depending on the model, our cockpit bags are available in anthracite or dark gray, with or without a printed design. They attach to the center console with strong Velcro fasteners and create additional storage space for on the road.
From our Bulli to 33 countries
Our bags are now on the road in 33 countries. It makes us incredibly happy that an idea from our camping holiday now accompanies so many people on their travels.
Your feedback, photos, and stories mean a lot to us. My husband and I do our best to ensure that your bag fits and brings you as much joy in everyday life as it does us. Because that's exactly what ARELA is for: more organization in the van and more enjoyment on the road.
Thank you for following our little family story and supporting our craftsmanship.
Warm regards
Derya and Salih Arslan