iKamper BDV Blue Dot Voyager Solo vs BDV Blue Dot Voyager Duo

Both iKamper BDV Blue Dot Voyager Solo and BDV Blue Dot Voyager Duo are built in the same style, just the width is different. Both roof top tents are expensive, but which is a better investment? Find out here.

Why this comparison

This is about two clamshell roof top tents from the same globally-know brand, built in the same style and shape, and with the same features. You will see them sometimes under the shorter names BDV Solo and BDV Duo.

From the title you realize that one is a solo shelter and the other is for two people. This should be taken literally, you will see the numbers and the inner area in the pictures below.

The picture below shows the box size of the iKamper BDV Blue Dot Voyager Solo, and the dimensions of the actual sleeping area. So it is both long and wide for a solo use.

But see now the iKamper BDV Duo, the length is the same so this is just the width difference:

Now, the main question here is the following: Wouldn’t it be better to go for a larger option if you are in situation to choose? 

So what are the parameters to consider if you want an accurate answer to this questions? Here are a few that come to mind:

1. Price per square meter. I guess it should be obvious why you would want to know this.
2. Weight per square meter. The more weight means more fuel, so it may be useful to reduce it. This is also related to the size which may also affect fuel consumption.
3. Area per person.
4. Total weight capacity. This is important because these tents allow for extra cross bars to transport stuff on the top of the tent. So you can transport your bulky gear like kayak or anything similar.

Before I continue, here is a video about this roof top tent, please have a look:

Common features

Here are some important features that are the same in both roof top tents:

• Maximum speed is 70 mph (110 km/h).
• The same wind resistance rating.
• The same box thickness 6.75 inches (17 cm).
• Both have the same number of 3 doors and 3 windows. So you have access from three sides.
• The same mattress thickness of 2.75 inches (7 cm).
• The same materials are used.
• The length is the same 90 inches (228 cm). The inner length is 83.75 inches (213 cm).
• With additional cross bars you can transport gear on the top of the roof top tent.
• The fabric is a quality polycotton, and these are 4-season tents.

As you realize, these are all excellent features. Both tents have a thin and elegant box with a minimal wind resistance.

iKamper BDV Solo and BDV Duo differences

It may be useful to compare the dimensions shown in the pictures. As you see again, this is just about the width.

I have summarized the most important remaining differences in the comparison table below.

Here is my short description of the consequences of these differences. This is related to the previously mentioned parameters to consider if you are undecided about buying solo or duo options.

Weight: Obviously, the Solo tent is lighter as expected, they are with the completely same design and it is all about the width differences and related weight.

Weight capacity: It is better to have a box that allows for more weight. But the question is if you really need this. If you know that you will always camp solo then this may not be so important.

Also, if you have a car that does not allow such a weight on the roof, then a bigger weight capacity of the box itself is meaningless of course.

But having more capacity makes the tent more versatile, you might take somebody with you when the time comes. You can this with the Duo but not if you have the Solo tent.

Person capacity: This is clear, the official capacity is different, and this is related to the weight capacity above. You can use Duo for solo tours as well, but the Solo is just for solo use.

Area: The total area is bigger in the Duo tent, nothing surprising.

Weight/Area: As expected, the iKamper BDV Blue Dot Voyager Solo is effectively heavier per square meter.

Price: The iKamper BDV Blue Dot Voyager Solo is less expensive but it is also smaller. When you recalculate the price per square meter, it is in fact more expensive.

My overall conclusion is that the iKamper BDV Blue Dot Voyager Duo is a better option, if you can afford it of course.

Places to buy

iKamper BDV Blue Dot Voyager Duo:

iKamper

REI

Backcountry

iKamper BDV Blue Dot Voyager Solo:

iKamper

Backcountry

Off Road Tents

Final thoughts

Let me know what you think, there is a comment box below. For more stuff of this type please check under the category Roof Top Tents.

Bookmark this site and keep as a reference, you will always have new texts added here and this will keep you informed. Thank you for reading and have a nice day.