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BDV Duo Guide

Updated over a month ago

BDV stands for Blue Dot Voyager, a name inspired by the “Pale Blue Dot” perspective of seeing our planet as a small, precious place worth exploring. The BDV was designed with that same spirit in mind: a compact, durable roof top tent built as a modular system that adapts to the way you travel, with integrated channels, wire routing, and accessory mounts that let you expand your setup over time.

The BDV series is also the only iKamper tent that allows you to mount gear directly to the hardshell using our Accessory Rack—giving you the flexibility to carry items like bikes, boards, or extra storage without sacrificing roof space or changing your camping footprint.

At a Glance

  • Sleeps up to 2 people

  • Deploys in under 30 seconds with gas strut–assisted lift

  • Wedge-style, low-profile design for better clearance (closed height: 6¾″)

  • 2.75″ thick, 9-zone insulated polyfoam mattress

  • Dual-layer, scratch- and UV-resistant FRP hard shell

  • Breathable, blackout 300 gsm poly-cotton canvas for better sleep and less condensation

  • Built for 4-season use with waterproof 75D ripstop rainfly coated in eco-friendly DWR

  • Wrap-around T-track rails and optional top crossbars for gear mounting

  • Watch the Product Overview video

Setup & Takedown Time

The BDV Duo deploys in under 30 seconds thanks to its gas strut design. You can leave your bedding inside when closing. Takedown is quick and efficient—ideal for adventurous road trips.

Mounting Requirements

Includes universal sandwich-style mounting plates and bolts that work with most roof or bed rack crossbars. A rack system rated for at least 175 lbs (79 kg) dynamic load is recommended.

Roof Rack & Crossbar Guidelines

  • Minimum crossbar spread: 32″

  • Maximum crossbar spread: 48″

  • Wrap-around T-track rails included; optional top-mounted crossbars are available

  • Note: Many factory racks lack sufficient rating—aftermarket racks from Thule, Yakima, Rhino‑Rack, etc., are recommended

Mounting Hardware

Comes with universal sandwich-style mounting plates and bolts. No drilling or permanent modifications needed.

Specifications

Feature

Details

Sleeping Capacity

1–2 people

Seasons

4‑Season

Mattress

2 ¾" (7 cm) thick, insulated polyfoam

Floor

Aluminum

Shell Construction

Scratch/UV resistant FRP shell

Tent Fabric

Breathable, black-out, 300gsm poly-cotton canvas

Rainfly Fabric

Waterproof polyester 75D ripstop rainfly w/ eco-friendly water-repellent (DWR) coating

Weight

175 lbs (79 kg)

Sleeping Area

83 ¾" x 53 ¾", 31.3 sq ft (213 x 137 cm, 2.9 m²)

Height (Closed/Open)

6 ¾" / 59" (17 cm / 150 cm)

Footprint (Closed)

90" x 56" (228 x 142 cm)

Crossbar Distance Range

32″–48″

Mounting

Universal sandwich-style plates and bolts

Included Ladder

Ladder can be installed on rear, driver, or passenger side

Warranty

2‑year limited warranty

What’s Included

  • BDV Duo tent (unassembled kit)

  • Universal mounting hardware kit (plates, bolts, T-track rail)

  • 2.75″ insulated polyfoam mattress

  • Telescoping ladder (mountable on rear or sides)

  • Waterproof 75D ripstop rainfly with DWR coating

  • Instruction manual and assembly guide

Compatible Accessories

The BDV isn’t just a roof top tent, it’s a flexible system designed to grow with your setup. Its integrated t-channels, wire routing, and accessory points allow you to add storage, shelter, power, and gear-mounting options as you need them, and the accessories below are purpose-built to work together.

Mounting Accessories

  • BDV Solar Panel - This simple bolt-on solar kit attaches to the BDV’s t-channels and delivers passive power for your battery system using the tent’s integrated wire routing.

  • BDV Accessory Rack - A sturdy, easy-to-install rack system with extruded aluminum crossbars and steel towers that mount to the BDV’s t-channels, creating a versatile platform for mounting gear like recovery boards, storage boxes, bike racks, kayaks, and whatever else you can dream up.

  • ExoShell Support Brackets - Engineered for a secure, hassle-free fit, these brackets allow you to mount the ExoShell 270 Awning directly to your BDV Roof Top Tent with confidence.

Comfort & Organization

  • RTT Comfort Mattress - The 7850 mattress adds 4" of self-inflating comfort to your Skycamp Mini with this high-density foam and air mattress designed for warmth, support, and quiet sleep.

  • HC Steps - Step pads for the ladder—wide, grippy surfaces make climbing in safer and more comfortable.

  • Storage Rack - Heavy-duty 600D Oxford polyester organizer with six pockets, two mesh sections, MOLLE webbing, and a Velcro patch area. Easily mounts to the accessory rings on the rail underneath the extension panel.

  • Shoe Rack - Weatherproof storage for up to six pairs of shoes, hanging securely beside the ladder on the accessory rings. Mesh side pockets, rain‑cover flap, and folds compactly for storage.

Add‑On Shelter

  • BDV Annex Plus – Adds a versatile enclosed shelter that attaches beneath your tent.

  • Awning 3.0 - Attaches to the front entrance to provide shade and weather protection. Optional Accessory: Awning Canopy 3.0 adds vestibule-style coverage.

Weather Protection

  • Insulation Tent - Mounts inside the BDV Duo to retain heat and reduce condensation for cold-weather camping.

  • BDV Vista Window - Sold as a left and right set, the Vista Window attaches to the BDV and brings in light and scenery without compromising protection from the elements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How much weight can I put on top?

The BDV has a weight load of 110 lbs (50 kg). It's best to keep your weight closer to the hinge whenever possible.

Q: Does it come with the accessory rack?

No, this is a separate purchase that you can make to add additional gear to the roof of your BDV.

Q: Does iKamper still sell the unassembled version?

We originally produced an unassembled version, but have since discontinued that version of the BDV.

Q: Can I install the ladder on either side?

You can install the ladder at the rear entrance or either window opening. You will need to move or add the ladder brackets to the desired side.

Q: Is the mounting hardware different from the Skycamp?

Yes, the mounting hardware included with the BDV is NOT a clamp style bracket like the Skycamp but are metal plates and bolts that “sandwich” your mounting bars. Other mounting hardware is not compatible with the BDV.

Q: Is there a locking mechanism for the BDV?

We currently do not have a locking mechanism or mounting hardware locks for the BDV.

Q: How many people fit in the BDV Duo?

Designed for two people, with a sleeping area of 83¾″ × 53¾″ providing comfortable space to stretch out.

Q: Is the BDV Duo unassembled or pre-assembled?

It is sold as an unassembled DIY kit; a pre-assembled option is available at a higher cost.

Q: Is it compatible with most roof racks?

Yes—includes universal sandwich-style mounting hardware and requires a dynamic load rating of at least 175 lbs and a crossbar spread of 32–48″.

Q: Can I mount gear such as traction boards or skis?

Yes. Wrap-around T-track rails allow mounting gear like traction boards, solar panels, axes, skis, bikes, kayaks, etc. The BDV has a weight load of 110 lbs (50 kg). It's best to keep your weight closer to the hinge whenever possible.

Q: Can bedding stay inside when closed?

Yes. The wedge-style design and gas strut system allow the tent to close over bedding for quick pack up.

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