MSR Elixir 2 Tent
MSR’s Elixir range of tents offer relatively lightweight(ish) options in several sizes, with tough weather durability and some thoughtful features. They’re somewhat similar to the Hubba range, albeit slightly heavier and more durable. I’ve used the Elixir 2 on numerous car camping trips around the UK, and found it a reliable shelter for all manner of weather conditions. Its 2.9kg weight and relatively compact pack size make this two man tent an option for both backpacking and kayaking trips for those on a bit of a budget.
Design and space
As a semi freestanding dome tent (semi because the vestibules still require pegging out), the Elixir 2 has a decent size interior with reasonable peak height and relatively steep sides to improve liveability. As a two man tent, it provides ample space for one camper, but a relatively cosy space for two; this isn’t a tent you’ll want to share with someone you’re not comfortable with. The tent does have two vestibules, which does make sharing the tent easier, as well as providing ample space for your stuff. The symmetrical geometry maximises the usable floor area, allowing for reasonably comfortable movement inside the tent (although you’ll still be thrashing your limbs around trying to wiggle into a change of clothing), while providing good stability in rough weather conditions. Several interior loops and pockets provide lash and stash points for keeping small bits of gear close at hand. So far, so good.
Ease of pitching
Setting up the Elixir is a breeze, even for beginners. The color-coded poles, clips, and sleeves make assembly intuitive and hassle-free. MSR’s tents are very consistent in this regard. Additionally, the semi freestanding design allows you to easily pitch the tent on various terrains and adjust its position for optimum placement on the available terrain, and it can also be pitched without the fly in fair conditions, allowing a lovely view of the sky.
Like most MSR tents, it pitches inner-first; this means that if you have to pitch it during rain, the inner could get damp. However, since the tent pitches very quickly, this isn’t necessarily a huge problem.
Ventilation and comfort
The Elixir has sufficient ventilation, keeping the interior fresh, managing condensation by maintaining a good amount of space between the inner and the fly, along with two pop-out panels on either end and catenary patterning on the fly (the arch-shaped bottom of the fly for those not down with the lingo) that allows airflow to enter from ground-level.
The inner features a combination of mesh panels that further enhance airflow; even during humid nights, the tent effectively prevents heavy condensation buildup, only really building up any noticeable moisure when it’s really tipping it down outside, although even then I’ve not experienced any dripping back down into the tent itself.
Weather protection
The tent’s materials, including the aluminum poles, bath tub floor and tough rainfly, ensure decent durability. This tent withstands gusty winds and heavy rain, offering reliable protection in challenging weather conditions; it’s worth noting, however, that the thick rainfly gets quite noisy when the wind picks up.
Versatility and portability
The Elixir range is designed for versatility and portability, making it suitable for a variety of outdoor adventures. The tent’s reasonably lightweight design and compact packing size allow for easy transportation, whether you’re embarking on a weekend backpacking trip, where it’d ideally be split between multiple backpacks, or, as is often my case, packing it into a kayak. It’s not ultra lightweight by any stretch of the imagination, but for more budget-conscious campers, it’s absolutely an option worth considering.
Pros
Reasonably lightweight with small packsize
Spacious inside
Decent sized vestibules
Very good weatherproofing and stability
Included footprint
Cons
Noisy in windy weather
Does not pitch all-in-one
Door zips have a tendency to catch on the tent fabric
