Imagine this: You’ve just hiked 20 miles through the rugged Highlands, your legs are aching, and the sun is beginning to dip below the horizon. You reach into your pack, pull out your tent, and in minutes, you’ve set up camp with plenty of space, full weather protection, and minimal effort. That’s the magic of the MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2—a tent designed for adventurers who need lightweight gear but refuse to compromise on comfort or durability.
In this review, we’ll explore why the Hubba Hubba NX 2 stands out in the crowded tent market, compare it to other popular options like the MSR Elixir 2, Terra Nova Southern Cross 2, and Vango Banshee 200, and explain why it pairs perfectly with the Exped MegaMat 10 for the ultimate camping experience.
About MSR: A Legacy of Outdoor Innovation
Since its founding in 1969, MSR (Mountain Safety Research) has been at the forefront of outdoor gear innovation. Originally launched by Seattle engineer Larry Penberthy, MSR’s mission was to make mountaineering equipment safer and more reliable. Over the decades, they’ve expanded to offer a wide range of high-performance gear, including tents, stoves, and snowshoes, all designed for adventurers pushing the limits in challenging conditions.
The MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2 is a shining example of MSR’s dedication to lightweight, durable, and user-friendly gear. It’s perfect for everything from weekend getaways to long-distance treks.
Key Features of the MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2
1. Ultralight and Packable
Weighing just 1.54 kg (3 lb 7 oz), the MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2 is incredibly lightweight for a two-person tent. It’s a dream for backpackers who want to keep their pack weight low while still enjoying a roomy, comfortable shelter. The tent packs down to 46 x 15 cm, making it compact enough to easily fit in your pack.
Despite its weight, the Hubba Hubba NX 2 offers a generous amount of interior space, with 86 cm (34 inches) of headroom and 127 cm (50 inches) of shoulder width, making it feel much bigger than it looks when packed away.
2. 3-Season Weather Protection
This tent is built to handle everything but the most extreme conditions. Thanks to its DuraShield™-coated rainfly and bathtub floor, the Hubba Hubba NX 2 excels in keeping you dry, even in heavy downpours. The tent’s Easton® Syclone™ poles are designed to withstand high winds, bending under pressure rather than snapping, providing peace of mind when the weather takes a turn.
3. Quick and Easy Setup
No one wants to struggle with tent poles after a long day of hiking. The Hubba Hubba NX 2 has a freestanding design with color-coded poles, clips, and webbing, making setup a breeze. Even in fading light or poor weather conditions, the tent can be pitched in just a few minutes, getting you out of the elements quickly.
4. Spacious Interior and Dual Vestibules
Comfort is where the Hubba Hubba NX 2 really shines. Its symmetrical design maximises the usable space inside, giving you plenty of headroom to sit up and move around. With dual vestibules providing a total of 1.62 m² (17.5 ft²) of extra storage space, you’ll have ample room for gear without crowding the tent’s interior. It’s perfect for keeping your pack, boots, and other gear dry and accessible.
5. Ventilation to Keep Condensation at Bay
Thanks to large mesh panels and a vented rainfly, the MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2 offers excellent airflow, reducing the risk of condensation inside the tent. Even on warmer nights, this ventilation helps maintain comfort by allowing cool air to circulate, ensuring a dry, comfortable sleep environment.
How Does the MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2 Compare to Other Tents?
Here’s how the MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2 stacks up against three popular competitors: the MSR Elixir 2, Terra Nova Southern Cross 2, and Vango Banshee 200.
| Feature | MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2 | MSR Elixir 2 | Terra Nova Southern Cross 2 | Vango Banshee 200 |
| Weight | 1.54 kg (3 lb 7 oz) | 2.77 kg (6 lb 2 oz) | 2.3 kg (5 lb 1 oz) | 2.35 kg (5 lb 3 oz) |
| Pack Size | 46 x 15 cm | 51 x 20 cm | 50 x 15 cm | 48 x 18 cm |
| Floor Area | 2.7 m² (29 ft²) | 2.69 m² (29 ft²) | 2.55 m² (27.4 ft²) | 2.7 m² (29 ft²) |
| Vestibule Area | 1.62 m² (17.5 ft²) | 1.85 m² (20 ft²) | 1.2 m² (13 ft²) | 0.9 m² (9.7 ft²) |
| Weather Protection | 3-Season, DuraShield™ rainfly | 3-Season, standard rainfly | 4-Season, built for tough weather | 3-Season |
| Price | £400+ | £200-£250 | £600-£650 | £150-£170 |
MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2 vs MSR Elixir 2
The MSR Elixir 2 is a budget-friendly, heavier alternative to the Hubba Hubba NX 2. While it’s almost twice as heavy at 2.77 kg, it offers similar space inside and excellent durability for a 3-season tent. Both tents are easy to set up, but if weight is a priority, the Hubba Hubba NX 2 wins hands down. The Elixir 2 is a solid option for casual campers who don’t need to minimise pack weight.
MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2 vs Terra Nova Southern Cross 2
The Terra Nova Southern Cross 2 is designed for more extreme conditions, making it a great 4-season tent. However, this comes at the cost of added weight (2.3 kg) and a significantly higher price tag. If you’re planning winter camping or mountaineering, the Southern Cross 2 is worth considering, but for typical 3-season adventures, the Hubba Hubba NX 2 is lighter, more compact, and less expensive.
MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2 vs Vango Banshee 200
The Vango Banshee 200 is the most affordable tent in this comparison, making it a popular choice for those on a tight budget. However, its interior is more cramped, and it lacks the ventilation and vestibule space of the Hubba Hubba NX 2. While the Banshee 200 is a great entry-level tent for short trips, if you’re planning longer adventures, the Hubba Hubba NX 2’s superior comfort and usability are worth the investment.
Real-World Testimonials: What Users Are Saying
The MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2 has garnered rave reviews from outdoor enthusiasts for its balance of weight, comfort, and durability. Here’s what users have to say:
- “I took the Hubba Hubba NX 2 on a week-long hike through the Lake District, and I was amazed at how quickly it set up—even in high winds. It’s the perfect balance of lightweight and comfortable.”
— Adam P., avid backpacker. - “I love how much space this tent gives me without being heavy. My gear stays dry in the vestibules, and the interior feels so spacious compared to other ultralight tents.”
— Sophie D., outdoor photographer. - “The Hubba Hubba NX 2 is a lifesaver for solo treks. It’s easy to pitch by myself, and the ventilation is fantastic—no condensation issues, even after long hikes in humid conditions.”
— Dave M., long-distance hiker.
Pros and Cons of the MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2
Pros
- Ultralight: Weighs just 1.54 kg, making it ideal for backpacking and long-distance trekking.
- Quick setup: Colour-coded poles and clips make setup intuitive and fast.
- Durable: Designed to withstand high winds and heavy rain.
- Spacious: Large interior with excellent headroom and dual vestibules for gear storage.
- Excellent ventilation: Minimises condensation, even in humid conditions.
Cons
- Price: At over £400, it’s more expensive than budget options like the Vango Banshee 200.
- Not 4-season: While great for 3-season use, it’s not suitable for extreme winter conditions.
Why the MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2 Pairs Perfectly with the Exped MegaMat 10
For those looking to combine the best in ultralight tent performance with luxurious comfort, the MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2 pairs exceptionally well with the Exped MegaMat 10. The spacious interior of the Hubba Hubba NX 2 easily accommodates the MegaMat 10, ensuring a cushioned, restful sleep after a long day on the trail.
While the Hubba Hubba NX 2 keeps you dry and protected from the elements, the Exped MegaMat 10 provides 10 cm of plush foam insulation, making it feel like you’ve brought your bed with you on your adventure. Whether you’re camping in cold weather or just want a little extra comfort, this combo is hard to beat. Check out our full review of the Exped MegaMat 10 here.
FAQs
1. Is the MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2 suitable for winter camping?
The MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2 is a 3-season tent, designed to handle spring, summer, and autumn conditions. While it performs well in wind and rain, it’s not built for extreme winter conditions or heavy snow.
2. Can the MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2 accommodate taller campers?
Yes, the Hubba Hubba NX 2 has a length of 213 cm (84 inches), making it comfortable for taller campers. With a headroom of 86 cm (34 inches), it also allows for easy movement inside the tent.
3. How long does it take to set up the MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2?
Thanks to its freestanding design and color-coded poles, the Hubba Hubba NX 2 can be set up in about 5-7 minutes, even in poor conditions.
4. How does the MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2 perform in strong winds?
The tent’s Easton® Syclone™ poles are designed to flex rather than break in strong winds, making it highly resilient in windy conditions. With proper staking and guy lines, it performs excellently in stormy weather.
5. Can the MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2 fit a double sleeping mat?
Yes, the Hubba Hubba NX 2 can comfortably fit two single mats or a double mat like the Exped MegaMat 10, thanks to its spacious interior.
Final Thoughts: Should You Buy the MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2?
The MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2 is the ideal tent for adventurers who prioritise lightweight gear without sacrificing comfort or durability. Its superior weather protection, fast setup, and roomy interior make it a great choice for backpackers and long-distance hikers. While it comes at a higher price point than entry-level options, its performance more than justifies the investment.
Paired with the Exped MegaMat 10 for added comfort, the MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2 turns any camping trip into a luxurious experience while keeping you light on your feet. If you’re looking for a reliable, lightweight tent that can handle the challenges of the outdoors, the MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2 is a top contender.
