The MSR Elixir 2 tent is often hailed as a go-to option for backpackers and campers who want a reliable, spacious, and durable tent that’s easy to set up and handle in a variety of outdoor conditions. Whether you’re setting out for a weekend hike or a multi-day backcountry adventure, this tent has a reputation for delivering comfort, protection, and versatility without weighing you down.
In this review, we’ll break down what makes the MSR Elixir 2 such a popular choice among outdoor enthusiasts, examining its key features, performance, and how it compares to other tents in its class. So, if you’re on the lookout for a dependable 2-person tent, keep reading to find out if the MSR Elixir 2 is the right fit for your next adventure.
Key Features of the MSR Elixir 2 Tent
The MSR Elixir 2 is designed to provide a balance between weight, space, and durability, making it ideal for both backpacking and car camping. Here’s a closer look at its standout features:
1. Roomy Interior for Two People
One of the first things you’ll notice about the MSR Elixir 2 is its generous interior space. While many two-person tents can feel cramped, the Elixir 2 provides a roomy 86 cm (34 in) headroom and floor dimensions of 2.13m x 1.27m (84 in x 50 in), giving you plenty of space to sit up comfortably or store your gear inside the tent.
The unique pole geometry creates nearly vertical walls, maximising the usable space inside the tent. For two people, this means that both can sleep comfortably without having to fight for space. Plus, the dual doors and vestibules allow each person to have easy access without crawling over their partner or gear, adding to the tent’s convenience.
Highlights:
- Dimensions: 2.13m x 1.27m (84 in x 50 in)
- Peak Height: 1m (40 in)
- Two doors and two vestibules for easy access and gear storage
2. Durable and Weather-Resistant Materials
The MSR Elixir 2 is built with durability in mind, using high-quality materials that can withstand rough conditions while maintaining a manageable weight. The rainfly is made from 68D ripstop polyester with a 1500mm waterproof polyurethane coating, ensuring it holds up well during heavy rain or high winds. The floor features a tough 70D nylon taffeta with a 3000mm waterproof coating, providing extra protection against ground moisture.
This combination of materials makes the tent not only weather-resistant but also durable enough to handle rocky or abrasive surfaces. It’s designed to keep you dry and protected in three-season conditions, making it a solid choice for spring, summer, and autumn camping trips.
Highlights:
- Waterproof rating: 1500mm (fly), 3000mm (floor)
- Materials: 68D ripstop polyester fly, 70D nylon taffeta floor
- Wind-resistant design for protection in tough conditions
3. Lightweight and Packable
At 2.77 kg (6 lbs 2 oz) packed weight, the MSR Elixir 2 isn’t the lightest backpacking tent on the market, but it strikes a great balance between weight and durability. For a tent that provides this much interior space and weather protection, the weight is quite reasonable for backpacking, especially for those who prioritise comfort over ultralight designs.
The tent packs down to 51 x 17 cm (20 x 7 in), making it easy to fit into a backpack or carry on multi-day hikes. For longer expeditions where every gram counts, you can split the weight between two hikers by sharing the tent components (e.g., poles, fly, and inner tent).
Highlights:
- Packed weight: 2.77 kg (6 lbs 2 oz)
- Minimum weight (fly, inner, poles): 2.24 kg (4 lbs 15 oz)
- Packs down to 51 x 17 cm (20 x 7 in) for easy transport
4. Easy Setup with Colour-Coded Poles
The MSR Elixir 2 is designed for quick and easy setup, even for less experienced campers. The colour-coded poles, clips, and webbing make it intuitive to set up the tent, reducing confusion and speeding up the process. The freestanding design means you can pitch the tent almost anywhere without worrying too much about finding perfect ground for stakes.
In most conditions, the tent can be fully set up in about 5-10 minutes, allowing you to quickly shelter from bad weather or make camp before dark. The addition of pre-attached guylines on the fly helps you stabilize the tent in high winds, ensuring it stays anchored securely throughout your trip.
Highlights:
- Freestanding design for versatile pitching options
- Colour-coded poles and webbing for easy setup
- Sets up in around 5-10 minutes
5. Ventilation and Condensation Control
Ventilation is a critical factor when camping in humid or wet conditions, and the MSR Elixir 2 addresses this with several features designed to minimize condensation. The tent includes large mesh panels in the inner body that promote airflow, while the adjustable rainfly allows you to customise ventilation depending on the weather.
The dual doors also play a role in airflow, enabling you to create a cross breeze when both doors are open. In cooler weather, you can seal up the tent to keep warmth in, while still allowing enough air circulation to reduce condensation build-up.
Highlights:
- Mesh panels for ventilation
- Adjustable rainfly for custom ventilation control
- Dual doors provide enhanced airflow
Performance in Different Conditions
Rain and Wind Protection
Thanks to its robust design and quality materials, the MSR Elixir 2 performs well in adverse weather. The 68D ripstop polyester rainfly keeps rain out, and the 3000mm waterproof floor prevents water from seeping in. The tent’s wind resistance is also impressive, especially when properly staked and guyed out.
While not a full four-season tent, the Elixir 2 is more than capable of withstanding strong winds and heavy rain, making it ideal for use in most three-season conditions, including spring storms and autumn showers.
Hot and Humid Conditions
In warmer weather, the mesh panels and adjustable fly give the Elixir 2 excellent ventilation, reducing the likelihood of condensation and ensuring that air circulates throughout the tent. For summer camping trips, this means staying cool and dry even in humid environments.
The rainfly can also be partially rolled back in good weather to allow stargazing or extra airflow without compromising your shelter from potential rain.
How the MSR Elixir 2 Compares to Other Tents
When considering the MSR Elixir 2, it’s helpful to compare it with some of the other popular two-person tents on the market:
| Feature | MSR Elixir 2 | MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2 | Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 | REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+ | NEMO Dagger 2P |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 2.77 kg (6 lbs 2 oz) | 1.54 kg (3 lbs 7 oz) | 1.36 kg (3 lbs) | 2.04 kg (4 lbs 8 oz) | 1.71 kg (3 lbs 12 oz) |
| Floor Dimensions | 2.13m x 1.27m (84 x 50 in) | 2.13m x 1.27m (84 x 50 in) | 2.24m x 1.07m (88 x 42 in) | 2.18m x 1.27m (86 x 50 in) | 2.24m x 1.35m (88 x 53 in) |
| Peak Height | 1m (40 in) | 1m (39 in) | 1.02m (40 in) | 1.09m (43 in) | 1.06m (42 in) |
| Price | £270-£300 ($350-$400) | £330-£350 ($400-$430) | £400-£450 ($500-$550) | £220-£240 ($300-$320) | £400-£420 ($500-$520) |
| Durability | Very durable (68D polyester) | Moderate (30D ripstop nylon) | Less durable (20D nylon) | Moderate (40D ripstop nylon) | Moderate (30D ripstop nylon) |
| Ventilation | Good, with mesh panels | Excellent, large mesh panels | Excellent, full mesh inner tent | Good, with large mesh panels | Excellent, with large mesh and vents |
| Ease of Setup | Very easy, colour-coded poles | Very easy, colour-coded poles | Very easy, hubbed poles | Easy, colour-coded clips | Very easy, colour-coded poles |
| Season Rating | 3-season | 3-season | 3-season | 3-season | 3-season |
MSR Elixir 2 vs. MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2
The MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2 is significantly lighter than the Elixir 2, making it a great choice for backpackers who prioritise weight savings. The Hubba Hubba NX 2 is built with lighter materials, which means it’s more compact and easier to carry on longer hikes. However, this comes at a higher price point compared to the Elixir 2.
On the other hand, the MSR Elixir 2 is more durable due to its heavier-duty materials, making it a better option for campers who want a rugged, long-lasting tent that can handle wear and tear. It’s also more affordable than the Hubba Hubba NX 2, but the trade-off is the additional weight.
- If you’re an ultralight backpacker or need something compact: Go for the Hubba Hubba NX 2.
- If you’re seeking a more durable and budget-friendly option: The Elixir 2 is a better choice, though you’ll have to carry the extra weight.
MSR Elixir 2 vs. Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2
The Copper Spur HV UL2 is significantly lighter than the Elixir 2, making it ideal for ultralight backpackers. However, it’s also more expensive and less durable due to its lightweight materials. If you need something more rugged and can handle the extra weight, the Elixir 2 offers better durability and is more affordable.
MSR Elixir 2 vs. REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+
The Half Dome SL 2+ is similar in weight to the Elixir 2, but offers a bit more interior space and a higher peak height. Both are great for backpacking, but the Half Dome is slightly cheaper, while the Elixir 2’s superior durability and ease of setup make it a more robust option for long-term use.
MSR Elixir 2 vs. NEMO Dagger 2P
The NEMO Dagger 2P is lighter and provides excellent ventilation, making it ideal for summer camping. However, the MSR Elixir 2 outshines in terms of ruggedness and price. For those seeking a balance of weight and durability, the Elixir 2 is a better investment for regular, three-season camping.
Conclusion: Is the MSR Elixir 2 the Right Tent for You?
The MSR Elixir 2 is an outstanding tent for campers and backpackers who value comfort, durability, and ease of setup. It’s spacious enough for two people, offers excellent weather protection, and is durable enough to withstand tough conditions. While it’s slightly heavier than ultralight models, it provides more interior space and rugged durability, making it a great choice for those who prioritize comfort over shaving off every last ounce.
Whether you’re heading out for a weekend in the hills or tackling multi-day treks, the MSR Elixir 2 will serve as a reliable and comfortable shelter, protecting you from the elements and enhancing your overall outdoor experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is the MSR Elixir 2 suitable for winter camping?
While the MSR Elixir 2 is designed as a three-season tent, it can handle light winter conditions like frost or moderate snow. However, for heavy snow or extreme cold, a four-season tent would be more suitable.
2. How long does it take to set up the MSR Elixir 2?
With its colour-coded poles and clips, the tent can typically be set up in 5-10 minutes, even by solo campers or those with limited experience.
3. Is the MSR Elixir 2 waterproof?
Yes, the tent is highly waterproof, with a 1500mm rainfly and a 3000mm floor, providing excellent protection in heavy rain.
4. How durable is the MSR Elixir 2?
The tent is made from 68D ripstop polyester and 70D nylon taffeta, which makes it very durable and able to withstand abrasive surfaces and tough conditions over time.
5. Can the MSR Elixir 2 be split between two people for backpacking?
Yes, you can easily split the tent’s components (e.g., one person carries the poles and rainfly, the other carries the inner tent) to lighten the load for each hiker during backpacking trips.
