If you are reading this MSR Elixir 2 review, you are likely looking for a backpacking tent that strikes the perfect balance between durability, livability, and price. Finding a shelter that doesn’t cost a fortune but still withstands serious weather is a challenge. Most budget tents are heavy and fragile, while ultralight gear can be prohibitively expensive and delicate.
The MSR Elixir 2 tent is designed to fill that gap. It is marketed as the most livable backpacking tent in its class, offering a robust design that prioritizes comfort and durability over shaving every possible gram. It features a unique pole geometry that optimizes headroom and fits two large sleeping pads side-by-side.
But is it light enough for long-distance hiking? Does the unique pole structure actually make a difference in wind stability? And does it truly justify its price compared to cheaper alternatives?
In this in-depth MSR Elixir 2 review, we are tearing down every feature of this popular shelter. We will analyze the waterproofing capabilities of the rainfly, test the MSR Elixir 2 packed size for backpack portability, and compare it against other heavyweights like the Naturehike Cloud Up 2 and the ALPS Mountaineering Tasmanian 2.
Whether you are planning a weekend getaway or a multi-day trek, this guide will help you decide if the Elixir 2 MSR is the right investment for your future adventures.
Quick Verdict
Ideally Suited For: Backpackers, campers, and paddlers who prioritize durability and interior space over ultralight weight. It is perfect for those who want a reliable 3 seasons shelter that can handle shoulder-season weather.
The Bottom Line: The MSR Elixir 2 is a workhorse. It is not the lightest tent on the market, but it is one of the most livable and durable in its price range. The unique pole geometry creates vertical walls that make the interior feel spacious, and the build quality is exceptional.
While it might be heavy for minimalist thru-hikers, for the average backpacker or camper, the comfort and reliability it provides are well worth the extra ounces. If you want a tent that will last for years and keep you dry in a storm, the MSR Elixir 2 tent is a fantastic choice.
- Weather Resistance: 5/5
- Ease of Setup: 5/5
- Livability/Space: 5/5
- Ventilation: 4/5
- Vestibule Space: 4/5
- Portability: 3/5
- Durability: 5/5
- Value for Money: 5/5
4.5
Overall Score
Pros and Cons
Before we dive deeper into the nitty-gritty details of this MSR Elixir 2 review, here is a quick snapshot of what makes this tent shine and where it might fall short for your specific needs.
✓ Livability: The unique pole geometry creates steep walls, maximizing headroom and usable floor space.
✓ Durability: Built with 68D polyester and 70D nylon, it is significantly tougher than ultralight tents.
✓ Ventilation: Excellent airflow thanks to large mesh panels and kickstand vents on the rainfly.
✓ Ease of Setup: Color-coded poles and clips make pitching the tent intuitive and fast, even for beginners.
✓ Two Doors & Vestibules: Provides easy entry/exit for two people and ample storage space for gear.
✓ Value: Includes a footprint, adding value and protection to your investment.
✕ Weight: At nearly 6 lbs packed, it is heavier than many competitors in the backpacking category.
✕ Packed Size: The MSR Elixir 2 packed size is a bit bulky compared to ultralight options.
✕ Vestibule Design: While spacious, the vestibule zippers can be a bit of a reach from inside the tent.
✕ Stakes: The included aluminum hook stakes are basic and may bend in hard ground (an upgrade is recommended).
Product Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Product Name | MSR Elixir 2 |
| Capacity | 2 Person |
| Minimum Weight | 5 lbs 10 oz (2.55 kg) |
| Packed Weight | 6 lbs (2.77 kg) |
| Floor Dimensions | 84 x 50 in (213 x 127 cm) |
| Floor Area | 29 sq. ft (2.69 sq. m) |
| Vestibule Area | 24 sq. ft (2.22 sq. m) total |
| Peak Height | 40 in (102 cm) |
| Packed Size | 20 x 7 in (51 x 17 cm) |
| Rainfly Fabric | 68D ripstop polyester 1500mm Polyurethane & DWR |
| Canopy Fabric | 40D ripstop nylon DWR & 20D micromesh |
| Floor Fabric | 70D taffeta nylon 3000mm Polyurethane & DWR |
| Poles | 2 7000 series aluminum |
| Doors | 2 |
| Seasonality | 3 seasons |
Architecture and Design: Maximizing Space
The defining feature of the MSR Elixir 2 tent is its pole structure. MSR uses a unique geometry that lifts the tent fabric up and out, creating vertical walls. This is a significant departure from the traditional X-frame dome tents that slope sharply from the center.
Pole Geometry
The tent utilizes two main poles that cross twice, plus a short brow pole that spans the roof. This brow pole spreads the canopy, creating significantly more headroom. You can sit up comfortably side-by-side without your shoulders brushing against the mesh. This architectural choice makes the Elixir 2 feel much larger than its floor dimensions suggest.
Durability Focus
MSR chose robust materials for the Elixir 2 MSR. Instead of the paper-thin 15D or 20D fabrics found on ultralight tents like the Naturehike Cloud Up 1, the Elixir uses 68D polyester for the rainfly and 70D nylon for the floor. This adds weight, but it also adds longevity. You don’t have to baby this tent. It can handle dog paws, rocky ground, and rough handling better than almost any other tent in its class.
Glow-in-the-Dark Zippers
A small but thoughtful detail is the glow-in-the-dark zipper pulls. Finding your way out in the middle of the night for a bathroom break is much easier when you can see the zipper instantly.
Interior Space and Livability
When you are stuck in a tent during a storm, space matters; the MSR Elixir 2 excels here.
The Floor Plan
The floor measures 84 inches long by 50 inches wide. This is wide enough for two regular 20-inch sleeping pads with room to spare, or two 25-inch wide pads touching side-by-side. Unlike some tapered tents that squeeze your feet, the Elixir 2 maintains a consistent rectangular shape. This means you have usable space at both ends for gear storage.
Headroom
The peak height is 40 inches, but the real story is how that height is distributed. Thanks to the brow pole, the peak height extends across the width of the tent. Two people can sit up and play cards or organize gear without feeling claustrophobic. This livability is a huge selling point in any Elixir 2 review compared to tents with steep, sloping walls.
Storage Pockets
The tent features large mesh pockets at the head and foot ends. These “gear lofts” are perfect for stuffing jackets, headlamps, and phones, keeping the floor clutter-free. The placement is strategic, keeping essential items within easy reach while lying down.
Weather Resistance: Handling the Elements
We analyzed the weather protection of the MSR Elixir 2 tent to see if it lives up to the MSR reputation.
Rain Protection
The rainfly is made of 68D ripstop polyester with a 1500mm polyurethane coating and DWR (Durable Water Repellent) finish. While 1500mm might sound low compared to the 3000mm rating of the ALPS Mountaineering Tasmanian 2, MSR’s coatings are notoriously high quality and durable. In field reports, the Elixir 2 consistently sheds heavy rain without leaking. The bathtub floor rises high up the sides to prevent splashback.
Wind Stability
The crossing pole design creates a rigid structure that handles wind well. Because the poles cross twice, the frame is more stable than a simple X-dome. When fully guyed out, the Elixir 2 MSR can withstand significant gusts. The low profile and aerodynamic shape help it shed wind rather than catching it like a sail.
Ventilation
Condensation management is excellent. The canopy uses a mix of solid fabric and micromesh. This balances warmth and airflow. The rainfly has two kickstand vents that can be propped open to allow moist air to escape from the top. Even with the fly fully zipped, there is enough space between the fly and the canopy to promote airflow and reduce condensation buildup.
Setup: Easy and Intuitive
One of the highlights of the MSR Elixir 2 is its setup. MSR uses a color-coded system that makes pitching the tent foolproof.
The Process
- Stake the Footprint: Lay out the included footprint and stake the corners.
- Assemble Poles: Snap the shock-corded aluminum poles together. The poles are color-coded (red and grey) to match the clips on the tent body.
- Insert Poles: Insert the pole tips into the grommets on the footprint and tent body.
- Clip: Attach the plastic clips to the poles. The color coding ensures you attach the right clip to the right pole.
- Add Brow Pole: Insert the short brow pole across the top into the grommets.
- Fly On: Throw the rainfly over the structure. Match the red/grey webbing on the fly to the red/grey webbing on the tent corners. Buckle it down and stake out the vestibules.
The entire process takes about 5-8 minutes for one person. It is simple enough to do in the dark or rain without frustration.
Durability and Materials
The Elixir 2 MSR is built to last. The 70D nylon floor is tough. You arguably don’t even need the footprint, but MSR includes it, which significantly extends the life of the floor.
The 7000 series aluminum poles are strong and flexible. They are designed to flex under wind load rather than snap. The clips and grommets are high-quality and reinforce stress points. Unlike cheaper tents where stitching can pull apart, the MSR Elixir 2 features reinforced seams and bartacking at all guy-out points.
The use of 68D polyester for the rainfly is a smart choice. Polyester resists UV degradation better than nylon and doesn’t sag as much when wet. This means your tent stays taut in the rain without needing constant adjustment.
Comparison: MSR Elixir 2 vs. The Competition
To provide a balanced MSR Elixir 2 review, we must compare it to its peers.
MSR Elixir 2 vs. Naturehike Cloud Up 2
We previously reviewed the Cloud Up 2. The Cloud Up 2 is significantly lighter (around 4 lbs) and cheaper.
- Choose Naturehike if: You are on a strict budget or counting every gram for long-distance hiking.
- Choose MSR if: You want better durability, more livable space (two doors/vestibules vs. one), and a freestanding design that is easier to set up on rocky ground. The MSR Elixir 2 feels much more substantial and robust.
MSR Elixir 2 vs. MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2
The Hubba Hubba is MSR’s premium lightweight tent. It weighs about 2 lbs less than the Elixir.
- Choose Hubba Hubba if: Weight is your absolute top priority and you have the budget ($450+).
- Choose Elixir if: You want a more durable tent that costs significantly less. The MSR Elixir 2 uses heavier fabrics that will outlast the thinner materials of the Hubba Hubba in rough conditions.
MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2-Person Lightweight Backpacking Tent
MSR Elixir 2 vs. Coleman Skydome 6 Person Tent
While different capacities, comparing brands is useful. The Skydome 6 tent is a car camping palace.
- Choose Coleman if: You are strictly car camping with a group and weight doesn’t matter.
- Choose MSR if: You want versatility. The Elixir 2 is light enough to backpack with (split the weight) but spacious enough for car camping. It is a much higher-quality shelter than the Coleman.
Real World Usage Scenarios
- The Weekend Backpacking Trip: Split the weight with a partner (one takes the poles/stakes, one takes the tent/fly), and the MSR Elixir 2 becomes a very manageable 3 lbs per person. You get a palace of a shelter for a moderate weight penalty.
- The Canoe Camping Trip: Weight is less critical in a canoe. The durability of the Elixir 2 MSR floor gives you peace of mind when pitching on gravel bars or rocky shores. The two doors make it easy to access gear without disturbing your tent mate.
- The Solo Camper who wants Space: If you are solo and don’t mind the 6lb weight, the Elixir 2 is luxury. You have room for a wide pad, your dog, and all your gear inside the tent. It is a great option for short solo hikes where comfort is key.
Important Considerations Before Buying
- Weight and Bulk: The MSR Elixir 2 packed size is roughly 20 x 7 inches. It is bulky. If you have a small 40L backpack, this tent will take up a lot of internal space. You might need to strap the poles to the outside of your pack.
- Stakes: The included stakes are standard aluminum hook stakes. In hard ground, the heads can bend. We recommend upgrading to MSR Groundhog stakes or similar Y-beam stakes for better holding power and durability, especially if you plan to camp in loose soil or high winds.
- Footprint Usage: The included footprint allows for a “Fast & Light” setup where you pitch just the rainfly and footprint with the poles. This creates a lightweight shelter for fast trips, although it is not bug-proof. This versatility is a nice bonus feature mentioned in almost every positive MSR Elixir 2 review.
Maintenance and Care
To ensure your Elixir 2 lasts:
- Dry It Out: Never store it wet. Mildew will destroy the PU coating. If you pack it wet, set it up at home to dry immediately.
- Clean Zippers: Dirt is the enemy of zippers. Keep them clean. Use a toothbrush to remove grit if they start to stick.
- Store Loosely: Don’t store the tent compressed in its stuff sack for months. Store it loosely in a large mesh bag or pillowcase to let the fabric breathe and protect the coating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
No, it is a 3-season tent. While it is robust, it is not designed to handle heavy snow loads or high winds like a true 4 seasons mountaineering tent. The mesh panels allow too much spindrift to enter in a blizzard. For 4 seasons, check our 3 season vs 4 season tent guide.
Yes, MSR includes a footprint with the Elixir series. This is a great value add, as footprints usually cost $30-$50 separately. It protects the floor from abrasion and water.
The MSR Elixir 2 packed size is approximately 20 x 7 inches (51 x 17 cm). It comes in a compression stuff sack that helps reduce the volume, but it is still larger than ultralight tents.
Yes. It features a 1500mm rated rainfly and a 3000mm rated floor, along with factory-taped seams. It is fully capable of keeping you dry in heavy rainstorms.
The Hubba Hubba is lighter but uses thinner, more delicate fabrics. The Elixir is heavier but uses thicker, more durable fabrics. The Elixir is significantly cheaper. If you prioritize durability and value over weight, the Elixir 2 is the better choice.
Wrapping Up
The Elixir 2 is a champion of compromise in the best possible way. It balances durability, livability, and price better than almost any other tent on the market. It is not the lightest, nor the cheapest, but it is a “Goldilocks” tent that gets everything right for the average camper.
It is tough enough to withstand years of abuse, spacious enough to be comfortable for two people, and priced accessibly for a high-end brand. If you are looking for a reliable shelter that you don’t have to baby, the Elixir 2 is a fantastic investment.
It earns its place as a top contender for backpackers and campers who want a shelter they can trust in unpredictable weather. Whether you are a beginner looking for your first “real” tent or a veteran wanting a durable workhorse, the MSR Elixir 2 delivers.
