MSR ELIXIR 2 REVIEW | in the field test and review | summit camp Ben Ledi

The MSR Elixir 2 is a great tent, and after about two years of regular use all over Scotland, I thought it was time to finally review this beauty of a 2 person tent, which weighs in at 2.6kg and costs around £250. It’s a palatial one person tent, or a comfortable 2 person tent, with bags of headroom, a decent length to it for all but the tallest of folk, and two entrances and storage porches. Very easy to put up, and high quality materials make this a great option for anybody wanting quality and functionality without spending mega bucks. I do use the Elixir as a 4 season tent, even though it’s technically a 3 season tent, and although it’s quite a in airy tent, you can pack up the edges with snow in winter and reduce wind getting in. It’s a relatively stable tent, being semi geodesic in construction, but it probably finds its limit in extremely windy conditions. I wouldn’t take it out onto a summit if 40mph winds were forecast, but then I wouldn’t summit camp in extreme wind, I’d find shelter and pitch there, or bivvy!

[@trooperwolfie]

I've got the elixir 3, awesome tents. I use walking poles to support the ends of the short cross pole, it makes the tent far more stable in wind. I used to work in the outdoor industry selling tents, the reason American tents appear to have lower hydrostatic head ratings than European brands is because of the rules regarding testing. In Europe they take the material straight off the roll, brand new, and test it. In America, they have to make the tent, then pitch it and expose it to the sun, which causes UV degradation, THEN they test it, which is why it appears to be a lower reading, so I gave up worrying about HH ratings, it's just an industry selling point blag to be honest.

[@adventurefilmclub2549]

Hey, nice one, thanks for the insider info re the HH rating! MSR make quality gear I know that much!

[@antoinemalenfant9687]

Came here for the review and I stay for the incredible image

[@jemmak21]

I just bought this tent. Really excited to try it out this weekend in the lake district. Thanks for a great review ❤

[@jsnowman77]

Thank you for this video. It helped me choose myself the MSR Elixir 2 tent. Especially the comments regarding 6ft Person being able to sit and have headroom in the tent and your comments about having used this in Scottish winter, which means perfect for 3 seasons on Southern Finland.

[@adventurefilmclub2549]

Cheers! It can be a bit draughty, so if used in very cold temperatures needs to be packed up with snow to reduce wind getting in.

[@excursion1141]

Thanks for making a video about the product + terrain and not just a constant selfie vid. I refuse to subscribe to those who do. Nice work. Subscribed.

[@helopi8]

Cracking review! Completely new to backpacking tents and I'm 6ft 3 so wanted a good bit of space this tent seems to be everything I want.

[@What_If_We_Tried]

Your fantastic review is much appreciated, and you're a fantastic storyteller / videographer! Thanks...

[@adventurefilmclub2549]

Hey, cheers, much appreciated! Putting the videos together is the most fun part, although the GoPro is limited in lower light conditions so I might upgrade the camera at some point soon. Just started usin Da Vinci Resolve to edit and colour grade and it's way more complex than I'm used to 😬 but should produce better films using it!

[@DartmoorPaul]

Love my Elixir2 also, for the same reasons. And I am over 6ft so to be able to sit up pretty much anywhere in the tent is brilliant. AMAZING views you have there and it was a treat to escape to Scotland this lunchtime. Thank you

[@adventurefilmclub2549]

Aye it's a cracking tent! I've spent many a long, cold winter evening in the tent, and never felt claustrophobic or fed up. I would like to splash the cash on an ultralight 4 season pyramid tent, but for a mid budget year round tent the Elixir 2 is pretty sweet.

[@olegvasilenko4550]

Is it really 213 cm length?

[@adventurefilmclub2549]

@@olegvasilenko4550 hi! Yeah I'd say it's about 7 feet in length internally. I'm nearly 6ft tall and I can lie down comfortably with my rucksack at my feet.

[@olegvasilenko4550]

@@adventurefilmclub2549 Thank you!

[@GabrielLeungJPG]

Very good review, informative and with high quality imagery that makes me want to get out there! Missing the highlands and whiskey... Thanks for making this video =)

[@adventurefilmclub2549]

Cheers! Much appreciated! Hopefully you'll be back in the Highlands sipping whiskey soon!

[@daleingram5706]

Great review, I've been pondering between this and the naturehike cloud peak 2. But this review swings it for the msr. Ty 👍

[@ScaniaAdventure]

Had this tent for one year now and its a great tent!👍

[@bluebellcrushedvelvet]

Omg this was amazing!!! What a fantastic video, you nearly had me in tears actually!! With the stunning music and the caption "with a tent, anywhere is home" omg my heart nearly came out my chest!! And I love this tent!! There's no a whole lot of vids of the elixir 2 I find! Everyone loves to rave about the Hubba Hubba, which actually, I prefer the elixir!! Because their on this one design is subtly different in a few areas, but oh boy!! Do they make the difference!! 🤩🤩😍😍 Damn I need to, I'm going to save for this tent!!

[@adventurefilmclub2549]

Cheers! I love being in the mountains at sunset and sunrise, it's such a place away from the world, where you feel a part of something bigger, but tiny and insignificant at the same time! You just can't beat those moments, where all you need is a tent and a rucksack to find a place for the night. And the Elixir is great for the job! I believe the Naturehike tents are a decent and more affordable alternative. Been looking at the Lanshan pyramid tents too, as an ultralight option.

[@bluebellcrushedvelvet]

@@adventurefilmclub2549 omg yesss!!! Amazing!! You said it spot on!! The whole "moments that you are part of something bigger!!" "And yet you are a little insignificant at the same time" I couldn't agree more!! Magical!! I'm not keen on the Langham tbh with you. Not for me the tunnel tents, but the naturehike cloud peak 2 and the river something 2 are my top choices too, if I can't get eventually the elixir 2! Fairly new female solo hiker. 😊😊😁

[@staticautumnsunset]

Great review on the tent. I'd also add that of any travel videos related to Scotland, yours are superior to any others and really showcases the majestic countryside. I can only hope to one day see it in the flesh.

[@adventurefilmclub2549]

Thanks! I totalled my car 6 weeks ago so haven't been able to get out on any adventures! Feels good to be out again making wee films. I've got a few bigger projects in mind but this was a handy review to put out in the meantime!

[@staticautumnsunset]

@@adventurefilmclub2549 Hopefully you weren't injured from the crash in any way. I'll continue to look out for your latest content uploads.

[@adventurefilmclub2549]

@@staticautumnsunset thankfully no injuries, just a smashed car and an awkward insurance company... Back on the road now though and some big plans for upcoming autumn and winter films. Hope you make it to Scotland one day, it really is a wild and beautiful country.

[@ovrobinson7780]

Great video mate. Love the music too

[@adventurefilmclub2549]

Cheers, much appreciated! The GoPro has its limitations but it's fun and easy to use in the hills!

[@mrnobodieswildcampingadventure]

Great review. Liked and subscribed. Thankyou for sharing!

[@adamcrook7603]

Great vid, what a fantastic view. I’ve just ordered one this morning. Thinking it over throughout the day, have I spent too much money?? Just found your review, the worries gone & I’m now so excited to get it & get out there. Thank you 🙏

[@leericemusic]

Beautiful. Thanks a lot :)

[@stewarthollingsworth200]

Fantastic review,,a great looking tent ,,I am looking for a tent myself,,all the Best Stewart Wiltshire 🏃‍♂️⛺️👍

[@L8bro]

Cheers from an Ulster Scot living in the U.S.!

[@adventurefilmclub2549]

Hey, glad you enjoyed the video! Really looking forward to winter arriving so I can get some snowy adventures going!

[@stefansvard8526]

No nonsense, thanks!

[@bigtimepete]

Visual poetry. More!

[@czajkinadwoda]

Beutiful tent best quality in America most pple using msr equipment, Scotland ❤❤❤

[@stevewatson5861]

Spot on review, can’t wait to use mine soon as I have a winter sleeping bag sorted, it amazes me none of the so called experts like Messner have reviewed the Elixir it’s always about the hubba hubba, personally bar weight I don’t see much difference 😀

[@adventurefilmclub2549]

Cheers man! It's a cracking tent, I'd love to splash mega bucks on a super lightweight tent but the Elixir has served me well and covered me in every situation. I back my sleeping bag up with a bivi bag in extreme cold and the Elixir works just fine.

[@stevewatson5861]

@@adventurefilmclub2549 haha aye same here mate couldn’t justify spending a grand on a tent like MSR has made it affordable to go all seasons for 3-400 quid, all best too you pal

[@andjeeve]

beautiful video and a braw tent !

[@adventurefilmclub2549]

Thanks Pandrew!

[@dtuchowski]

I use to love mine too until last night 🙄😁 great video 🔥🔥

[@adventurefilmclub2549]

Was it yours that blew off the mountain? I had a look for it on the way down this afternoon but no idea how far it must've blown in that wind last night!!

[@dtuchowski]

@@adventurefilmclub2549 thanks a lot but I didn't expect to find it anyway 🙄😁 I've ordered new one already so ... Never mind 🤗how was your day ? Great channel mate

[@tablatom]

Thanks for your great review. I have just bought an Elixir 3, and am planning on some winter mountain top camping in the Brecon Beacons. I see the tent has around 11 guy rope points, but i have yet to find a youtube video with the the Elixir's fully anchored down. Have you done this in high winds?

[@whatsnottohike]

I live in Spain and I can get this tent new for €260 and i think it's the one, especially after this video. I'm 6'3 and so looks big enoigh too. Thanks!

[@adventurefilmclub2549]

It's a great tent, I reckon you'll be okay at 6ft 3, I'm just shy of 6ft and there's a good amount of space at my head and feet. I occasionally put my rucksack at my feet if I'm on a slight incline to stop me sliding down, and never struggle for headroom

[@DartmoorPaul]

Im 6’3” & this tent is awesome. I can sit up anywhere & lie out straight

[@THENITROFERCHO]

Donde la encontraste por 260? Esta por unos 300 en Amazon ahora mismo. Gracias de antemano!

[@waynerenshaw-multi-outdoor4521]

I got mine in July 2021 and after using it twice on separate weekends in North Wales, the ground sheet on one side had started to fray and holes appeared in the corners because the footprint was an inch shorter all round, I got in touch with MSR and they say it's designed like this to prevent rain getting under your tent, but to me I've had others like the North Face and the footprint is exactly the same size, so MSR replaced it which took in total 6 weeks to finally get my replacement, haven't used it since, but planning on doing the Tour Du Mont Blanc in July 110mile hike over 12 days ... so I'll be looking for a bigger footprint 😉🤟

[@adventurefilmclub2549]

Tbh I've not used the groundsheet in ages so wasn't aware of the issue, but it seems a bit of a design flaw! Man the Tour Du Mont Blanc looks epic. Definitely going to over to do it in the next few years!

[@waynerenshaw-multi-outdoor4521]

@@adventurefilmclub2549 make sure to plan it properly, I've booked some hotels in between so me and my girlfriend can enjoy it like a hiking holiday and not rush it missing some of the view's , going to absorb the experience of a life time for sure... 🙂🤟

[@uhuhh7683]

Yo how was the tour du Mont Blanc? I’m planning to do it next month

[@alanspence1716]

Superb film, and great review of the tent. Subscribed and liked! I'm a bit concerned it's so draughty, but hey we like fresh air or we wouldn't be looking at tents! Are you still using it or did you buy the ultralight? Also what bivvy do you use please?

[@adventurefilmclub2549]

Hey, cheers! It is draughty if you dont get a really level pitch and tighten it down, but obviously outside of winter that's great for ventilation and condensation. In winter you can pack up the edges with snow, or just huddle inside until sunrise rescues you...! I still use this when I want space or when weight isn't the main concern, but I've started using the Alpkit Soloist on solo outings as it's half the weight and half the size. I'll probably upgrade to the MSR Hubba NX at some point, but maybe next winter. I use a bivvy bag I got on sale, which has a thermal bottom to it, but to be honest it's really prone to moisture and condensation so I might go for a slightly larger goretex one with a bit of breathing room!

[@RAMSEYM2402]

I'm a complete novice really, as i've only used bigger tents on campsites in the past, but thinking of doing some solo camping in the peak district and lakes next year......spring to autumn hopefully. I'm 5ft 7 ins and can't decide yet which MSR tent would be ideal. I've seen videos on the hubba hubba nx2 so far and will watch this one later after work.

[@adventurefilmclub2549]

Tbh I'm probably going to upgrade to the Hubba nx 2 just for the weight and space saving you get for winter mountaineering when every gram counts, but for the price the Elixir 2 is pretty hard to beat. The 1 person versions of either tent is reasonable in terms of size, but I like a bit of space especially in winter so the two person versions appeal.

[@GregEverest]

Hi Great video. What editing software are you using? Ps, I'm a new subscriber?

[@mrpeatson]

No matter how i position the outter sheet of this tent there always seem to be a side where the inner is poking out a little bit, I don't know if it's just the design at this point, I can't find a way to tighten the top that brings it down flush on everyside.

[@monkynutzuk]

Would would ypu recommend between the elixir 2 and sierra design meteor 3000?

[@jackyv2000]

What the hell, I can't find a green one anywhere in Australia!

[@Northern_Rockhopper]

How does this perform in the wind, also it’s quite solid inside would it be okay for winter?

[@adventurefilmclub2549]

It's not too bad in strong winds. It might start to struggle above 40mph, I've probably only had it out in 40mph ish tbh. It's great for winter if you pack up the edges with snow and stop a breeze blowing through. I use it regularly in sub zero temps and so long as I'm using my winter sleeping bag etc I'm always fine.

[@rauliuxaa]

Was also wondering what pad are you using? Is it insulated thermarest?

[@adventurefilmclub2549]

Hi, in this video it's a very cheap inflatable mat I got in Lidl! My fancy Big Agnes pad had a defect so I defaulted to using a cheap pad with some silver reflective material underneath. I now use a Thermarest neoair Xlite which covers me for most conditions, unless it's below -5C in which case I back it up with a roll of reflective silver material!

[@rauliuxaa]

@@adventurefilmclub2549 any idea where i could find to get that silver reflective thingy? how's it called exactly?

[@adventurefilmclub2549]

@@rauliuxaa I got a roll of it at Aldi very cheap, I believe it's just insulation foil for radiators, houses etc. In the US it's called Reflectix, but it can be found in hardware stores, online etc. It's really useful stuff and weighs next to nothing. I just slot mine inside my tent bag so it takes up no room in my rucksack. I had a £10 roll mat in the Cairngorms at -10c and I was fine as I had a layer of it underneath me. www.screwfix.com/p/radiator-reflector-foil-470mm-x-4m-1-88m-/88629?tc=TB4&ds_kid=92700055281954514&ds_rl=1249404&gclid=Cj0KCQiA8vSOBhCkARIsAGdp6RQaeQ_b6LMVc5mvHTaqpwG6DBSdeFv4eucJhwgfJ88esZaP0U7KKCgaAmemEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds

[@rauliuxaa]

@@adventurefilmclub2549 thanks a lot for the info man, appreciate it! could i maybe write you some more in depth questions to your email about the sleeping system if you don't mind answering?

[@adventurefilmclub2549]

@@rauliuxaa yeah no problem at all! I'm actually going to do a video of my winter sleeping set up, as I've opted for a 2 bag system and it's pretty effective and budget friendly! Reckon I could get it down to -20C and it cost less than £100! My email is [e-mail]

[@ibizasunsets6497]

Hi, I was thinking about getting this tent but the low hh rating put me off. so I was set on the berghaus grampian 2. Only down side with that is it nearly 4 and a half kg. Now I'm thinking maybe the msr again. 😅

[@adventurefilmclub2549]

Tbh that's quite a common issue with the MSR tents, people being unsure of how they'll perform with the lower HH rating, but I can honestly say it's never once been close to letting water in, and I've had it some pretty wild conditions in the Scottish mountains! From what I could find online MSR use lighter weight materials that have a lower HH rating than some tents, but in practice they're 100% waterproof and function well even in wet UK conditions.

[@thezeropoint7645]

does this stop the dreaded midge from getting in

[@adventurefilmclub2549]

Hey, yeah I've camped with just the inner before in the forest with midges about and no issues with them getting in.

[@majamidzor3801]

you don't use groundsheet with it?

[@adventurefilmclub2549]

Hi, I only really use the ground sheet if it's really wet conditions. In summer and winter I generally don't use it no. Keeps the weight down a tiny bit...

[@Bigaloutdoors]

Hi does this tent come with a spare pole in case you snap one

[@adventurefilmclub2549]

Hey, not too sure tbh, I got mine secondhand so not 100% on what comes in the original package. A friend of mine recently put his brand new Elixir up in 50 mph ish winds and bent the poles, and MSR replaced them at no cost, so they're a decent company when it comes to damages and after sales.

[@Bigaloutdoors]

@@adventurefilmclub2549 ok believe it or not I Work in a waste transfer station and I just found this tent today but one off poles has snapped I’m sure I’ll pick a replacement up the tent is in really good condition also

[@adventurefilmclub2549]

@@Bigaloutdoors great find! You can probably order a spare pole online somewhere!

[@chasedeal5631]

...agh...shoes in the tent. C'mon man!

[@adventurefilmclub2549]

It was nice and grassy and fairly dry so not too messy thankfully, normally it's a strict policy of wet boots off at the door!! Took my brother's dog camping recently, that got pretty messy...

[@bluebellcrushedvelvet]

I knnooww!! I agree!! It's hard enough for me to keep the dirt outside, never the shoes in!!

[@bluebellcrushedvelvet]

@@adventurefilmclub2549 hahaha fair enough.

[@koudacyen]

So not good for downpoors and storms?

[@adventurefilmclub2549]

The opposite actually, great in storms, as its geodesic shape sheds wind easier than flat sided tents. I wouldn't push it much beyond 40mph myself, but it can handle a bit of strong wind. And it's as good as any other mid brand tent in downpours, doesn't let rain in. Or at least it's never leaked on me in all sorts of wet and wild outings.

[@stevie2686]

It looks a nice tent but it’s seems a bit of a faff to put up when you include the footprint . I suppose it’s ok for nice summer nights but no way would I use it for multi day hiking trips .

[@adventurefilmclub2549]

Hey, I don't use the footprint myself tbh, so saves a bit of weight and faff. It goes up in a few mins though once you've done it a few times. I really like it for multi day trips as you get all that space if you're on your own, and it's reasonable sized for two. I put the poles on the side of my pack and the tent squished up on top, so not too bad on space either. Had it in some pretty gnarly winter outings on the Cairngorm plateau as well, so not just a summer tent, although anything above 40mph should probably be avoided...

[@rauliuxaa]

what sleeping bag would you recommend for a decent price? i've bought the mat and this tent, but can't decide on the sleeping bag, seems like the cost is really all over the place!

[@adventurefilmclub2549]

Personally I've gone for a 2 bag system, with a fairly bog standard 4 season bag by OEX which cost £40 on sale and is okay down to just above freezing. This bag does me most of the time, but in full winter conditions and wild summit camps at -10C and below, I use a Cocoon primaloft bag liner too, which if used with the OEX bag, I think should take me to -20C. This cocoon bag also works as am ultralight summer and spring bag too. Total cost for both was £110, and total weight for both is 1.85kg, and they both fit in the OEX stuff sack and go in the bottom of my rucksack. Personally I think a 2 bag set up is the warmest and the most useful for options and variety of use.

[@rauliuxaa]

@@adventurefilmclub2549 thanks for the tip, makes a lot of sense. I live in country where tempetures go from +20 to -20c depending on the season, so 2 sleeping bag sollution you offered was def a good solve for that, thanks man!

[@karlgreene2177]

The poles break easily and the zips are fragile otherwise it is a nice tent.

[@adventurefilmclub2549]

Hey, I can't say I've found that myself, it's been quite a robust tent in my experience. Definitely not heavy duty by any stretch of the imagination, but solid enough for a light ish weight tent.

[@karlgreene2177]

@@adventurefilmclub2549 Well I have had 9 tents in my life and the Elixir is the most fragile of them all

[@TreesofMemory]

This is the worst tent i am ever had. Even a middle strong rain is enough to set the inner tent under water. The water comes from up and the bottom seems to be not waterproofed at all.., i am really angry and all of those guys here miss to tell, that there is a be seem at the bottom. Really, do yourself something good and don't buy it. I regret it deeply.

[@adventurefilmclub2549]

There might be a defect with the one you bought, definitely worth contacting MSR to get it replaced or refunded. I've never had any issues with waterproofing, but tbh I don't camp out very often in very wet conditions, I tend to camp in winter conditions or chase nicer weather year round.

[@alanspence1716]

Were you using the ground sheet? Can you explain how and where the water was coming in a bit more please, I can't quite understand it, probably my bad but your help would be appreciated, I don't want to buy a tent that I'd get wet in!

[@sonyou98]

Your culture loves to hear themselves talk. Way too many big words for a fuckin tent review!

[@adventurefilmclub2549]

Maybe try learn some big words so you don't come across as a total bellend!

[@Phil_2007]

@@adventurefilmclub2549😂👍