Gear Review: MSR Elixir 1 Tent First Impressions

 

 

Introduction

As an avid backpacker, bike tourer and casual camper, I’ve had my fair share of encounters with tents, several of them have been documented on this blog. Some encounters were delightful, others not so much. The MSR Elixir 1, however, falls pretty firmly into the delightful category, I think for all three of my categories of normal use. Could this be the tent to end them all? Let’s dive into the details, shall we?

Experiences from the Trail

1. The Setup Dance

Picture this: a drizzly evening in the Scottish Highlands. I’m fumbling with wet fingers, trying to pitch my tent. The Elixir 1, with its color-coded poles and intuitive design, practically assembled itself. No expletives were hurled, and that’s a win in my book.

2. Stormy Nights

Winds howling, rain pelting—standard fare for a British summer. The Elixir 1 stood its ground. The robust pole structure and taut rainfly kept me cozy and dry. Plus, the, to be honest, utterly huge vestibule provided a snug spot for my muddy boots, sparing the inner sanctum from filth. Well, boot filth anyway.

3. Midnight Musings

Inside the tent, I pondered life’s mysteries (and whether I’d packed enough toilet roll). The mesh panels allow stargazing without inviting a mosquito buffet, however I’m in the UK, so this is a feature that I’m confident I will rarely use myself. The headroom is surprisingly generous—I could sit up comfortably and change my trousers without too much bother.

Pros:

1. Durability: The Elixir 1 laughs in the face of rocky terrain and gusty gales.
2. Spacious: Solo dwellers, rejoice! There’s room to stretch out and store gear.
3. Easy Setup: Even a sleep-deprived hiker can pitch it without cursing the universe.
4. Rainfly Ventilation: No sauna effect—thanks to adjustable vents.
5. Affordable: It doesn’t break the bank, leaving more cash for post-hike pub grub.

Cons:

1. Weight: At around 2 kg, it’s not ultralight. But hey, comfort comes with a few grams.
2. Footprint Size: The footprint extends only under the inner tent, not the vestibule. Choose your campsite wisely.

Final Verdict

I now own both the Elixir 1 and 2, and while the 2 person has become my go to car camping weekend tent, the MSR Elixir 1 is like that reliable hiking buddy who shares their last Pot Noodle when you’re hangry. It’s not the lightest or the fanciest, but it’s got your back when the elements conspire. So, whether you’re tackling the Pennine Way or simply escaping city chaos, consider the Elixir 1 your trusty shelter.

Buy it for a decent price on Amazon HERE