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Reliable, spacious shelter with improved durability and a genuinely practical layout for group use
MSR says:
Ideal for newer backpackers and those who want a versatile, durable shelter, the Elixir 1 is easy to set up and super spacious.
The Inside: The interior is a roomy 18 sq. feet (1.70 sq. m) so you can stretch out in camp. It easily accommodates a modern wide sleeping pad thanks to the true rectangular floor. The tent body is a mix of mesh and solid fabric for the perfect blend of breathability and privacy. The no-curve tent door features zippers that are easy to use with one hand. They also zip closed to a single point so you always know where to open the door, even in the dark. Tech-friendly pockets feature cable ports at the corners for headphones and charging cords. A large overhead gear loft pocket is perfect for a headlamp, sunglasses, and other quick-access items.
The Outside: The color-coded pole and clip design makes setup easy. Strong aluminum poles, a PFAS-free water-repellent coating and taped seams keep the Elixir stable and dry. The rainfly features a large vestibule for storing any gear you don’t want inside. The easy in-and-out vestibule door features a StayDry™ rain gutter to catch any drips, while the updated kickstand vent adds even more airflow. Premium metal corner hardware is easy to use and super durable for years of use.
The Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a solo backcountry mansion, look no further than the Elixir 1 tent.
Our Verdict
The MSR Elixir 4P Tent builds on the same comfort-focused design, with the latest update improving long-term durability. The updated fabrics and coatings are designed to extend the lifespan of the fly and floor. In real use, that brings more confidence in damp conditions, where PU coatings have traditionally been a weak point.
The true rectangular floor is a key strength at this size. It accommodates four mats without overlap, and the generous width makes it easier to organise kit inside the tent rather than relying entirely on vestibules. Headroom is consistent across the structure, making it easy to sit up and move around in camp. Storage is well handled, with multiple pockets and overhead gear storage to keep smaller items organised. Dual vestibules provide practical external storage, while the included footprint helps protect the floor over time.
Pitching remains straightforward for a tent of this size. The colour-coded system and updated flysheet attachments help create a stable structure, requiring fewer adjustments to achieve a clean pitch. It is still an inner-first design, but once set up, the tent feels solid and well supported.
Ventilation is well balanced. The mix of mesh and solid fabric allows airflow without feeling too open, and the updated kickstand vents improve air movement through the fly.
At 3567g for the fly, inner and poles, this is not aimed at lightweight use. The focus is on durability, internal space and ease of setup, and the updates reinforce that without changing the overall character of the tent.
- Reviewed by Ultralight Outdoor Gear
Features
- So Much Room: Bring your pack inside, roll around, sit up, and sleep on a 25-inch (63.5-cm) mattress, no problem at all.
- Privacy & Ventilation: A mix of solution-dyed mesh and solid fabric panels offers a balance of ventilation, warmth, and privacy.
- Easy Setup: Freestanding design, color-coded poles and webbing, and included footprint make for fast and intuitive setup; easy-to-find, no-curve door zips for quick entry and exit.
- Premium Luxury: Large StayDry™ door, kickstand-vented fly, large side-entry vestibule, and premium metal corner hardware for lasting performance.
- Stay Organized: Large gear loft for overhead storage and cable ports on all pockets for easy cord management.
Specifications
Weights:
- Flysheet weighs: 1255g
- Inner weighs: 1232g
- Poles weigh: 1080g
- Total weight: 3567g (excludes pegs & bags)
- Pegs x 10 weigh: 164g
- Footprint weight: 394g
Dimensions:
- Floor + Vestibule: 5.1 + 1.51 sq. m (55 + 16 sq. ft)
- Interior Peak Height: 122 cm (48 in)
- Capacity: 4
Material & Construction
- Poles: (2) 7000 series aluminum
- Rainfly Fabric: 75D ripstop poly 1500mm polyether urethane & PFAS-Free DWR
- Canopy Fabric: 20D nylon micromesh / 40D ripstop polyester & PFAS-Free DWR
- Floor Fabric: 75D taffeta polyester 3000mm polyether urethane & PFAS-Free DWR
