MSR Access 2 Review
Rating
Versatility: 8
Size/Weight: 10
Features: 9
Construction: 9
Sleep Quality: 8
OVERALL: 8.8
A versatile, breathable and lightweight tent.
The MSR Access 2 is a 4-season beauty with 29 square feet of interior space and roomy vestibules. It stands up to the cold, but unlike many 4-season rivals it's breathable enough to be used in most conditions other than the very warmest. The lightweight fabric and double wall design does a great job at handling condesation, making this our top hiking choice. 
Pros: Roomy vestibules, great water resistance, good weight for a 4-season tent.
Cons: Could pack down smaller.
Verdict: A really versatile option for a four season tent.
Skip ahead to First Impressions, Sleeping Experience, Features Analysis, Construction and Durability, or the Final Verdict, or check out how the MSR Access 2 compares to others in our list of the Top 5 Backpacking Tents.
Specs:
Open Size: 213 x 127 cm
Packed Size: 46 x 15 cm
Weight: 1.84 kg
Approx Price: £599.95
First Impressions
The MSR Access 2 immediately strikes as a thoughtfully designed 4-season tent that balances performance with livability. Its compact yet roomy design feels more spacious than its dimensions suggest, offering 2.7 square meters of well-utilised interior space. It’s ideal for mountaineering, trekking and even summer camping and it feels reliable with its robust materials and clever features. The thing is, its 4-season build might feel slightly warm during heat waves, making it more suitable for cooler climates.
Sleeping Experience
Sleeping in the MSR Access 2 is notably comfortable, thanks to its rectangular internal layout that removes the dreaded ‘squashed-feet’ scenario. The double-wall construction effectively minimizes condensation, giving you a dry and comfortable sleeping environment. While not the roomiest tent on the market, its clever design makes it feel far more spacious than it looks, delivering a cozy and practical sleeping arrangement for two.
Features Analysis
The MSR Access 2 is packed with features tailored for adventurers who need versatility and convenience. Its double-wall construction is great in cold weather while effectively managing moisture build-up. The tent boasts dual vestibules, offering plenty of storage space for your backpacks and hiking boots, while the internal pockets provide organisation for smaller gear. The adjustable double zippers are something we think is a great feature, as they improve ventilation during warmer weather and add to its year-round usability. Despite its high-end price tag, these thoughtful touches make it a great value tent.
Construction and Durability
Durability is a key strength of the MSR Access 2. Its Easton Syclone carbon poles are both lightweight and resilient, standing up well against strong winds. The tent’s fly features a silicone coating and the floor comes with a durable water-repellent (DWR) finish, giving it reliable weatherproofing to keep you dry in rain or snow. These high-quality materials make sure that it can withstand challenging conditions, though we’d recommend handling it carefully just to preserve this longevity.
Final Verdict
The MSR Access 2 is a standout in the world of 4-season tents, giving you an impressive mix of comfort, durability and versatility. While its price and weight may be offputting for those looking for an ultralight tent, we think its smart design and reliable construction justify the investment for most adventurers. Ideal for colder weather but capable of adapting to milder climates, it’s a robust choice for campers who prioritise comfort and performance. If you’re in the market for a dependable all-season tent, the MSR Access 2 is a strong contender.
Why not visit our list of the Top 5 Backpacking Tents 2025 to see how the MSR Access 2 compares?
Water & Outdoors reviews are written by our staff writers, who combined have over fifty years of experience on the water and outdoors. We may earn commissions if you choose to buy through a link you’ve clicked on our website, however this does not influence our reviews. For more information, please see our Editorial Policies.