MSR Access 2 Review
Rating
Versatility: 8
Size/Weight: 10
Features: 9
Construction: 9
Sleep Quality: 8
OVERALL: 8.8
A lightweight, breathable and adaptable tent.
The MSR Access 2 is a standout 4-season tent offering 29 square feet of interior room and generous vestibules for gear storage. It’s built to handle cold weather with ease, but unlike many other winter-ready options, it offers enough ventilation to work well in all but the hottest conditions. Its lightweight materials and dual-wall setup manage condensation effectively, making it our top pick for multi-day hikes.
Pros: Spacious vestibules, excellent waterproofing, impressive weight for a 4-season tent.
Cons: Not the most compact when packed.
Verdict: A flexible and dependable shelter for 3- to 4-season adventures.
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: 84x50in
Packed Size: 6x18in
Weight: 4lbs 1oz
Approx Price: $799.95
First Impressions
The MSR Access 2 immediately feels like a purpose-built tent that doesn’t compromise comfort for performance. Despite its modest footprint, the clever design maximizes interior space and livability, with 29 square feet that feels surprisingly open. Whether you're alpine trekking, shoulder-season camping, or pushing into colder weather, it performs with confidence. That said, it can run a bit warm in peak summer temperatures, so it’s best suited for cooler environments or mountain conditions.
Sleeping Experience
The MSR Access 2 offers a notably pleasant sleeping setup, thanks to its rectangular floor plan that eliminates the cramped, tapered feel common in many tents. The double-wall construction does a great job of reducing condensation, helping to maintain a dry and comfortable interior. While it’s not the largest tent out there, the smart layout makes it feel roomier than expected, making it a cozy, functional space for two people to sleep comfortably.
Features Analysis
Designed with serious adventurers in mind, the MSR Access 2 includes a host of practical features. Its double-wall design excels in cold conditions and controls internal moisture well. Dual vestibules provide generous storage space for boots, packs and other gear, while interior mesh pockets help keep essentials organized. We particularly liked the dual zippers, which not only allow for adjustable airflow in warmer conditions but also improve overall usability throughout the year. It’s a premium product, but these well-thought-out details make it worth the investment.
Construction and Durability
The build quality of the MSR Access 2 is one of its strongest points. It uses Easton Syclone poles, known for being both ultralight and extremely tough, perfect for standing up to high winds. The rainfly is treated with a silicone coating for extra weather resistance and the tent floor features a durable water-repellent (DWR) finish for reliable protection against wet ground. While the materials are high quality, we’d still suggest handling the tent with care to make sure it continues performing at its best over time.
Final Verdict
The MSR Access 2 is a top-tier option in the 4-season tent category, striking a great balance between comfort, strength and adaptability. Though it’s a bit heavier and pricier than some minimalist shelters, the excellent design and rugged build make it well worth considering. Best suited for cool to cold environments, it’s also versatile enough for milder conditions. For those looking for a dependable, all-season tent that delivers on performance and livability, the Access 2 is hard to beat.
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.