MSR Hubba Hubba NX Tent: Does This 2 Person Tent Make the Cut?

Everyone knows that a tent is an absolute essential for outdoor activities like backpacking and camping. However, shopping for a tent can be downright overwhelming. If you think you can just walk into an outdoor gear shop and choose a tent, you’re in for a surprise.

Choosing the right text involves a lot of complex factors like weight, construction, capacity, where you’ll be hiking and more.

If you’re camping with a single companion or as a couple, then you can’t go wrong with a 2-person tent. By finding this article, there’s a good chance that you are in the market for a good 2-person tent.

Well, you’ve come to the right place because not only will we highlight the things you need to two about 2-person tents, we will also review a product that might just be worth your money and time MSR Hubba Hubba NX Tent.

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Product Specifications

  • 20-denier ripstop nylon / 15-denier nylon mesh
  • Head and elbow room throughout tent
  • Two large side-entry vestibules to store gear
  • Two large StayDry doors with built-in rain gutters
  • Adaptable, cross-ventilating rainfly
  • Unified hub-and-pole system with color-coded clips
  • Ultra-compact compression stuff sack

Check the price on Amazon

Review

Let’s be blunt about this: there is no such thing as the very best 2-person tent, objectively speaking. Everyone’s needs and requirements are different so it’s more accurate to ask yourself this question: which is the best tent for me?

As we always say, this all comes down to your own personal preferences. However, we all enjoy a good recommendation don’t we?

We have taken a look at some of the top 2-person tents in the market and we have found one that truly shines: the MSR Hubba Hubba NX Tent.

General Specifications

The MSR Hubba Hubba NX Tent is actually the updated version of the same model. As it is, this is definitely a tent that can compete with the best of them. This model has what it takes for a great backpacking tent. Easy to set up? Check! Lightweight? Check! Can comfortably fit two people? Absolutely!

Today, we’ll be highlighting this particular tent and go in extensive detail as to why it’s a solid pick for a backpacking shelter. First, let’s take a look at some key specifications:

  • Size: One size
  • Weight:8 lbs
  • Dimensions: 39 x 50 x 84 inches
  • Material type: [fly] 20D ripstop nylon| PU coating (1200mm)
  • Pole material type: Aluminum

Packaging

Right off the box, you will get the 39 x 50 x 84 inches dome tent which weighs about 3.8 lbs. Floor area is about 29 square feet which should be able to comfortably accommodate 2 grown adults.

The pole material type is aluminum which provides a good deal of durability and light weight. As for the included components, you’ll be good to know that it comes with its own vestibule and rainfly.

Unfortunately, it doesn’t come with its own tent footprint and stake kit, but you have the option of purchasing these items separately.

Ultra-lightweight without sacrificing construction

Ultralight tents are great but they’re not necessarily the most durable and stable shelters out there. MSR really did a good job with the Hubba Hubba NX by giving it balance – a thoughtful design that manages to hide the weight savings rather well.

Even just by weighing a little more than 3 pounds, it can accommodate two adults without feeling cramped. This can be attributed to the rectangular floor area instead of the commonly used slanted walls and tapered ends. Come the humid weather and you will surely appreciate this design.

The pole structure is a single-hubbed unit which gave great performance during windy and 3-season conditions. The ridge pole design also allowed the creation of vertical sidewalls which increases structural integrity.

Easy to set up and take down

The said rectangular design and single-hubbed pole makes the  Hubba Hubba NX a breeze to set up. It’s such a painless process that even just one person can single-handedly set it up.

Taking it down is just as painless. However, the mesh along the top of the tent needs to be installed separately, so you’ll need to do so quickly in case of an unexpected rainstorm.

Once you have taken down the tent, you can easily stuff it into the sack that comes with it. Even for a complete novice, the bag is forgiving enough to accommodate the tent.

Fabric materials

The canopy is made from 15-denier nylon micromesh and a 20-denier high-tenacity ripstop nylon which amount to a pretty sturdy and weather resistant tent which can really take some punishment.

Even in a rain storm, the Hubba Hubba NX should keep its occupants dry. However, it might not be the best option when camping in a location with high winds.

Notable Features

When buying a tent, you will, of course, want one that offers features that are relevant to your interests. We’ll go through the MSR Hubba Hubba NX’s most noteworthy features and you decide if these features are for you:

Durability – the Hubba Hubba NX should have no trouble being more durable than most ultralight tents.

However, don’t expect it to be more durable than those heavy luxury tents. Some level of durability has been sacrificed in favor of its lightweight profile. It’s a good thing that this tent has a great pole design which allows great durability considering its weight.

Livability – the tent features two doors which many would consider to be an essential when it comes to 2 person tents. This allows you to wake up at night and do your bathroom breaks without waking up your partner.

Unlike many tents, the interior is not tapered at the ends but instead the floor is rectangular which means more space. The ceiling is high enough so you can sit down inside.

The vertical sidewalls should allow more freedom of movement without bumping into the ceiling. There are also two large vestibules that can be used to store your gear.

Ventilation – as mentioned, the tent comes with two StayDry doors which are equipped with a cross-ventilating rainfly and built-in rain gutters. There are also kickstand vents and mesh walls for added ventilation.

Value for money

Considering that it’s a 2 person tent that has good durability, portability, livability and other features, we dare say that this tent offers great value for your money. Potential accessories for this tent are also fairly cost-effective.

MSR products all have 3-year Limited Warranty which is provided by a company called Cascade Designs. The warranty covers any defects in materials and workmanship for three years.

Main Competitors

MSR Elixir 2-Person Tent

If you are in the market for a 2-person tent that is quite affordable but still is roomy for two person, then you can’t go wrong with the MSR Elixir 2-Person Tent. Perhaps the most noteworthy feature of this tent is its great livability.

The specialized pole geometry helps in optimizing headroom and the rainfly can help you appreciate the great views outside.

The Elixir is also a great lightweight option that can be easily setup on the fly. It also boasts some privacy features with its mesh and solid fabric panels. Basically, it’s a lightweight, fast setup tent that won’t break the bank.

The Elixir is another tent from MSR that received plenty of positive feedback from customers. Perhaps the most cited positive of the Elixir is the super fast and easy setup which is appreciated by minimalist, lightweight backpackers.

Many customers are also surprised that the tent actually offers good room. Of course, customers also appreciate the fact that this tent is very affordable especially for a 2 person tent.

The Elixir is a great budget tent with awesome livability features but sans the bells and whistles. The Hubba Hubba NX on the hand is an all-around 2 person tent that has all the trimmings and features that will please even the most hardcore backpacker.

Kelty TN 2 Person Tent

The Kelty TN 2 Person Tent is another 2 person tent that you might want to consider if you are really on a budget. And just like that, this model is one of the most affordable 2 person tent that money can buy. However, call this merely as an “affordable” tent will be doing this product a great disservice.

The tent has a 50-inch width so it’s definitely roomy for two persons and a couple of gear. Packability is also amazing with this tent so it’s a great option for the minimalist hiker. The three pole design allows for fast and easy setup. It’s also neat that the vestibule also unclips in case you want to go stargazing.

This tent also leaves a positive impression among many buyers. As expected, the customers love the fact that this tent is such a steal, especially for a compact, lightweight, trail-ready model. The simple and intuitive design also resonates well with users as it allows them to put up the tent with little to no hassle.

Durability is another boon that many customers cite about this tent, thanks to its superior nylon construction. Customers are also glad that they could easily pack the whole thing along with their other gear.

When it comes to price alone, the Kelty TN 2 Person Tent easily has the upper when compared to the  MSR Hubba Hubba NX. However again, this is all about the option of between a basic, budget-friendly tent and a full-featured one.

The Hubba Hubba NX offers plenty more space and the features help in providing the best type of comfort and livability.

Mountainsmith Morrison 2 Person 3 Season Tent

In case you are still on the hunt for another great budget 2-person tent, the Mountainsmith Morrison 2 Person 3 Season Tent is an easy recommendation. As you can see from its name, it’s a 3-season tent which that in itself is already a great value for the frequent outdoorsman.

The 2 door / 2 pole / 2 vestibule design is just a great balance of accessibility and ease of setup. The last thing you’ll want after a long day of hike is dealing with a tent that’s hard to pitch. This tent’s color-coded pieces will make assembly a breeze – you’ll be done in 5 minutes or less. There’s also a netting which should keep the bugs out.

Backpackers and hikers have found plenty of things to like about this 2-person tent. The two door, two vestibule tent gives great accessibility which means that you don’t need to disturb the other person if you want to go for a bathroom break in the middle of the night.

The fast and easy setup is another attractive feature that resonates well with customers. Above all, the price is simply hard to resist for many customers.

Overview

As we have mentioned earlier, the Hubba Hubba NX is a cinch to set up. Without going through the exact details, all you need to do first is to lay down the tent. Then, you proceed to put together the pole sections then set them aside. Once that’s done, just clip everything into place including the rainfly.

The two side access vestibule doors features a rain-gutter design which can be used to stop the rain from dripping inside. On the head and foot of the tent comes some really handy pop-out vents that could really help you out during hot, humid conditions.

The Hubba Hubba NX is an easy recommendation for the dedicated backpacker who is looking for an ultralight and easy to set up tent. It has great stability and a freestanding design that it could stand up to some really rainy conditions.

For its price point, it’s not exactly a budget-friendly option but you have to take the whole package into account. It is lightweight, sturdy, resilient and has great livability. However, if you’re looking for a tent that will shelter you in really heavy, snowy weather, then you might want to look elsewhere.

It’s important to see what people think of a certain product or service before making the jump and purchasing it. The same is true when it comes to tents. The best way to shop for one is to walk through the outdoor gear shop and test it yourself. However if you’re going to buy online (as many people do), it’s always best that you read user feedback and reviews. So what do actual customers think about the MSR Hubba Hubba NX?

Many customers certainly loved the fact that it’s a very light tent but many noted that despite the weight, the materials are still strong enough to withstand wind and rain. Many also liked the fact that it’s a freestanding tent although it’s still better if the poles are staked.

A lot of customers are pleased with just how easy it is to set up the tent. Some have even commented that they were able to set it up by themselves. The tent also has configuration which many reviewers find it to be a huge boon.

As for the not so positive things, there are reviewers who thought that it doesn’t stand up too well against a particularly rough storm. Others have thought that maybe it could be a little bit more lighter. Here are the pros and cons of the Hubba Hubba NX:

Pros:

  • Great interior space, durability and packed weight
  • Ultralight yet strong materials
  • Easy to set up and take down
  • Can be ultra compressed and fit in a sack
  • Freestanding design with two configurations

Cons:

  • Won’t be enough to withstand heavy snow and storm
  • It’s not the lightest tent option under four pounds
  • It’s not exactly a budget-friendly sheltered
  • Light-colored rainfly can be blinding during sunny days
MSR Hubba Hubba NX Tent
  • General Specifications
  • Packaging
  • Ultra-lightweight without sacrificing construction
  • Easy to set up and take down
  • Fabric materials
  • Notable Features
  • Value for money and guarantee
4.8

Summary

The Hubba Hubba NX is an easy recommendation for backpackers who are looking for a lightweight tent but with uncompromising quality and construction. It’s a great tent for beginners and is a solid pick for couples who want a comfortable time outdoors. Sure, it’s not the most affordable tent out there but considering the whole package of weight, toughness and livability, it’s certainly worth the investment.

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So what do you think of this particular 2 person tent? Is this something you see yourself using for your outdoor activities? We love knowing your thoughts so feel free to leave your comments.

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4 thoughts on “MSR Hubba Hubba NX Tent: Does This 2 Person Tent Make the Cut?”

  1. We have always used Mountainsmith Morrison 2 Person 3 Season Tent and my family really loves it. First of all, it is very easy to pitch and pack., it also has reasonable weight and of course, a generous interior space. It is durable too. As for Hubba Hubba NX, I will be looking into it more because we are planning to get another tent.

    Reply
  2. I have heard about this from some of my friends so your review really got me intrigued even more. I still have another working tent, but I will keep this in mind for next time. I am also really impressed with its price considering there are a lot of good reviews about it.

    Reply

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