OEX Phoxx 2 Review: 6 Months of Wild Camping Tested

Why the OEX Phoxx 2 Has a Cult Following

There's a tent that’s getting a lot of attention among wild campers, and it’s not one of the usual suspects like Hilleberg or MSR. It’s the OEX Phoxx 2, and for a budget-friendly shelter, it’s made a big name for itself. Lightweight, durable, and easy to pitch — this tent punches well above its price tag.

After using it extensively for six months across stormy and frosty nights, I’m ready to break down why this budget tent could be one of the best in its class.

Quick Specs and Setup

• Packed Size: 41 x 16 x 16 cm

• Weight: 2.1 kg

• Hydrostatic Head: 5,000 mm (impressive for this price range)

• Poles: Two pre-angled aluminium Endura poles

• Setup Time: 5–10 minutes solo

This isn’t an ultralight option, but it is totally manageable for backpacking and wild camping. When you separate the poles from the main body, it packs down nicely.

Tent Design & Build Quality

The Version 2 of the Phoxx 2 includes toggles that let you pitch the tent as one unit — keeping the inner and outer attached. The aluminium poles snap into place easily and feel solid. The included pegs aren’t premium but have held up in rocky and muddy terrain.

The 5,000 mm waterproof rating has held through Storm Bert and Storm Darragh, with no issues. That’s serious protection for under £70.

Inside the OEX Phoxx 2: What’s It Like?

Interior Space

This is marketed as a two-person tent, but realistically, it’s ideal for one person and gear. There are double doors for airflow, two decent internal pockets, and a hook to hang a lantern.

The low-profile tunnel shape makes it stealthy and great for discreet wild camping.

Ventilation

There are rear and front vents held open by guy lines, which help reduce condensation. The breathable nylon inner also helps with air circulation. I’ve used it in sub-zero temperatures with no major issues.

Field Use: 6 Months of Real-World Testing

I’ve taken this tent through:

• Heavy storms

• Sub-zero temperatures

• Dense woodland

• Windy hilltops

It even survived a hungry critter chewing through the tent to reach my dry roasted peanuts. After a quick patch with Tenacious Tape, the tent was back in action.

Common Complaints & My Fixes

• Tent Pegs: Bend in very hard ground. I sometimes swap them for sturdier aftermarket ones.

• Door Toggles: Annoying to use. Might be worth modding with better clips.

• Zipper Tabs: I trimmed one off to allow easier zip positioning.

Gear Loadout on This Trip

For this wild camp, my full setup included:

• Sleeping Bag: Rab Ascent 900

• Sleeping Pad: Kilos Gear inflatable mat

• Stove: OEX Tacana system

• Food: Steak and sausages cooked on an open fire

• Extras: Kindle, lighting, and basic tools

Campfire Cooking

Thanks to landowner permission, I had a fire going early to get a nice ember bed. Steak and sausages made for a perfect camp dinner, followed by a peaceful sleep with the tent pitched near a small clearing.

Final Thoughts: Is the OEX Phoxx 2 Worth It?

After half a year of consistent use, I can confidently say: yes.

Key Takeaways:

• Affordable: Typically under £70

• Reliable: Held up in storms and freezing conditions

• Compact: Easy to carry and quick to set up

• Durable: Survived physical abuse and critters

If you're new to wild camping or want a backup tent that performs reliably without breaking the bank, the OEX Phoxx 2 is hard to beat.

Reflection & Next Steps

Have you tried the OEX Phoxx 2? Got a rival tent in the same price bracket that you think deserves the crown? Let me know in the comments — I’m always keen to test more kit.

And if you found this post useful, hit that subscribe button, drop a like, and stay wild out there.

The OEX Phoxx 2: Still WORTH It After 6 Months?

After 6 months of wild camping, we revisit the OEX Phoxx 2 tent. Discover its performance in storms, sub-zero temperatures, and more. Is it still the best budget tent for outdoor enthusiasts? Watch our in-depth review to find out.​

---

All Gear Review Blog Posts

---

All Wild Camping Blog Posts

---