Wild Camping with the OneTigris Stella Tent: A Real-World Review
Surviving a Cold Night on the North Downs Way
If you’ve been thinking about getting into wild camping during the colder months, you’re in the right place. In this post, I take you through my first full experience using the OneTigris Stella, a four-season tent, while camping along the North Downs Way. From scouting the perfect pitch to handling sub-zero temperatures, this is a genuine look at both the highs and hiccups of a cold weather camp.
First Impressions: Searching for the Perfect Pitch
It was Saturday, 18th January 2025. The air was fresh, hovering just above freezing, and I was ready to test out my new tent. Hiking off the main North Downs Way path led me to a secluded spot — quiet, leveled, but just a little too close to foot traffic. I moved deeper into the woods to ensure peace and privacy.
Clearing the Ground
As always, Leave No Trace was front of mind. I cleared the space of old debris (and unfortunately, someone’s dumped gear) and began setting up as the light started fading.
Tent Setup: First Time With the OneTigris Stella
I’ve used the OEX Phoxx 2 extensively and while I loved its reliability, space was always an issue. The Stella, however, offered loads of room. Here are some highlights:
Plenty of headroom: I could sit up and move comfortably.
Four hanging points inside the tent for lanterns or drying gear.
Two vestibules with the footprint for extra gear protection.
Quick Observations:
The zip catches slightly — something to watch out for.
Jet black fabric stands out more than I’d like.
Despite those minor flaws, the spaciousness was a game-changer.
Gear Loadout for Cold Weather
Surviving a 3°C night meant layering smart and packing quality kit:
Rab Ascent 900 sleeping bag — Down-filled and rated to -10°C.
OEX Flux 7R sleeping pad — Insulated for comfort.
Thermals and fluffy pillows for added warmth.
SealSkinz gloves and gaiter — Breathable and waterproof.
Sourdough, sirloin steak, and chorizo for a real meal treat.
Cooking was done on the OEX Takana Solo Stove, which performed like a Jetboil but at a more affordable price.
Cooking, Comfort & Reflection
This trip was a little different. I’m trying to distance myself from alcohol, so I put extra effort into my food and drink. That meant:
Adventure Food chicken curry for lunch.
Sirloin steak and chorizo for dinner.
Hot chocolate and a good book to close the night.
Chocolate pudding in custard — because why not?
Hanging my food bag in a tree became routine after a previous camp was disrupted by critters. It worked.
Weather Surprise: Light Snowfall & Tent Performance
Though the forecast showed no rain, light snow started falling during the night. Temps dropped to 1°C outside, and inside the Stella stayed at a cozy 8.3°C. However, I did notice the fly sheet didn’t reach the ground — not ideal for wind protection.
Despite this, the Rab sleeping bag plus down jacket combo kept me perfectly warm.
The Morning After: Sleep Score and Final Thoughts
Garmin tracked over seven hours of sleep, with a score of 88.5 — a rare achievement in wild camping. But I did have one issue that’s persisted: cold feet.
I’ve tried mountaineering socks from Go Outdoors, but still no luck. If you’ve got recommendations for the warmest socks on the market, drop them in the comments!
Key Takeaways
The OneTigris Stella offers space and winter suitability, but could benefit from better fly sheet coverage.
Preparation is everything — smart layering, tested gear, and knowing your area makes all the difference.
Cold weather camping is doable and rewarding with the right approach.
Final Reflection: Worth It?
This camp was about more than just testing gear. It was about solitude, reflection, and challenging myself to grow. With no alcohol, no stress, just the wild and a warm meal, it felt like the right kind of reset.
So here’s my question to you:
What makes a wild camp memorable for you? Is it the gear, the view, or the peace that comes with it?
Let me know in the comments, and don’t forget to share your go-to sock for winter wild camping!
Is the OneTigris Stella four-season tent worth the hype? I put it to the test wild camping in the North Downs with a full overnight gear setup. Join me on this solo wild camp as I pitch the OneTigris Stella tent for the first time and share honest thoughts after a full night out. Featuring the OEX Tacana Solo Stove, Rab Ascent 900 sleeping bag.
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