The ideal tent for backpackers and adventurers who are looking for the ultimate balance of strength, weight-saving, and adaptability. The New to 2026 Terra Nova Southern Cross 1 is the latest evolution of our iconic mountain shelter, featuring a strong free-standing design that delivers exceptional performance in demanding conditions while remaining impressively lightweight.
With a maximum weight of just 1.96kg and a minimum weight of 1.76kg, it’s light enough for long-distance treks whilst offering significantly improved internal comfort. The updated design features an inner tent that is 28% larger, creating more usable space for sleeping, organising gear, and waiting out bad weather.
Constructed with TriPlex™ triple ripstop, PFC-free, recycled and solution-dyed flysheet fabric, the Southern Cross 2 has been engineered to be more sustainable than ever while maintaining the durability and weather protection required for exposed environments. Combined with an upgraded pole hub design, 9mm OD centre pole, and reinforced guying system, the structure delivers outstanding stability in strong winds and unpredictable mountain conditions.
- Free-standing design – reliable pitching on varied terrain with improved structural strength
- TriPlex™ flysheet fabric – lightweight triple ripstop PFC-free, recycled and solution-dyed construction for durability and sustainability
- Updated with a total of two flysheet doors – improved access and ventilation from either side of the tent
- Extensive door and vent configurations – adaptable airflow and weather protection
- Larger flysheet end vents – enhanced ventilation and condensation management
- Hypalon flysheet hang points – increased durability at key stress areas
- Updated and strengthened guyline system – added stability for exposed conditions
- FlexiPorch feature – adjustable porch space for extra gear storage
- Lantern hook in both porches – practical lighting solution for camp use
- Clip-in footprint compatibility – easier setup and improved ground protection
- Re-designed pole hub with 9mm OD centre pole – increased strength and stability
- Inner tent 28% larger – improved comfort and liveable space
- Elasticated inner corners – maintains a taut, secure pitch and reduces stress on the fabric
- Eco anodised poles and reflective eyelet tape markers – improved sustainability and visibility in low light
- Colour-coded pole feet for quick, intuitive pitching even in poor conditions
- Internal drying line for hanging clothing and gear
Chas Sibley (verified owner) –
A solid 4 season tent
This comes from an owner of 5 tents.. From a hilliberg soulo to a Durston X-Dome.
Used twice, and really quite Impressed with this tent. Plenty of space and an adaptable porch area to allow various situations. Really helped when shedding waterproof layers without wetting the interior. It’s 4 season and seems well made, stood very well to heavy gusting winds. The other major bonus was the warmth.. The inner really does seem to trap heat well.
I believe the inner was one of the bigger areas for complaint on the old version. But once pitched I tightened the corner straps and the inner seemed nicely taught to me. The outer doors are fab… Really very good. The inner door is very big.. Bigger than I feel it need to be.. Makes it a bit awkward to open the inner one handed. That’s the only minor negative I noticed, otherwise very good. Recommended
Archie Vernon (verified owner) –
10/10
Really good tent, very easy to setup and has lots of really useful features. Also bought the footprint, which simply just clips onto each 6 corners so is quick to attach.
Noticed other people online have negative opinions on the height of the tent being too low, but I am 6 foot 2 and have no issues, and can comfortably sit up inside.
Amazing quality materials used, and its really quiet in the wind.
Would definitely recommend to anyone thinking of buying this tent.
summiteverest (verified owner) –
Brilliant tent
Brilliant tent. Very quick and easy to pitch and take down. The ventilation works very well with so many options. The extra guy line attachments at either end really makes it so much stronger such a clever idea. The inner is very taught. Love the space inside, can sit up and have plenty of room for gear. The double doors are superb and the vents above the doors work very well. So quiet in the wind. Totally superb. Have owned more than 10 Terra Nova tents and really think this is a great tent.
GW –
Great First Impression
First test at the weekend in the Lakes, great all-round quality, quick & easy to pitch, roomy inner with plenty of space for a large pad and still room for storage too.
Inner door is massive with great venting options and love the flexibility of the main double doors. Inner headroom is fine for me at 6ft sitting on a thick pad.
Looking forward to more nights out in the Southern Cross and keen to see how it fairs in winter conditions.
Overall great first impression.