Vango vs OEX Tents — UK Backpacking Compared for 2026

Brand Overview

Vango — Scottish brand, established 1966. Known for reliable, well-priced tents that handle UK weather. From budget backpacking to large family tents. Available everywhere.

OEX — Go Outdoors' house brand. Focused on lightweight backpacking tents at competitive prices. Smaller range but targeted at weight-conscious hikers.

Head-to-Head Comparison

Vango: Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths:

• Proven track record in Scottish weather — decades of refinement
• Wide range from budget to premium (Soul, F10 series)
• Excellent porch designs for cooking and gear storage
• Better customer support and warranty
• Available in virtually every outdoor shop

Weaknesses:

• Generally heavier than OEX equivalents
• Entry-level tents (Nevis, Skye) can have condensation issues
• Premium range (F10) is expensive
• Design innovation slower than nimbler competitors

OEX: Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths:

• Excellent weight-to-price ratio — lightest tents at budget prices
• Phoxx series is a genuine bargain for ultralight-ish camping
• Go Outdoors discount card makes them even cheaper
• Good waterproofing specs

Weaknesses:

• Only available at Go Outdoors — can't try before buying elsewhere
• Smaller porch space than Vango equivalents
• Less proven long-term durability
• Limited range compared to Vango

Premium Comparison

At the premium end, Vango's F10 range competes with the likes of Terra Nova — genuinely lightweight, well-designed tents. OEX doesn't really have a premium offering.

Verdict

Choose Vango if: You want proven reliability, good porch space, and a brand with decades of UK weather testing. Or if you want a family/larger tent — OEX doesn't compete here.

Choose OEX if: Weight is your priority and budget is limited. The Phoxx series offers genuine lightweight performance at a fraction of the cost of premium alternatives. Just be prepared for a tighter interior and smaller porch.

Our pick: For most UK backpackers, the OEX Phoxx 1 V2 at ~£130 is the better buy — the weight saving is significant and the waterproofing is excellent. But if you're less weight-focused and want something proven and spacious, the Vango Nevis 200 at ~£80 is hard to argue with.

Product Recommendations

Weight vs Price

750g saved for 50 extra. Regular backpackers: worth it. Car campers: save the 50.

Making Your Decision

When choosing between these two options, consider your actual use case rather than aspirational use. Where do you walk most often? What conditions do you typically face? How much weight are you willing to carry? The best gear is the gear that matches your real-world needs, not the gear with the most impressive specifications.

Both options reviewed here have proven themselves across thousands of UK outdoor enthusiasts. Neither is objectively wrong. The question is which one suits your specific combination of budget, planned activities, and personal preferences.

Where to Buy

Both brands are available through specialist UK outdoor retailers including Cotswold Outdoor, Go Outdoors, and Blacks. Online retailers like Amazon UK, Ultralight Outdoor Gear, and the brands' own websites also stock these items. Try before you buy where possible, especially for items like packs and boots where fit is personal.

Long-Term Value

Consider the total cost of ownership, not just the purchase price. A more expensive item that lasts 10 years costs less per year than a cheaper item that lasts 3 years. Factor in maintenance costs, replacement parts, and warranty coverage when making your decision. Quality outdoor gear is an investment that pays dividends in comfort, safety, and enjoyment over years of use.