Glamping 101: Embracing the Outdoors with Glamorous overnights
- hikeherworld
- Mar 21, 2024
- 4 min read
Updated: May 2
The Fancy Side of Roughing It -
Let’s be honest: if you're one of those who love the idea of camping—the campfire vibes, the fresh air, the Instagram-worthy sunsets—but when it comes to actually sleeping on the ground and sharing a tent with six-legged roommates? Hard pass!!
Enter glamping, the magical middle ground where you can roast marshmallows under the stars without waking up with a pinecone in your spine. We get it - you want to enjoy the great outdoors without compromising comfort or style.
Glamping (aka "glamorous camping") is for those of us who like our wilderness with a side of Wi-Fi, throw pillows, and perhaps a cheese board. It’s the outdoor experience for people who want to feel rustic without giving up things like comfort, or the ability to charge their phone.
In this article, we’ll unpack everything you need to know about glamping—from what to pack, to occasions and ideas to create your own unique experience. We’ll also cover how to enjoy the outdoors without donating blood to a swarm of starving mosquitoes.
So put on your camping-themed hoodie, spritz some bug spray like it’s perfume -seriously, we have a DIY recipe - and let’s dive into the coziest wilderness escape you’ve ever camped.
What Exactly Is Glamping?
Glamping is short for glamorous camping, and it combines the beauty of nature with the comfort of modern amenities to create a unique experience. Think canvas tents with actual beds, cabins with electricity, tree houses with bathrooms, or a sided pop-up tent with throw pillows and a projected movie. It's not cheating—it's just prioritizing comfort... and possibly espresso.
Depending on your location and budget, rental glamping experiences can range from rustic chic to full-blown luxury resort in the woods. Some even come with hot tubs, spa services, or breakfast delivered to your tent. You’re still in nature, but nature has been gently padded with throw pillows and memory foam.
While that luxury comes at a price, we have included ideas to plan your own glamping getaway for your needs and budget.
Why Glamping Might Be Your New Favorite Thing
Comfort matters: You can enjoy the wilderness without needing a chiropractor afterward. Great for those with back pain or other limitations.
Easy to plan: You can rent a glamping setup that is pre-arranged and fully furnished—just show up and relax. You can also add a few items to basic camping gear you may already own to create your own mood.
Great for any sized groups: Plan a romantic escape for two, make it a girls weekend getaway, or an entire family reunion.
Create an experience: by planning fun activities, even if it's just lounging in a hammock all day, you can achieve any vibe or mood you want.
Great for different occasions:
Create a magical weekend for an anniversary, date night, or other romantic occasion - Think fuzzy blankets, extra pillows, fairy lights or cute lanterns, soft music, and a picnic dinner with a decadent dessert.
A bridal shower or birthday bash is all about the food and drinks. You could include an amazing brunch with a bloody Mary's, charcuterie boards with champagne, or a BBQ with beer. Project a movie or slideshow onto a white tablecloth with a portable projector under the stars, or set up a wine & paint party, but outdoors under the party lights.
Inexpensive family vacation - include the kids, and even the dog. Play games, make s'mores or popcorn, and create magical camping memories in your matching pajamas. The cozy extras will make it extra fun for the kids.
A spa-wellness weekend - bring slippers, robe, face mask, herbal teas an.d some essential oil bug spray. Soak your feet, swing in a hammock, color in a coloring book, and ground with nature. You can easily relax and detox when you spend time outside.
What to Pack for Glamping: The Checklist 🏕✨
Whether you rent a glamping site that's already set up for you, or you want to plan your own, here are a few things to remember to pack with you for the ultimate experience:
Comfort & Clothing
Cozy layers (always check the weather before you go)
Comfortable walking shoes or boots
Slippers for lounging
Pajamas and extra socks
Eye mask and ear plugs
A robe or blanket wrap
A hat or beanie - if you plan to be outside
Toiletries & Personal Items
Toothbrush, toothpaste, skincare basics
Hand, face and body wipes
Bug spray
Sunscreen & lip balm
Hairbrush or dry shampoo (or just messy bun because glamping = low maintenance)
Favorite book, journal, or camera - or all three
For Fun & Vibes
A speaker for soft background music or headphones for yourself
A portable projector for a theme movie
Extra pillows and blankets
String lights, fairy lights, or lanterns (it's usually best to not use real candles)
A Lot of snacks and a fancy beverage in a fancy cup
Decor that makes the space feel extra cozy and luxurious, such as a fuzzy rug to step on out of bed, a mosquito net or sheer fabric hung over the bed.
Optional But Delightful
A battery backup to charge your cell phone or other devices - if electricity isn't provided, this could be what keeps the mood flow or the party lit
A portable propane fire pit, BBQ grill, or outdoor pizza oven
Air mattress or memory foam
A portable hammock or comfortable camping chair
A special coffee or hot chocolate for the morning
A rechargeable bug zapper
Themed shirts, camping mugs, beanies or other useful item that doubles as a momento or party favor
Glamping is proof that you can enjoy the great outdoors without compromising comfort or style. It also doesn't have to cost a fortune when you set up your own glamping experience. Whether romantic date night in the backyard or girls weekend at the lake, make it cozy and picture perfect!
We hope this inspires you to embrace the outdoors, even if it's in your own backyard!
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