There’s something deeply comforting about living amidst nature in the outdoors. The joy of sleeping under a star-studded sky and waking up to a sun-kissed morning is unparalleled. A camping getaway is often just the dose of tranquility you need to recharge your batteries and get back to your mundane life.
Nevertheless, camping comes with its own set of challenges. The lack of proper facilities and comfort can be a deterrent for some people. Also, pitching a tent, cooking your meals, and starting a fire all by yourself may not be everyone’s idea of the perfect holiday. Not to mention you need to pack a cornucopia of essential gear before every camping trip.
But just because you love luxury and comfort, it doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the delightful experience of camping. What if there was a way to cherish the outdoors without compromising on comfort? Your dream has now become a reality with the introduction of a treasure trove of glamping properties.
If you’ve always wanted to try your hands at glamping or are planning an outdoor getaway, here’s everything you need to know:
Decoding Glamping
Think of glamping as the more sophisticated and posh cousin of camping. Simply put, glamping is a portmanteau derived from the words glamorous and camping. And it’s what it sounds like. You get to enjoy all the perks of camping while living in luxury accommodation with attached bathrooms, on-demand butler service, and more. You can even enjoy a gourmet breakfast in bed while admiring the beauty of a vast lake right in front of you.
With glamping, you no longer have to worry about pitching your tent or making your bed. Instead, you can sleep inside an air-conditioned permanent tent with a queen-size bed and a walk-in closet. You don’t even have to worry about the electricity getting cut off in the middle of the night. It isn’t surprising that glamping has become the buzzword for new-age travelers.
Most national parks in the U.S. offer plenty of glamping facilities. Also, you’ll find a plethora of specialized glamping accommodation options in the remotest destinations. While it’ll cost you more than a traditional camping experience, glamping is worth a shot. If you’re looking for an affordable option, you could also curate a DIY glamping experience on your own.
Glamping Tips for Beginners
Can’t wait to go on your first glamping trip? Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your escapade:
1. Pick the Right Destination
Do you want to camp in the middle of nowhere in a secluded desert? Or do you want to fall asleep to the sound of sea waves incessantly lashing on the shore? Perhaps you’d like to cherish the view of snow-capped mountains while sipping on a cup of piping hot coffee? While it’s possible to find glamping facilities in any part of the world, make sure you select a destination that appeals to you.
Remember – if you’re not happy with the destination, even the best of the amenities will fail to impress you. Whether you’re going on a trip with your partner, siblings, or friends, don’t forget to consult them and mutually agree on a suitable destination.
2. Carefully Choose Your Accommodation
Today’s glamping facilities offer an impressive array of accommodation options. You can choose from a diverse assortment of glamping accommodations, from luxury yurts and treehouses to rustic tipis and covered wagons. But don’t forget to consider your budget and travel preferences before zeroing in on an option.
This is also a good time to check out the amenities offered by various glamping facilities. Most properties boast standard amenities such as comfortable beds, attached bathrooms, housekeeping, and room service. But a few places go beyond the basics and provide state-of-the-art services such as an in-house spa, 24-hour concierge, etc.
3. Pack the Essentials
One of the biggest hassles of camping is the need to pack the right gear and paraphernalia. Glamping saves you that trouble by ensuring that most amenities are available on-site. Therefore, if you’re used to camping outdoors, make sure you unpack and bring only the essentials such as clothes, toiletries, a camera, and a charger.
4. Take Things Up a Notch
As it is, glamping offers an elevated camping experience. But there are ways to make it even better. For instance, you can ask your concierge to light a fire and enjoy making s’mores with your family in the evening. Or you can bring your French coffee press along to enjoy a cup of your favorite freshly brewed coffee every morning.
Have you tried glamping before? Did you enjoy the experience or thought it’s overhyped? Share your experience in the comments section below.