Vacation time is fast approaching and you’re making plans for what to do. There are always hotels. But the most popular destinations often mean exorbitant prices and locations that are not always convenient to the things you want to see, particularly if you like visiting remote areas. Of course, there’s always camping, but what about the dirt, the sleeping on the hard, cold ground. What about cramped spaces and not showering for days?
How about glamping? The term glamping comes from the combination of “glamorous” and “camping,” and, while it may sound like a very modern invention, it actually dates back at least to the ancient Greeks when the historian Herodotus first recorded it. It was used by nomadic tribes who sought semi-permanent shelters that offered them warmth and comfort.
To Glamp or Not to Glamp
Modern glamping offers a variety of lodgings where you will find the comforts of home while enjoying the remoteness of camping. And at very affordable prices! Enjoy a yurt in the mountains of New Zealand, a tipi in Utah’s canyon lands, a treehouse in Costa Rica. The popularity of glamping in the 21st century means you will find destinations around the world.
Forget the inconveniences of camping. Glamping destinations offer real beds, storage space, cooking facilities, bathing accommodations, activities, and much more. But there are other reasons why glamping is a good choice.
Because accommodations don’t require the heating and electricity costs of constructing and maintaining permanent dwellings, they are much more eco-friendly. Even those that offer the creature comforts of heating and air conditioning often use alternative power sources, such as wind and solar energy. And since everything is set up for you, you don’t have to be an expert to glamp.
You’ll find campers, yurts, safari tents, treehouses, and tipis in places where there are no hotels in sight. While prices vary depending on type of accommodation, location, time of year, and services offered, you generally can find glamping destinations ranging from $50-$300.
DIY Glamping
Of course, the true off-the-grid types may not want to deal with reservations, with preplanned locations, or with shelters created by others. If this is you, no worries. DIY glamping is easy with a little planning and can transform your outdoor experience.
As you plan your glamp, remember that comfort is key so you will want to plan for a tent that is spacious. Popular tent styles include bell tents, pyramid tents, saloon tents, tipi tents, and yurt tents. If you’re a hardcore do-it-yourselfer, you might even consider making your own tent. If so, keep in mind the factors that will make your glamping most enjoyable, such as weatherproofing, ease of set up, weight, and durability of your tent.
A big factor of comfortable glamping is your bed. An air mattress topped with a padded cover and a comforter and pillows can make all the difference for tent sleeping. You can also glamp up your camp with folding tables, LED or solar lighting, small mirrors, rugs, comfy chairs, and gourmet meals. Bring along cast iron cookware and a multi-burner camp stove for an outstanding outdoor culinary experience.
And
while your relaxing in your self-created luxury, no need to feel guilty. Remind yourself that you’re living like the
Mongols. Sit back in your chair, watch
the fire crackle, and dream of conquering the world.