What is Glamping?

Glamping is a relatively new term that combines the words "glamorous" and "camping." It refers to a type of luxury camping where people can enjoy the outdoors in comfort and style.

Glamping accommodations can include anything from beautiful canvas tents to giant treehouses and more, and there are glamping destinations all over the world! Here's everything you need to know about this stylish camping trend, its origins, and how you can start planning your next glamping getaway.

What is Glamping, and Where Did the Term Come From?

The origin of the term “glamping" can be traced back to 2006 in the United Kingdom, and it has been gaining popularity ever since. Due to its luxurious nature and aesthetically pleasing look, the concept of luxury camping quickly gained traction on social media sites, especially after influencers hopped on the trend, but the virality of the term is thanks mostly to Instagram and Pinterest.

These platforms were the ultimate advertisement for glamping because they could beautifully portray the comfort, opulence, and creativity of glamping to a wider audience. It became more than just a camping trend or a nice hashtag for posts — it was now seen as a luxury experience that anyone could enjoy.

Glamping vs. Camping: What's the Difference?

What is the difference between glamping and camping? To put it simply, the difference is luxuriousness. Glamping offers comfortable accommodations and amenities that are not typically found in traditional camping. This can include anything from electricity to running water and full bathrooms. Camping, on the other hand, is a more rustic experience where you typically rough it in a tent or under the stars.

However, that's not to say glamping is akin to a fancy resort or penthouse apartment rental. Not only is glamping often more affordable than these high-end destinations, but it's also still immersed in nature. Glamping manages to achieve perfect harmony and balance between comfort and the great outdoors — something that other luxury experiences can't always offer.

Types of Glampsites

There are many different types of glamping accommodations, and the type you choose will depend on your personal preferences. Some popular glamping accommodations include tents, treehouses, yurts, cabins, and RVs. Here are some more details on the most common and appealing types of glamping accommodations:

Luxury Tent Camping

The most popular way to glamp is in luxurious tents. Canvas tents are a luxury camping staple because they offer a high-end camping experience without forgoing any rustic charm. In addition, canvas camping tents are often more spacious than traditional tents, so you'll have plenty of room to move around and relax.

Yurt Glamping

Img Source | Vince Gx via Unsplash

Yurts are round, portable shelters that have been used for centuries by nomadic people all over the world. Nowadays, yurts (not to be confused with yurt tents) are often used as vacation homes. When it comes to glamping, yurts offer a unique and comfortable experience that allows you to be one with nature.

Luxury Camping Cabins

Source | Karsten Winegeart via Unsplash

Cabins and treehouses are typically the most upscale glamping accommodations. A cabin is the best option for those who want access to the modern comforts of a house like showers and hot water, but still in a stunning, natural and private setting. Besides amenities, luxury cabins are usually more spacious, so they make a great choice for a large family or group, or if you're expecting guests during your trip.

Where Can You Go Glamping?

There are glamping destinations all over the world! You can find glamping resorts, campsites, and even glamping hotels. From eco vacation resorts to your nearest national park, you have plenty of options to experience glamorous camping in your travel itinerary.

To find glamping destinations and locations, check out thislist of glampsites to see if any are on your travel bucket list. You can also use websites like Glamping Hub, Hipcamp, and Airbnb.

Source | Jonas Dücker via Unsplash

DIY Glamping

If you're feeling crafty, you can try out DIY glamping. This involves a bit of love and creativity to transform regular camping into a deluxe experience. Here are some tips to bring that extra glam to your next camping trip:

1. Start with the basics. You canbuy glamping tents for your own personal use to go glamping anywhere. If you use a regular tent, consider splurging on tent accessories like extra comfortable padding or an inflatable bed to make your sleeping space feel far from "roughing it."
2. Choose your decor. Battery-powered LED mood lighting, a decorative rug, fluffy pillows — pick a few tasteful touches to give your tent a feeling of decadence and careful design.
3. Up your food game. Elevating your meal options doesn't have to be impractical, even if your eco trip requires hiking. Bring a lightweight backpacking stove and pan, or even just exotic dried fruit instead of trail mix. A bit of extra effort like this can easily turn up the glam because let's be honest, camp food isn't exactly glamourous to start with.

Source | Vidar Nordli-Mathisen via Unsplash

Conclusion

Glamping is a great way to have an amazing outdoor adventure without sacrificing all the comforts of home. With so many different types of accommodation in destinations all over the world, there's sure to be a glamorous camping site to suit your style. You can even create one yourself to enjoy the experience however and wherever you'd like.