Glamping: What It Is and How to Get Started

As the term “glamping” continues to appear in news articles and social media content, you may have found yourself wondering, “What exactly is glamping?” Grand View Research reported that the glamping industry is projected to reach $5.4 billion by 2028. But why has it become so popular?

Camping is great, but it’s not for everyone. Glamping is for people who want to enjoy the outdoors without sacrificing the comfort of their day-to-day lives. Whether it be a home cooked meal, a comfortable bed, or unlimited access to electricity, glamping is equipped with comforts that make the great outdoors feel like home. 

If you haven’t been able to convince your kids to take that camping trip yet, glamping may be the answer. In this article, we are covering everything you need to know about glamping and how you can get started. 

Quick Takeaways

• Glamping is a luxury camping experience that offers an indoor bed, electricity, and plumbing
• The best glamping accommodation for you depends on your personal preferences and the activities you enjoy
• The most popular types of glamping options include: safari tents, yurts, cottages and cabins, tipis, airstreams and trailers, and treehouses 
• Just as with any outdoor experience, it is essential to bring a flashlight, lantern, and extra batteries on your glamping trip

Glamping is the perfect combination of outdoor adventure and luxury. Although it has many different looks, it always ensures a comfortable camping experience.

What Is Glamping?

“What is glamping”, you ask? Simply put, glamping is a glamorous camping experience. Instead of sleeping in an average camping tent or sleeping bag, glamping not only offers an indoor bed, but also electricity and plumbing. 

Every glamping adventure looks different, depending on location, housing, and preferred activities. Although, in every case, it offers a great opportunity to spend time outdoors without having to completely forego luxury and comfort. 

Types of Glamping Lodging

When it comes to glamping, there are dozens of accommodations to choose from. The best choice for you depends on your personal preferences. Here are a few examples of the most popular options. 

Safari Tents

Safari tents are a great way to keep in touch with the classic feel of camping outdoors. They can be as large as a hotel room, with plenty of space for beds, dressers, nightstands, etc. And, many are equipped with wood floors, electricity, and WiFi. 

Yurts

Yurts have been a staple form of lodging in Central Asia for over 3000 years. Traditional Mongolian yurts have a wooden frame, and cover made from canvas or felt. These features allow them to be built or broken down easily. Naturally, glamping yurts are much more luxurious, but typically follow the same principles. 

Cottages & Cabins

If you are an avid camper, chances are that you have stayed in a cabin or cottage before. Most prominent in national or state parks, cottages and cabins offer a cozy experience accommodated by the natural beauty of the outdoors. This glamping experience is ideal for families, since cottages and cabins tend to come in many sizes. 

Tipis

Not too different from yurts, tipis are cone-shaped tents used by Native American tribes. They are traditionally built from large wooden poles and animal skins, with smoke flaps that allow for indoor campfires. Tipis are not only easily transportable, but they also stay warm in the winter, cool in the summer, and dry during rain storms.  

Airstreams and Trailers

If this isn’t your first time spending the night in nature, then you are probably familiar with airstreams and trailers. They offer both a sense of nostalgia and amenities that make your stay with mother nature a comfortable one. Not to mention, they can be easily moved, making them ideal for road trips and cross-country travels. 

Treehouses

A well-built treehouse offers the opportunity to truly immerse oneself in the outdoors while still maximizing comfort. Treehouses are not only aesthetically pleasing, but you will also find most of them equipped with the comfort of electricity and WiFi. 

What To Pack For Your Glamping Trip

Even though glamping offers access to a bed and electricity, it is still important to come prepared with camping essentials. After all, you are going glamping to enjoy the great outdoors! 

Flashlights and Other Portable Devices

Any electronic devices, such as a flashlight, should be lightweight, compact, and easy to use. This way, they can be easily carried in your pocket or backpack, ensuring easy access for when you need them. 

Whether you are camping or glamping, flashlights are an essential tool for navigating the outdoors safely. A good rule of thumb is to make sure each guest on your trip has at least one EDC, or everyday carry, flashlight of their own. 

Lanterns

Lanterns are another essential item for your glamping trip. Similar to flashlights, they ensure access to reliable light while you are enjoying the outdoors. But, they also serve as a great source of aesthetic light, elevating the comfort and coziness of the atmosphere around you.

As always, when considering a reliable, portable light source, it is important to consider the following:

• Lumens
• Durable materials
• Waterproofing (IP rating)
• Recharability 
• Multiple light settings

By maximizing the features above, you also maximize your unit’s battery life and overall performance. 

Extra Batteries

This goes for every outdoor experience – you should never head out after dark without an extra set of batteries. No one expects their light source to give out when they need it most. In the event that your flashlight or lantern runs out of battery, you will have peace of mind knowing you have an extra set of batteries on hand.

Get Ready To Go Glamping

Now, when someone asks, “What is glamping?”, you will not only know how to answer them, but  also all of the best ways to ensure an enjoyable outdoor glamping experience. 

Want to learn more about how you can make the most of all of your outdoor adventures? Fenix can help. Visit us today to find high quality lighting solutions, or keep learning about staying safe outdoors here on Fenix’s blog.