What is glamping? How is it different from traditional camping? In a nutshell, glamping is not camping, but rather its stylish cousin who went to boarding school in France for a few years and came back with an accent and a penchant for fashion.
Below you will find everything you need to know about camping vs glamping, from A to Z. In a nutshell, glamping is not camping, but rather its stylish cousin who went to boarding school in France for a few years and came back with an accent and a penchant for fashion.
Camping vs Glamping: Accomodation
where you’ll sleep
Camping
Tents are the traditional type of camping accommodation. Depending on how many members your party consists of, the weather conditions you are facing, and how skilled you are in pitching it, you can choose from various models.
Glamping
Well, in the camping vs glamping debate, glamping is all about fancy tents and select lodgings. Glampers nowadays have a wide variety of options at their disposal, and some are downright kooky. Could you imagine camping in a cave or igloo? The glamping industry surely can. I have gathered eight of the most popular alternatives out there below, but keep in mind there are more.
Dome tent
The dome tent is what you can find in most stores due to the fact that it is the most popular model. You will recognize it by its curved pole structure. Dome tents are affordable and come in a variety of sizes. They can even be joined together to create a larger camping space, which is ideal for large families.
Safari tent
Safari tents were arguably the first ever glam camping tents used back in the 1900s, when wealthy American and Brits started venturing out in the unexplored wilderness of Africa. What makes them so luxurious is the fact that they are basically a mansion with canvas walls that you can decorate as you please.
Geodesic tent
The geodesic tent is similar in structure to the dome tent, but it comes with an extra set of poles that construct a more spacious interior. In addition to this, geodesic tents are far more resilient in extreme weather conditions. This makes them the appropriate choice for adventure and mountaineering camping, especially during the winter. This is the type of tent you should consider for your winter hiking adventure.
Yurt
Yurts have been used by the nomadic Mongolian tribes of Central Asia for centuries as portable abodes. The glamping industry reimagined them into luxury camping accommodations. Nowadays, they are equipped with air conditioning, central heating, private bathrooms, and even hot tubs. If you want to see exactly what we are talking about, check out our guide on the best glamping destinations in Europe. You will find there some luxury lodging like you never thought existed.
Tunnel tent
The tunnel tent is the perfect choice for campers who enjoy having a little more leg room. When joined together, their curved poles create a tunnel structure, hence its name. The average tunnel tent can comfortably fit four campers, but larger models are available on the market as well. It’s recommended for campsites and not hikes, as it is rather heavy.
Teepee
Next on our list of things to consider before choosing between camping vs glamping are teepees. Similarly to yurts, teepees are another type of traditional dwelling that has been revamped for glamping purposes. Characteristic to Native Americans, they are cone-shaped constructions customarily covered with animal furs. Their design is slightly different on site (sans animal furs, most notably).
Ridge tent
Remember those triangular tents your parents used to have? They are known as ridge tents, and they consist of two poles at either end that join together in that classic shape. They aren’t popular these days, but some campers still enjoy them for their retro vibe.
Pod
Glamping pods benefit from a wide range of integrated services, such as private bathrooms, kitchen areas, jacuzzis, spas, and more. They manage to offer immersion in nature without sacrificing one bit of your comfort and luxury. This is where your camping vs glamping dilemma comes in: do you want a more sauvage tent experience or do you prefer the conditions of a 4-stars hotel in the heart of the wilderness? You can make up your mind by learning more about comfort and conditions from our ultimate guide to glamping.
Backpacking tent
The backpacking tent is the ultimate choice for the hiker that is constantly on the go. Just make sure you know how to pack a backpack – tent included – for your next adventure. Generally, the backpacking tent is lightweight and compact, as well as easy to pitch. Still, its reduced size means that you won’t enjoy too much headspace during this time.
Tree house
Glamping in a treehouse is the ideal blend between deluxe amenities and fond childhood memories. It is a unique accommodation that will definitely provide you with an unforgettable experience. Plus, it is ideal for glamping with kids. In the camping vs glamping debate, glamping wins on this one.
Family tent
Also known as the vis-à-vis tent, the family tent consist of two facing sleeping sections joined together by a common area. It is thus perfect for families of four or more. It also emulates the layout of an actual home for added comfort.
Campervan
Half the fun of enjoying a relaxing weekend in nature is the road trip there. Campervans and RVs are the ideal way to ensure that you do that in style as well. Some models are fully-fledged mobile homes with multiple bedrooms, a private bathroom, a kitchen, and a common living room area.
Inflatable tent
The inflatable tent is the new kid on the block taking the market by storm. It is similar in design to a tunnel tent, but it has hollow panels instead of poles. During the setup process, these panels fill with air and literally inflate the tent. This makes it easy to pitch, but still quite heavy to carry around. Plus, it requires a pump.
Cottage
Glamping trends are constantly appearing and evolving, and bucolic living is the new craze. Many homeowners are renovating their traditional cottages to welcome tourists that want more than a classic camping experience.
Pop-up tent
The pop-up tent is ideal for beginner campers, as it requires no assembly. It opens up and expands on its own. All you have to do is tie it down securely afterward. Pop-up tents can generally fit two people, but they are surprisingly roomy when considering their compact size.
Barn
Revamped barns fall into the bucolic living trend the glamping industry has incorporated. Landholders in rural areas are sprucing up sheds and listing them for tourists that want to enjoy a few nights in a quiet and idyllic setting without giving up any of the creature comforts of home.
Camping vs Glamping: Clothing
what you’ll wear
Camping
Camping clothing is all about layering and functionality. Traveling light is essential, which is why you should only bring those indispensable pieces that make the transition from daytime to nighttime as seamless and uncomplicated as possible.
Glamping
Packing a suitcase for your glam camping adventure is a far more relaxed process altogether, seeing as you don’t have to worry about filtering the items you want to bring. In fact, chances are your accommodation has a closet, which means that you can wear whatever you want. When it comes to glamping, you don’t need to worry about getting a waterproof backpack to keep your clothes dry or minimalist packing for an in-and-out adventure. Still, it’s always important to keep a checklist of necessities in mind.
Warm Weather | |
|---|---|
| T-shirts | Shorts |
| Long-sleeved shirt | Hoodie |
| Bathing suit | Waterproof jacket |
| Windproof jacket | Sneakers |
Warm Weather | |
|---|---|
| T-shirts | Shorts |
| Long-sleeved shirt | Hoodie |
| Flip flops | Sneakers |
| Bathing suit | |
Cold Weather | |
|---|---|
| Winter coat | Fleece jacket |
| Wool hat | Gloves |
| Thermal leggings | Thermal undershirt |
| Thick sweatshirt | Buffer |
| Scarf | Hiking boots |
Cold Weather | |
|---|---|
| Winter coat | Fleece jacket |
| Wool hat | Gloves |
| Thick sweatshirt | Scarf |
| Winter boots | |
Camping vs Glamping: Cooking
what you’ll eat
Canned food
Canned food is the traditional campsite meal. Anyone who went camping at least a few times before definitely knows how soothing sharing a can of beans over the campfire can be. Nevertheless, eating only this type of food for a few days straight isn’t only boring but also unhealthy. Thus, it’s important to have options.
Gourmet recipes
Gourmet recipes are synonymous with glamping cooking and the secret aces glamping has to win the camping vs glamping confrontation. Forget about canned food and preparing your dinner in the fire pit or on your backpacking stove. When you’re enjoying a glamorous glamping experience, the food will live up to the standards of the accommodation.
Preparing food
Preparing food by the fire or in the fire pit is a popular option while camping. Did you know that you can use the fire to roast more than just s’mores? You can actually make some of your own fave backpacking recipes as long as there is a fire present! Potatoes, carrots, parsnips, onions, garlic, and various cuts of meat are delicious if seasoned properly, wrapped in aluminum foil, and thrown in the flames for an hour or so.
Private chef
Some sites offer a private chef on the premises that prepares decadent menus for guests. As we said, take a look at our guide on best glamping destinations and feast your eyes, soul, and mind, not only your belly! In conclusion, depending on the type of holiday you want, you might not even have to do the cooking on your own.
Portable stoves
Portable stoves offer campers more variety as far as recipes are concerned. Such a device gives you the possibility to prepare a wide assortment of dishes, from scrambled eggs and pancakes in the morning to soups, pasta, and even hearty stews come dinnertime.
Kitchen facilities
Access to integrated kitchen facilities is a given when glamping. Some accommodations offer a private kitchen areas, while others grant tourists access to a shared facility with all the necessary amenities.
Cooler
Bringing a cooler will ensure that all the ingredients for your meals stay fresh for as long as possible. In this way, you will be able to experiment with various backpacking and camping recipes without worrying that the perishable goods you need don’t have much shelf life left in them.
Refrigerators
Rooms come with refrigerators, which means that you can safely store your ingredients and snacks for a number of days. Plus, you will never have to drink a can of lukewarm beer during your vacation.
Utensils
Packing the necessary utensils for cooking, eating, and storing food is your responsibility while camping. This is a given when you’re off the beaten path, but keep in mind that most campsites do not offer this service either.
Kitchen
Utensils are available in glamping kitchens as well. Therefore, don’t worry about bringing plates, bowls, cookware, or cutlery with you. Everything that you need to properly enjoy a meal will be waiting for you on site.
Download your FREE PDF camping packing checklist now! Make sure you’re prepared during your next adventure!
Camping vs Glamping: Equipment
what you’ll use
Camping
There are no convenience stores or pharmacies in the wilderness. Therefore, you will have to pack everything you need to stay clean, safe, and entertained out there beforehand. Below you will find my checklist of must-pack items.
Glamping
Glamping accommodations are also located in remote areas, which means that you will have to pack your equipment carefully. While you won’t need as much gear to be comfortable, you can also pack additional toiletries and gadgets to enhance the deluxe aspect of the trip. No matter if you prefer camping or glamping, we recommend you to know the basics of blister prevention, as walking you will do!
Camping Toiletries | |
|---|---|
| Foldable bucket | Soap |
| Sunscreen | Fast-drying towel |
| SPF lip balm | Sunscreen |
| Antiperspirant | Toilet paper |
| Tampons or pads | Hand sanitizer |
| Wet wipes | |
Glamping Toiletries | |
|---|---|
| Soap or shower gel | Shampoo |
| Conditioner | Body lotion |
| Towels | Nail clippers |
| Tweezers | Nail file |
| Scissors | Sunscreen |
| SPF lip balm | Brush or comb |
| Deodorant | Toilet paper |
| Tampons or pad | Wet wipes |
Camping Gadgets | |
|---|---|
| Mobile phone | Headphones |
| External battery | Music player |
| Photo camera | |
Glamping Gadgets | |
|---|---|
| Photo camera | Chargers |
| Solar power charger | Music player |
| Travel speakers | Table |
| Video camera | Adapters |
| External battery | Headphones |
| Laptop | |
Entertainment | |
|---|---|
| Pack of cards | Fishing gear |
Entertainment | |
|---|---|
| Board games | Pack of cards |
| Puzzles | Bicycle |
| Football/ basketball | Frisbee |
| Books | Kite |
| Fishing gear | Tennis/ badminton gear |
| Coloring books | |
First Aid Kit | |
|---|---|
| Sterile gauze dressings | Bandaids |
| Alcohol-free wipes | Paracetamol tablets |
| Imodium tablets | Antihistamine cream and tablets |
| Safety pins | Mosquito repellent |
| Thermometer | Muscle gel |
| Alcohol/ Bethadine | Any personal medicine |
First Aid Kit | |
|---|---|
| Bandages | Bandaids |
| Antiseptic cream | Alcohol-free wipes |
| Paracetamol tablets | Imodium tablets |
| Antihistamine cream and tablets | Safety pins |
| Disposable sterile gloves | Mosquito repellent |
| Arnica cream | Muscle gel |
| Burn spray | Alcohol/ Bethadine |
| Any personal medicine | |
Camping vs Glamping: Heating
what you’ll need
Camping
Hiking or camping in the winter is an activity reserved for experienced nature lovers with a taste for adventure. Evenings tend to get cold under the open sky. Fortunately, keeping warm is completely possible. In fact, you have more than a few options.
An insulated sleeping bag
Investing in a high-quality insulated sleeping bag is the best way to maintain a comfortable temperature through the night. Some models can hold their own even in the face of subzero weather, which is certainly a plus.
Warm clothes
Packing warm clothes will help you add another barrier between you and the cold outside. Thermal undergarments are great for layering, and they will keep you snug once the sun goes down.
Lots of blankets
Fluffy blankets are always appropriate, especially when it gets chilly outside. Bring a couple along with you on your camping trip and snuggle up with your family or significant other around the campfire.
The campfire
Speaking of the campfire, it’s a great source of warmth in itself. Huddle up around it, eat s’mores, tell ghost stories, and have a great time.
Heat packs
As their name suggests, heat packs are the opposite of ice packs. Filled with hot water, they will keep you warm and toasty if you place them on strategic parts of the body. Plus, they’re great for muscle cramps.
Glamping
Temperature control while glamping is far more approachable. First of all, many accommodations come equipped with central heating and air conditioning units. What is more, if you choose to glamp in a safari tent or something similar, you have enough space to set up your own portable electric heater.
For this reason, glamping can be pursued in winter, as well, regardless of your skill level. Enjoying the enchanting sight of white forests and snow-covered hills from the warm comfort of a five-star glamping accommodation is definitely an experience worth having. Do this while burrowing in your blanket and drinking some gourmet hot chocolate for an extra touch of luxury.
Camping vs Glamping: Showering
what you’ll want
Camping
Showering in the true sense of the word is not feasible while you’re in the middle of nature. Nevertheless, hygiene is important, especially when your trip extends over the course of more than a couple of days.
Wet wipes
Wiping your body clean with wet wipes is a way to ensure that you don’t emanate any unpleasant odors. You can sanitize your face, hands, feet, armpits, and private parts in this way.
Portable shower
Bringing a portable shower along on your trip is one way to get yourself cleaned up more thoroughly. Still, you have to keep in mind that you can only use a limited amount of water for the task.
Bucket of water
If purchasing a portable shower for your camping trip is not an option, a portable bucket will do the trick. Heat it on the portable stove until it reaches the desired temperature, then wash yourself.
The river
Bathing in the river is a great way to maintain proper hygiene and connect with nature on a deeper level. However, ensure that you don’t use any bath products, as they can pollute the stream.
Glamping
Another difference between camping and glamping is that glamping accommodations come equipped with private bathrooms more often than not. These units contain either a shower, a tub, or both. Some deluxe options even include jacuzzis.
Glamping sites that do not offer this service have integrated common showers that are built to cater to the most luxurious needs of their occupants. In addition to this, they are cleaned and disinfected every day in such a way as to put the mind of even the most avid germophobe to rest.
Camping vs Glamping: Sleeping
where you’ll rest
Camping
When it comes to camping sleeping surfaces, the sleeping bag is the only option. It is thus advisable to invest in one that is high-quality and properly insulated to achieve the uppermost level of comfort.
The vast majority of campers also choose to line the floor of the tent with isoprene mats. This provides extra padding and prevents moisture from the ground to permeate the tent while you and your family sleep.
Glamping
Perhaps the most notable difference in the glamping vs. camping discussion is that glampers usually sleep on real beds. Regardless of whether you book a pre-existing accommodation or pitch a luxurious tent in the forest, there will be plenty more space for one or more beds so that you and your family will benefit from a restful slumber.
Camping vs Glamping: Storage
where you’ll put things
Camping
One of the best ways to ensure that no thieving animals or humans have access to your food and possessions is to hang it on a tree. Choose a tree that’s at least one hundred feet away from your camp site. Put all your food in a bag and suspend it about ten feet off the ground and around eight feet from the trunk of a tree. Alternatively, you can use a bear canister.
Glamping
Glampers never have to worry about storage space when their accommodation is the size of a hotel room. They can fit anything you want to bring, and you can lock them when you go out for the day. This is another reason why glamping is the ideal hybrid between spending time in the great outdoors and enjoying a relaxed holiday.
Camping vs Glamping: Toilet
where you’ll go
Camping
National parks offer tourists access to a few public restrooms, but this doesn’t mean that they will be necessarily close to your campsite. Therefore, the trees and bushes around the campsite are the next best thing. Doing your number ones and twos in nature is common in this scenario, but remember to always clean up after yourself.
Glamping
As previously mentioned, most glamping accommodations have their own private bathrooms. Those who don’t offer this service grant their guests access to clean, modern, and often eco-friendly outdoor toilets that are both handy and ergonomic. Thus, you won’t have to worry about finding the ideal spot that is remote enough for you to do your business.
Camping vs Glamping: Water
stay hydrated
Camping
The chances of coming across a water fountain while camping are slim. For this reason, it is essential to plan your hydration ahead of time and bring enough bottled water to last you for the entirety of the trip. Reusable bottles work best because they don’t harm the environment in the slightest.
Still, you can only bring so many bottles of water and manage to travel light. Fortunately, Mother Nature has its own running water system, namely rivers and streams. You can refill your bottles from them, but it is recommended to boil it prior to consumption for health reasons.
Glamping
Glamping sites generally contain various drinking water sources, such as fountains, coolers, or filtered tap water. Therefore, you won’t have to pack too heavily on this front. In addition to this, some accommodations also present their customers with complimentary beverages such as tea or coffee. The options are thus many.
Camping vs Glamping: Wildlife
what to be wary of
Camping
Spending one night or more in nature means that you are bound to run into a wild animal at least once. While species such as deer or hares are completely harmless and adorable, others such as bears or wolves need to be approached with more caution. To minimize contact, refrain from leaving food out at night. Even so, there is no guarantee that they won’t come.
Glamping
Wildlife encounters are far more limited when it comes to glamping, and they usually happen on your own terms. However, it is always advised to be kind and respectful toward their natural habitat and act civil around them, even if you’re separated by a fence. Remember, you are their guest, and not the other way around.
What Is Glamping? The Ultimate Guide to Luxury Travel - Discover what is glamping, what is the difference between glamping and clamping, the history of glamping, and the different types of accommodations.
Camping vs Glamping? Which One is for You?
As you can see, there’s plenty of differences between camping and glamping. In fact, glamping can hardly be considered camping anymore, especially when looking at all the fresh and innovative places out there that offer this type of experience.
What are your thoughts on our camping vs. glamping comparison? Are you a camper or a glamper? Let me know!
About the Author
"When I’m on a trail, it gets quiet, it gets peaceful, I feel like I can breathe again and enjoy nature’s untouched beauty."
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