The differences between camping and glamping

Everyone knows what camping entails. You’re nestled in a sleeping bag underneath the stars, roasting marshmallows over a crackling fire, and listening to leaves rustle, owls hooting, and crickets chirping in the background. It’s all very cozy, especially if you love spending quality time outside. But if you’re less enthusiastic about the idea of roughing it, you can still enjoy the experience by going “glamping,” or glamorous camping. What is glamping, exactly? You’ve probably heard the term, as it’s becoming quite a trendy alternative to traditional camping. Here’s what you should know.

What is Glamping?

Breaking down camping vs. glamping is actually pretty straightforward. The key difference is primarily in comfort. You camp in a tent, but you glamp in a more upscale version of one. Instead of sleeping on the floor, you’re elevated on a bed with an actual mattress. The best glamping accommodations are more like modified hotel rooms that provide you with many of the creature comforts of home. You’ll find working toilets, sinks, and even showers. Some have electricity, so you won’t be in the dark and you can easily charge your devices. The surroundings are considerably homier, too, with inviting décor. Some high-end glamping resorts feature tents with leather sofas and air conditioning. Think of it as a room in the wild. You can still enjoy many of the advantages of actual camping, without the constant exposure to elements like bugs and inclement weather.

How and Where to Go Glamping

You have several options if you want to experience glamping. There are glamping resorts all over the world, and taking this route is an easy way to leave the work to someone else. You’ll enjoy the benefits of beautiful accommodations and great amenities, like free breakfast and fun on-site activities. You might also try another approach and stay in a yurt or a trailer instead. These are alternate forms of lodging that fall under a more generalized banner — it’s more “outdoor living” than actual camping, but it provides you with a similar perspective. However, for the true “luxury” experience, you’ll want to find your way into one of those glamorous tents!

If you’d prefer, you can also do it yourself. Armed with a spacious tent, you can easily transform your compact living space into something more upscale. Make comfortable sleep a priority, as that’s largely what sets camping and glamping apart. That may mean investing in a plush, inflatable mattress or a cot that you can layer with your favorite cozy bedding. Then add those inviting elements that make a space feel more like home. Maybe it’s your favorite throw pillow, rug, or a bouquet at the entrance. Maybe it’s a vintage mirror with a small wooden table so you can do your makeup. You are glamping, after all.

Sleeping in a tent versus an RV or cabin.

The Pros and Cons of Glamping

When you compare camping vs. glamping, you can probably find many factors in favor of both. If you’re truly spooked by the idea of sleeping outside and don’t exactly handle spiders well, then glamping is most certainly the way to go. But is it all good all the time?

Among the most obvious advantages is the fact that you can truly enjoy a camping-like experience without sacrificing your comfort. That’s key to having a good time no matter where you might be. You also need to be far more self-sufficient while you’re camping, but you can let go of those responsibilities if you check into a glamping resort. You’ll have access to everything you would in a hotel room — electricity, running water, and food.

But some may say it’s not camping. Why worry about what others say or think? If you’re traveling with said others, it may matter a little. But camping isn’t for everyone, and the sooner you admit that the more likely you’ll have a better time during your trip. Glamping doesn’t make you a wimp — it just means you want to experience the best of both worlds.