Do you like the idea of enjoying the great outdoors, but with a little touch of added luxury? Would you go on more camping trips if there weren’t so many labor-intensive activities involved? Do you want to travel and go on adventures, but with all of the comforts of home at your fingertips?
If you’ve answered yes to any of the above questions, then you might want to look into glamping, a concept that takes camping and elevates it to new heights. Want to know more? Read on to learn everything you need to know about camping vs glamping.
Glamping Origins
Glamping is a portmanteau of the words glamour and camping. The word appears to have been coined in the UK in 2005, and it wasn’t until over a decade later, in 2016, when it was added to the dictionary. However, the concept of glamping has been around much longer than this.
Practically since camping has existed, have people sought to find ways to make it more upscale. In recent years, however, it has really come into its own. Today, glamping sites have sprung up all over the world, from African Safari Luxury Campsites, to closer to home locations such as the Zion Resort in Zion national park.
Camping vs Glamping
So, what are the main differences between glamping and camping? Let’s explore.
Camping
When it comes to camping, it is pretty much always a DIY affair. You need to set up your own tent, cook (and often even catch) your own food, and relieve yourself wherever you can. It’s every man for himself.
There is no electricity. If you want a campfire, you’d better be ready to build it yourself. It is an exercise in bringing man closer to nature and getting back to basics.
For many people, this is an attractive prospect. The simplicity and stripped-back nature of camping are what lots of people enjoy about it most. For others, not so much.
Check out our camping packing guide.
Glamping
If glamping is back to basics, then glamping is the exact opposite. Glamping takes a lot of the work out of camping so that those experiencing it can enjoy other aspects of their stay more.
For example, instead of setting up your own tent, you’ll likely arrive at an already assembled luxury yurt. Instead of a cramped and cold space, you’ll find it to be light, bright, and cozy.
You’ll also probably have access to a number of amenities. Fans, mini-fridges, private bathrooms, electronics, and WiFi are all things you might find at a glamping site.
Read up on our tips for glamping.
Which One Is Right for You?
When making the decision between camping vs glamping, try to think of the things that are really important to you on a trip. Do you like to be pampered and taken care of? If so, glamping is probably the way to go.
If you prefer something a little more rough and ready, and you don’t mind a little bit of dirt, then camping might be the more fun option.
If you’ve found this guide helpful, don’t forget to check out the rest of our travel tips.
