Mash up the words “camping” and “glamorous” and you’ve got glamping. Essentially, glamping is a way of camping that is far less about “roughing it” and more about creature comforts. Glamping is about savoring the very best of nature while still enjoying a vacation in style and luxury. Have we piqued your interest? If so, read further for answers to the questions, “What is glamping, and is it for you?”

When Did Glamping Become a Thing?

If you’ve heard of glamping, then you might think it’s a recent trend among outdoor travelers and vacationers. In reality, the idea of not-so-roughing-it became popularized by England’s King Henry the VIII in the 16th century. He pitched luxurious tents with all sorts of finery and amenities while he traveled to foreign lands on diplomatic missions.

More recently, glamping started becoming more popularized in the form of deluxe recreational vehicles and tow-behinds. Some of these beefed-up motor vehicles are equipped with full sleeping quarters, kitchens, and bathroom facilities. RVs largely take the credit for spawning the latest glamping craze.

However, to offset the expense and cumbersome nature of RVing, the idea of camping in the lap of luxury started to catch on. Essentially, glamping affords campers to have all their creature comforts during a getaway while skirting the pricey fuel costs and environmental concerns incurred when driving a living room, bathroom and kitchen on wheels.

All this to say, you can certainly glamp in style with an RV. But, the term “glamping” is more camping-centric than RVing. We’re talking about savoring a stunning campsite, with sensational views, while enjoying caviar, champagne, and listening to vinyl records playing on a classic Victrola just as King Henry might have done (had the record player been invented in the 1500s).

Why Would You Choose Glamping Over Camping?

For those of you who love the outdoors, but are not so crazy about the rustic conditions, glamping is definitely for you. Glamping encompasses all the luxuries you might have at a five-star resort so you can enjoy the majesty and wonder of nature without having to compromise on comfort.

On the other hand, if you’re a natural-born, gung-ho, camping enthusiast, glamping might crush your adventurous spirit. This style of camping is about pampering, and taking the easy street on a holiday rather than hoofing it through poison ivy or braving mosquito-infested forests. If you love to match your will and wit with the challenges of mother nature, then glamping might not tickle your fancy.

Is Glamping Just About Glorified Camping?

In a way, it is. However, glamping has taken on new shapes and forms over the years. For instance, many travelers are opting to embrace camping life and travel by throwing glamping parties. These are typically catered events featuring the finest food, fun, games, and outdoor entertainment while indulging in the best life has to offer.

While the festivities are in full force, ultra-elite tents or cabins are available for civilized cleansing, posh shelter, and equipped with high-quality amenities. This is a great way to celebrate anniversaries, birthday parties, or any milestone where the whole troupe can gather and have a joyful time in sublime style.

How Do You Get Into Glamping?

Some glamping excursions are less extravagant than others. Alternatively, glamping can get as radical as you like. You’re only limited by your imagination and your budget. Your best resource for finding glamping campsites are through websites such as Airbnb or HipCamp. There you will find an array of destinations that can cater to your every need.

From decked-out yurts tucked among towering trees of Fairy Stone State Park in Virginia, to a deluxe, two-story log cabin with all the trappings in Anchorage, Alaska – your next glamping destination is just an internet search away.

By the way, glamping isn’t confined to just the US. You can glamp while having incredible experiences around the world. Search for glamping in any international spot, and you’re bound to find a premium destination that meets all your needs. From Croatia to Italy, Switzerland to Portugal, glamping is a real thing and luxurious locations are waiting for you to enjoy your next adventure in comfort and style.

Is Glamping For You?

At the end of the day, your travel adventures are wholly contingent upon your needs and preferences. Glamping can certainly offer communion with mother nature while also delivering amenities and creature comforts. However, you might decide you can get everything you need from a five-star hotel.

Alternatively, you might prefer old-school camping over the pampered glamping life. That’s the beauty of choosing the perfect vacation – the choice is yours as to how you want to experience this big, bright, beautiful world.