[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text][/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]Glamping 101: Frequently Asked Questions
You’ve probably already heard about “glamping” but aren’t entirely sure what it’s about. We got you. If you want to know more about glamping, this nifty FAQ will guide you through the basics of glamping, and how you can get the best glamping experiences![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_tta_accordion][vc_tta_section title=”What is glamping?” tab_id=”1601261928243-4184d2a7-75bc”][vc_column_text]Glamping is when “glamour” meets “camping” and it’s simply what it is. Glamping is for the city dweller that wants to go camping but doesn’t want to sacrifice the comforts and luxury of a hotel or even just a bed and breakfast accommodation. It’s a relatively new but superlatively fun way of experiencing nature and being one with it.
Imagine being able to sleep under the stars, surrounded by nature in the great Australian outback. Imagine being able to watch the snow fall onto the ground, in the middle of a scenic winter wonderland. Imagine being able to hear the waves of the sea, with the sea breeze always just a deep breath away.
Now, imagine all these but with a warm and comfy bed, a stable Wi-Fi connection, a fireplace, and a full bathroom. This is what glamping could be. Different accommodations offer different amenities, and different locations offer different experiences, but you get the idea.
Glamping offers campers a more comfortable way of camping and it’s usually by means of providing a more permanent or stationary lodging option than just regular camping tents. This gives campers more space for full-size mattresses and other fittings that campers deem necessary for an amazing camping experience.[/vc_column_text][/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”What are the different glamping accommodation types?” tab_id=”1601261928255-b71a9c5d-6250″][vc_column_text]There are quite a number of different glamping habitats, and they offer different experiences. Possibly the most recognizable are the glamping bell tents, which are classically ivory in color, and supported by a single pole in the center.
Tents were the first glamping accommodation types, but glamping has since evolved to include tree houses, yurts, pods, barns, huts, pods, teepees, bubble tents, cabins, caravans, cara-boats, and beach houses. You can even go glamping in caves, castles, and hobbit houses![/vc_column_text][/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Where should I go glamping?” tab_id=”1601261996362-c76488a3-dc99″][vc_column_text]Nature is a big part of the Australian experience, and there is no shortage of beautiful Australian landscape, wildlife, and natural wonders to enjoy.
You can enjoy the seas, feel its breeze, and stay in an open-air seaside tent. You can go swim in waterfalls, hike down to gorges, and come home to a luxurious abode in the middle of nowhere. You can listen to birds sing, breathe in the freshest air, and lie down for a spa session in the wilderness. Glamping offers campers some unique ways to enjoy, appreciate, and immerse in nature.[/vc_column_text][/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Where are the best glamping locations?” tab_id=”1601262018262-1ba865b1-e5e8″][vc_column_text]That depends on what you enjoy the most. You can go glamping near the coasts, in the grasslands, in islands, in rainforests, near canyons, in cliffs, in oases, and in the outback.
Glamping is so popular nowadays that wherever you want to go, there’s pretty much a glamping accommodation or a glamping site nearby, so you can enjoy nature all you want and then come home to a luxurious bed and a relaxing bath.
There are literally more than 2,000 glamping accommodations scattered in Australia, with New South Wales being the most popular state for glamping sites. [/vc_column_text][/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Who goes glamping?” tab_id=”1601262040446-658f62d2-db95″][vc_column_text]Anyone can go glamping, but those who do are typically those who want to de-stress and take a break from the hustle bustle of the city life. And while being one with nature is the perfect way to relax and get rid of those stresses, many people feel that traditional camping can bring in a different kind of stress.
A traditional camper would have to set up camp as soon as they reach the site. They’d have to make do with what can be found in a traditional camping site, especially with cooking areas and the loo, which are non-existent amenities basically. Campers may have to forage for food, or make their own fire.
After a long and tiring day, they’d have to spend their nights in tents, in a sleeping bag that isn’t exactly what you’d call comfortable. They’d have to brave the weather in weatherproof, sturdy tents, or risk not being able to sleep at all when it rains, snows, gets too hot, too cold, or too windy. When all that’s said and done, campers pack up all their things and head home first thing in the morning.
While camping trips are usually fun and allow people to reconnect with nature, those who aren’t too fond of “roughing it out” may be easily discouraged. Even those who love camping buy items and camping equipment that make the camping experience more comfortable, and thus more enjoyable. Those who aren’t used to camping will look at the effort needed before you can finally relax, and instantly think it’d be better to just sleep their stresses out. [/vc_column_text][/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”How much does glamping cost?” tab_id=”1601262060465-13428162-1d97″][vc_column_text]It depends on so many factors, of course – where you’ll stay, and how long you’ll stay, the amenities, the luxury factor, the views, and so much more. It should come as no surprise that glamping can be so much more expensive than regular camping, but depending on the place, glamping can be a low-cost, enjoyable escapade.
It also depends on how many people are going with you. If you go with a group of friends, you can split gas, entrance, and lodging expenses. You might have to sacrifice some of your privacy though, but glamping with friends is a great way to reconnect and bond on a different level.[/vc_column_text][/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Can I go glamping on a budget?” tab_id=”1601262082814-b098e5c6-300b”][vc_column_text]Of course! Going glamping without breaking the bank is possible. You can follow these tips and cut glamping costs without degrading the experience:
- Glamp close to home. Choosing a glamping site or accommodation far from home is the beginning of the recipe for an expensive trip, so stay close to where you live and save money, time, and effort. You’d be spending gas money when you could be spending it on something else.
- Avoid tourist hotspots. Tourist hotspots are sites where tourists usually crowd, and these are usually sites near historical landmarks, natural wonders, and other popular locations. If you’re glamping for a specific view or a location that’s in the hotspot though, maybe you can just jump onto the next tip.
- Don’t book during the peak season. Glamping is generally more expensive than camping, but it gets even more so during peak seasons. Not only can you save some cash by booking in the slow season, it also allows you to glamp more comfortably as fewer campers and tourists will be in the site. Winters are slow seasons for glamping, and you may even book glamping houses with scenic winterscapes for lower prices.
- Glamp with friends. Getting your friends to go glamping with you can help lower your expenses. You get to bond with your friends and you can split between you the expenses for gas and lodging, so it’s a win-win.
- Know what you’re getting into. Knowing the amenities available on your glamping site and accommodation will allow you to pack and prepare better. See if the site provides bath towels and toiletries, and bring your own if they don’t. Check if the restaurants around or in the campsite offer good food at affordable prices, and decide if you can just bring your own food to cook.
[/vc_column_text][/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Why should I go glamping?” tab_id=”1601262108497-e8a55eaf-6def”][vc_column_text]Glamping isn’t only a fun way to relax; it also offers numerous health benefits. The fresh air and the natural beauty that will surround you in glamping sites can help calm the mind and relax the spirit. It can help reduce stress levels too.
The light exercise that goes hand-in-hand with glamping activities can be beneficial for your heart as well. And if you’re a fan of nature and extreme activities, you can always go for glamping sites that offer zip lining, canoeing, kayaking, and many others, so you can get that adrenaline rush while being surrounded by Mother Nature.
Glamping can also help the body ease into its natural sleeping pattern. It’s also a good way to embrace new challenges and new experiences. You can spend time with your family and your friends while glamping, or you can glamp alone if that’s what would give you your peace of mind.[/vc_column_text][/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”What are glamping tents?” tab_id=”1601262137773-839ab616-eca3″][vc_column_text]What people usually call a glamping tent is a bell tent. Safari-style tents and dome tents are pretty common as well. Though there are many other types of glamping accommodations, tents are easily the most recognizable.
Yurts, teepees, pyramid, and festival tents can be used as glamping tents too. What usually just differ are the comforts they provide versus regular tents: a cozy mattress, electricity, and more space.[/vc_column_text][/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Do all glamping tents have toilets?” tab_id=”1601262151226-9a8c124f-cd11″][vc_column_text]Not all glamping tents have toilets in them. If your glamping tent is a stationary one, it will usually have an attached toilet and shower just outside the tent. Really luxurious hotel tents can have full bathrooms inside them though. These tents typically include more than one floor so the first floor (most commonly a platform) is reserved for the pipework.
Some glamping grounds have common toilets and shared kitchens. What’s usually discouraging is going to glamp and finding out that the nearest toilet from the grounds is a few minutes trek away. Know the toilet situation first so you’re better prepared.[/vc_column_text][/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Why is glamping so popular?” tab_id=”1601262169061-8de73cef-4ba4″][vc_column_text]The idea of modern-day glamping emerged around the 1920s. Wealthy Americans and Europeans went to Africa for safari holidays and wilderness tours. They wanted to see nature and experience the African wildlife.
However, there weren’t many hotels near the places they wanted to visit, and the safari tents most camping grounds offer are by no means comfortable and acceptable for them as accommodation. They wanted the tents to have the fittings of a home or a hotel. They wanted beds and dressing tables put in. That’s when the idea of modern-day glamping began.
Fast forward a few decades later and by 2007, camping grounds that offer these amenities were widespread in Africa. By 2010, the rest of the world started to follow suit.
Glamping is so popular because it gives people the chance to relax and enjoy scenic views that they cannot otherwise enjoy from where and how they usually live. It’s an escape from the stresses of daily life. It’s basically all the benefits of camping, but with the added benefit of a soft, warm bed and a nice, sturdy roof over your head after a tiring camping day.[/vc_column_text][/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”What do I pack for a glamping holiday?” tab_id=”1601262180231-439c2589-a7e5″][vc_column_text]This depends on where you’re headed and what activities you’re expecting to do. Know the situation before you leave for the trip. Some glamping grounds only provide the tents but would not provide beddings, and you will have to bring your own. Others would provide the cooking areas, but not the cooking equipment.
More luxurious glamping options will provide better amenities, and it’s all up to you to decide what your accommodations should have. Some high-end glamping accommodations can even cost you up to more than $1,000 a night, and these will provide for all your basic glamping necessities and so much more.
Here are some other essentials that you might want to pack:
- Medicine and supplements – Bring maintenance medicine and supplements, and try to bring emergency medicine like anti-histamines, anti-diarrhea meds, and antacids.
- Basic first aid kit – Bring a small first aid kit for small accidents that won’t require immediate medical attention.
- Toiletries – Many glamping lodges will provide toiletries, but bring your own, especially if you can’t just use any product on your skin.
- Phone and charger – Bring your phone so you can contact and be contacted in cases of emergencies. If you want to stay off the grid for the holiday, just turn your phone off instead of leaving it at home.
- Camera – Having a separate camera from your phone allows you to save your phone battery for more important things.
[/vc_column_text][/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”What do I wear on a glamping trip?” tab_id=”1601262279129-08d8e4d2-c2b4″][vc_column_text]Again, this depends on the trip itself. Is it a wilderness trip, a spa in the rainforest trip, a seaside camping trip, or any other type of trip perhaps? Glamping is all about comfort, relaxation, and letting your stresses melt away, so the best tip here is to pack light and dress comfortably.
For example, if you’re going seaside glamping, pack on swimsuits, a few sets of extra clothes, and a comfortable sleepwear. Bring some bath towels if your glamping rental doesn’t offer complimentary bath towels.
Are you staying in an open-air tent, or an air-conditioned cabin? If you’re expecting some hiking in the wilderness, make sure to pack mosquito repellants, hiking gear, sunglasses, hat, and umbrella. Don’t forget to bring your water bottles to avoid dehydration too.[/vc_column_text][/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Can I go glamping with kids?” tab_id=”1601262303638-b0f60e45-a367″][vc_column_text]Glamping with kids can be tricky, and there are some glamping grounds that are for adults only. Many Aussie holiday spots are family-friendly, so you don’t have to worry about bringing your kids.
There are many glamping activities that are kid-friendly, and many families go glamping just for kids to run around and run free. Sunset watching, stargazing, swimming, and campfire activities are just some fun family activities that you can do while glamping.[/vc_column_text][/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Can I go glamping with pets?” tab_id=”1601262325848-8645eddd-4b49″][vc_column_text]Pet-friendly glamping accommodations are available for those who don’t want to leave their furry friends at home.
If you’re going glamping but don’t want to leave your pet at home or have no one to leave them with, don’t worry! Pet-friendly glamping is rapidly growing in popularity, so finding a pet-friendly glamping site or accommodation shouldn’t be too difficult. However, you might need to get permission or give a heads-up during the booking first before bringing in your pets.[/vc_column_text][/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Are glamping tents warm?” tab_id=”1601262345250-bb8b69d4-9bcd”][vc_column_text]Glamping tents are normally warm, thanks to the thick, weatherproof walls used in making them. During colder seasons, an open glamping tent may be warmed by wood-burning stoves, radiators, air conditioners, or electric heaters so you won’t have to worry.
If you feel like you might get cold in the middle of the night and your tent doesn’t come equipped with heaters, then don’t wait until you get cold before you layer up. You can also bring in hot water bottles, heat packs, or request for some more blankets.
If you go glamping during the winter, make sure you choose a nice, warm glamping accommodation. You can spend your winter alone, or surrounded by friends and family. You can go on wintery adventures all day, and not have to worry by nightfall.[/vc_column_text][/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section title=”Is glamping worth it?” tab_id=”1601262363614-0d4887db-6098″][vc_column_text]Definitely! This luxurious way of camping may not be exactly cheap, but the experiences you get while glamping simply cannot be matched. The glamping industry is an all-year round industry, so the chance to relax, glamp, and have fun is always just around the corner.
If you care about nature and the environment, there’s a basketful of Australian glamping sites that are eco-friendly and sustainable too, offering you a guilt-free way of enjoying nature.
The comfort and convenience of glamping is so farfetched from regular camping that it can be difficult to go back to regular camping after you’ve tried the former. Who wouldn’t want a cozy bed to lie down onto after a full day of nature adventures? Give it a try and see for yourself![/vc_column_text][/vc_tta_section][/vc_tta_accordion][/vc_column][/vc_row]