A lady enjoying a cup of tea outside a glamping tent

Beginner's Guide to Glamping

Published
19 Jul 2024
A lady enjoying a cup of tea outside a glamping tent

 

 

You’ve read about it, heard about it, and probably even talked about it! It’s glamping ... but what is it?

Glamping is the best way to enjoy a back-to-nature camping experience without losing out on the modern day comforts that make life great. Leave your swag, tent, and mosquito net at home, because all you need to go glamping is a suitcase and a smile! 

If you’re new to this way of experiencing the great outdoors, you may have some questions. That’s why we’ve put together this Beginner’s Guide to Glamping, to get you closer to booking the holiday you deserve.

What is glamping?

A beautiful union of the words glamorous and camping, can you believe that the concept of ‘glamping’ first came about in the UK circa 2007? 

Used to describe the combination of modern day comforts like king-size beds, ensuite bathrooms, fully-functioning kitchens, and in-tent air-conditioning (pause for a moment to absorb this last fact), glamping offers non-campers the chance to experience the outdoors in a much more luxurious way. 

Is glamping the same everywhere?

Because of the wide range of glamping tents and pods available (we’re about to explain what a ‘pod’ is), no glamping experience is the same.

Depending on your accommodation needs and the number of people travelling with you, glamping can range from a simple ‘glam pod’ – usually an intimate hut suitable for a couple on a romantic getaway – to a deluxe safari-style tent capable of housing up to six adults! 

What amenities are available to glampers?

Depending on what level of luxury you’re after, the type of glamping accommodation you select will determine the available facilities. 

Booking a larger glamping tent, such as the Deluxe Safari Tent at Discovery Parks - Fraser Street, Hervey Bay, means you’ll be equipped with a queen-size bed, single bunks, ensuite bathroom and toilet, kitchenette (including a microwave and full-size fridge), lounge area with sofa and TV, plus reverse-cycle air-conditioning!

More intimate versions, like the timber-frame Glamping Pod at Torquay Foreshore Caravan Park, offer a queen-size bed and personal deck to kick back on. 

Note that it’s important to understand what kind of facilities are the ‘must-haves’ for your holiday prior to booking. Look out for the icons on our site to inform you about what is available at each of our parks before securing your awesome glamping experience!

What to pack for a glamping trip?

One of the biggest benefits of glamping is that there is less gear to pack! You can even use your regular ol’ suitcase for the trip. 

That said, while you can definitely leave the sleeping bag at home, there are still some essentials to consider. Items such as headlamps, basic cooking equipment (if you choose a glamping tent without kitchen facilities), sunscreen, and insect repellent should still be on your list.

Other items that can take your holiday from good to great could be your favourite coffee grind and French press, bottle-opener (for that evening wind down), tablecloth or picnic blanket, and games for that potential rainy day.

It also goes without saying that meal planning is an important aspect of any great holiday. Not planning on cooking? Talk to your park manager at check-in to get a local’s insight on the best restaurants or pubs around!