Whether visiting a music festival or some RV park, the definition of “glamping” doesn’t change by venue. But what is “glamping” anyway? And why does it elicit either favor or scorn, depending on the campers?
Some people “rough it” or “primitive” camp. They pack in their supplies, pitch tents in wooded areas or open fields, and then pack out the lot afterward. They deal with dirt, bugs, and those things generally found in, well, the outdoors.
Some car camp, driving to their campsite and pitching their tent beside the car. They can secure their belongings in the locked ride, and tap the car battery for a quick boost of the cell phone. Or, as happened once to our crew, find shelter in the car when a storm threatened – something tenters were explicitly warned against over the festival loudspeakers.
Then there’s “glamping.”
Short for “glamorous camping,” glamping is kind of a catch all for RV or high-end tent camping, where many of the rough edges have been smoothed to a comfortable touch. Trailers or RVs have hot showers, AC vented throughout, full kitchens, and the creature comforts of sofas, dinettes, and large beds. The highest state of glamping are the trailers and RVs with tile floors, granite counters, and all the touches you’d find in a luxury home – and often a price tag to match.
Many music festivals offer tent “glamping” experiences. The thick canvas tents feature elevated floors, beds with sheets, electricity within, and even AC, depending on the season or elements.
Glamping also isn’t just the digs, but the accouterments and accessories. Outdoor carpets, plush or comfortable lounge chairs, accent lighting, even the food or beverages brought or prepared can elevate the experience and turn roughing it into a different experience.
Trailers and RVs don’t need tile or granite or exquisite touches to qualify as a glamper. But they provide a comfortable retreat on hot days – or when inclement weather hits, or just as a home away from home.
To hear the word “glamping” needn’t invite scorn or ridicule, just as tenting often is enjoyed by people of means who’d rather sleep in a bag than pull up sheets or zip their door than lock it.
As with any pursuit, to each his or her own. As long as you’re outdoors, Dig It!