.png)
Learn the difference between camping and glamping and how and where you can glamp in an RV.
Glamping may not be a new term anymore but what makes a glamping experience great? Is it the right ri, the right glamping resort, or just the right attitude? Read on to learn how you can become a glamper with and without your own RV, plus a list of glamping accessories that are a must-have for your rig. Also, keep an eye out for glamping images and glamping pictures from across the US to get some ideas about your next glamping adventure.
Camping vs Glamping
Camping has always been a way to get away from the hubbub of daily life and enjoy the simpler pleasures of being closer to nature. For some camping means traveling to far-off, exotic places with just a backpack and a free spirit. While others enjoy a small getaway to the nearest camping park or forest. While camping may look different for different people, what it means universally, is getting away from the luxuries of life (like plumbing) and spending some quality time in the great outdoors.
But what if you want to be closer to nature but not that far away from a real toilet? That is where glamping can help you out. Glamping is basically a cross between the words 'glamorous' and 'camping', what that means in real life is that you get to enjoy the best of both worlds; you can set up a tent, build a fire, sing camp songs, and still have a comfortable mattress to sleep on, running water, and yes, a proper bathroom.
Just like camping, glamping can look different for different people. Some may find access to running water a 'glamorous' camping experience while others may look for amenities like a kitchenette, swimming pool, hot tub, internet, and more. And some may even consider living in an RV a glamping experience.
Can you Glamp in an RV?
Yes, you can glamp in an RV. In fact, many people pay top dollar to rent luxury campers for a glamping adventure of their own. RVs are a great way to be closer to nature without giving up on the luxuries of a small home. What's more, you can park your RVs in national parks, boondock in natural reserves, and basically be as close to nature as you want. While you can find many glamping destinations in the US, nothing beats the freedom of taking your motorhome with you wherever you want to set camp.
Setting Up Your RV; Glamping Essentials
So you want to go on an RV glamping trip, where do you even start and what do you do to prepare for the trip? Read on as we explore how you can plan your next RV glamping adventure.
Getting the Right Rig
Let's start with the basics; what kind of rig to take glamping. Don't think you only need Class A rigs and fifth-wheels to go on a glamping trip, you can just as easily glamp in a Class B camper. But you do need to find a rig that fits your family comfortably and meets your requirements. For example, if you want more storage space, a separate kitchenette, and an extra sleeping area, then you can't go any smaller than a Class C motorhome.
Whether you buy or rent an RV for your glamping trip, choose an RV that is not just the right size but also the right choice for the kind of glamping adventure you want. For example, a trailer or fifth-wheel is really hard to maneuver into tight spaces, so if you were planning on a boondocking trip to the nearest nature reserve then consider getting a camper van or a Class C motorhome.
Choosing the Right Parking Spot
There are many RV parks and destinations across the US that allow you to have a camping experience with basic amenities. However, if you're looking to really glam it up, you can also head to lux resorts like glamping in the Grand Canyon with fully-furnished RV suits that have all the amenities you can think of and more.
But if you want to go glamping in your own RV, then choose a spot that has all the basic hookups and offers some other features as well. For example, many high-end RV parks feature swimming pools, hot tubs, spas, cable, internet, and more. A lot of RV parks also offer fun experiences like hiking, rock climbing, water sports, and more. Glamping in your own RV means you can plan unique experiences like beach glamping or romantic glamping in the mountains.
Customizing Your Glamping Trip
You can customize your glamping trip any way you like; you can plan a trip to an RV glamping resort and get a taste of RV living and glamping at the same time. You can buy a luxury rig and take your glamping adventure to the road. You can also combine these two experiences and take your camper to a luxury RV campground. Whatever you choose, make sure you are mindful of RV traffic rules and campground etiquette and are familiar with basic RV maintenance.
6 Glamping Accessories to Perk Up Your Camper
Get your rig glamp-ready by using the following accessories for glamping in an RV.
Awning Lights
Nothing says glamping more than twinkling outdoor RV lights, some wine, and the sounds of nature around you. Make your RV awning come to life by adding some RV awning LED strip lights. LED lights are a good option since they are easy to carry and come in a number of designs and color combinations. Hanging RV awning lights are perfect glamper accessories because they are so versatile. You can use them for RV outdoor lighting, as RV camper lights or decorative RV lights, and you can even use them as RV party lights. Check out our collection of waterproof, adjustable RV awning LED light kits to find the one that best suits your needs.
Portable Fire Pit
While you will most likely find a fire pit at any RV campground, if you truly want a glamping experience, take a portable propane fire pit with you wherever you go. These can be bought in a variety of sizes so you can choose the one that meets your needs and you can carry easily. Unlike traditional fire pits, there is no learning curve to using propane fire pits; all you have to do is turn them on and off. You can control the amount of fire and heat you want which makes cooking on them a breeze. Perfect for roasting marshmallows and keeping warm on a cold night.
Outdoor RV Rug
An outdoor RV rug is a great addition to your glamping kit. You can lay out the rug under the awning of your rig, lie down on it, and enjoy a good book. This is also great for families with toddlers and kids who are still in their crawling stage. You can also carry the rug with you to set up a picnic after a long walk or hike and use the rug and some RV hanging lights to throw a glamping party. Check out our collection of RV rugs that suit every taste and need.
RV Mattress and New Bedding
Updating your RV mattress is one of the quickest ways to glamp up your rig. There are many companies that manufacture custom mattresses for RVs. You can choose a mattress that offers both comfort and luxury. Don't forget to buy some luxe new bedding for your new mattress. New bedding and sheets can do wonders for perking up your mood and glamping experience.
Ice Bucket/Ice Maker
Don't worry about buying ice from convenience and camp stores anymore. Take a portable ice maker with you and never be out of ice again. A chic silver ice bucket filled with freshly made ice is the best way to keep your sparkling water at hand, and it looks amazing. Pair with stylish glasses and your glamping experience is complete. This is also easy to carry if you decide to expand your adventure to a venue other than your RV for example, dome tent glamping or setting up DIY glamping tents.
Throw Pillows
Colorful throw pillows are the best pick-me-up after a long trip. Make your glamping RV even more glamorous by adding some throw pillows in different places around your rig. Use indoor/outdoor pillows that you can carry with you inside your rig, tent, or on an RV rug to make the space more comfortable and stylish.
DIY Glamping Ideas
Who says glamping has to be expensive, here are some glamping ideas you can easily DIY even on a budget.
Outdoor Movie Night: Create an outdoor movie theater by hanging a screen and using a projector. Enjoy your favorite films under the starlit sky with friends and family.
Glamping Bar: Set up a charming outdoor bar area with a selection of your favorite beverages. Decorate the space with rustic elements to add a touch of elegance.
Gourmet Dining: Ditch the traditional camping meals and prepare gourmet dishes with a portable grill or camp stove. Set up a charming outdoor dining area with a decorative tablecloth, place settings, and stemware.
Pampering Station: Set up a makeshift spa with a portable bathtub, scented candles, and bath salts. Relax and rejuvenate under the stars.
DIY Glamping Accessories: Create your own lanterns, custom campsite signs, and themed decorations to infuse your personal style into the glamping experience.
The Last Word
Glamping is a great way to let off some steam, take a break, and rejuvenate. Camping may be all about the minimalistic lifestyle but there is nothing wrong with adding a little bit of glamor to it. Whether you turn your own rig into a glamper camper or choose to invest in glamping RV rentals, this is an experience you will never forget.
If you're taking your own rig on a glamping trip, make sure you have installed the right door and compartment locks and have all the glamping accessories you will need to make your trip a success. Happy Glamping!