Glamping has been getting plenty of buzz lately, but what exactly is it?

Glamping is essentially camping with some of the comforts and luxuries of home. You won’t be in an enclosed structure like a cottage, but you’ll likely stay in a tent that is far more “glam” than what you’re used to. For example, imagine “glamping” in a spacious, carpeted tent with an elevated queen-size bed; you wake up and walk out to a fully equipped outdoor kitchen. A little different from traditional camping, isn’t it?

Whether you’re more enticed by camping or glamping, the goal is the same: to get outdoors and embrace nature. But what are the pros and cons of each? Is one better? Let’s cover the basics:

Accessibility

Camping in remote locations can be a beautiful, rewarding adventure, but it also requires work. For example, you may need to hike to a camping ground, try to find a suitable spot to pitch your tent, start a fire and cook dinner using whatever you were able to carry with you.

Glamping is often much more accessible – you can typically drive right up to your location and start unpacking. There’s usually a bed and an outdoor kitchen, so no need to lug a heavy backpack with a sleeping bag, food and cooking utensils.

Amenities

Traditional camping doesn’t come with amenities besides what Mother Nature provides – and what you can bring with you. Don’t forget to pack your toilet paper! Again, it depends on the campsite, but you typically need to bring a cooler to keep your food from spoiling, canned food with a reliable can opener, and most importantly, enough water.

With glamping, however, you’re provided with several amenities, from plugs and a small refrigerator to a comfortable bed and a functioning sink with drinkable water. Get this – some glamping spots even have Wi-Fi and a flushable toilet!

Cost

It will come as no surprise that traditional camping is considerably more affordable than glamping. In fact, other than the cost of food, camping can be free! (Although you’ll typically pay a campsite fee). Glamping, on the other hand, can set you back hundreds of dollars depending on the duration of your stay.

Experience

When it comes to camping and glamping, one isn’t better than the other – just different. You may prefer a simpler, “stripped down” experience with no amenities (and certainly no Wi-Fi); or you may enjoy a more accessible location with some perks to make you comfortable.

At the end of the day, what’s important is getting outside and connecting with nature. Spending time surrounded by wild spaces and species is good for our mental and physical health – and it’s one of the many benefits of being Canadian.

And of course, no matter which you choose, campers and glampers should always remember the following: “Take nothing but pictures. Leave nothing but memories.”

Learn more about camping at the Great Canadian Campout.

Do you prefer camping or glamping? Let us know in the comments!