Love the idea of camping but not the idea of roughing it? You’re not alone. Glamping—glamorous camping—lets you enjoy the beauty of the outdoors without sacrificing comfort, style, or a few creature comforts.
With a few smart upgrades and cozy extras, you can turn any basic campsite into a personal outdoor retreat. Here are 20 easy ways to upgrade your next camping trip into a full-on glamping experience you’ll never want to leave.
1. Invest in a Spacious Tent
Forget tiny dome tents. A roomy, tall tent gives you space to stretch out, decorate, and relax in style.
2. Use a Real Mattress or Air Bed
Swap the thin sleeping pad for a thick air mattress, memory foam topper, or even a portable cot with bedding.
3. Bring Full-Size Bedding
Ditch the sleeping bag. Bring real sheets, blankets, and pillows to create a bed that feels just like home.
4. Add Rugs or Mats to the Tent Floor
Area rugs make a tent feel cozy, cleaner, and warmer underfoot.
5. Set Up a String of Lights
String lights or battery-powered lanterns add a soft, magical glow once the sun goes down.
6. Create a Sitting Area
Bring camp chairs, a coffee table, and a few cushions to create a perfect spot for morning coffee or evening chats.
7. Bring a Portable Coffee Maker
Start your day right with fresh-brewed coffee. A pour-over, French press, or battery-operated coffee maker works perfectly outdoors.
8. Upgrade Your Cooler Game
Pack a sturdy cooler with good wine, charcuterie, and fresh produce instead of soggy hot dogs and soda.
9. Add Throw Blankets and Extra Pillows
Layering textures makes your campsite feel luxurious—and keeps you cozy when the temperatures drop.
10. Set Up a Portable Dining Area
Skip paper plates. Bring a lightweight table, real plates, cloth napkins, and simple centerpieces for outdoor meals.
11. Use a Decorative Lantern or Chandelier
A decorative light instantly takes your campsite from basic to boutique.
12. Pack a Bluetooth Speaker for Music
Set the vibe with soft tunes while you cook, relax, or watch the sunset.
13. Bring a Portable Fire Pit (If Allowed)
Many glamping sites feature fire pits with comfy seating. Check local rules and bring a portable version for your site.
14. Cook Gourmet Camping Meals
Forget boring burgers. Plan easy but impressive meals like steak skewers, pasta dishes, or campfire pizzas.
15. Add Personal Touches Like Flowers or Decor
Fresh flowers, little flags, or colorful tapestries can completely change the atmosphere.
16. Set Up a Hammock for Lounging
Nothing says luxury like an afternoon nap swaying gently in a hammock.
17. Pack Spa Essentials
Bring a few small luxuries like moisturizing lotion, a sheet mask, or a lavender spray to make nights feel special.
18. Create a DIY Outdoor Movie Night
Bring a mini projector, a sheet, and a few favorite movies for an unforgettable starlit cinema experience.
19. Choose a Scenic Campsite
Location matters. A beautiful view instantly makes everything feel more luxurious without lifting a finger.
20. Bring a Travel Bar Kit
Treat yourself to sunset cocktails around the campfire. A portable bar kit makes happy hour classy even under the stars.
Turning camping into glamping isn’t about making things fancy—it’s about making them comfortable, cozy, and joyful. With these easy upgrades, you can experience the best of nature without giving up your favorite luxuries.
