Glamping in Your Own Backyard

Setting up a glamping tent in your backyard can be a fantastic way to enjoy the outdoors while maintaining a level of comfort and luxury. Glamping, short for “glamorous camping,” combines the experience of camping with some of the conveniences and comforts of home.

Exploring the Glamping Phenomenon

It was during my research about National Relaxation Day last year that I began to explore the glamping trend. Glamping has emerged as one of the most popular consumer trends in the US. According to Grand View Research, the global glamping market size was $2.73 billion in 2022 (USD) and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.2% from 2023 to 2030. In the past, staycations were primarily used for special occasions, but in recent times, individuals, couples, families, etc. have realized that they need to indulge themselves on their days off from work and family commitments. Many nowadays choose nearby getaways for long weekends, preferring vacations within the borders of cities. Apparently, a tiny (but growing) group of people have opted to glamp in their backyards.

What is Glamping?

There is a difference between regular old camping and glamping. Glamping is short for “glamorous camping” and is supposed to combine the experience of camping with some of the conveniences and comforts of home. Glamping has become popular among individuals and couples seeking a unique and comfortable outdoor experience, as well as for special events like weddings, retreats, and corporate getaways. The concept of glamping aims to provide a balance between the adventure of camping and the luxury of a hotel stay, allowing people to enjoy nature without sacrificing comfort. But the key to the whole experience is in one major element – the tent!

Glamping — It All Comes Down to the Tent

Glamping tents are an integral part of the glamping experience. These tents are designed to provide comfort, style, and convenience while allowing guests to connect with nature. Glamping tents often feature larger and more spacious interiors, which can fit comfortable bedding, furniture, lighting, and sometimes even heating or air conditioning systems. They can come in various styles, such as safari tents, yurts, bell tents, cabin tents, and more, and are popular choices for glamping setups due to their roomy interiors and aesthetic appeal. To choose the right tent, think about your desired activities: if you wish to use your tent to sleep, make sure there is room for a comfortable bed; a seating area, and possibly a small table to read or work remotely. The key is: select a tent that is spacious enough to accommodate the modern comforts you wish to enjoy. 

Elements for Your Backyard Glamping Tent

The goal of glamping is to create a luxurious and comfortable outdoor experience. Be creative and have fun designing your backyard glamping tent to suit your desires and needs.

While the type of tent you chose is important, here are other elements to consider as you go about creating a glamping tent in your backyard:

1. Furniture and Decor
   As previously stated, the type of furniture you purchase will depend on how you will use the tent.  Consider adding decorative touches like rugs (especially important to prevent tears or marks on the tent floor), floor cushions, and ambient lighting to create a cozy and visually appealing atmosphere. If you plan on sleeping in your tent, invest in a high-quality mattress or a thick sleeping pad for your bed. Use soft bedding, pillows, and cozy blankets to make the sleeping area inviting and comfortable.
2. Lighting
   Use a combination of battery-powered candles, lanterns, and outdoor string lights, to create a warm and magical ambiance during the evening.
3. Heating or Cooling
   Depending on the weather, consider whether you will be adding a portable heater or fan to maintain a comfortable temperature inside the tent.
4. Power Sources
   Ensure you have access to power sources for using appliances or devices, using lighting, and other amenities. Extension cords or portable power banks can be useful for this purpose.
5. Privacy and Screens
   Depending on your location, amenities and preference, you might need to use screens or curtains to provide privacy and keep bugs out.
6. Nature Integration
   Take advantage of your backyard’s natural beauty. Position the tent to provide the best views, and access to the other parts of your backyard, such as the dining area of the patio for meals or board games, the fire pit for roasting marshmallows and the hammock for stargazing.
7. Weather Considerations
   Be prepared for changing weather conditions by having rain covers, wind barriers, and other protective measures in place.
8. Safety Precautions
   Always prioritize safety. Make sure your glamping setup adheres to fire safety guidelines and is secure from potential hazards.
9. Themes and Personal Touches
   Customize your glamping experience by choosing a theme or adding personal touches that reflect your style and interests.

My Personal Glamping Journey Into My Own Backyard

Glamping became a focus of mine when I purchased the Timber Ridge Glamping Tent last year from Sam’s Club (and now available at Walmart) and set it up just to make sure we had all the parts. Not only was being inside the tent curiously appealing to me, but friends and family were drawn to it as well. It was just fun being inside even when it was empty. That’s when I decided that in 2023, the tent would be set up in the spring and I would spend the summer furnishing it and using it as my own personal space – I wanted to see how I would use it without any preconceived ideas. Given that the best place to set it would be on an incline in our yard (we live in a hilly neighborhood with limited flat spaces), I decided the furniture would be small and portable – quilted rugs and spreads on the floor, pillows and poufs to lay on and lean against. It became for me a place of quiet and reflection, where I would read and write and contemplate. As we did not add any appliances for temperature control inside the tent, in future I probably will set it up in late August or early September to take advantage of the cool evenings in fall. 

How to Use Your Glamping Tent

Using a glamping tent in your backyard can provide you with a unique and enjoyable outdoor experience while still enjoying the comforts of home. Here are some ideas on how to make the most of your backyard glamping tent:

• Weekend Retreat
  Treat yourself to a mini-vacation without leaving home. Spend a weekend in your glamping tent to unwind, read, relax, and rejuvenate.
• Outdoor Movie Nights
  Set up a projector and screen inside the tent for outdoor movie nights. Grab some popcorn and enjoy your favorite films under the stars.
• Family Campout
  Introduce younger family members to camping by setting up a glamping tent in the backyard. It’s a great opportunity for kids to experience the outdoors in a safe and familiar environment.
• Romantic Getaway
  Plan a romantic evening for you and your partner. Decorate the tent with soft lighting, candles, and comfortable seating for a memorable date night.
• Solo Retreat
  Use the glamping tent as your personal retreat space on an ad hoc basis, whenever you need to recharge during your day. Meditate, journal, or simply enjoy some quiet time away from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
• Creative Space
  Turn the tent into a creative oasis. Use it as a writing or art studio, or a place to practice a musical instrument without disturbing others.
• Outdoor Dining Experience
  Set up a small dining area inside the tent and have a gourmet dinner outdoors. It’s a unique way to enjoy a meal with a touch of elegance.
• Social Gatherings
  Host intimate gatherings with friends and family in the glamping tent. It’s perfect for small celebrations, birthday parties, or casual get-togethers.
• Fitness and Pilates Retreat
  Use the tent as a space for pilates, meditation, or home workouts. Enjoy the fresh air while staying active and healthy.
• Reading Nook
  Create a cozy reading nook inside the tent with comfortable cushions and blankets. Spend hours getting lost in your favorite books.
• Writing Retreat
  If you’re a writer, use the tent as a quiet and inspiring place to work on your projects.
• Wellness Retreat
  Set up a space for relaxation and self-care. Practice mindfulness, stretching, or aromatherapy in your glamping tent.
• Family Adventures
  Involve your children in backyard camping experiences. Plan outdoor activities, storytelling sessions, and nature exploration.
• Staycation Experience
  Transform your backyard into a temporary vacation spot. Unplug from technology and fully immerse yourself in the outdoor setting.

The possibilities are endless! Tailor your glamping tent experience to your interests, needs, and the changing seasons. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or quality time with loved ones, a backyard glamping tent can provide a memorable and enjoyable escape.

And remember, if you’re dining in your glamping tent, check out the Patio Food section of this blog. There are super easy and super yummy ideas there for glamping tent eating fun.

Glamping FAQs

What is the objective of glamping?

The word glamping is a portmanteau of “glamour” and “camping.” Think of it as luxury camping. Instead of roughing it in a sleeping bag in a cramped tent with few amenities, you’ll be surrounded with luxuries to make the experience more comfortable.

How do you make glamping fun?

To keep everyone entertained throughout the day and evening, bring board games, lawn games, and cards. And if you’re ready to take your glamping experience to the next level, use a screen projector and a white sheet to watch movies outside. Also, fire pits add to the experience as well as star gazing. Of course great food and adult beverages are a must. And don’t forget to relax!

Why do people prefer glamping?

If you are someone that loves the idea of camping, but you are not quite ready to rough it in the great outdoors, then glamping might just be the perfect solution for you. Glamping will offer you a luxurious and comfortable way to experience the great outdoors without sacrificing certain comforts.

Please Leave a Comment

Leave a comment below and tell us if this information was of value to you or tell us what we missed and can add to this post. Are you currently enjoying glamping? What do you like best about glamping? Do you glamp at home? If you don’t glamp at home, where near Roanoke, Virginia, or in any other location, anywhere, do you love to chill out while enjoying luxurious glamping? Please attach a photo to your comment so we can see how cool your glamping tent looks or wherever else you glamp.

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