Hey there! So, you’ve probably heard a lot about camping and glamping, especially since the Dutch have been huge fans of camping for ages. And guess what? Since the whole coronavirus situation, the number of campers in our country has jumped from 3 million to a whopping 4 million. That’s a lot of people wanting to sleep under the stars, right? But here’s the thing – not everyone’s clear on what sets camping apart from glamping. If you’re one of those people, don’t worry, I’ve got your back.
So, What’s Glamping All About?
You might have a pretty good idea of what camping is, especially if you’ve landed here. But glamping? That might still be a bit fuzzy. In a nutshell, glamping is camping but with a dash of luxury. Imagine sleeping in a tent, but instead of a sleeping bag on the ground, you’re cozying up in an actual bed.
And it’s not just tents – there are treehouses, tiny houses, and all sorts of fancy digs that fall under the glamping umbrella. The term “glamping” itself is a mash-up of ‘glamour’ and ‘camping’, and it’s been around for a few years now. Fun fact: it even made its way into the Oxford English Dictionary back in 2016. Whether you’re in the Netherlands or venturing further afield, you’ll find some pretty cool places to glamp.
Camping vs. Glamping: The Sleep Setup
The main difference between camping and glamping? It’s all about how plush your setup is. With glamping, you’re guaranteed a good night’s sleep in a comfy bed, surrounded by the kind of luxury you might find in a hotel room or holiday cottage. Traditional camping, with its air mattresses and camp beds, is a bit more rugged. And while your camper or caravan might have a bed, it’s usually a bit more on the basic side compared to glamping.
What About Your Gear?
Another big difference is what you’ll need to pack. Going glamping means showing up to a spot that’s all set up for you – sometimes with the bed made and everything. Traditional camping? You’re bringing your gear, setting up your tent, and getting everything ready yourself. Sure, modern camping gear can be pretty swanky, but if the idea of setting up camp doesn’t thrill you, glamping might just be your thing.
Let’s Talk Toilets
When it comes to bathroom breaks, camping and glamping are worlds apart. Old-school camping often means sharing facilities unless you’re in a camper with its own loo. But don’t fret – many campsites offer the option to book private facilities. On the flip side, glamping spots typically come with their own bathrooms, making middle-of-the-night bathroom trips a breeze.
Dealing with the Weather
I’m all for camping in the colder months, but I get that not everyone’s keen on shivering in a tent. While you can always bundle up or bring a heater, it’s not quite the same as being snug indoors. If you’re craving a winter getaway in nature without the chill, glamping’s the way to go. You’re likely to have a heater or a wood stove to keep you toasty. And in the summer? Glamping spots often have air conditioning or are designed to stay cool, unlike a tent that can turn into a sauna at sunrise.
The Best of Both Worlds
Personally, I’m a fan of both camping and glamping. There’s something special about hitting the road with our bus, but I also won’t say no to a few nights in a luxury treehouse or a chic tent. For me, the key is being surrounded by nature. There’s nothing like waking up in a peaceful, green spot to kickstart your day. Sure, some folks are all about the traditional camping experience, while others can’t get enough of the glamping life. The great news? Whether you’re in the Netherlands or exploring further afield, there’s no shortage of options for camping with a touch of luxury.
So, whether you’re a seasoned camper or a glamping newbie, there’s a perfect outdoor adventure waiting for you. Happy camping, or should I say, happy glamping!
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