Globetrotting in High Heels: Glamping

Posted by Roxanne on Jan 20, 2012 in Getaways | 8 comments

Those of you who follow this blog will know that I had successful and not so successful attempts at camping last year. It seems that the world and his wife are investing in pop-up tents in the hope of affordable, regular holidays – but it’d be interesting to know how many sheds are stuffed with camping gear that’s been used once or twice before the novelty wore off and the back ache set in.

Glamping is one way of making tenting it more bearable. Basically sexed up camping, Glamping means that you don’t have to go without those little luxuries that make any trip fabulous.

Having tried camping and been unable to cope for more than two nights, I’m now considering giving Glamping ago. It could especially be fun with the girls. Here’s what I’ll be packing for a girlie Glamping weekend this summer – feel free to adjust according to sex/interests/preference as Glamping is all about you, you, you!

“Choooooons”

Music makes everything more bearable, so whether you’re into rock, pop, classical or Justin Beiber make sure that you pack an iPod or similar, and invest in a portable speaker dock to share the ear love.

A Luxury Hamper

If you’re staying in a tent, in a field, then you deserve and need amazing food. I’ll be packing up a luxury hamper with pink champers, posh crisps and plenty of chocolate truffles. As ever, though, it’s a case of what floats your culinary boat. The last time we went camping I saw a group at the entrance to the campsite taking delivery of a stack of Dominos pizzas. Don’t forget essentials like a cool box and (cough) plastic champagne glasses and cute patterned paper plates.

Lovely Toiletries

Ok, so if I have to take a freezing cold shower in a communal block then I’m at least going to have it using my favourite Soap and Glory goodies from Boots. I’ll also be packing a lovely fluffy robe and slippers. After a glass of wine I’ll just pretend I’m at a posh au natural spa for the weekend.

Comfy Cushions

If you’re going Glamping then you need to cram the back of the car with comfy cushions galore. Throw a waterproof cover down on the grass, put a lovely Cath Kidston blanket over it and stack those cushions high. Throw in a cashmere snuggy for when night falls and so much the better.

Games

Just because you’re Glamping doesn’t mean you’re going to be sitting around painting your nails and styling your hair all day. You’re in the great outdoors after all, so go wild and let off some steam. Become the envy of those camped around you and pack a box full of fun games and toys – everyone’s gonna wanna be in your gang! Water pistols are a good one, as are water bombs, or go back to summer childhoods with a rounders set.

Of course, when Glamping, you’ll have a proper air bed with proper bedding and a nice duvet and pillow, but if that’s still not enough for you then check out the Featherdown Farm Days website. These ‘tents’ are dotted around farm locations nationwide and boast wooden floors, kitchens, dining tables and proper bedrooms. You can also arrange to have your very own hot tub outside your ‘front door’, overlooking rolling countryside. I haven’t had the pleasure of experiencing one yet but it’s definitely on my to do list. They look AMAZING!

If even that can’t persuade you to take your holiday back to basics this year than nothing can. However, if you fancy more of a tradional holiday; be sure to check out Groupon Getaways for fabulous deals on a wide range of destinations like Marrakech: Two, Three, Four, or Five Night Stay For Two With Breakfast from £79 at the 4* Imperial Holiday Hotel (Up to 71% Off). Or how about somewhere closer to home like Cornwall: Two or Three Night Stay For Two in Self-Catered Cottage or Lodge from £119 at Ta Mill (Up to 71% Off). Wherever you choose go, just think of me in my field when you’re all cosy in your hotel!