Style Spotlight: Glamping
A-Glamping We Will Go.
Ahhh, summer in the rugged outdoors. Communing with nature in all its primitive glory. Drifting off in an inch-thick sleeping bag over the sensual feel of rocks and crevices. Awakening to a sociable, affectionate mosquito poised to engage in a blood-swapping ritual. It’s such a glorious human experience.
For other people.
Me? I have a hard time leaving the 1200 TC sheets behind, and slumbering less than 24 inches off the floor. Give me my electric lamp, hairdryer, and a piece of wall art here and there, and I’ll go camping.
Sometimes I think the concept of “glamping” was invented for me, or at very least for people like me. It’s an ingenious way to get your fill of pristine Mother Earth while not wandering too far from the comforts of home. And increasingly, merchandisers have discovered this captive market. A thirst for not-really-camping-but-camping has led to some cool inventions, and this glamping tent is one I’ve spotted.
Look, I can’t afford this. And I don’t even know how much it costs. Let’s file it under “pipe dream” for now. But plenty of outfits produce less glamorous versions that are within reach, and they include noteworthy features such as plush floors, shelving, mobile electrical outlets, and other signs of civilization.
You don’t need to strut your Jeremiah Johnson creds to participate in an outdoor adventure. Fishing is the same fishing, whether you sleep in a worn-out bag or a swanky glamping tent. These are just a more contemporary way to mobilize the finer points of home living.
Fishing for bargains
If sticker shock is setting in, consider a more modest option. This awesome find offers loads of comfort without necessitating a mortgage. It’s plenty roomy, and offers space-efficiency. And, it’s a snap to set up and take down.
Pretty sure you’re seeing the light with respect to luxury camping. But just in case, consider this set of perfectly festive lanterns to guide the way after dark. Quality construction and a palette of fun colors plays along with your Camping-With-The-Stars fantasy.
You can’t get too picky when it comes time for grub, but this set of outdoor-compatible dinnerware is impressive and gets the job done. And after a scrumptious lunch, set sail without breaking the bank. This affordable, well made inflatable kayak guarantees hours of fun for adventurous types.
Campfire time signals the obligatory S’mores prep, and I hit on a win-win recipe for the iconic gems. Fire up a roaring blaze and enjoy the 8 percent of sandwiched treats that are not either incinerated or dropped in the flames, never to be seen again.
If my camping cynicism is off-putting, I apologize. Outdoor treks are a world apart from where they were when I was a kid. Take full advantage of the technology, learning experiences, crafty hacks, and everything else that has made camping/glamping a resurging summer pursuit. Soak up the sun, breathe in fresh air, and get your fill of all nature has to offer.
But do bring your insect repellant. I’m just saying.