Camping vs. Glamping – Which is Right for You?

By Skyler Zahn

Last updated August 29, 2025

Camping comes in many different shapes and sizes. It is up to every person how they want to spend their time outdoors. Some crave complete isolation from the world to feel at peace in nature, while others would panic if put in that scenario. Some love the simpleness of leaving everyday amenities behind, like running water and electricity, while others can’t bear a second without it. Whether you are a true outdoorsman or the indoorsy type that might want to dabble in nature, you can create the camping environment that is right for you. 

What is Glamping?

“What even is ‘glamping’?” you may be asking yourself. The word is a combination of “glamorous” and “camping.” It brings the excitement of outdoor activities while still having the luxury of modern-day amenities. Glamping typically includes fully furnished tents or cabins that have real beds, running water, electricity, a working toilet, and even sometimes air conditioning. It is like a hotel in nature. Compared to the traditional camping ways of minimal equipment and no amenities. 

Which to Choose?

If you are new to camping or looking for ways to spice up your camping trips, you may be wondering if camping is your style or glamping is the way to go. There are many different pros and cons to each style of camping that may help narrow your choices.

Glamping - Pros & Cons

Pros of Glamping

• Comfort - When glamping, you have the feeling of staying in a hotel surrounded by nature. Having a comfortable, actual bed to sleep in after a day of adventure can be a real game-changer for some people.
• Amenities - If still having access to modern amenities, like a shower and toilet, air conditioning, and electricity, is a must for you, glamping in more your style.
• Convenience - Like said above, you still have the convenience of everyday luxuries, so you can really unwind after a long day outside.

Cons of Glamping

• Cost - When glamping, you need to be prepared to spend the same amount of money you would when staying in a hotel. 
• Limited Options - There are not as many glamping spots as there are camping spots.
• Less Immersed in Nature - While you are surrounded by nature, you are not spending as much time outside and are not dependent on nature. 

Camping - Pros & Cons

Pros of Camping

• Immersed in Nature - When you go camping in the traditional way, you are completely surrounded by nature 24/7, so you get the full immersion of living in nature.
• Low Cost - While the cost of camping supplies can add up, you get to reuse those tools each time you go camping, unlike glamping.
• Self-Sufficient - Without everyday amenities, you are forced to become reliant on your own skills and resourcefulness. 

Cons of Camping

• Lack of Amenities - Glamping has a long list of different amenities offered while camping is lacking in the area, if the campsite has any at all.
• Weather - You don’t have control of the weather, you can only plan and prepare for what you think may come. You don’t have the luxury of a roof over your head when tent camping. 
• Planning and Prepping - When camping, you have to pack and plan much more than if you were glamping. 

The Choice is Yours

Now that you have more information on the differences between camping and glamping, you can make a more informed decision on what your next outdoor adventure will entail. Whether you crave nature with a side of modern life or want to dive deep into all things nature and outdoors, any form of camping/glamping is a great way to spend your time outside.

References

• “Is Glamping Better than Camping? Here’s What Experts Say,” Westgate Resorts
• “Glamping Vs. Camping: The Essential Differences,” Under Canvas