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What is glamping? - Glamping is basically the combination of the words glamour and camping. It describes lodging that gives campers the opportunity to be surrounded by nature, while still enjoying the comforts of home.

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Types of glamping - The basic glamping tent is usually big enough to accommodate a large bed and some furniture. But cooking and washing must be done outside.

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Types of glamping - The yurt, which is originally from Mongolia, is a round, wooden-framed structure with a doomed roof. The luxury ones may feature everything a typical house does, from a kitchen to a bathroom.

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Types of glamping - Tepees have been around for ages, though not like this. The tepees are typically quite large, and they usually include a bed and some other pieces of furniture.

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Types of glamping - Tree houses have been taken to the next level lately, and many now have electricity, plumbing, and several rooms. They are great for making you feel outdoorsy yet comfy.

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Types of glamping - Cabins and tiny homes are as close as you get to an actual home. They often feature bunk beds and a source of heat.

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How to choose your glamping experience -

There are all sorts of glamping rentals suitable to your needs, so make sure you find out exactly what they include.

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How to choose your glamping experience - As a family group you might want a property equipped with a kitchen, however if you're a couple then a cute tepee might just work for you. Some places may even accept pets. There are options for all tastes!

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Find the perfect glamping - Start by having a look at listing sites such as Glamping Hub and Glamping.com.

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Homemade glamping - However, fear not, because you don't have to rent out a space in order to glamp. With a few objects, some effort, and a bit of imagination, you can set up your own glamping accommodation.

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Plan ahead - Make sure you choose where you want to camp wisely, and check for animal or weather warnings in the area. Make a list of everything you want to take. Regardless of whether you're renting out a glamping property or setting up your own, the following items are a must when you pack...

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Essentials - Suitable clothing and footwear, cooking gear, a first aid kit, toiletries and bug repellent.

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Tent - Your shelter is the most important part of your glamping adventure. Get yourself a nice big tent that is tall enough for you to stand up in, and big enough to include some luxury items.

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Bedding - Say goodbye to sleeping bags and flat mattresses and hello to a big bed and soft pillows! A nice, comfy bed is a must when glamping. All you need is a big air mattress and some warm blankets, and you're all set.

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Lighting - Good lighting isn't just useful, it also adds to the glamping mood. A Moroccan-style lantern can be strapped to the tent's roof, and leaving a couple outside will also illuminate the whole outdoor area. Avoid candles in general.

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Furniture - A few pieces of furniture are what makes glamping a step above regular camping. A bedside table, some chairs and a table (if there's enough space), a pouf, and a wicker chest for your clothes will immediately spruce up your home-away-from-home.

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Decor - Think about how you can make your glamping site feel more homely. Lighting and pillows are obvious choices, but consider a mirror or even some flowers or artwork to really rack up the luxury level.

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Temperature - Although some glamping rentals are fitted with either air conditioning or stoves, if you're setting up your own camp, you might want to bring either a heater or fan to avoid suffering because of the high or low outside temperatures.

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Outside the tent - If your tent is too small for lots of furniture, you can always take a few chairs and a table with you and set up the "dining room" outside. A barbecue, a hammock, and a few lights are also great additions to your glamping area.

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Footwear - Don't forget your tent is your home! Make sure you pack a pair of slippers so the dirty shoes can stay outside.

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Kitchenware - In order to avoid lighting up a fire, a two- or three-burner gas stove is always a great alternative. Don't forget pots and pans, plates, cutlery, bowls and mugs... oh, and a cutting board and knife!

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Food - Delicious food can also be easy to prepare. If you have a barbecue grill, why not go for some burger sliders? A yummy pasta dish is also easy to whip up and is sure to please everyone.

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Food - Also make sure you pack a cooler with ice, so you can take little boxes of fruits and veggies that you can snack on during the day.

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Dessert! - It's not a camping trip without a fun dessert! S'mores are a classic that are both easy to make and incredibly delicious.

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Keep it clean -

Pack a small whisk broom so you can sweep out the tent and keep it nice and tidy at all times. Happy glamping!

See also: Be amazed by these stunning jungle and rainforest destinations

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