How can I turn a regular camping trip into a glamping experience on a budget?
You don’t need a luxury tent or a five-star campground to enjoy glamping. With just a few affordable upgrades—like foam mats, cozy rugs, string lights, and a campfire cocktail bar—you can transform your traditional camping setup into a stylish and comfortable outdoor retreat. Here’s how to create a glamping vibe without spending a fortune.
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| Easy Ways to Upgrade Your Tent Camping Experience |
7 Simple & Affordable Glamping Tips for Your Next Camping Trip
Use Foam Gym Mats for a Soft, Insulated Tent Floor
Lay down interlocking foam gym squares inside your tent to cushion the floor. These mats make walking and sleeping more comfortable while adding insulation from the cold, hard ground. It’s one of the easiest ways to instantly upgrade your tent’s coziness factor.
Add a Rug or Faux Sheepskin Throw
Layer in texture and comfort with a small rug or faux fur throw. Not only does it feel great underfoot, but it also adds a sense of style and warmth to your tent interior. It’s like bringing a little slice of home to the woods.
Hang Fairy Lights for Ambience
String up battery-powered fairy lights inside your tent, around your camp table, or across nearby trees. These soft, warm lights instantly create a magical atmosphere—perfect for reading, chatting, or simply soaking in the glamping vibes.
Illuminate with Solar Lanterns and Pathway Lights
Set the mood and light the way with solar-powered lanterns and garden-style stake lights. They charge during the day and glow at night—no batteries or wires required. Place them around your tent entrance or lounge area for a cozy, well-lit space. They help you see at night without the blinding head lamp.
Swap the Sleeping Bag for Real Bedding
Ditch the sleeping bag and bring your favorite sheets, blankets, and pillows. Whether you’re using an air mattress or a foam sleeping pad, layering real bedding makes your sleep setup feel like a plush bed rather than a rugged campsite. Add flannel sheets for chilly nights and you’ve got hotel-level comfort under the stars.
For More Camp Sleep Tips check out my 6 favorite
Set Up a Mini Bar for Camp Cocktails
Want to elevate your evening? Pack a mini bar setup with your favorite mixers, a shaker, reusable cups, and a bottle or two of your go-to drink. Pre-mix cocktails in mason jars or bring ingredients for easy drinks like mojitos or whiskey sours. Don’t forget garnishes like lime, mint, or fancy ice cubes if you’re feeling extra.
Create an Outdoor Lounge Space
Designate an outdoor hangout area with comfy camp chairs, a side table, a lantern or two, and a cozy blanket. Add a couple of throw pillows for a stylish, relaxing space to enjoy your morning coffee or evening cocktail while watching the sunset.
You Can Glamp on a Budget
Glamping isn’t about spending more—it’s about being intentional. With a few thoughtful touches, your tent camping trip can feel like a relaxing, luxurious escape. Most of these ideas use things you already have at home or can grab affordably at discount stores or online. The goal? Create comfort, enjoy nature, and treat yourself to a little wilderness luxury.
What is Glamping?
Glamping is short for “glamorous camping”—a trend that combines the beauty of the outdoors with the comforts and luxuries of home. Think cozy beds, stylish decor, soft lighting, and sometimes even full bathrooms or gourmet meals. It’s all about enjoying nature without roughing it.
While the term “glamping” started gaining popularity in the early 2000s, the idea itself goes back much further. In the 16th century, Scottish nobles hosted luxurious camping experiences for royalty, complete with feather beds and servants. Fast forward to the early 1900s, wealthy travelers in Africa went on safari with high-end tents and full-service accommodations. Today, glamping has evolved into everything from treehouses and yurts to souped-up RVs and decked-out tent sites.
But here’s the best part: you don’t need to spend hundreds on a glamping resort to enjoy the experience. With a few thoughtful upgrades—like the tips we shared above—you can bring the glamping lifestyle to your next weekend getaway.
Glamp Your Way
Whether you’re car camping in the forest or pitching a tent by a quiet lake, you can bring your own style and comfort into the wild. Glamping isn’t about being fancy—it’s about feeling good in your space and soaking up nature in a way that fits you.
Check out my Camping Page for more tips when you are in the wilderness.
Have a favorite DIY glamping tip? Share it in the comments! Or tag your setup with #JeepMommaGlamping and #KeepItJeepy for a chance to be featured.
