Best Glamping Accessories For Ultimate Comfort
Glamping gives you the charm of camping with a little extra comfort where it matters most. 20% of campers say that some home comforts are a must for them and half say they would like to try glamping.
Our guide to glamping accessories covers the must-have essentials, the nice-to-haves, and includes some upgrades that you might not have thought about. If you’re looking to get closer to the great outdoors with all of the comfort then this is the guide for you.
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What Glamping Comforts Do You Need?
How to choose what comforts matter to you
97% of people say happiness is their top motivator for going camping, so carefully consider what kind of experience you are looking for. This will determine what types of glamping accessories you need for the perfect trip.
Glamping appeals to people because you can spend time in nature or have a rural adventure without the inconveniences of regular camping. But do you want all your home comforts or only a couple? How ‘wild’ or cut-off do you want your trip away to be? Consider what’s felt irritating or weighed on your mind on previous camping trips.
Prioritising what’s most important will help you decide what glamping accessories are essential. You might be desperate for a decent coffee, cold drinks all trip or easier ways to cook. You could be more interested in creating a magical experience around a campfire before falling into a comfy bed.
What Type of Glamping Break Do You Want?
Bring Your Own Tent (and everything else)
Practically the same as regular camping, but more glamorous. Upgrade your camping experience with whatever nice extras you can fit in your vehicle or backpack. You’re in full control, so can bring as few or as many glamping accessories as you like.
You can stay at any traditional campsites and enjoy the same activities as usual, just in more comfort. This is ideal for regular campers who enjoy staying in a tent and the flexibility of where they stay, but are ready to add more.
Yurt Glamping
Pre-erected yurts are a popular option for glamping if you don’t want the hassle of setting up a tent. Yurts are more spacious and sturdy than most regular tents, with an inviting, back-to-nature atmosphere. Some sites simply provide a pre-pitched yurt already set up. However, others provide a fully-kitted out glamping experience with beds, a wood stove and cooking equipment.
Glamping in a yurt suits people who like the extra space, which is great for families and dogs. Yurts can be a relatively affordable glamping break, with many options to choose from.
Glamping Cabins
If a cosy stay is more your style, then a cabin can offer everything. Many glamping cabins are in rural spots, enabling you to enjoy a sense of seclusion when you need to take a break from the outside world. They’re a nice opportunity to experience more rural living with all the comforts of home: running water, electricity, and even heating and TVs.
Cabin stays can suit first-time campers and those who are happy to stay in one place. They’re also an option for winter travel when tents aren’t so inviting for many people. Go it alone or with family and friends to relax or wander through the wilderness.
Essential Glamping Accessories
Wherever you choose to sleep, there are a huge range of gadgets and glamping accessories to help you have the best experience. We recommend bringing a range of accessories that are useful, make your trip easier and more exciting, and some that are just for fun!
How to Choose the Best Glamping Accessories
If you’re not sure exactly what glamping accessories will make the biggest difference, consider choosing items from these three categories. They balance comfort with fun, helping to ensure that your trip goes smoothly so you can focus on making memories!
Level Up
Make your daily glamping life quicker, easier or just that bit nicer with a better version of a regular camping item. If you’re cooking for a group, upgrading to a double burner camping stove can make the dinner rush better. Want to relax more? Swap your regular camping chairs for deluxe versions or add an inflatable sofa.
Entertainment
Choose accessories that can keep the whole family entertained, whether it’s in the car or before bed. A battery-operated projector can be used in the evenings to watch a film while new board games can keep little ones busy during the day.
Aesthetics
Don’t forget to include some camping accessories that can simply glam up your camp. Fairy lights, bunting, or cosy cushions can take your space from plain to Instagrammable. If you’re planning a trip for a special occasion, these types of glamping accessories should be non-negotiable.
If you’re still not sure then think back to a previous holiday you’ve taken. What home comforts did you miss? When did the kids get bored? At what point did you realise you’d left all the cutlery at home? You should focus on choosing glamping accessories that will be helpful and fun for your specific needs, trip or family.
Sleeping
More than half of campers say they sleep better with the sounds of nature. Ensuring you’re comfortable at night, even away from your regular bed, will contribute to a great night’s sleep.
Air Beds
There are plenty of different options for lightweight air beds that can be used on a camping trip. They are extremely portable and can be inflated quickly either by hand or with an electric pump. Air beds come in a variety of sizes that can fit in anything from a small tent to a larger cabin space.
Top tip: put a camping rollmat underneath the air bed to prevent the cold coming up through the tent floor.
Camping Beds
Modern camping beds are lightweight and quick to set up – just unfold it and you’re ready to sleep. They are great for people who don’t like the feel of an air bed and want something sturdier. While some air beds are notorious for leaks as they wear out, a camping bed is far more hardwearing.
Hammocks
Camping hammocks are exceptionally comfortable and a great option to keep you off cold, damp ground. They can sometimes be hard for beginners to set up, so it’s worth testing it at home first.
You’ll also need to consider how you’ll hang your hammock. A hammock works only if you have something to hang it from, like a tree or a stand. If you bring a stand, you’ll have to make sure you can set it up where you plan to camp. Hammocks can make a great addition as somewhere to hang out during the day, alongside other sleeping options.
Glamping Chairs, Seating & Dining
Walking, cycling and other outdoor activities are a key part of camping for most people. At the end of the day, you’ll want to sit down in comfort. You’ll spend a lot of time sitting down at your glamping spot, whether for meals or just enjoying time in nature. Picking the right seating will help you make the most of relaxing while away.
Chairs
Camping chairs can be extremely useful no matter what type of glamping trip you’re going on. Some locations may include seating but many will not, so it’s best to be prepared otherwise risk sitting on the ground.
If you have limited space or are bringing your chairs on a hike then you’ll want to look into camping chairs that are lightweight and fold up. There are options for camping stools that fold down small enough to fit in your backpack, or chairs made of lightweight aluminium.
If having a comfy seat is a priority for you then there are loads of added extras that you can look for to make your camping chair hard to get out of. Many camping chairs have arm rests and can also include a cup holder. There are also options for padded camping chairs with extra height and cushioning.
Sofas
If you’re travelling as a group then it can sometimes be easier (and cosier) to bring sofas instead of multiple chairs. Luckily you won’t have to try and fit your living room suite in your campervan; there’s multiple options for sofas that can be taken camping.
Similar to single camping chairs, you can also get foldable camping sofas that can seat two or even three people. This may be the best option for outdoor use on uneven ground, but there’s also the option of bringing an inflatable sofa. Inflatable sofas with leather or plastic reinforced bottoms can be used outside but they can also add an extra seating option indoors.
Camping tables
Folding camping tables can be useful for a variety of different reasons on a glamping trip. From extra storage space to keep your bags off of the ground, a prep space for when you’re cooking or BBQing, to a dining table that everyone can fit around. Foldable tables are usually made from lightweight metal and plastic and are extremely hardwearing for use outdoors.
There are also options for smaller camping tables that are easy to move around your site, or tiny stick tables which can be pressed into the grass. Some of the more luxury tables with telescopic legs can be adjusted for uneven surfaces.
Remembering to include tables or other flat surfaces in your glamping kit will help to make your daily tasks that much easier. No one wants to be preparing dinner on the ground or balancing a cup of tea on their knees if they don’t have to!
Camping Chair and Table Sets
Budget: Wooden Folding Picnic Set
Mid Range: Picnic Table Set and Benches
All-Out: Four Person Table and Chairs Set
Staying Warm
When you’re glamping in the UK there’s always a risk of running into bad weather, no matter what time of year it is! Even in the height of summer the temperatures can drop quickly when the sun goes down. Making sure you consider how you’ll stay warm in the evenings can make the difference between a cosy glamping trip and an uncomfortable one.
Firepits
Many campsites do not allow campfires, but they may allow firepits. Firepits are large metal bowls that you can build a fire inside of. This makes them safer than traditional campfires and keeps mess to a minimum. They can be extremely heavy (they’re made of metal) so might not be suitable for every holiday, but some sites offer firepits as an accessory that you can hire when you get there.
Electric camping heater
Designed for motorhomes and caravans, an electric camping heater is a hassle-free way of keeping warm while glamping. As they need to be plugged in, they’re only an option for cabin stays, or yurts with electricity supplies. However, this does mean they can keep you warm and cosy throughout the night.
You need to do thorough research into the best electric heater to bring with you. Many are not safe to run in small spaces or overnight. Always read the instructions for your heater and keep camping and caravan safety in mind. If you do use a heater inside, your sleeping space should be well ventilated.
Colour Changing Fire
A cool item that’s great for entertaining children while keeping warm at the same time. You toss the unopened cartridge into a wood fire and within minutes it produces coloured flames. It’s a fun way to make your campfire that extra bit special. Just remember to always supervise children around open flames, and don’t set up a fire too close to your sleeping area.
Cooking
Part of the fun of cooking outdoors is the simplicity. Cooking on a BBQ or even an open flame can be novel, but you might also miss some of the comforts and conveniences of cooking in a kitchen. These glamping accessories can make your outdoor cooking set up a fun and exciting activity for the whole family (while also making your life a little easier).
Double Burner Cooker
A traditional single burner camping stove often limits your meal options when camping. It means cooking time needs to be carefully planned. A double burner cooker is a great little upgrade that remains easily portable. Maybe you’re cooking for a larger group, or maybe you’re planning to make some more indulgent meals. Either way, a double burner stove can be a good upgrade to your glamping set up.
Dutch Oven
Heavier than other options, a dutch oven is perfect for cooking large, one-pot meals. They’re perfect for a chilli, curry or casserole, with plenty of room for big servings. Dutch ovens also hold heat well, which helps if you want to cook ahead and eat later.
Portable Pizza Oven
For a real investment, your own hot and fresh pizza is one of the coolest glamping accessories you can pick. Have fun creating your pizzas and then enjoy wood-fired style pizzas within a minute. Camping food will never have tasted this good.
Portable grill
A portable griddle pan gives you one large place to cook plenty of different items. Fancy a full fry up? You’ve got room for eggs, bacon, hashbrowns and beans all at once. At lunch or dinner, you can pile on sausages, burgers and kebabs. It makes it much easier to time meals like this, especially for large hungry groups!
Eating & Drinking
Once you’ve cooked your meal, you’ll need something to eat it off! Basic camping crockery and utensils are usually made of food-safe plastics or materials like enamel that retain heat. Glamping accessories can level up your eating experience by adding extra creature comforts or simply something more to your style.
Mugs, glasses, plates and bowls
There are many different options for these essentials that all have their own benefits. Your choice will depend on whether your priority is strength, portability, aesthetics, or how well they hold heat. If you’re looking for a classic design, enamel camping crockery has a vintage feel. Collapsible silicone cups are lightweight and don’t take up much space in a backpack. Even plastic camping dinnerware can come in all sorts of colours and designs.
Portable Coffee Makers
Bringing a portable coffee maker on your glamping trip means you can enjoy a cup of good coffee first thing. If instant isn’t your thing a cafetiere or aeropress are lightweight options that don’t take up too much space. You can even get a ‘minipresso’ machine that uses branded coffee capsules for a simple short coffee.
Insulated wine bottles
You’ve put up your tent, unpacked your car or parked up your motorhome – and now your holiday can begin! An insulated wine bottle can keep your drink cold for up to 24 hours, so you can enjoy a cool glass of wine as you watch the sun go down in your new surroundings.
Utensils
Having a complete set of camping utensils means you won’t have to struggle through meals when you realise you lost half the forks last year. There are different options for utensils depending on whether you prefer a lightweight set, one made from sustainable materials, or a sturdy metal set.
Budget: Eco-Friendly Wheat Cutlery Set
Mid Range: 2 Person Picnic Set
All-Out: 4 Person Picnic Cutlery Set
Coolers and Fridges
Keeping food fresh and drinks cool can make a whole lot of difference to your comfort levels when you’re on a glamping holiday. Bringing a cooler or fridge with you on holiday can be a convenient way of levelling up your camp and having cold drinks on hand at all times.
Coolers
There are some exceptional camping coolers available nowadays that far outperform the sort your dad used to bring to the beach. Modern coolers can keep food and drink colder for longer, and larger ones come with long handles and wheels.
The advantage of a cool box is that you don’t need to rely on any power. However fantastic your cooler is though, you’ll still need to add icepacks or bags of ice to keep the temperature low.
Top tip: Get an empty 2-litre drinks bottle, fill it with water and freeze. You’ve now got a giant iceblock that will last a couple of days.
Portable Fridges
This is the real upgrade and a highly essential glamping accessory for us. Portable fridges can be plugged into a vehicle’s 12V socket and mains electricity, so are great for enhancing various types of glamping breaks.
Unlike coolers that will gradually lose their cooling abilities, a portable fridge will keep food and drinks at a consistent temperature throughout your trip. This means you don’t need to cram everything in before you set off: you can fill it with food and a few drinks, then put more in as you use items and make space.
Lighting
Glamping is popular all year round because of the many choices of accommodation. The most popular time to go camping in the UK is still – unsurprisingly – at the peak of summer in July and August. However, by the time we get to the August bank holidays, it’s going dark by 8pm. Bringing lighting options with you can help to extend the time that you can spend outdoors.
Fairy Lights
Fairy lights bring a cosy, magical feel to your glamping experience. They are small, lightweight and can run off batteries, so they’re easy to pop in your bag. They’re handy for locating your pitch in the dark, whether you’re coming back from the toilet block or the local pub.
Top tip: Clothes pegs make it easy to pin your lights up around a tent and stay in place if it gets windy.
Lanterns
Lanterns can provide a more powerful light source, so are useful if you’re cooking at dusk or reading before bed. There are a range of options, from solar-powered and USB-charging to fuel and gas-powered lanterns. While your phone light is still a nice back-up option, a lantern leaves you hands-free and can be easier to charge.
Budget: Frosted Bulb String Lights
Mid Range: Collapsible LED Lantern
All-Out: Coleman Northstar Lantern
Glamping Entertainment
Projectors
Choose a battery-powered projector that is smaller than a can of beans, connects to Wi-Fi, or even streams directly from Netflix. This versatility allows you to watch a film or your favourite TV series projected onto the wall of your motorhome or tent.
Bringing a projector on your glamping trips is an excellent way to keep everyone entertained. Maybe even invite your camping neighbours over to make new friends! Many portable projectors support Bluetooth so you can also connect earphones if you need to keep things quieter in camp.
Portable Chargers
In this day and age a portable charger is less of a ‘nice to have’ and more of an essential. Unless your pitch has an electrical outlet, a power bank with plenty of storage can make or break a glamping trip.
Basic small and lightweight portable chargers are excellent for adding to your backpack for days out. Chargers with more storage tend to be bulkier and heavier. If you don’t have to carry it around, these chargers are a great addition that can power your entire glamping trip!
Speakers
Whether you’re listening to podcasts while cooking dinner, entertaining the kids, or enjoying music with friends, including a speaker on a glamping trip will always be a good idea. Look for camping speakers that are waterproof and suitable for outdoor use.
You should also prioritise battery life and how quickly the speaker can recharge. You can link some speakers together to create more of a party atmosphere. Just remember to consider your neighbours! Some campsites will have designated quiet times, so make sure you aren’t too loud early in the morning or late in the evenings.
Glamping Comforts That Make a Big Difference
Upgrade Your Tent Flooring
Tents, carpets, rugs and travel blankets
Adding a rug or carpet to your tent is a great way to elevate your camping experience. It adds comfort and insulation, and makes it easy to keep your tent clean with a quick shake outside. There are specialist tent rugs that vary from fleecy material to rattan-style mats. You can also use a regular picnic blanket to help bring a more homely feel to your tent.
Our Picks: Aztec Deluxe Outdoor Ground Carpet | Bilberry Square GlamPing Tent Carpet
Shut out the light
Eyemasks and blackouts
Most of us choose to go glamping in summer when sunrise can be as early as 5am. A thin tent can make it harder to ignore the burgeoning sunlight. If you aren’t an early bird and struggle to stay asleep when daylight breaks, then blocking it should help you get more quality sleep.
A decent eye mask can help, reducing distractions when you’re trying to fall asleep too. You could also choose to blackout your tent, either by adding a blackout cover, liner or inner room, or purchasing a specialist blackout tent. This is often ideal if you’re camping with younger children.
The other key advantage of a blackout tent is that it can be a lot cooler. As well as blocking the light, it also blocks much of the heat.
Our Picks: Bamboo Sleep Mask | 3-Person Inner Tent Darkened Bedroom
Glamping Decorations
Decorating your camp can help it to feel uniquely yours – and you can change it up every trip. Consider what kind of vibe you are going for. Is this a hen-do party, a chilled couples trip or a family adventure?
Bunting is lightweight and easy to hang up across your site. Flags can add personality to a space, or you can even design a custom flag if you’re celebrating a specific event.
You can be as quirky as you want with your space and bring lawn decorations like a classic flamingo, or large floor cushions to invite people to stay and chat. Consider choosing decorations that are durable and can be reused for future events or trips, but you’re only limited by space in this area!
Our Picks: Fabric Bunting | Striped Outdoor Floor Cushions
Beyond Camping with Glamping Alternatives
If you love the idea of spending a more comfortable time outdoors and want an upgrade from a tent, there are several alternatives. They blend traditional tent camping’s connection to nature with slightly more luxury and style.
Campervans & Rooftop Tents
If sleeping on the floor isn’t for you (understandable), then you could try a glamping trip with a campervan or a rooftop tent.
Campervans are vans that have been converted into a space suitable to sleep in. They prioritise agility in driving and use space-saving measures in their interior. There has been a huge upward surge in the ‘vanlife’ trend over recent years. Many campers and van conversions have been kitted out with all the features and functions that you could need for a luxury glamping trip, without the tent.
Rooftop tents are a foldable tent mounted to the roof rack of your car. When you reach your destination, you simply unfold and erect your tent. They come with additional support beams to take the weight off of your car, as well as a ladder for access to the tent. These rooftop tents are quick to set up and elevate your sleeping area off cold, rocky or uneven ground.
Motorhomes & Caravans
Embrace travel freedom with a caravan or motorhome, which offer flexibility if you want to move around during your trip. They’re a more roomy and more luxurious way to travel. With your own kitchen and bathroom, there is often less to think about when planning your trip.
Buying a motorhome is often seen as a serious investment and one you should consider carefully. Renting a motorhome can be a more cost-effective option if you don’t plan on going away as often or just want to road test the experience.
Off-Grid & Digital Detox Glamping
If you truly want to get away from it all, an off-grid stay is increasingly popular. With digital detox cabins often based in remote areas with low to minimal phone signals, these calm, low-tech escapes are the perfect way to relax.
Put your phone away, leave your stresses behind and enjoy nature to the fullest. This is the kind of get-away that enables you to fully switch off from the busyness of day-to-day life.
Various travel sites enable you to search for remote cabin stays, with individual B&B-style listings to choose from. For more standardised off-grid stays, there are companies like Unplugged and Unyoked.
Unusual Stays
With so many options to choose from in the UK and beyond, your glamping trip can be something uniquely different. There are a range of different glamping experiences that can incorporate everything from literary loves to wacky sleeping arrangements.
Treehouse stays are a bold but exciting choice for people who aren’t scared of heights. Pods are great for couples looking for an intimate hideaway. Bothys are a remote option for those looking to get back into nature. Almost every person-sized item has been converted into a place to stay from a double decker bus to a restored WW2 ambulance train carriage.
There are hundreds of glamping accessories that can help to create your perfect glamping trip. Try to choose a combination of useful accessories that make your trip easier, accessories that add something special to your holiday, and some things just for fun.
Choosing accessories that can be reused on other trips can make the lifetime cost negligible, while doing a smaller trip before a long holiday can help you realise what is essential and what isn’t necessary.
Think about what accessories will add a new level to your holiday. What is worth the cost or the weight to bring with you? The right combination of accessories is the one that lets you have the most fun and make the most memories. Don’t forget, always remember to be considerate of your neighbours when you’re bringing loud or bright accessories!
