Glamping vs Camping: Are You More Grit or Glam?

Are you torn between campfires and creature comforts?

Like the idea of camping… but not the idea of peeing in a bush? We get it. Or do you love exploring your wild side and cosying in a sleeping bag under the stars. Either way, marshmallows round the campfire for the win!

A view of the camping and touring pitches at St Ives Bay. There is views of the sea in the background.

Experience the Great Outdoors

Let’s delve into the grit and glam of glamping vs camping. We’ll shed some light on what you can expect, how to prepare and then let’s pick your perfect outdoor escape.

Glamping! What’s all the fuss about?

Glamping is a glamourous version of camping, which you can experience the common comforts of a hotel (comfy mattress, running water, actual toilet) but in the great outdoors.

Find out more

A pitched up family tent with a man, woman and baby sitting in the porch area of the tent. A teen boy and girl are cycling by on a hot sunny day.

Camping: The Classic Adventure

Camping is super budget friendly way to explore and experience the great outdoors, sleeping in a tent whilst re-connecting with nature.

For some people, camping is a nostalgic experience, sleeping under the stars and a chance to escape modern technology.

Find out more

Glamping vs Camping: The great comparison

The biggest differences you can expect between glamping and camping include.

Sleeping: pull-out bed vs sleeping bag

Shower & Toilet: Facilities within your glamping pod vs a short walk to outdoor shared facilities (plus wild wee wees)

Morning coffee: Kettle vs camping kettle (on portable gas fire)

Storing your supplies: in luxury pod vs in your car.

Price: camping is cheap for a pitch but remember the overall costs might be on par with a luxury glamping pod if you need to buy all your camping equipment. It’s worth weighing up how often you’re going to camp every year, vs a one-off experience.

Away Resorts: Your perfect outdoor adventure awaits

Glamping

At Away Resorts you can experience beachside glamping in one of our luxury glamping pods located at St Ives Bay, Cornwall.

Here’s what to expect in a luxury glamping pod:

Comfy bed (bunk beds in some cases)

Shower

Toilet

Small kitchen

Flatscreen TV

Outdoor furniture

Scenic sand dune views (in some of the pods)

Camping

At Away Resorts you can experience camping spanning across the UK, including; New Forest, Cornwall, Essex, and Scotland.

Whether it’s natural beauty of the New Forest or Cornish coast, there’s plenty to choose from, check out our park locations below.

Sandy Balls (New Forest, Hampshire)

Newperran (Cornwall)

St Ives Bay (Cornwall)

Mersea Island (Essex)

Whitecliff Bay (Isle of Wight)

Moffat Manor (Scotland)

East Fleet Farm (Dorset)

Appletree (Lincolnshire)

Glamping vs Camping: FAQs

What is glamping?

Glamping is short for "glamorous camping"—it's all about experiencing the great outdoors without giving up comfort, style, or luxury.

What's the difference between camping and glamping?

Camping typically involves using basic gear like tents and sleeping bags and cooking over a fire. Glamping (glamorous camping) offers luxury accommodations—think beds, electricity, private bathrooms, and even Wi-Fi—in scenic outdoor settings.

Is glamping considered "real" camping?

It depends on your definition! Glamping still connects you with nature, but without sacrificing comfort. Traditionalists may prefer camping's simplicity, while others enjoy glamping's modern perks.

Is camping better for families than glamping?

Both can be great! Camping offers teachable moments and bonding through teamwork. Glamping provides convenience for parents with young kids, especially with private bathrooms and comfy beds.