Young couple holding their feet on a fire with a lake in the background.Maximilian Sarnow/iStockPhoto / Getty Images
Headlamp
It is important to remember that glamping is still camping, just with much fancier accommodations. Since you are outdoors, you still need to pack some outdoorsy stuff so you can explore all that nature properly. (Otherwise, what was the point?) A headlamp makes night walks a breeze and, more importantly, helps you find your way to the toilet in the dark. Yes, you could use your cellphone or a flashlight, but hands-free is always better.
Solar chargers
Unless you’ve really put the glam in glamping, electricity might be hard to come by. And even if you’re not staying online, you probably want to take pictures to share later. Or use your GPS to find that secret waterfall. Bringing along a solar charger will keep your cellphone running. Be sure to precharge it before you leave in case the weather is truly terrible.
Sleep mask
If you’re staying in any sort of tent (and, let’s be honest, if you’re in a cabin, it’s no longer camping), that summer sun is going to blast through and wake you up really early. If you’re not keen on catching the worms, strap on a sleep mask when you turn in. It should help you get at least a couple extra hours of shuteye.
Boot mat
One of the perks of staying in a yurt or bell tent is that you can actually stand up. No more getting dressed while lying down or stooping to enter or exit your temporary abode. You can walk right in! But get carried away with this newfound mobility and you’ll track dirt everywhere. Keep with the fancy vibe and put a little boot mat (or old towel) just inside the flap.
Hot-water bottle
One nice thing about glamping is you’re often given duvets and sheets to rest in, as opposed to sleeping bags. More comfy? You bet. But indoor bedding is pretty lousy at keeping you warm in outdoor shelters. If you’ve got a camp stove you can boil water easily enough, so stay toasty with a cozy hot-water bottle. You’ll thank me when you don’t wake up shivering at 3:37 a.m.
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