Whether you’re a seasoned camper or more of a 5-star hotel kind of person about to embark on your first camping adventure, there are plenty of ways to elevate an everyday campsite into a chic outdoor escape. Glamping, shall we say?!
If you’ve been following comedian Christian Hull’s camping adventures this year, you’ll know there’s a fine line between an epic outdoor experience and a camping trip that becomes memorable for all the wrong reasons. From his giant inflatable Temu tent to his Stradbroke Island getaway, he’s certainly given us a few laughs — and perhaps a few lessons in what not to do!
To save you from camping catastrophe, we’ve curated our favourite tips to turn even the most basic campsite into a cosy retreat. And no, you won’t need a bottomless budget to do it! From affordable styling tricks to some more OTT glamping ideas, there’s something for every type of camper. Because getting back to nature doesn’t have to mean roughing it!
Related article: How to create an outdoor cinema
Related article: 23 stay at home date night ideas: Romantic, family and solo fun!
1. Choose the right tent
Your tent is the foundation of your camping experience, so it’s important to find one that suits your needs.
Tents come in a wide range of shapes, sizes and materials, from lightweight hiking tents to family-sized setups complete with multiple rooms and standing-height ceilings. There’s something to suit every type of camper.
When it comes to glamping, it’s hard to go past bell tents like the one pictured above. Effortlessly stylish, their high ceilings offer plenty of standing room, making them surprisingly spacious and comfortable.
When choosing a tent, consider:
- how many people will be sleeping in it
- whether you’ll be camping in warm or cool weather
- how much storage space you’ll need
- ease of setup and pack down
- ventilation and weather protection.
One trend that’s become increasingly popular is inflatable tents. Rather than traditional poles, these innovative designs use inflatable beams, making setup faster and often creating larger, more spacious interiors. Some are so roomy they feel more like portable apartments than tents!
Of course, looks aren’t everything. Make sure your tent is suited to the weather conditions and campsite, particularly if heavy rain or strong winds are forecast. Because there’s nothing chic about waking up in a flooded tent!
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2. Create a bed you’ll actually want to sleep in
While a palace-like tent is nice, it’s pointless if you don’t get a good night’s sleep.
A comfortable sleeping setup should always be the focus. After all, you’ll only enjoy your camping adventure if you’re well rested.
One of the easiest ways to upgrade your sleeping setup is to invest in a quality camping mattress or stretcher bed. Self-inflating mattresses are a popular option, offering extra cushioning and insulation from the cold ground. If you have the space, you could even opt for a raised camping bed topped with a comfortable mattress.
For the ultimate glamping experience, take a little inspiration from your bedroom at home. Layer your bed with beautiful linen, plush pillows and a cosy throw. Not only will it look inviting, it’ll make climbing into bed at the end of the day feel like a treat!
When choosing a sleeping bag, pay attention to its temperature rating and the overnight temperatures expected at your destination. Conditions can vary enormously across Australia, so it’s worth checking the forecast before you pack.
As a general guide:
- Summer camping: lightweight sleeping bags with higher temperature ratings
- Spring and autumn camping: mid-range ratings
- Winter camping: insulated sleeping bags designed for colder conditions.
You can also boost comfort by bringing your favourite pillow from home and layering extra blankets or throws for added warmth and cosiness.
3. Embrace ambient lighting
Nothing transforms a campsite faster than beautiful lighting. Not only does lighting make your space feel warm and inviting, it also helps you safely navigate those inevitable middle-of-the-night trips to the bathroom.
One of our favourite options is festoon lighting. Stringing solar-powered festoon lights around your campsite instantly creates a magical atmosphere without the need for power.
Battery-operated fairy lights are another great option, particularly inside tents. They create a soft glow that feels cosy and can double as a night light for younger kids.
Lanterns, rechargeable lamps and solar pathway lights can also help define different zones around your campsite while adding to the overall ambience.
4. Style your campsite like an outdoor living room
Treat your campsite like an outdoor room. Rather than simply pitching a tent and unpacking your gear, think about creating designated spaces for relaxing, eating and socialising.
An outdoor rug can instantly define a living area while adding warmth and texture underfoot. Add comfortable camping chairs, cushions and a few cosy throws to encourage people to settle in and relax.
Don’t forget practicality too. Placing a mat outside your tent entrance is a simple trick that can prevent dirt, sand and mud being tracked inside. With all the rain we’ve had lately, it’s an easy way to avoid turning your tent floor into a muddy mess.
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5. Elevate your outdoor dining experience
Whether it’s a big breakfast cook-up surrounded by nature or a delicious dinner under the stars, one of the most fun and special things about camping is eating outdoors. And just because you’re camping doesn’t mean every meal needs to be served on a paper plate!
Creating a beautiful outdoor dining setup is easier than you might think. Start with a folding camping table and comfortable chairs from an outdoor gear store. Then add a tablecloth or runner to instantly elevate the look. We’re big fans of linen-look fabrics and earthy tones that complement the natural surroundings.
Swap disposable plates and cutlery for reusable tableware. Melamine plates, lightweight bowls and acrylic glassware are practical options that can look surprisingly stylish. And if you’re feeling a little fancy, pack a small serving platter or wooden board to create a grazing spread worthy of your favourite wine bar.
A few thoughtful styling touches can also make a big difference. Think battery-operated candles, a portable table lamp or a small vase filled with greenery.
Styling tip: Don’t underestimate the power of presentation! Even the simplest camping meal can feel like a special occasion when served on beautiful tableware. And the best part? You probably already have everything you need at home.
6. Bring a few home comforts
Sometimes it’s the little luxuries that make a camping trip memorable. Think about what comforts you enjoy most at home and whether there are simple ways to incorporate them into your camping setup.
For us, creating a coffee station would be at the top of the list. There’s something undeniably special about enjoying a proper morning coffee while sitting outdoors and listening to the birds around you.
Other ideas include:
- A bluetooth speaker for background music
- Favourite books or magazines
- Board games and card games
- Soft blankets
- A portable fan during summer
- Fresh flowers or greenery on your picnic table
- A small basket of essentials like sunscreen, insect repellent, tissues, band aids and other things that tend to get lost in camping bags!
These small additions are simple and can make your camping experience feel far more enjoyable and personalised.
7. Go all out with a few glamping extras
If you’re someone who believes more is more, why stop at a comfy bed and beautiful lighting?! There are plenty of ways to take your camping setup from basic to boujee with a few extra creature comforts.
Depending on how much space you have (and how much you’re willing to pack!), here are some fun glamping extras to consider:
- Portable projector: Create your very own outdoor cinema with a mini projector and portable screen. Movie night under the stars? Yes please!
- Hammock: Is there anything more relaxing than swinging in a hammock with a good book? Look for a freestanding option or use suitable tree-friendly straps where permitted.
- Outdoor shower: For longer camping trips without on-site facilities, a portable camping shower can be a game changer. Pair it with a privacy tent for your own little outdoor bathroom retreat.
- Inflatable lounge: Forget the standard camping chair! An inflatable sofa or lounge can create a seriously comfy spot to kick back and relax.
- Portable espresso machine: For coffee lovers who refuse to compromise on their morning brew, a compact espresso maker could be worth the investment.
- Outdoor games: Think giant Jenga, bocce or a good old-fashioned game of backyard cricket to keep everyone entertained.
Of course, you don’t need all of these extras to create a fabulous glamping experience. Sometimes just one unexpected luxury is enough to make your campsite feel that little bit more special.
Our tip: Choose your splurge based on how you actually like to spend your downtime. If you’re a bookworm, a hammock might be your idea of heaven. If you’re all about entertaining, an outdoor cinema setup could be the ultimate addition. After all, the best glamping experience is one that’s tailored to you!
8. Don’t forget the fun
Once your chic camping setup is complete, it’s time to enjoy it! A fire pit is always popular, creating the perfect setting for roasting marshmallows, making s’mores or cooking damper under the stars.
As mentioned above, a projector is a fab addition and you could follow our guide on creating an outdoor cinema to enjoy a family movie night under the stars.
For couples, why not borrow a few ideas from our stay-at-home date night ideas and create a romantic camping experience complete with fairy lights, good food and quality time together?
The best thing about camping is that it encourages us to slow down, disconnect from screens and reconnect with the people around us.
We hope this quick guide on creating a chic camping escape inspires you to gather your favourite people, switch off from everyday and get outdoors!
More entertaining ideas
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