If you have been following our adventures on the TL Travel YouTube Channel and other social media, you are probably well aware that we have been doing a lot of glamping lately.
Not only did we spend some much needed time on the road as a couple in Southern Alberta, but I also enjoyed my very own solo weekend away at Elk Island Retreat in their new geo dome accommodations.
While glamping is not at all new to us (you know how much we love a luxury treehouse moment), glamping in North America certainly is, and thus our packing list has changed (only slightly) to reflect our change in climate. That’s right, we have traded in our tanning oil and flip-flops for hand sanitizer and wooly socks … but we are not mad about it.
So here it is, my ultimate must-have list for your next Glamping adventure.
CLOTHING
When packing for your glamping trip, you will want to pack your clothing in layers. Layers will make it easy to bundle up in the evenings if temperatures drop too low, or strip down in the daytime if the weather gets too hot.
On all of our recent outings we were exposed to varying weather throughout the day (and night) so you will want to make sure that you are prepared for wind, rain … and maybe even snow (if you’re in Alberta) so here are some key considerations when it comes to layering.
Layer 1 - Tights or leggings for lounging, layering, and hiking
Layer 2 - Sweater or thicker long sleeve for layering
Layer 3 - Insulated jacket to layer on top of sweaters or thicker long sleeves
Layer 4 - Windbreaker or Rain Jacket to layer on top of your insulated jacket, or to wear alone as a lighter outer layer
It may sound a little ridiculous, but layering works for socks as well … especially when you are planning for a hike our two in the great outdoors! Be sure to pack some comfortable, thinner socks as well as warm wooly socks for added insulation (if needed) on a colder hiking day or overnight.
Personally, I love to sleep all bundled up with one foot out (am I alone?) so an extra pair of warm wooly socks come in handy for that as well!
SHOES
The types of footwear that you bring with you will also be important … especially if you are typically more of a luxury traveler (as I know many of you are).
If you are planning to do some trail hiking during your glamping adventure, be sure to pack both hiking shoes / sneakers as well as something more casual for wearing around your campsite or enjoying more leisurely activities.
When I am traveling domestically and space is less of an issue, I also like to pack a pair of sliders that are easy to throw on and off for trips to the bathroom or car.
TOILETTRIES
Speaking of trips to the bathroom, this is where my packing list shines!
One of the reasons that I was never a fan of camping growing up was because of all the “bathroom dilemmas” but what I have learned in more recent years is that it wasn’t camping that was the problem … I just simply wasn’t prepared!
Facial Wipes - I am currently obsessed with Neutrogena Cleansing Wipes for my combination skin. They are great to have on hand and become even more useful when I find myself too lazy to walk to the public bathroom (where applicable) to complete my nighttime routine.
Toilet Paper / Tissue - I like to have my own on hand not only for at the campsite, but to carry with me on the trails in case of an emergency.
SaniGirl - Speaking of emergencies - should I not be able to make it to a public toilet or I find the public facilities to be … let’s say .. subpar, I always keep my SaniGirl Funnels on hand. Gone are the days of the “balance and squat” with SaniGirl disposable pee funnels. Not only is SaniGirl great for the outdoors, but I recently had an emergency truck stop situation and my funnel completely saved me!
Hand Sanitizer - Because chances are you will find yourself without soap and water at least once, and clean hands make for safe and happy adventures.
Sunscreen - Even when it’s cool out you can find yourself with a wicked sunburn if you aren’t careful. I use Neutrogena Ultra Sheer because it doesn’t leave my skin feeling oily & has never been a problem for my breakout prone skin.
Bug Spray - Need I say more? If you are traveling anywhere in North America in the Spring, Summer or Fall then Bug Spray is an absolute must for the outdoors.
GLAMPING GEAR
Now, when I say “gear” I am referring more-so to the basic essentials for those of us who are new to glamping and rarely camp. If you are wondering why things like ice picks and camping stoves are not on this list … it’s because we aren’t likely to use them anyways. That said, a more comprehensive off grid camping list can be found here.
Water bottle / Thermos - Hydration (and a morning coffee) is key! We use Klean Kanteen BPA-free, stainless steel bottles because they are toxin-free, easy to clean and super durable.
Lighter / Matches - Even glampers love a good campfire, and not only are lighters and matches great for getting that fire going but they’re good to have on hand for an emergency as well.
Map (in addition to your downloaded phone map) - If you are venturing off into the mountains, you may not always have cell signal to rely on apps like google maps to help you if you get lost. Additionally, should you find yourself low on battery, your good old fashioned paper map will be your saving grace.
Flashlight - Even if your phone can double as a flashlight, it is absolutely worth while to bring a small, hand held flashlight along with you.
ADDED LUXURY
Glamping wouldn’t be glamping without those added luxuries, so here are a few recommendations for things that you can bring along to add that extra pizazz to your glamping site.
Hammock - I don’t know about you, but I am obsessed with laying out in a cozy hammock with a drink in my hand and a view of the lake. If you’re like me, don’t forget to bring one along!
Wireless Speaker - Even if you are unplugged, a fully charged wireless speaker can allow you a little campfire music, but please remember that if you are playing music (or even your favorite podcast) to keep the volume to a minimum so as not to disturb other campers or the wildlife around you.
Laptop or Tablet - As much as we love to ignore our technology when we travel, we also like to bring along a laptop or table with some pre-downloaded movies or tv shows to enjoy offline should the weather stop cooperating and trap us indoors.
Portable Espresso Maker - Now this may sound a little extreme, but a handheld portable espresso is the way to go if you are someone who needs their morning kick no matter where they are. If I just described you, then you need to check out Handpresso. And no, I am not sponsored … just in love.
All that said, whether you are glamping on a designated campsite, a luxury cabin or the back of van, you will want to be sure to check ahead of time for the amenities that will be available to you in each of your planned locations so that you can adjust your packing list accordingly.
If you are still feeling unprepared, here are some questions that you can ask prior to your arrival.
Are sheets, blankets and pillows included your stay?
What cooking facilities are available at your site and are they shared or private?
What type of bathroom facilities are available at your site & are they shared or private?
Will you have access to a refrigerator or cooler?
Are your accommodations heated (or cooled) and how? If your accommodation has a wood-burning stove for example, you may be required to bring or purchase that wood.
Travel may very well look different this year (and for the foreseeable future) but that doesn’t mean that we can’t continue to enjoy the world around us. Save this list for your next getaway & don’t forget to make the most of each new day! Stay great, travel safe, and let me know where you’re headed next in the comments below!
