The ennui of routine, ordinary life can be mentally, physically, and emotionally taxing.
This is exactly the reason why the allure of camping, or going outdoors and exploring, admiring, and enjoying the natural scenic splendor of nature has endured to this very day.
Granted, it might not be for everyone, especially those of us who aren’t really into swatting bugs and insects, sleeping without air conditioning, or just dealing with a simpler lifestyle that the road offers.
But sometimes, all we need is that little escape in the midst of nature in order for us to rewire our circuitry – everybody can use a break from their routine.
Besides, technology has made it easier for all of us to camp, so there’s really no excuse why we shouldn’t camp more often.
There are three major ways most people camp – camping, glamping (a portmanteau of “glam” and “camping”), and hitting the road with an RV – all of which have their pros and cons.
Some will prefer the comforts of glamping, while some will prefer the freedom that RV camping gives them. Some will prefer to camp like our ancestors did – with little more than just a tent, some supplies, and some food, and roughing it.
Which one is the best? We’ll discuss – you decide.
The Case for Camping
There’s nothing quite like spending time with nature and nature alone — without the creature comfort of Wi-Fi, smartphones, and laptops.
It’s liberating to not care about your routine, and be cut off from the hustle, bustle, and noise of daily life. Besides, isn’t the whole point of camping getting away from it all and roughing it? Let’s take a closer look at camping and why the old school way still is the best:
- Getting in close proximity to nature. Camping most likely means you will be heading out to a park, forest, or the wild. These are literally some of the best experiences you’ll have close to nature.
- Live off the grid. Campgrounds seldom have internet connectivity, so you can be in closure commune with nature and the people you choose to camp with.
- Low-cost. Camping is very affordable – apart from camping supplies you can purchase literally everywhere at great bargains, the only expense you’ll need is gas money.
- Great exercise. Camping involves hiking and exploring, which leads to increased cardiovascular activity that promotes physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
- Get better sleep. Studies have indicated that camping is beneficial to regulating our body clocks and sleep patterns, which are absolutely critical to our overall health. Some people find sleeping outdoors challenging, but this is mostly because they think you can only use those thin and uncomfortable sleeping pads, while in reality there are plenty of good alternatives to choose from. Air mattresses fit in tents just as fine.
The Case for Glamping
Glamping is a combo of “glam and camping”, and it’s a new way to experience camping that is increasingly gaining popularity all over the world.
It was developed as a way for non-outdoorsy types to enjoy all the excitement, peace, and benefits of camping, without any of the inconveniences that it actually entails (e.g., the lack of air conditioning, bugs, bathrooms, etc).
It’s basically camping in luxury that doesn’t require you to get your hands dirty. While it is not without its share of criticism, its popularity is soaring nonetheless for the following reasons.
- All of the benefits of camping, none of the inconvenience. Glamping allows you to enjoy all the benefits of camping without the hassle, while living in comfort, style, and oftentimes, relative luxury.
- Anybody can do it. Do you have a family member who has special health needs? Perhaps a friend who is unable to rough it due to uncontrollable circumstances? Glamping is inclusive.
- Camp in style, comfort, and luxury. Accommodations are grand, lush, and well-furnished when it comes to glamping. There are even 5-star glamping accommodations that are popping up everywhere, be it in Asia, Europe, or the Americas.
The Case for RV Camping
RV camping’s appeal lies in the ability for its proponents to hit the road and travel on a budget. It’s no secret why RVs, motor homes, and trailers are making a huge comeback, especially in camping circles.
It’s comfortable, it’s homey, and it’s a much cheaper way to travel and experience what the countryside has to offer. Let’s take a look at some of its most significant benefits:
- Camp all year-round. There isn’t a fixed camping season for RV campers, and many people even use their camper permanently. As campers are mobile, weather doesn’t play a bigger role compared to camping and glamping. Just go to where you want to camp!
- Travel in comfort. Motor homes are called “homes” for a reason – because they offer a comfortable, easy method of transportation that will easily accommodate friends and/or family.
- More storage space for camping gear. Storage space is not a scarce commodity for RV campers – motor homes are spacious and offer all the space you need for keeping all sorts of camping equipment and materials.
Conclusion
Which among glamping, camping, and RV camping is best for you? It really all depends on your budget and your motive for camping.
Are you the outdoorsy type who enjoys camping for the whole experience, warts and all? Then camping should be a breeze.
Can you afford the comforts and the luxury of glamping? If you’re not at all the type who can deal with the inconveniences of camping, but want to get all of its benefits, then glamping may be more appropriate for you.
Consequently, camping in motor home may be more of your thing if you like heading out on the open road or if you can afford a vehicle such as an RV.
There’s always an option that suits your appetite for adventure.
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