Glamping Is Totally Recession Chic

The term “glamping” is certainly not new, but interest in camping for those of us who like frivolities such as hot water and soft bedding services has become a growing trend in a world where everyone is in denial about their adjusted personal net worth.

That glamping is a thing may speak to the fact that when vacation time and holiday spending dollars are markedly decreased, everyone still wants to be fancy.

Sure, you may not be able to afford a luxe hotel in a swank location, but glamping claws back some of the glamour of hotel stays while still remaining affordable — and then, for the people who have a budget but still want to vacay under the stars, the sky is the blinged-out limit.

One HuffPo writer tells a tale of no-holds-barred glamping, the sort where money is less of a concern but balancing a camping experience with convenience is at the fore.

He boasts a setup that might make some of our permanent houses jealous, and says:

“My Airstream boasted a full shower, dual zone air conditioning, a gas grill, generator and a flat panel TV/DVD as only a few of the features in the 23? International Signature Series (4 person maximum sleeping capacity) … I chose to make it even easier by using the company AIRSTREAM 2 GO as they took care of everything (and I mean everything) including the pink flamingos and lawn chairs placed out in front adding to the glamp-o-icious experience.”

He adds:

“Many camp grounds offer, spas, pools, catered meals and will assist in just about any request with hiking and horseback riding being at the top of my list if you choose the route along the Pacific Highway as I did.”

Another West Coast glamping hideaway is a bit more accessible but still carries amenities, and ABC recently visited Costanoa Lodge, where “comfortable beds are provided in warm bungalows with all the comforts of home, and in some cases, a hot tub to relax your stress away.”

Glamping convert Brandie tells the network:

“Absolutely, it’s a definite compromise; you get the best of both worlds … So you have kind of like a little bit of a hotel, but you still have the rustic feel of camping as well.”

Do you think glamping is a reasonable substitute for room service and flat screen TVs?