For most campers, having a toilet within close proximity would seem like the ultimate luxury. For glampers? Not so much.

What is glaming? Glamorous camping, dahling! These high-profile jet-setters visit magical settings in North, Central and South America, Africa, Asia and the United Kingdom to enjoy extravagant vacations full of wining, dining and pampering galore. Forget the barbeque pit and canteen, the posh experience of glampers is overflowing with exquisite main fares and decadent desserts.

A simple tent pitched near a fresh-water stream lends itself to settlement perfection for seasoned campers. However, opulent cabanas housing private jacuzzis and steam showers is more akin to glamping standards. While an extra cozy sleeping bag would be ample for the rugged camper, four-poster beds adorned with down-filled duvets are more the style for the indulgent glamper.

Let’s examine a comparison between the two forms of camping.

Glamping vs. Camping

Price: Aside from pitching a tent, camping is free. Glaming, on the other hand, is a pricey walk in the park. Some experiences can cost up to $600 per night.

Footwear: Hiking boots are the most widely-accepted form of footwear for campers on every continent. It would not shock us to see glampers strut down the trail in high-heeled hiking boots like this pricey pair.

Meals: Camping meals generally consist of coffee, soups and bread, perhaps accompanied by fruit or nuts. However, glampers relish five-star meals delivered with impeccable service.

Experience: Many embrace the struggles that come with living in the great outdoors: the bugs, the uncomfortable temperatures, cooking over an open fire, possible days without showering, etc. Meanwhile, glampers feel at ease with nature surrounded by mosquito nets, inside heated/air conditioned cabins, enjoying restaurant-style meals and having private bathing facilities.

Take a look at this video to get up close and personal with a glamping camp site.

For the outrageous price of glamping, you could just as easily travel to an exotic location, reserve a room at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel and open a window to enjoy the fresh air. If it’s spa treatment you desire, don’t fool yourself; camping in any sense of the word is not for you.

What do you think of glamping? Would you scoff at glampers or join the party?

(Image via goglamourcamping.com)