DIY Your Own Glampsite

When you think about camping, you might picture sleeping bags, hot-plate coffee, and plenty of GORP. After all, details like these have filled our summer vacations with down-to-earth family fun for generations!

But allow us to introduce camping's more extravagant cousin: glamping (it’s a portmanteau for "glamorous camping"). Picture your typical site, but exponentially more luxurious – we’re talking plush bedding, Netflix & popcorn, craft cocktails (or mocktails for the kiddos), and the most stylish ambiance for miles.

The best part: You only have to trek as far as your own backyard to create an entirely bespoke glampsite! Follow the steps below for a five-star night under the stars – because we all deserve the royal treatment every once in a while.

The key to getting into a "glamping" mindset: surrounding yourself with warm, homey touches and over-the-top accents. Start by placing a richly hued, high-pile rug in the center of your tent.

Next up is lighting! We love the look of layered string lights – more is more, so drape them from the ceiling down to the floor (or lawn). Or let fairy lights clustered at the top of your tent evoke a private night sky. You can also create an inviting pathway to your tent’s entrance with a row of bright, luminous lanterns.

Keep the relaxed mood glowing inside with a grouping of candles that'll bestow a warm, after-hours glimmer. As for final touches, we suggest sprinkling fresh flowers and mood-boosting greenery wherever you can!

Literally. Get a good night’s sleep off the ground by piling up the comfy-cozy blankets, sheets, throws, and other textiles: Imagine a pillow fort, but for grown-ups!

In lieu of sleeping bags, opt for air mattresses, and top them with your very best bedding. We're talking tufted down duvets, hand-stitched quilts, and lots and lots of throw pillows. Go for a boho vibe with woven textures and floral patterns. Or treat yourself to a five-star hotel experience with clean, crisp textiles. (The softer and fluffier, the better.)

To really make it feel like home, finish with a nightstand (or a stool, or a tray table…) flanking either side of the bed. Then, add your favorite read and a glass of sparkling water. Even glampier: Play wilderness-inspired white noise (via an app like Calm or Relax Forest) as you drift off to sleep. Now that’s what we call a Midsummer Night’s Dream(land).

Contrary to popular belief, camp food can be fine dining. (Just look at our fancy-schmancy s’mores recipes!) Go beyond beans and rice and make it a meal worthy of a date night (or family night!) under the stars.

Prep your dishes beforehand (may we heartily recommend dutch-oven lasagna?) for optimum ease. Or use our camping stove to serve up one-pot pasta come dinnertime and flip french toast for breakfast. The choice is up to you (or, more accurately, your picky little eaters).

Make the mood even swankier with a cocktail bar. We even served up our favorite camp-themed concoctions just for this occasion! Cheers!

One word: WiFi. Make sure it's up and running so you can spend the night listening to our Summertime Spotify playlist or catching that straight-to-streaming summer flick. Pro tip: Use one of the nightstands as a TV stand to display your laptop, tablet, or phone.

And don't forget the movie snacks! Our microwavable popcorn popper does the trick, making nine cups (!) in less than four minutes. In other words, there'll be plenty to go around.

The fun doesn't have to stop there, though. We're also fans of friendly competition, so bring out the dominoes or jumbling block towers, and turn it into a "great outdoors game night."

Keep it laidback and fashion-forward with our selection of utility dresses, graphic tees, and sunny hats. Most importantly, make sure to snag a pair of ultra-cozy sweats for when the sun goes down.

Last but not least, enjoy your outdoor adventure!