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Ever looked at a photo of a cozy bed under a starry sky, with a real mattress, a wood-burning stove, and a hot shower just steps away-and thought, that’s not camping? You’re right. The fancy version of camping isn’t about sleeping on the ground with a thin foam pad and a backpack full of instant noodles. It’s about keeping the magic of being outside while ditching the discomfort. This is glamping-and it’s not a trend. It’s a full-blown shift in how people experience nature.
Glamping, short for "glamorous camping," has exploded in the last five years. In Australia alone, bookings for luxury campsites jumped 78% between 2021 and 2025, according to data from the Australian Tourism Industry Council. It’s not just millennials anymore. Families, retirees, even corporate teams are trading hotel rooms for dome tents with king beds and private decks overlooking rivers.
What Makes a Campsite "Luxury"?
Not every tent with fairy lights counts. True luxury campsites have clear, measurable upgrades over traditional camping. Think of it like upgrading from a basic smartphone to a flagship model-you still make calls, but everything else is smoother, smarter, and more comfortable.
- Real beds-memory foam mattresses, not air mattresses. Some even have Egyptian cotton linens.
- Climate control-heaters, air conditioning, or ceiling fans so you’re not sweating or freezing at night.
- Private bathrooms-en-suite toilets and showers, often with hot water 24/7.
- Electricity-USB ports, lamps, even mini-fridges and coffee machines.
- On-site services-breakfast delivered, housekeeping, concierge booking for hikes or spa treatments.
At places like Under Canvas a luxury glamping brand with locations across the U.S. and Australia, offering safari-style tents with real beds and private decks in the Blue Mountains, you don’t just sleep in nature-you live in it. No one’s asking you to carry water. No one’s judging you for wanting a decent coffee in the morning.
Glamping vs. Traditional Camping: The Real Difference
Let’s cut through the marketing buzz. Glamping isn’t camping with a fancy name. It’s a different experience entirely.
Traditional camping means: setting up a tent in the dark, fumbling with stakes, dealing with bugs, hauling water, and hoping the rain doesn’t come. You’re the mechanic, the chef, the janitor-and the camper.
Glamping means: arriving to a pre-set tent with a welcome note, a bottle of local wine, and a hot towel. You walk out to a firepit with pre-laid logs. You sleep in a bed that’s been made for you. You shower in water that’s been heated by solar panels. You eat a breakfast of fresh pastries and local honey.
The difference isn’t just comfort. It’s control. Glamping gives you the freedom of nature without the chaos. You can still hear the owls, smell the eucalyptus, and wake up to mist rolling over the hills-but you don’t have to sacrifice sleep, hygiene, or dignity to do it.
Where to Find the Best Luxury Campsites in Australia
Australia has some of the most stunning glamping destinations in the world. Here are three standout spots as of 2026:
| Location | Type | Key Features | Price Range (AUD/night) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sal Salis, Western Australia | Safari Tents | Beachfront, private butler service, guided wildlife tours | $1,200-$1,800 |
| Ember Glamping, Blue Mountains | Geodesic Domes | 360-degree views, wood-fired hot tub, gourmet breakfast | $450-$700 |
| Wilderness Retreats, Tasmania | Canvas Cabins | Insulated walls, underfloor heating, organic toiletries | $380-$620 |
Sal Salis isn’t just a campsite-it’s a full luxury eco-resort. You’re dropped off by boat, your luggage is taken care of, and your guide shows you kangaroos at dawn. It’s not cheap, but it’s not meant to be. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Ember Glamping, on the other hand, is perfect for couples or solo travelers who want luxury without the corporate vibe. No pool, no gym, no restaurant-just quiet, stunning views, and a chef who shows up with fresh sourdough and local cheese at 8 a.m.
Who Is Glamping For?
Glamping isn’t just for honeymooners or influencers. It’s for anyone who wants to reconnect with nature but doesn’t want to reconnect with discomfort.
Parents with young kids? Glamping lets them experience the outdoors without the 3 a.m. panic of a leaky tent or a crying toddler in a cold sleeping bag.
Retirees? No more hauling heavy gear. No more sleeping on hard ground. Just peaceful mornings with coffee and birdsong.
Corporate workers? A weekend glamping trip is now a common team-building tool. Companies like Atlassian and Canva book entire glamping sites for retreats. Why? Because people sleep better, talk more openly, and feel more creative when they’re not stuck in a conference room.
Even people who hate "camping" are trying it. One survey from 2025 found that 63% of first-time glampers had never camped before. They didn’t want to "rough it." They just wanted to be outside.
The Hidden Costs and What to Watch For
Glamping isn’t magic. It’s a business. And like any business, there are traps.
- Hidden fees-some sites charge extra for firewood, parking, or even Wi-Fi. Always ask what’s included.
- Seasonal pricing-a $400 night in April might be $900 in December. Book early.
- Location isolation-many luxury sites are remote. If you need a pharmacy, gas station, or Uber, you’re out of luck.
- Overpromising-some "luxury" sites are just tents with a rug and a lantern. Read reviews with photos, not just stars.
Always check if the site has a real website with clear photos, a booking system, and a phone number. If all you see is an Instagram page, proceed with caution.
Is Glamping the Future of Outdoor Travel?
Yes. And it’s not just because people are lazy.
Climate change, urban stress, and digital overload have made people crave nature-but they’re not willing to sacrifice basic comfort. Glamping bridges that gap. It’s not about pretending you’re in the wild. It’s about enjoying the wild, on your terms.
Look at the data: in 2025, glamping accounted for 19% of all overnight outdoor stays in Australia. That’s up from 4% in 2019. It’s growing faster than hotels. It’s becoming the new standard for outdoor getaways.
And it’s not going away. As more people realize they don’t need to suffer to be outside, the demand will only rise. The fancy version of camping isn’t a gimmick. It’s the natural evolution of how humans want to experience nature-with dignity, comfort, and peace.
Is glamping really camping?
Technically, no. Glamping is a modern twist on outdoor stays, but it’s not the same as pitching a tent in a national park. If camping means sleeping on the ground with minimal gear, glamping is its upgraded cousin. It keeps the spirit of being outside but removes the hardship. Think of it as outdoor hospitality.
How much does glamping cost in Australia?
Prices vary wildly. Budget glamping starts around $200 a night-think basic luxury tents with a bed and electricity. Mid-range options (like Ember Glamping) cost $350-$700. High-end sites like Sal Salis or Longitude 131° can run $1,000-$2,000 a night. It’s not cheap, but you’re paying for service, comfort, and location-not just a tent.
Can families with kids go glamping?
Absolutely. Many glamping sites now offer family suites with bunk beds, play areas, and kid-friendly meals. Some even provide strollers, high chairs, and baby monitors. It’s one of the easiest ways to introduce children to nature without the stress of traditional camping.
Do you need special gear for glamping?
Not really. Most luxury campsites provide bedding, towels, toiletries, and even robes. You’ll still want to pack clothing for the weather, a good pair of walking shoes, and maybe a book. Leave the tent, sleeping bag, and camp stove at home.
Is glamping eco-friendly?
Many top glamping operators prioritize sustainability. Solar power, composting toilets, rainwater harvesting, and local food sourcing are common. Sites like Sal Salis and Wilder Retreats are certified by EcoTourism Australia. But not all are. Always check if the site mentions environmental practices before booking.
Next Steps: How to Try Glamping for the First Time
If you’ve never tried it, start small. Pick a site within a 2-hour drive. Look for one with good reviews that mention "no surprises" and "clean facilities." Book a weekday stay-it’s cheaper and quieter. Arrive early so you have time to settle in. Don’t rush. Sit by the fire. Look up at the stars. You’re not camping. You’re just outside, in the best way possible.
