So you’re ready to ditch the traditional tent for something a bit more luxurious? Glamping has totally changed the game when it comes to outdoor adventures, blending the best of nature with actual comfort (hello, real beds!). But here’s the thing – not all glamping sites are the same, and trust me, asking the right questions upfront can save you from showing up to something that’s way different than what you expected. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, family trip, or just want to treat yourself to some solo outdoor time, these questions will help you nail down the perfect spot.
1. What Kind of Setup Am I Actually Getting?
Let’s be real – “glamping” can mean anything from a fancy safari tent to a full-blown tiny house. You’ll want to know exactly what you’re sleeping in before you book. Are we talking canvas walls or something more solid? Is it going to feel like camping or more like a unique hotel room?
Ask about the nitty-gritty details like how tall the ceilings are, what kind of flooring you’ll have, and what the whole structure is made of. Some places have those Instagram-worthy canvas tents that give you the full outdoor vibe, while others are basically cute cabins that just happen to be in nature. Either way is cool, but you want to know what you’re signing up for so you can get excited about the right things!
2. What’s Actually Included in My Fancy Tent?
This is where things can get tricky because “glamping” means different things to different people. Some places go all out with private bathrooms, AC, and WiFi, while others are more about that digital detox life with just the basics.
Don’t be shy about asking for the full rundown – does your place have a real bathroom or are you sharing facilities? Is there heat and air conditioning? What about WiFi if you need to stay connected? And let’s talk about the important stuff like what kind of bed you’re getting, whether there’s a kitchen setup, and if you’ll have your own outdoor space with maybe a fire pit or hot tub. Getting these details upfront means you can pack right and won’t be caught off guard by what’s missing.
3. Am I Going to Be Fed or Should I Hit the Grocery Store?
Food is a big deal when you’re planning any trip, but especially when you’re potentially in the middle of nowhere. Some glamping spots totally spoil you with amazing meals cooked by actual chefs, while others are more DIY and expect you to figure out your own food situation.
Ask if meals are part of the deal, and if they are, what exactly does that include – just breakfast, or are we talking full meal service? Can they handle dietary restrictions or food allergies? If you’re on your own for food, find out what cooking facilities you’ll have access to and whether there are grocery stores nearby. Some places have grills you can use or will even deliver groceries to your site, which is pretty sweet if you ask me.
4. What Activities and Experiences Are Available?
The activity offerings often distinguish exceptional glamping sites from basic ones. Ask about both included and optional activities such as hiking trails, water sports, wildlife viewing, spa services, or cultural experiences.
Understanding the activity schedule helps you plan your itinerary and pack appropriate gear. Some sites offer guided tours, equipment rentals, or seasonal activities that might enhance your experience. Don’t forget to ask about age restrictions or physical requirements for certain activities if traveling with children or elderly companions.
5. How Accessible Is the Site for Different Mobility Levels?
Accessibility is a crucial consideration that’s often overlooked when booking glamping sites. Ask specific questions about terrain, pathways, and accommodation accessibility if you or anyone in your group has mobility concerns.
Inquire about the distance from parking to accommodations, whether pathways are paved or natural, and if accommodations meet ADA requirements. Some glamping sites are located in remote areas with challenging terrain that might not be suitable for all guests.
6. What’s the Cancellation and Refund Policy?
Understanding cancellation policies before booking protects you from unexpected financial losses. Glamping sites often have stricter cancellation policies than traditional hotels due to their unique nature and limited inventory.
Ask about cancellation deadlines, refund percentages, and whether weather-related cancellations are handled differently. Some sites offer travel insurance options or flexible rebooking policies that might be worth considering, especially for expensive or once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
7. Are Pets Allowed and What Are the Pet Policies?
If you’re traveling with pets, confirming pet policies is essential before booking. Many glamping sites welcome pets, but restrictions on size, breed, number of pets, and additional fees vary significantly.
Ask about pet-specific amenities, leash requirements, designated pet areas, and any activities that might not be pet-friendly. Some sites charge pet fees or require deposits, while others include pet amenities like beds, bowls, or treats.
8. What’s Included in the Base Price and What Costs Extra?
Transparent pricing helps you budget accurately for your glamping experience. The base price might include accommodation only, while other sites include meals, activities, and amenities in their rates.
Ask for a detailed breakdown of what’s included and request a list of potential additional charges such as resort fees, activity costs, equipment rentals, or service charges. Some sites charge extra for firewood, parking, Wi-Fi, or housekeeping services.
9. How Private Is My Accommodation?
Privacy levels vary significantly between glamping sites and can greatly impact your experience. Ask about the distance between accommodations, sight lines, soundproofing, and whether you’ll have private outdoor space.
Some glamping sites cluster accommodations closely together for a community feel, while others prioritize privacy and seclusion. Understanding the layout helps you choose accommodations that match your preferences for social interaction or solitude.
10. What’s the Weather Like and How Will It Affect My Stay?
Weather can significantly impact glamping experiences, especially in canvas or partially open accommodations. Ask about typical weather conditions during your planned visit and how accommodations handle extreme weather.
Inquire about heating and cooling systems, weather protection, and what happens if severe weather occurs during your stay. Some glamping sites offer weather guarantees or alternative indoor activities during inclement weather.
11. What Should I Pack and What’s Provided?
Packing appropriately enhances your glamping experience and prevents forgotten essentials from ruining your trip. Ask for a detailed packing list that includes both provided and recommended items.
Find out if linens, towels, toiletries, and basic supplies are provided. Ask about recommended clothing for activities, weather protection, and any specialized equipment you might need. Some sites provide everything needed for a comfortable stay, while others expect guests to bring camping-style supplies.
12. Are There Age Restrictions or Family-Friendly Policies?
Family policies vary widely among glamping sites, with some catering specifically to adults while others welcome children of all ages. Ask about age restrictions, child pricing, family-friendly activities, and safety considerations.
Inquire about cribs, high chairs, child-proofing, and whether accommodations are suitable for young children. Some sites offer kids’ clubs, family activities, or educational programs that enhance the experience for younger guests.
13. What’s the Check-in Process and Site Location Details?
Understanding logistics prevents confusion and delays upon arrival. Ask about check-in procedures, office hours, key or access card systems, and what happens if you arrive after hours.
Get detailed directions, GPS coordinates, and information about cell phone coverage in the area. Some glamping sites are located in remote areas with poor cell service, making navigation challenging. Ask about parking arrangements, luggage assistance, and whether staff will meet you at your accommodation.
Making Your Glamping Dreams Come True
Look, asking these questions might seem like a lot, but trust me – it’s worth it. The whole point of glamping is to have an amazing time in nature without roughing it too much, and the only way to make sure that happens is to know what you’re getting into before you show up.
Don’t feel weird about reaching out to places with questions. Good glamping sites want you to have an incredible time, and they’re usually happy to chat about what makes their place special. Plus, their answers will tell you a lot about how much they care about their guests.
The glamping world is huge now, which means you’ve got tons of options but also means quality can be all over the place. Use these questions as your cheat sheet to find a place that’ll give you those perfect vacation vibes and maybe inspire you to book your next outdoor adventure before you even leave!
