Making the Most of Your Summer Glamping Experience


“Glamping” or “glamorous camping” is a trend that’s on the rise across the country. If you like being outdoorsy in the “I drink wine on my back patio” kind of way, then this trend is for you.

Whether it’s a tree house, air stream trailer, yurt or tepee – glamping sites across the country have something for the adventurer in you. As summer approaches, these sites host travelers from around the globe, eager to channel their inner Troop Beverly Hills. Glamping is certainly fancier than traditional camping, but dangers still apply. Some tips on how to make your glamping experience a great one are:

Know What to do if You’re Injured

Although glamping is far less intense than actual camping, it still entails you to rough it a little bit. Most glamping sites are located in areas where people go to hike and explore and because of this, injuries can definitely still occur.  You should always seek medical attention immediately if you or someone you are with is seriously injured. If you’re out hiking or exploring, make sure you know where the nearest emergency station is in case you lose cell phone reception.

Glamping sites run their businesses much like hotels – there are established structures and most of them have a designated check-in area and even a concierge. Because of this, they can be held liable for certain injuries sustained on the glamp site. According to Dana Roberts, an injury attorney in Arizona who has experience with these types of situations, companies can be held liable for injuries sustained on the glamp site if they failed to maintain it properly. So, a broken branch, slippery puddle, or defective tent could all be potential liability issues.

Make Sure You Pack Everything

Twisting an ankle or breaking a leg aren’t the only safety worries you should have while “roughing it” in the woods. Things like sunburns and bug bites can ruin even the best trips, so be sure to pack accordingly.

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using sunscreen that is at least SPF 30 and water resistant. They also advise in covering your face with a wide brimmed hat and seeking shade whenever possible. Although glamping is certainly glamorous, sunburns and skin cancer are not.

In recent years, the Zika virus has been a serious threat to certain areas of the country – not to mention an absolute nuisance. Protecting yourself from mosquito bites is the first step in combating any viruses transmitted by them. The Center for Disease Control recommends using insect repellents that contain at least 30% DEET – the active ingredient in most insect repellents. However, make sure you always read the directions carefully before applying bug spray and make sure to avoid contact with your eyes or mouth.

Do Your Homework on the Area

Depending on where you are going, there will be different terrain and wildlife. In the American Southwest, you have a drier, flatter landscape with numerous reptiles and insects; however, in the Pacific Northwest you have a damper climate with larger mountains and larger wildlife. Doing research on the area you’re headed to, especially if you plan on hiking or exploring, is crucial in staying safe.

You should always know what trail you’re hiking and be prepared in case you get lost. Before your trip, you should know where any emergency services are on the route and always tell others where you intend to hike, and what days/times you will be gone. Doing this can save your life if you are injured on the hike and can’t call out for help. It’s also best to know if the trail you’re hiking is highly trafficked or not – if you’re a novice hiker you may want to opt for an easier, busier trail.

Being prepared for whatever happens on your trip is the best way to ensure you have a great time. Doing your homework on the area if you choose to hike, making sure you remember the boring stuff like sunscreen and insect repellent, and knowing what to do if you or someone you’re with are injured can keep a great trip from turning sour. Being prepared, having fun and relaxing are the most important things to remember on your glamping trip.

 

Author Bio:

Lauren Bennett is a travel enthusiast and lover of words. After experiencing safety issues abroad, she has made it her mission to work with safety and injury experts like Knapp & Roberts to educate the travel community on different aspects of adventure safety. You can follow her on Twitter or Instagram at @Laur_Ben