Why Choosing the Right Glamping Gear Matters, Keep It Simple

Picking the right gear is about knowing what you really need in your RV and what will just take up space. We found this out the hard way.

A few years ago, our truck overheated on the side of the road because we packed too many 'just in case' things.

That experience showed us why choosing the right glamping gear matters, and that if you don't keep it simple, your RV and tow vehicle can end up feeling like storage units instead of a relaxing glamping spot. To start, focus on essentials like bedding, cookware, and a first-aid kit. These are key to comfort and safety on your trip.

We also learned that it’s important to balance what you need with a few extras when packing for glamping. You don’t want your trip to be about all the stuff you brought, or have your kids lost in a pile of camping chairs and s’mores tools. When we were stuck in 100-degree heat on a steep hill for hours after a holiday weekend, we realized how much overpacking can hurt a trip.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SniubBvE8hc

Since then, we’ve made a list of essentials that help us every time, along with tips from other glampers. We’ve put all this into a toolkit you can find in the Digital Products section of our website. It’s there to help you pack smarter and enjoy your glamping trip. Check out our link for more info.

List of Essentials

Pro tip: don’t pack every gadget that claims to improve your trip. Try using the 'One-in-One-Out' rule. If you bring a new gadget, leave another one at home.

For example, if you want to bring the popcorn maker, skip the extra fishing poles and just take the one you’ll actually use. If you’re new to glamping, you might think you need both a portable grill and a camping stove, but usually one good cooking setup is enough. Also, if you already have a reliable flashlight, you can leave the bulky lantern behind unless you plan to use it to play cards outdoors late into the evening. Keeping things simple makes your trip less stressful.

You don’t have to be a total minimalist. It’s about making smart choices. You might wonder,

'What are the must-haves?' That’s a great question, and we’ve given it a lot of thought, creating a list just for your convenience.

Focus on comfort, convenience, and what you’ll actually use. For comfort, bring plush bedding like duvets, pillows, and blankets, and cozy seating such as chairs and rugs. Good lighting, like headlamps or solar lights, is helpful. Convenience items like portable power, chargers, and power banks are useful, along with personal gear such as layers, rain gear, comfortable shoes, toiletries, and a first-aid kit.

Don’t forget cooking supplies, if needed, plus bug spray, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle for health and safety. And if you love coffee, bring a portable espresso maker. We do—it’s a must before the kids wake up.

We love seeing people get excited about glamping, but it’s important to focus on what will actually improve your trip.

Pick gear that makes things easier, keeps you comfortable, and helps your family enjoy time together instead of adding stress. Luxurious camping can be fun, but there’s a thin line between fancy and unnecessary. Do you really need a knife that cuts through steel? Most of the time, a simple pocket or utility knife is all you need!

Remember, overpacking can make your trip more stressful.

Glamping is more fun when you have space to move around, not when you’re tripping over bags of things you didn’t need. Make sure there’s enough room for you, your family, and the essentials. You’ll be glad to have space to stretch out. No one likes feeling crowded. If you’re traveling with kids or pets, try to pack items that can be used in different ways. For example, a lightweight tarp can serve as a play area for kids, ground cover, or an extra layer for your tent. This helps you stay comfortable without filling up all your space, so everyone enjoys the trip more.

As you get ready for your next trip, take our advice and pack mindfully. Only bring the gear you know you’ll use and leave the rest at home. If you do, you won’t feel weighed down, and you might even find some peace among the pine trees!

Happy Glamping!