Why Glamping Should Be Your Next Girls Trip
If you would have asked me to go camping a few years ago, I would have politely declined – more like politely refused.
I don't like bugs, I don't do the whole sleeping on the ground thing, and I definitely don't want to share a tent with 10 people. It's just not for me… or so I thought.
Thanks to 5-star treatment from Utah Camping Company, my friends and I went "glamping" at Moosehorn and Mirror Lake in the Uinta Mountains, and it's easily in the Top 5 vacation experiences I've ever had.
Glamping (glam + camping) is the answer to the perceived inconveniences of camping (uncomfortable sleeping arrangements, no bathroom, excessive manual labor, etc.) for those of you out there like me who still want to experience the outdoors. Whether you stay in a renovated cabin, rent a luxury trailer, or opt for or an all-inclusive tent, glamping represents the best of both worlds and makes for an entirely unforgettable getaway.
The fresh air, luxury treatment, beautiful views, and ability to unplug and truly connect with my friends certainly made my first camping trip one to remember… and I'm already planning my next trip.
Here are 5 reasons "glamping" should be your next girls trip:
Luxury Treatment
We opted for a campsite delivery service, meaning that Utah Camping Co. set up our tent at our desired campsite and provided all of the supplies and equipment needed for a great time. Our luxury canvas tent comfortably fit 2 full beds (with memory foam mattresses) and 2 side tables, and came fully furnished with bedding, pillows, and rugs, breakfast and snacks, campfire supplies and seating, board games, and more! I've stayed in 4-5 star hotels with far less luxurious treatment. A tent this size would probably cost me $1800 in prime Manhattan real estate. All we had to do was bring ourselves, a few bottles of our favorite wine, and our Girls' Trip playlist, and we were good to go.
Nature Is BEAUTIFUL And The Options Are Plentiful
According to the National Association of State Park Directors (NASPD), as of 2014, there were over 10,000 state park in the United States and according to the US census data from 2010, more than 95% of the land area in the USA is still classified as rural. We spend so much time, energy, and money pining to travel internationally, when many of us haven't even taken advantage of the beautiful attractions in our own country. There were moments when I would stop, look around, and be like, "Wow, I'm really on top of a mountain right now." The sun setting over the hills, sounds of the creek bubbling nearby, and the panoramic views didn't seem real. It was oddly spiritual. There are so many beautiful sights in your own state; don't miss out.
Unplug
We were so far up in the mountains, that we didn't have any phone service for the duration of our trip... and it was for the best. While many campsites are equipped with wifi and electricity, there is a level of peace and relaxation that you are able to achieve when you are not checking your email or social media feeds every 5 minutes. I feel like you are better able to self-reflect, meditate, and be fully present when you are forced to unplug. The next morning, when I woke up to journal, I noticed that I could hear my own thoughts more clearly. It was an inconvenience, turned game-changer.
Genuine Conversations
Another result of being forced to unplug and be present, my friends and I were better able to connect with one another. There is nothing like a wine + game night in the woods. The silence of the setting around you combined with the coziness of a campfire or tent is an outdoorsy twist on sleepover vibes. Whether you travel with a small intimate group, or a large squad of friends, bonding is a mandatory by-product when there is nowhere to hide or distract you from each other.
Relatively Affordable
Depending on where you go, how many people you travel with, and what level of luxury you are aiming for, you can go glamping for a weekend for less than ~$100 per person (excluding gas and food costs). Campsite rental fees can range from $0-30 and tent/cabin rates can range from $50-hundreds a night, which can then be split amongst your group (e.g. a 4 person tent with a king and 2 twin beds for $160/night). I was pleasantly surprised at the value, given the total experience and options to customize your vacation. It's easy to plan and even easier to enjoy. A great 5-star experience for those on a budget and/or looking to try something new.
Images courtesy of @UtahCampingCompany and @Queen_of_Anglin
Everyone should go at least once. Add glamping to your bucket list!
Lydia is a recent Ivy League graduate and lifestyle writer based out of NYC. Storytelling her way through her 20-somethings, her lens is all things career, self-care, and #BlackGirlMagic. Meet Lydia on Instagram @hello_lydia.
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September is National Self-Care Awareness Month, so for my girlies who have been putting off self-care, here’s your opportunity to start. Self-care means exactly what it says: taking care of self. Why is it important? Well, many of us have busy lives that may include careers, family, and activities that consume us daily. Taking some time for self regularly can help prevent depression, stress, anxiety, and burnout.
In February 2023, Future Forum polled 10,243 people in six countries, including the U.S., and 40% said they are experiencing burnout, and 46% of that number are women. According to CNBC, many factors contributing to burnout include companies demanding employees return to the office, hiring freezes, and layoffs.
Psychologist Debbie Sorensen explained to CNBC why women and millennials are experiencing burnout in higher numbers. “We haven’t had time to recover from the trauma of what we’ve been through the last few years,” she said. “Women and young people, in particular, are putting an immense amount of pressure on themselves to keep going, keep working, no matter the cost.”
As women, particularly Black women, we tend to carry the weight of the world on our shoulders. Other people's problems become our problems, and then we are expected to show up to work and show up for our family and friends with a smile on our faces. Whew, chile! What if we are having a bad day? How are we supposed to cope if we have to be everything to everyone? Well, here’s your sign to make time for yourself, especially on the days when you are feeling down.
Below is a list of self-care ideas for when you are having a bad day.
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Spend time in nature
Sometimes something as simple as surrounding yourself with trees, grass, and/ or water can improve your mood exponentially. The American Psychological Association’s (APA) research shows that spending time in nature can improve attention, lower stress, and reduce the risk of psychiatric disorders.
Got to a Spa
There’s nothing like going to a spa. You can relax in a sauna, get a massage, and just be. According to research, massages help release serotonin and dopamine, which are often referred to as “feel good” hormones, that will instantly perk you up and have you going about your day with a smile on your face.
Get Artsy
When was the last time you did arts and crafts? Drawing a picture, painting, or even coloring can help you discover your inner child, thus boosting your mood. Purchase an adult coloring book, or go to a paint-and-sip class by yourself, or you can make it a group activity and bring your besties.
Look your best
The old saying, “When you look good, you feel good,” didn’t just come out of thin air. There’s some truth to it. The Kentucky Counseling Center shared a link between self-care and feeling good. “Self-care regimens are extremely important not just to stabilize your day but to make you feel great. Simple things like getting a facial, taking care of your hair done, or exercising can make you confident because when you look good, you also feel good,” according to its website.
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Breathwork
There’s a reason why it is suggested that you breathe when you begin feeling overwhelmed and stressed out. Breathing brings oxygen back into your body, and WebMD reports that it can decrease the fight or flight response that happens when you are stressed.
Spend time with babies
I don’t know about you, but nothing makes me smile quicker than a baby, especially a smiling baby. If you’re the same way, then spending time with a baby or babies may help put you in a better mood, too.
Do nothing
Last but certainly not least, do nothing. There’s nothing like laying in your bed and not being forced to do anything. Stay in this moment and use this time to relax and replenish your energy.
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