If you're looking to dip your toes into glamping, it's easy to get overwhelmed by all the options out there. People have turned everything from old buses to floating pods into places to sleep under the stars, but some types of glamping accommodation seriously stand out. Did you know that certain luxury tents now get booked out months ahead, especially during summer? Turns out, glampers crave something a regular hotel can’t offer—being right in nature but still having a comfy bed and, yes, sometimes even air conditioning.
Straight to the point: the classic safari tent is the MVP of glamping. It's spacious, has that iconic canvas look, and these days comes with things you’d never find in your average tent—full bathrooms, real beds, lighting, even kitchenettes. Most glamping sites report the highest guest bookings for safari tents, calling them the best balance of outdoorsy vibes and hotel-grade comfort. They're especially popular for families and first-timers who want to skip the hassle of pitching a tent but still wake up to birds instead of traffic noise.
- The Glamping Trend: Why It's Booming
- Tents That Beat Hotels: The Classic Safari Tent
- Yurts: Modern Comforts in a Circular Space
- Treehouses, Domes, and Other Rising Stars
- Tips for Picking Your Perfect Glamping Stay
The Glamping Trend: Why It's Booming
You’ve probably noticed how glamping has exploded lately. It’s not just something influencers do for good Instagram shots—this trend is backed by actual demand. Before the pandemic, camping was already getting a makeover, but after 2020, outdoor travel saw a huge jump. According to KOA’s annual report, interest in glamping grew by over 30% in just two years. People want the best of both worlds: fresh air and adventure, minus the cold floors and soggy sleeping bags.
Hotels and regular campgrounds feel a little “been there, done that.” Glamping sites are filling in the gap—they offer peace, privacy, and an easy way to enjoy nature without roughing it. You can get Wi-Fi, plush beds, real bathrooms, and some places even offer private hot tubs or fire pits.
Here’s another thing: glamping isn’t just for couples on a romantic weekend. These days, you’ll see families with young kids, groups of friends, and solo travelers picking popular glamping accommodations. Most folks say they’re drawn in by features like:
- No need to bring gear (tents and bedding are ready for you)
- Quirky or unique locations you just can’t get in a hotel
- Pet-friendly choices, so no one in the family gets left behind
- All the cool stuff outdoors, but with real showers
And don’t forget—this trend isn’t slowing down. Industry numbers show that in 2024, more than 40% of new bookings at many unique stays sites were glamping spots. People aren’t just curious—they’re coming back again and again because it’s comfortable, easy, and actually fun.
Tents That Beat Hotels: The Classic Safari Tent
If you type "glamping" into any major booking site, safari tents are usually at the top of the list. These are not your scout-camp setups—they’re roomy, sturdy, and built to put hotels to shame. A lot of safari tents today actually copy the layout and features of posh hotel rooms. It’s pretty common to find big beds with actual mattresses (no air pumps needed), real furniture, and en-suite bathrooms—hot showers and flushing toilets included.
Let’s get real for a second: people love safari tents because they tick almost every box for a comfy stay in nature. According to a 2023 survey from the American Glamping Association, about 64% of glamping guests listed safari tents as their first pick when choosing accommodation. Why? Privacy, space, and the feeling of being closer to nature but not giving up those good-night-sleep basics. Plus, most setups have heating and air conditioning, which means you can glamp almost all year round.
Check out some features you’ll usually see in popular safari tents:
- Queen or king-sized real beds (no cots in sight)
- Full bathrooms with modern showers
- Private decks or patios—perfect for morning coffee
- Electricity, strong Wi-Fi (sometimes), and actual lighting fixtures
- Mini-fridges, kettles, and sometimes full kitchenettes
Here’s a quick look at how safari tents compare to more basic camping and hotel rooms:
| Feature | Safari Tent | Regular Tent | Hotel Room |
|---|---|---|---|
| Real Bed | Yes | No | Yes |
| Private Bathroom | Usually | No | Yes |
| Nature Views | Excellent | Good | Limited |
| Heating/Cooling | Often | No | Yes |
| Wi-Fi | Sometimes | No | Always |
Safari tents aren’t just about comfort—they also win for the atmosphere. Picture canvas walls with big windows that open right to the woods or river. There’s nature outside, but not a bug in your bed. Some even come with wood-burning stoves. If you’re looking for a popular glamping accommodation to impress your friends, this is it. Just remember to book ahead—prime spots go fast, especially around holidays and festival weekends.
Yurts: Modern Comforts in a Circular Space
If you think of a yurt, you might picture something out of Mongolia, but these round wonders have taken over glamping sites around the globe. Today’s yurts still honor that classic circular design, but forget the barebones setup—most modern yurts come with insulated walls, solid floors, and even skylights so you can watch the stars from bed.
The real perk? Privacy paired with comfort. Instead of cramped tents, you get enough space for real beds, sofas, and even bathrooms in many setups. Some glamping sites take yurts all the way—with WiFi, heating and air conditioning, full kitchens, and stylish decor that wouldn’t look out of place in a city apartment. Yurts are especially popular for couples and small groups who want to be a bit off-the-grid without giving up the good stuff.
Check out why yurts make such a strong choice for a unique stay:
- Circular shape means better air flow and steady temperature—no cold corners or stuffy air.
- Sturdy canvas and wood frames handle rain, wind, and cold, stretching the glamping season beyond summer.
- Easy to personalize—owners add wood stoves, private decks, or even hot tubs.
People love yurts for the peace and quiet. Noise seems to bounce off the round walls, making naps and deep sleeps much easier compared to flimsier tents. Plus, yurts often sit in the best parts of the glamping site—close to trails or gorgeous lake views.
| Feature | Modern Yurt | Standard Tent |
|---|---|---|
| Real beds | Yes | No |
| Heating/Cooling | Usually | Rarely |
| Private bathroom | Often | Rare |
| WiFi | Sometimes | No |
| Year-round use | Yes | Limited |
If you want a popular glamping accommodation that feels like your own little hideout, the yurt has your back. Just double check site photos and reviews—they can be basic or surprisingly upscale depending on where you book. Bring a few cozy blankets and some board games and you’re set for a pretty chill escape.
Treehouses, Domes, and Other Rising Stars
If you’re tired of the usual tents, you’re not alone. Treehouses and geodesic domes are fast becoming the glamping sites everyone’s talking about. Treehouses aren’t just for kids anymore—some now come with hot tubs, Wi-Fi, and those epic forest views everyone wants for their Instagram. According to a 2024 report by GlampingHub, treehouse bookings jumped 40% in the last year. It’s the whole childhood fantasy, just way more comfortable.
Geodesic domes look straight out of a sci-fi movie, but they’re popping up everywhere, from the mountains to the woods. These domes keep you warm in winter and cool in summer, thanks to their smart design. Some dome stays go all-in with glass walls for stargazing, heated floors, and rain showers. People pick domes for their privacy and those untouched views. In fact, more than 70% of dome guests say the “wow factor” is what got them to book in the first place.
Beyond the headline-makers, a few other unique stays are gaining traction:
- Airstream trailers: Vintage vibes without the cramped feel. Most are renovated with queen beds and kitchenettes.
- Pods and tiny houses: Compact but super efficient. These options are a hit with solo travelers and couples looking to escape city life without dealing with old tents and damp gear.
- Cabins: These still draw big crowds, especially families who want space to spread out and indoor bathrooms but aren’t ready to rough it.
The bottom line? Whether it’s treetop escapes or futuristic domes, these rising star glamping accommodations pull in guests who want something unique and comfortable, skipping the cookie-cutter hotel experience. No wonder bookings for these stays are up year over year.
| Accommodation Type | Popularity Growth (2023-2024) | Key Perks |
|---|---|---|
| Treehouses | +40% | Epic views, luxury features |
| Domes | +35% | Stargazing, climate control |
| Cabins | +22% | Family friendly, rustic charm |
Tips for Picking Your Perfect Glamping Stay
Choosing the right glamping accommodation can make or break your trip. Different sites offer different perks, and a little research goes a long way. The most popular places often get booked up fast, especially if you’re after those popular glamping accommodations like safari tents or luxury yurts.
Here are a few real-world tips to help you find your best fit:
- Decide what comforts matter to you. Some glamping sites are basically hotels under canvas, with heated bathrooms and Wi-Fi. Others keep it simple (think compost toilets and outdoor showers). Double-check the amenities before you book.
- Location means everything. Want peace and quiet? Look for sites well away from busy roads and cities. If you’re hoping to explore local attractions, pick somewhere close to trails or national parks. Sites on private land often offer more space and privacy.
- Check what’s included—and what’s not. Some sites include breakfast, firewood, or bikes, while others charge extra for these perks. If you don’t want surprises, scroll through the fine print before entering your card details.
- Read recent reviews. Reviews often mention if the beds are as comfy as claimed or if the tent gets too hot in summer. Watch out for guest comments about bugs, noise, or hidden costs—these details rarely make it into the glossy site photos.
- Consider who you’re traveling with. Not all unique stays are kid- or pet-friendly. Ask ahead if you’re bringing the family dog or a toddler. Some places only welcome adults, while others have play areas or kid-focused activities.
Here's a quick look at which features often matter most to guests based on recent survey data from top UK and US glamping booking sites:
| Feature | Percentage of Guests Who Rated as "Very Important" |
|---|---|
| Private Bathroom | 78% |
| Comfortable Bed | 71% |
| Heating/Air Conditioning | 56% |
| Pet-Friendly | 44% |
| On-Site Activities | 39% |
One last thing: reserve early, especially during school holidays. The best spots for glamping disappear fast. If you want something special, like a treehouse or dome, it’s not unusual to see these booked a year ahead in popular spots. If you find a site with your must-haves, snag it—last-minute planners usually settle for what’s left.