Ever looked at those Instagram photos of friends camping under the stars and thought “that looks amazing… but I have no idea how to pitch a tent”? Or dreamed of escaping the city for a weekend in nature, but the thought of buying camping gear, figuring out what to pack, and potentially sleeping on rocks has put you off? You’re not alone – and glamping is the perfect solution.
What Is Glamping? Your Escape Without the Expertise
Glamping – short for “glamorous camping” – is designed for people who want the magic of the great outdoors without needing a camping degree. You don’t need to own a single piece of camping equipment, know the difference between tent pegs, or worry about whether you’ve packed the right sleeping bag for the weather.
Instead of spending hundreds on gear you might use once, you simply book and show up. Everything is already set up – comfortable beds with proper sheets, your own bathroom with hot water, electricity for your phone charger, and often even meals provided. It’s like booking a hotel room, except your “room” happens to be surrounded by pristine Australian wilderness.
Glamping vs Traditional Camping: The Honest Comparison
| Feature | Traditional Camping | Glamping |
| Setup | DIY tent assembly, often in rain | Walk in, everything ready |
| Sleep Quality | Air mattress lottery, mysterious lumps | Proper bed with hotel-quality linen |
| Bathroom | Shared facilities, questionable cleanliness | Private ensuite with hot water |
| Cooking | Campfire cooking, smoky eyes | Equipped kitchen or meals provided |
| Weather Protection | Hope your tent doesn’t leak | Weatherproof accommodation |
| Comfort Level | Character-building discomfort | Actually restful holiday |
Understanding Glamping Accommodation Types
Safari Tents represent classic glamping – spacious canvas structures with separate sleeping and living areas, private bathrooms, and outdoor decks. Built on raised platforms, they stay dry even during Australia’s infamous downpours. Perfect for our warmer climates with excellent ventilation and that authentic “camping” feel.
Glamping Pods are fully insulated wooden cabins that look like designer tiny homes. These handle extreme weather better than tents and often feature full kitchens, heating/cooling systems, and more space for families. Ideal for mountain regions or year-round comfort.
Bell Tents offer Instagram-worthy circular spaces with bohemian styling, whilst Eco Domes provide futuristic accommodation that often includes incredible features like 360-degree views or integrated hot tubs.
Essential Glamping Features You Can Expect
Quality Australian glamping sites typically provide:
- Proper beds with hotel-standard linen (no more sleeping bag roulette)
- Private bathrooms with hot showers and flushing toilets
- Electricity for device charging and proper lighting
- Climate control appropriate to the location
- Outdoor living spaces like decks or patios for sunset viewing
- Stylish interiors that complement rather than compete with natural surroundings
Luxury properties add extras like outdoor bathtubs under the stars, private hot tubs for stargazing, fire pits for evening gatherings, or gourmet meal packages featuring local produce.
Is Glamping Actually Waterproof?
Yes. Quality glamping uses heavy-duty canvas and raised platforms designed for Australian weather. You’ll stay dry and comfortable even during Queensland storms or Victorian mountain weather.
Do You Get Proper Toilets and Power?
Absolutely. Most sites provide flushing toilets, hot showers, and electricity for lighting and charging devices. Even eco-conscious sites with solar power and composting toilets maintain proper comfort and hygiene.
Glamping in Australia: Where to Go
Glamping Victoria
Cosy Tents (Daylesford)
- Hot Tub: No, but heated tents with luxe interiors.
- Price: From $270/night.
- Highlights: Ideal for couples, close to wine country. Cosy in cooler seasons.
- Considerations: Not pet-friendly. Not ideal for families.
- Popular Season: Autumn and Spring.
- Note: Summer days can get warm inside the tents. Bring insect repellent.
Iluka Retreat (Shoreham)
- Hot Tub: No.
- Price: From $190/night.
- Highlights: Great for families and groups, with lake activities.
- Considerations: No ensuite bathrooms. Shared amenities.
- Popular Season: Summer and school holidays.
- Note: Expect more bugs and mozzies near the lake in summer.
Mansfield Glamping (Mansfield)
- Hot Tub: Yes
- Price: From $250/night.
- Highlights: Close to Mt Buller, romantic setup, great for stargazing, locally sourced breakfast hampers.
- Considerations: Adults-only site, limited facilities for kids and pets.
- Popular Season: June–August for snow trips; March–May & September–November for milder weather.
- Note: Can get cold at night — pack warm layers, especially in winter.
Sheltered Glamping Phillip Island (Ventnor)
- Hot Tub: Yes – outdoor hot tub under the stars.
- Price: From $151/night.
- Highlights: Pet-friendly, eco glamping near the beach, stylish tents with wood stoves.
- Considerations: Rustic setup, some tents share facilities, fewer dining options nearby.
- Popular Season: December–February peak, March–May & September–November are ideal.
- Note: Bring insect repellent; confirm hot tub availability before booking.
Glamping Sunshine Coast
Starry Nights Luxury Camping (Woombye)
- Hot Tub: Yes
- Price: From $480/night.
- Highlights: High-end, eco-focused, couples retreat.
- Considerations: Not family or pet friendly.
- Popular Season: Spring and early Autumn.
- Note: Summer stays can be humid; insect screens help but bring repellent.
Habitat Noosa (Elanda Point)
- Hot Tub: No.
- Price: From $170/night.
- Highlights: Pet-friendly, lots of activities, near water.
- Considerations: Shared amenities for most tents. Can get busy.
- Popular Season: Year-round.
- Note: Bring sunscreen and mozzie spray; area is lakefront.
Glamping NSW
Paperbark Camp (Jervis Bay)
- Hot Tub: Yes
- Price: From $780/night.
- Highlights: Luxe safari tents, close to beaches, meals included.
- Considerations: Expensive, limited meal options.
- Popular Season: Spring to Autumn.
- Note: Bug repellent is a must in summer.
Turon Gates (Blue Mountains)
- Hot Tub: Yes (in select mountain-view tents).
- Price: From $290/night.
- Highlights: Family- and pet-friendly, riverside views.
- Considerations: No mobile reception, minimal lighting.
- Popular Season: Spring and Autumn.
- Note: Remote—prepare well before arrival.
How Much Does Glamping Cost in Australia?
- Budget glamping: $150–$200 per night
- Mid-range: $250–$400 per night
- Luxury glamping: $500+ per night (with extras like hot tubs or chef-prepared meals)
Best Glamping Destinations Worldwide
- Kenya: Safari tents in Masai Mara
- Mongolia: Traditional yurts on the steppe
- Scotland: Eco pods in the Highlands
- Bolivia: Futuristic domes on salt flats
- Australia: From glamping in Victoria to glamping Sunshine Coast, local options are world-class
Why Glamping Is Worth Trying
Glamping gives you the best of both worlds: the beauty of the outdoors and the comfort of a hotel. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape in Victoria, a family trip up the Sunshine Coast, or a unique NSW getaway, you’ll find an option that suits your style.
