22 Diy Tent Glamping Ideas to Make Your Next Camping Trip Unforgettable

Camping doesn’t have to mean roughing it or skipping the little comforts that make us feel at home. Glamping lets us have the best of both worlds – all the nature vibes, plus cozy beds and twinkly lights. 

With a handful of DIY ideas, we can turn any camping trip into a glamping adventure that actually feels special.

Let’s jump into some easy ways to create a dreamy setup under the stars. With the right mix of comfort and style, even a basic tent can feel like a personal retreat.

Doesn’t matter if we’re camping pros or totally new – there’s something here for all of us.

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1) Choose a roomy, stand-up-height tent for maximum comfort and space.

Let’s be real – crawling around in a tiny tent is nobody’s idea of a good time. If we want our glamping trip to feel legit, picking a tent we can stand up in makes a world of difference.

Setting up a cozy air mattress or changing clothes is way easier when we have space to actually move. Tall tents let us walk around without ducking, which is a huge win for comfort.

There’s a ton of roomy tents out there, so it’s not hard to find one that fits our vibe. The TOMOUNT Inflatable Camping Tent is just one example – big enough for a group, and tall enough for even the lankiest of us.

If anyone in the crew is tall or just likes having headroom, these tents are a must. We can even turn the tent into a hangout zone – no stooping, no sore backs.

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2) Use your own cozy sheets and blankets from home to add that personal touch.

Let’s make our tent feel like our own bedroom – maybe even better, honestly. Instead of stiff sleeping bags, we bring soft sheets and snuggly blankets from home.

When we crawl into bed at night, it just feels right. Adding our favorite throw or that old quilt makes the tent way more “us.”

We like to pile on a bunch of pillows too, because why not? Sharing stories or laughing late into the night is just better when we’re comfy.

If it gets chilly, extra blankets are a lifesaver. Glamping is all about those little comforts that make us feel special.

For more dreamy setups, peek at these DIY glamping tent bedding ideas.

3) Invest in a quality self-inflating mattress for a comfy night’s sleep.

Let’s talk about the real glamping game-changer: a good self-inflating mattress. We’ve all suffered through those sad, flat sleeping pads that leave us tossing and turning (and regretting our life choices) by 2 a.m.

These mattresses combine soft foam and air, so we get a thick, comfy bed with almost zero effort. Open the valve, and it basically sets itself up – love that for us.

We always go for ones that are a few inches thick, especially when we’re car camping or glamping in the backyard. The sleep we get is so much closer to what we’d have at home.

Some even have quiet, soft fabrics, no more waking up the whole tent with every flip or flop. This ultra-thick foam camping mattress is a favorite.

With a little investment in quality, we can actually look forward to curling up in our tent at night.

4) Add string twinkle lights inside your tent to create a magical glow.

Nothing says glamping like a tent that glows with twinkle lights. When we hang string lights inside, the whole vibe changes – suddenly it’s warm, cozy, and a little bit magical.

We’re big fans of battery-powered lights because they’re safe for tents and don’t need an outlet. Drape them across the ceiling, wrap around the poles, or just toss a strand wherever we want a little sparkle.

Sometimes we mix in fairy lights or go wild with colored ones, depending on the mood. There’s something about gathering with friends under those gentle lights that makes the night feel special.

We’ve even seen people use mini LED strands to make shapes or clip lights across the roof. If you want more inspo, check out these DIY camping tent lights ideas. Seriously, a few twinkle lights go a long way.

5) Bring along a folding side table to keep snacks and gear handy.

There’s nothing worse than losing your water bottle or flashlight in the dark. That’s why we always bring a folding side table when we glamp.

It’s a total game-changer – suddenly everything has its place. Snacks, drinks, sunscreen, books… all right where we need them. 

Camping tables fold up small, and some even have cup holders (which is just fun, honestly). Need ideas? Here’s a roundup of folding end tables made for glamping.

Once we started using a side table, we never camped without one again. It’s one of those small upgrades that makes a huge difference.

6) Swap sleeping bags for thick, warm blankets for extra coziness.

Crinkly sleeping bags aren’t exactly the stuff of dreams. After a long day outside, we want something soft and homey, not a nylon burrito. 

Thick, cozy blankets totally change the game. We layer them up on top of our pads or mattresses, and suddenly the tent feels like a snuggly retreat.

Wool, fleece, or a favorite old quilt from home? Yes, please. Cold sleepers can toss on a military surplus blanket for extra warmth.

If the temperature drops, we just add more throws or pile on three blankets for a super comfy setup – building a blanket fort is totally encouraged. There’s nothing better than curling up with blankets that smell like home, especially when it’s chilly outside.

Let’s ditch the zipper and embrace all the plush layers. It’s about feeling warm, safe, and a little spoiled, exactly what glamping is meant to be.

7) Consider foam sleeping pads for lightweight, cushioned support.

Let’s talk about sleep, because waking up refreshed really matters when we’re glamping. Foam sleeping pads are such a simple way to level up our comfort without making our gear too heavy or complicated.

What I love about foam pads is their mix of lightness and durability. We can roll them up, strap them outside our packs, and not stress if they get a little dirty.

They’re always ready, whether we set up in the woods or the backyard. Closed-cell foam pads give us a soft spot to rest and also help keep us warmer by blocking out the cold from the ground.

If you’ve ever rolled around on a thin yoga mat camping, you know how much difference even a little padding can make. Plus, they’re reliable in lots of weather, and we don’t have to worry about punctures or air leaks like with inflatables.

If you’re curious about how foam options compare to other styles, REI has a helpful guide on types of sleeping pads and their pros and cons. Let’s not overlook these classic pads; they just might become our new comfort secret for tent glamping.

8) Set up a tarp or canopy above your tent to create a shaded outdoor lounge.

Let’s talk about easy ways to get more relaxation space outdoors. Setting up a tarp or a canopy above our tent changes everything, especially when we want some shade during the hottest part of the day.

With just a simple sheet and some poles or ropes, we get a cool spot to hang out or read a book. We don’t always need fancy gear.

We can use almost any waterproof tarp or even a large beach umbrella if that’s what we have. It’s about getting creative and making the best use of what’s available.

I love how this trick gives us an extra “room,” perfect for sharing snacks, playing cards, or even napping outside the tent. If we’re looking for inspiration or want to see diagrams of different setups, there are tons of ideas online, like these practical tarp shelter setups or this quick TikTok guide to building a canopy with tarp.

Watching others make their own shelters can help us figure out what style works best for our next trip.

9) Decorate with a colorful rug inside and outside the tent to add warmth.

Rugs – they really change how a tent feels. Whenever we roll out a soft, colorful rug inside, it instantly makes our space cozier.

Our feet stay warmer and we feel more at home, even when the ground is chilly early in the morning. We can layer a rug at the tent entrance, too.

This little step helps keep dirt out and adds a bright pop of color that makes us smile every time we step inside. We’ve even used a yoga mat or lightweight runner outside for extra comfort underfoot.

Choosing indoor/outdoor rugs works great, because they’re easy to shake out or rinse off. Plus, they hold up well in different weather.

Adding a stylish rug, both inside and out, brings some real glamping flair to our campsite without needing fancy gear. If we’re glamping with friends or kids, rugs are also a great spot for hanging out or playing games.

It makes our tent feel more like a living room and less like roughing it.

10) Hang lightweight, sheer curtains to give your tent a dreamy vibe.

Want to turn our basic tent into something out of a fairy tale? Hanging lightweight, sheer curtains makes such a difference, and it’s way easier than we might think.

We love how soft curtains instantly make everything feel cozier and more inviting. We can hang the curtains along the sides of our tent using bungee cords, safety pins, or even zip ties.

If we’re setting up in our backyard, we might try using hooks or string for a DIY glamping tent that’s both easy and stylish. Light, gauzy curtains filter the sunlight beautifully.

When a breeze comes through, the curtains gently move and give our space a magical, relaxed feeling. We’ve even tried layering a few different colors for extra personality.

For more inspiration and ideas on hanging curtains, we can check out simple tent curtain hacks people use for vendor booths by using bungee cords and hooks, which work well for glamping setups too, at Curtains For Vendor Tent – Pinterest.

11) Use battery-operated lanterns for soft, safe lighting around your site.

An easy win that makes our campsite cozy and safe – battery-operated lanterns. It’s simple; just to flip a switch and get a soft, gentle glow.

There’s no messing around with matches or worrying about open flames. It’s all about relaxing without fuss.

We can hang these lanterns from trees, on the tent, or even set them on a picnic table. It gives us flexibility to adjust the scene, making it just right for games, reading, or late-night snacks.

If we want to move our gathering, it’s no problem – just grab the lantern and go. Many battery lanternsnow last all night and even come with different brightness settings.

They’re also safer for kids and pets. We get the vibe of a campfire, but with peace of mind.

For more options, there are lots of creative campsite lighting ideas that use battery power to keep things both handy and safe.

12) Pack a portable camping stove to make easy, tasty hot meals outdoors.

Food always tastes better outside. When we bring a portable camping stove, we get to enjoy hot meals anywhere, from breakfast by the tent to soup under the stars.

It makes such a difference, especially when the evenings get chilly. A small stove lets us whip up everything from coffee to simple dinners.

It means we aren’t stuck eating just sandwiches all weekend. Even just making tea or hot chocolate makes camp mornings brighter.

If we want to keep things simple, there are lots of meal ideas with just a few ingredients – like omelets, oatmeal, or a potato and egg scramble. We can find more inspiration from easy camping recipes that work perfectly with a basic stove.

Cooking together at camp is a cozy tradition. It brings everyone around the stove and turns mealtime into one of the best parts of our trip.

13) Create a mini outdoor kitchen area with foldable tables and storage bins.

Cooking at camp is more fun when our stuff is organized and within reach. Setting up a mini outdoor kitchen is easier than we might think.

Foldable tables give us a flat surface for prepping food, and they pack down super small when it’s time to head home. We can use storage bins to keep all our gear sorted.

One bin can hold pots, pans, and utensils, while another can be home for snacks and dry foods. Stacking bins makes it easy to grab what we need without digging through a mess.

A sink isn’t essential, but if we have the space, a simple wash basin or a camp kitchen table with a built-in sink can be a total game changer. There are some cool folding camp kitchen tables with sinks if we’re feeling fancy.

The best part is, we can customize our kitchen to fit our group’s needs. It doesn’t have to be fancy – just practical.

Every time we set it up, we’ll find ourselves making little improvements and sharing laughs along the way..

14) Bring foldable camping chairs with cushions to relax in style.

After a day of hiking, naps, or just hanging out, we want a comfy spot to unwind. That’s where foldable camping chairs with soft cushions come in.

They’re really simple to pack and set up, but they change the way we relax at the campsite. These chairs don’t take up much room in our car, but give us that little extra bit of comfort we’re always looking for when glamping.

Some even have cup holders, so we don’t have to worry about where to set our drinks. We can gather around the fire or just kick back.

If we’re hoping for extra support, some chairs are made with strong materials and hold up well, even for adults or heavier folks. We found a great option here that offers a folding chair with a detachable cushion and cup holder, making it even easier to sink in and relax in style at our campsite: foldable camping chair with cushion.

Bringing cozy chairs feels like bringing a little bit of our living room outdoors. It’s a simple upgrade, but it always makes a huge difference.

15) String up bunting or flags for a festive, personal festival feel.

Adding a splash of color to our glamping setup instantly makes our tent feel more cheerful and welcoming. Think bunting or festive flags!

It’s a simple trick, but it really sets the mood for fun and relaxation. We can grab store-bought flags or get crafty and make our own with fabric scraps or old shirts.

Making bunting is a fun project. Each string ends up telling a little story about us.

Sometimes we doodle our names or goofy pictures to make things even more personal. Hanging bunting is easy, just drape it from tent poles, tree branches, or string it between camping chairs.

This little touch makes our site pop and adds that festival vibe, just like Suzette Gebhardt’s DIY flag ideas. Don’t worry about making it perfect; the charm is in the mix of colors and shapes.

Every time we come back to camp, those bright flags fluttering in the breeze make us grin. Glamping really is about having fun together, not about perfection.

16) Include a portable Bluetooth speaker for your favorite chill tunes.

We all love a good playlist at the campsite. Bringing a portable Bluetooth speaker can turn our camping spot into a cozy lounge, perfect for relaxing or sharing music with friends.

We can play our favorite songs while we cook, chat, or watch the stars. No need to spend a fortune, either—there are tons of waterproof, outdoor-friendly options out there.

Some speakers are small enough to toss in a backpack. For inspiration, check out this list of portable Bluetooth speakers for glamping.

Just remember to charge it up before the trip. Or bring a portable solar charger if you want extra power.

A long battery life means we can play chill tunes all weekend. Music really does help set the perfect mood for a glamping getaway.

17) Add lots of throw pillows for lounging and freshening up your tent space.

We all know that feeling when we just want to flop down after a long day outdoors. That’s where throw pillows step in.

A pile of soft cushions makes our tent feel like a cozy hideaway. It’s one of those easy touches that instantly brings comfort and fun to glamping.

We can mix different sizes, shapes, and patterns to add style and color. Sometimes we go for bright colors to match our mood, or soft pastels for a calm vibe.

Even a few quirky prints make us smile when we crawl in for the night. Extra pillows mean more comfy spots to read, nap, or just chill with friends.

We love tossing in some floor pillows for that lounging-on-the-ground feel. Bringing in throw pillows is an easy way to personalize our space and make it feel like home.

For more ideas on creating comfort, check out these creative glamping touches.

18) Use natural materials like wood crates for storage that feel rustic and cute.

Let’s bring in some easy charm with wooden crates. These simple boxes make sturdy storage for shoes, extra blankets, or snacks.

When we use wood, our glamping space instantly feels warmer and more inviting. We can line the crates with fabric or burlap for a softer touch.

That small step makes the crates look even cozier. If you like crafting, go ahead and paint or stain them to match your style.

Stacking a few crates gives us shelves for lanterns, books, or plants. They keep things tidy but still laid-back and homey.

I love how crates work indoors and outside—they can hold firewood or keep our porch clutter-free. With just a couple of crates, we add that perfect rustic accent without much work.

When we’re done glamping, it’s simple to repurpose them back at home. For more inspiration, check out some creative wooden crate decorating ideas.

19) Keep a small plant or flowers in a sturdy pot to brighten your space.

Nothing picks up our mood quite like a bit of greenery or some fresh flowers. When we’re glamping, adding a small plant or a vase of blooms can make the tent feel way more welcoming.

It’s a simple touch, but it gives that boost of coziness we all love. Grab a sturdy pot so you don’t have to worry about it tipping if someone bumps into it.

Even a mason jar with wildflowers works if we’re feeling crafty. If you want more ideas for unique garden containers, there are plenty of ways to jazz up your plant display.

Having something living in our space makes us feel closer to nature with a little splash of beauty. Plus, the scent of flowers or fresh leaves can be so relaxing after a long day outdoors.

20) Plan simple but delicious finger foods that don’t need much cleanup.

Glamping is way more fun when we don’t have a big mess to deal with after eating. That’s why we love finger foods for camping trips.

They’re easy to prep, and even easier to enjoy without a stack of dishes piling up. We always pack snack-size cheeses, hard-boiled eggs, and crackers.

Veggies like carrots, snap peas, and cherry tomatoes travel well and add a fresh crunch. We also like to bring along dips, like hummus or guacamole, to liven things up.

If we want to get a little fancier, charcuterie boards are easy to throw together and make us feel like we’re treating ourselves. Simple treats like granola bars, cured meats, and jerky are handy too.

There are a ton of simple finger food ideas to explore. The best part? No forks or plates needed!

Cleanup is a breeze, so we have more time to relax and just enjoy being together under the stars.

21) Set up a cozy reading nook with a blanket, books, and cushions.

Let’s make our glamping tent feel extra special with a little reading corner. We just need a soft blanket, a few favorite books, and some comfy cushions.

It doesn’t have to be fancy—gathering everything we love in one spot instantly makes it feel more inviting. We could stack up a few pillows to lean against and throw in a plush blanket for warmth.

If we want a magical touch, fairy lights or a small battery lamp will bring a gentle glow, making evening reading extra cozy. Adding a couple of our current reads or even a stack of magazines makes it easy to curl up and get lost in a new story.

We can find a quiet corner in the tent, or even set up just outside for fresh air. For inspiration, check out some creative reading nook ideas to help make your space unique.

22) Use mosquito-repellent candles or coils to keep bugs away comfortably.

Nothing kills the glamping mood faster than getting swarmed by mosquitoes. We’ve found that bringing along mosquito-repellent candles or coils makes a big difference in how comfortable we are, especially when we’re trying to relax outside our tent.

Citronella candles are a super popular choice and easy to set up around our spot. Lighting a couple on the table or near the tent entrance helps create a little barrier that mosquitoes don’t love.

Some of us use mosquito coils, setting them out before dusk when bugs are at their worst. Swapping stories by candlelight feels more magical when we’re not constantly swatting at pests.

We can enjoy good food and late-night talks without worrying as much about bites. For an even stronger layer of defense, pair these candles or coils with bug spray.

It’s a simple trick, but it keeps our nights cozy and bug-free. With a few candles or coils, we add warmth to our setup and keep the pests at bay.

You’ll thank yourself for packing them!

Setting The Right Atmosphere

A truly great glamping experience feels both magical and inviting. Comfort comes from more than soft beds—it’s about what we see, hear, and feel around us.

Let’s talk about making our glamping spot unforgettable with thoughtful choices and a little creative touch.

Choosing Your Glamping Location

We want the perfect spot—not just a random patch of grass. Let’s keep an eye out for flat ground because nobody wants to sleep at an angle.

Shady spots under big trees make it feel cooler during the day and private at night. If we’re near water, like a creek or lake, the soft background noise can make our whole camp feel peaceful.

We should also think about access to the sun and wind. Morning sunlight wakes us gently, while a breeze keeps things fresh and the bugs away.

Setting up near wildflowers or ferns adds instant charm to our site. But we always make sure it’s a safe distance from dense brush to lower the chance of stray wildlife visitors.

A quick walk around helps us find hidden roots or sharp rocks before laying out our tent or rugs. For more inspiration, check out tips on picking a dreamy spot from this DIY glamping tent guide.

Lighting Tips For A Cozy Vibe

After sunset, lighting is everything. Let’s skip the harsh headlamps.

We love hanging up strings of LED fairy lights because they glow softly and last all evening. Battery-powered lanterns are perfect for the table.

Small tea lights (in safe holders!) add extra warmth and a bit of magic. Solar lights work great for marking pathways, so nobody trips at night.

We can even bring a few flameless candles to set on logs or tree stumps. For reading or board games, a soft camping lantern gives us enough glow without killing the mood.

If we want more dreamy ideas, using solar-powered lighting gets a big thumbs-up from this glamping checklist.

Comfort And Style On Any Budget

We can make our glamping spot feel cozy and stylish without spending a lot. A few creative touches and some smart weatherproofing turn any tent into a comfy getaway, no matter what’s in our wallets.

Upcycling Decor For A Personal Touch

Using what we already have at home not only saves money, but it also adds a unique charm to our tent. Let’s bring in old throw pillows, colorful blankets, or even that spare rug in the closet.

Layering these items creates a warm, inviting vibe and feels much more “us” than basic camping gear. We can get even more creative by repurposing everyday items.

Glass jars make wonderful lanterns when we add tealights or string lights. An old step stool can double as a mini table for snacks and drinks.

If we’re feeling crafty, let’s try making bunting from leftover fabric or ribbons. Mixing textures—like knit blankets on top of smooth sheets—adds comfort and style.

We get to enjoy soft surfaces and fun pops of color, all while sticking to the budget. For more inspiration, check out some playful diy glamping ideas that don’t break the bank.

Weatherproofing Your DIY Tent

Staying dry and snug is a must for any glamping trip. We can start by laying down a tarp under the tent to keep out ground moisture.

Packing extra blankets and using fitted sheets from home makes sleeping much more cozy, and a must if the weather turns chilly. It helps to add rugs or thick quilts inside the tent for extra insulation.

Hanging heavy curtains or using thick towels across the tent doors can block out drafts and keep in warmth during the night. If rain is in the forecast, let’s bring along some large plastic totes or bins to keep shoes and bags dry.

Clip-on battery-powered fans handle hot and stuffy days. Practical weatherproofing tricks can truly make a difference—see more helpful diy glamping tent tips for staying stylish and comfortable, no matter the weather.

Frequently Asked Questions

When we’re glamping, it’s all about finding those little ways to turn our tent into somewhere special. A few cozy accessories and clever decorating ideas can totally change our outdoor experience.

How can I make my tent feel like a luxury suite?

Let’s start by making our tent super homey. We can bring our own soft sheets and fluffy blankets from home to make our beds feel just right.

If we add a quality self-inflating mattress, we might actually sleep better than we do at home. A folding side table makes it easy to keep snacks and our favorite book close by.

String some twinkle lights or fairy lights inside to give the whole space a warm, magical glow.

What essentials should I pack for a glamorous camping experience?

We never want to forget comfort, so a good mattress, real bedding, and extra pillows are a must. It helps to pack cozy rugs or mats, too, since they make a tent floor way more inviting.

Let’s not skip on simple things like a lantern and a folding chair. We can even bring a small coffee maker or extra snacks to make mornings at camp feel a bit more special.

What’s the best way to add a touch of elegance to my camping site?

Adding elegance doesn’t have to be tricky. For a quick upgrade, we can use battery-powered lanterns or twinkly lights outside and inside our tent.

A string of bunting or a few pretty throw blankets can transform even an average setup. Fresh flowers in a jar or a nice picnic blanket just outside the tent can go a long way.

How do I choose the perfect location for a glamping getaway?

We always look for spots with enough room for a stand-up-height tent. It’s a game-changer for comfort.

Shady areas with level ground are best for keeping things cool and making setup easy. Let’s consider places with beautiful views or by the water, but also remember how handy it is to camp near parking and bathrooms (car camping is ideal for glamping).

Can I DIY my glamping setup on a budget?

Absolutely! We don’t have to spend a lot.

Using our own bedding, tossing in some thrifted rugs, and bringing snacks from home already saves money. If we are clever about it, we can put together a DIY glamping party for under $300.

Mixing affordable finds with what we already own makes a big difference. The key is focusing on a few simple comforts.

What are some creative themes for decorating a glamping tent?

Glamping gets a lot more fun when you pick a theme. Maybe you want to go boho, tossing down bright rugs and hanging up lanterns.

Or you could lean into a cozy cabin look, layering plaid blankets and setting out battery candles. A tropical escape? Just add beach towels and a few flamingo touches.

Some folks love a starry night vibe, sticking up glow-in-the-dark stars and stringing twinkle lights everywhere. If you’re after more inspiration, there are loads of cute glamping ideas out there to spark your imagination.