Fun Freetime: Glamping

Luxury or glamour camping - also called glamping - is a leisure activity that allows people to enjoy the fun of camping while still enjoying some of the comforts of home.

Glampique, a new company from outdoor recreation industry veteran David Levine, recently launched as the first online service to sell – rather than simply rent or lease – modern, fully furnished tents. Glampique’s tents allow people to immerse themselves in the outdoors while remaining comfortably protected from the elements. As part of the service, the team delivers and sets up tents anywhere in the United States (lower 48) at no extra charge. No assembly is required since these spacious digs will be installed on site – both residential and commercial – and sleep-ready to enjoy for years to come.

The Glampique furnished tent reimagines the outdoors with beautifully designed and crafted contemporary decor. Features of the 12x18 foot tents include: 

• Finely crafted furniture including king-sized bed with a memory foam mattress, solid ash wood and steel dresser, velvet and steel couch, polished brass tables, velvet and steel ottomans.
• Also included: Bedding, Simple Human garbage can, Anker cell phone charger, mirror, clock, fire extinguisher and flashlight
• Vaulted 10-foot ceiling
• Covered porch
• Five extra-large windows with screens for maximum air flow
• Oversized entrance with full screen door so you can admire nature from the bed
• Waterproof sewn-in floor (optional deck sold separately).
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Glampique tents are fully furnished and cost $20,000, including delivery and installation, anywhere in the continental United States. This is less expensive and more experiential than other outdoor experiences that typically run from about $60,000 for a vintage trailer to $100,000 for a cabin.

I had a chance to interview the founder/CEO David Levine to learn more.

Why was Glampique created?I’ve been setting up glamping hotels and pop-ups across the country since 2014, when glamping was still relatively unknown. Over the years I spoke with many people who wanted their own glamping tent in their backyard, or wanted one set up permanently at their hotel, but weren’t sure where to start. I wanted to make it easy for people to go glamping because it is such a great way to create lifelong memories with people who matter most to us.

I also wanted to raise the level of decor in glamping, which is why Glampique has enlisted the best designers and makers to craft each component, from tent to dresser to the Glampique Mattress.

What is the draw of glamping?

People are so connected to their devices, and glamping helps people to put down their phones and spend quality time in nature with others. It is a transformative experience that people remember for years.

How can people who haven't camped before get started? Glampique makes glamping easy with fully furnished tents that are delivered sleep-ready, no assembly required. First timers don’t have to bring much as our tents also include fine linens, a Simple Human garbage can, Anker cell phone charger, mirror, clock, fire extinguisher and a flashlight. Just come ready to relax and experience the outdoors in luxury.

Why is it helpful for some people to not have to give up comforts of home to camp?

It is magical to spend time in nature, and plush outdoor accommodations continue the magic past sunset, onto s'mores, stargazing and the perfect night's sleep. Glampique has worked with the best designers and makers to create a furnished tent that is an elevated experience, often nicer than home.