Glamping Up Vintage Campers: Tips For A Luxurious Retro Experience

Glamping is the new way to experience the fun of camping with the added luxuries of a five-star hotel. It can be as simple as adding a bigger tent, a plusher mattress, or gourmet cookware.

If you're looking to glamp up a vintage camper, you can start by adding some decorative touches, such as twinkle lights, beautiful bedding, and fresh flowers. You can also bring some throw pillows and an ice bucket to keep your drinks cool. To make your space more comfortable, consider investing in a nice air mattress or memory foam, as well as some soft sheets and blankets.

When it comes to mealtime, glamping allows you to elevate your camping cuisine. You can use cast iron cookware to make gourmet meals like cinnamon rolls, salads, and grilled dishes. Don't forget to bring along some decorative tableware and fancy napkins to add a touch of glamour to your dining experience.

By adding these simple touches, you can transform your vintage camper into a glamorous and comfortable space to enjoy the great outdoors.

Add twinkle lights

Adding twinkle lights to your vintage camper is a great way to add a little luxury to your camping experience. Here are some tips on how to do it:

Choose the Right Lights

First, you need to choose the right type of twinkle lights. If your campsite has electricity, you can opt for regular string lights. However, if your site is not equipped with electricity, you can always use battery-operated lights. You can also choose between different types of lighting, such as tiki torches, lanterns, string lights, or even coloured lanterns to set the mood and add fun and ambiance to your campsite.

Hang the Lights Properly

Once you have chosen the right lights, it's time to hang them up! You can string the lights on small trees, across your camper, or even on picnic tables to add extra light and a cosy feel to your space. If you're using string lights, make sure to hang them securely and safely, and be careful not to tangle them. You can also use hooks or clips to attach the lights to your camper or trees.

Create a Cozy Atmosphere

To enhance the cosy atmosphere, consider using soft, warm-toned lights instead of harsh, bright lights. You can also add some throw pillows and blankets to your camper to make it even more inviting.

Be Creative

Feel free to get creative with your light display! You can wrap the lights around trees or other objects, or even create fun shapes or patterns with them. You can also combine different types of lighting to create a unique and personalised atmosphere.

Stay Safe

Always prioritise safety when using twinkle lights in your vintage camper. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper use and care. Be cautious of open flames or hot surfaces near the lights, and always unplug or turn off the lights when you're not using them or before you go to sleep.

Bring luxurious bedding

The Bed

The first step to bringing luxurious bedding to your vintage camper is to invest in a good mattress. If you're going to be sleeping in your camper for an extended period, it's worth investing in a high-quality mattress that will provide comfort and support. Look for mattresses designed specifically for campers or RVs, as these will be more compact and easier to manoeuvre through the narrow doors and hallways of your vintage camper.

If a new mattress isn't in your budget, consider adding a mattress topper to your existing mattress. Memory foam or featherbed toppers can add a layer of cushioning and comfort to your bed. You could also bring your mattress from home if it fits and you have the means to transport it safely.

Bedding

Once you have your mattress sorted, it's time to move on to the bedding. Bring soft and comfortable sheets with a high thread count for a luxurious feel. Go for natural fabrics like cotton or linen, which are breathable and will help regulate your body temperature while you sleep. Choose a colour or pattern that complements the aesthetic of your camper.

For your duvet or comforter, again, opt for natural materials like down or cotton. A duvet with a removable cover is a good choice, as you can easily wash the cover as needed. In terms of weight, go for a lighter option if you'll be camping in warmer months and a heavier one if you'll be camping in cooler temperatures.

Pillows

Be sure to bring along plenty of pillows—both for sleeping and for decoration. Look for pillows with fluffy fillings like down or feather, and soft, breathable covers. Standard bed pillows, as well as some decorative throw pillows, will help make your bed feel luxurious and inviting.

Blankets

Add a few extra blankets to your bed for those chilly nights. A soft throw blanket or two will not only keep you warm but also add a touch of coziness and texture to your bed. Choose colours and fabrics that complement your sheets and duvet.

Final Touches

To complete your luxurious bedding setup, consider adding some final touches like a bed skirt or a stylish bedspread. A bed skirt will hide any storage you may have under your bed, while a bedspread will add an extra layer of warmth and a stylish touch to your bed.

You could also bring along some reading material and a small lamp for your bedside table, creating a cosy atmosphere for bedtime.

Decorate with fresh flowers

Flowers are a great way to add a touch of glamour to your vintage camper. Whether you're glamping on a flower farm or simply adding a bouquet to your picnic table, flowers can instantly elevate your camping experience. Here are some tips to decorate your vintage camper with fresh flowers:

• Choose the right flowers: Select flowers that are in season and complement the colour scheme of your camper. You can either pick them yourself if you're staying at a flower farm or buy a bouquet on your way to the campsite.
• Vases and containers: Opt for vases or containers that are sturdy and won't easily tip over. Mason jars, enamel mugs, or small bottles can be great options. If you want to get creative, you can decorate the containers with ribbons or twine.
• Placement: Flowers can be placed in various spots around your camper to add a touch of nature and elegance. Consider placing them on the dining table, the bedside table, the kitchen counter, or even the dashboard of your camper.
• Care and maintenance: To prolong the life of your flowers, change the water regularly and trim the stems at an angle to allow for better water absorption. Keep them away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures to prevent wilting.
• Dried flowers: If you want a more long-lasting option, consider using dried flowers. You can create your own by hanging fresh flowers upside down in a dry, dark place for a few weeks. Dried flowers can add a rustic charm to your camper and require minimal care.
• Other floral touches: In addition to fresh flowers, you can incorporate floral prints or patterns in your camper's decor. This could be in the form of cushions, curtains, bedding, or tablecloths. It adds a whimsical touch to your vintage camper.

Use fancy dinnerware

Using fancy dinnerware is a great way to elevate your vintage camper and make it feel more glamorous. Here are some tips and suggestions to achieve this:

Choose High-Quality Dinnerware

Select dinnerware made from durable and luxurious materials such as porcelain, bone china, or melamine. These materials not only look elegant but also withstand the wear and tear of camping. Melamine, in particular, is a lightweight and shatter-resistant option, making it ideal for camping trips. You can find melamine dinnerware in various designs, from classic white to colourful patterns, allowing you to match your camper's aesthetic.

Opt for Decorative Details

Enhance the glamour of your dining experience by incorporating decorative elements. Look for dinnerware with elegant patterns, gold or silver rims, or embossed designs. You can also mix and match different yet complementary patterns to create a unique and stylish tablescape. Don't forget to include cloth napkins and a tablecloth to add a touch of luxury and elegance to your dining setup.

Consider the Occasion

Think about the occasion and the atmosphere you want to create. For a romantic dinner under the stars, consider using dinnerware with soft colours, delicate patterns, or a touch of sparkle. If you're hosting a fun gathering, opt for vibrant colours and playful designs. You can also theme your dinnerware to match the season, such as using plates with autumn leaves during fall or floral patterns for a spring picnic.

Don't Forget the Extras

Complete your fancy dinnerware setup with matching serving ware, including serving bowls, platters, and utensils. You can also add some glamour to your camper's kitchen by displaying your fancy dinnerware on open shelves or in a glass-front cabinet. This not only makes mealtimes feel special but also adds a decorative touch to your living space.

Care and Maintenance

When using fancy dinnerware in your vintage camper, it's important to consider care and maintenance. If you're opting for porcelain or bone china, make sure to handle them with care to prevent chipping or breakage. Melamine dinnerware, on the other hand, is known for its durability and ease of care. It's also a good idea to bring along a gentle cleanser and a soft sponge or cloth to ensure your dinnerware stays clean and sparkling throughout your camping trip.

Bring an ice bucket

When glamping, an ice bucket is an essential item to bring along. Here are some reasons why you should bring an ice bucket when glamping in a vintage camper:

Keep Drinks Cool

An ice bucket is perfect for keeping your drinks cool, especially on hot summer days. Fill the bucket with ice and place your drinks inside to keep them chilled. This is a great way to enjoy a refreshing beverage during your glamping trip.

Add a Touch of Glamour

An ice bucket can also add a touch of glamour and luxury to your glamping experience. It can be a stylish and functional accessory, enhancing the overall ambiance of your vintage camper.

Create a Festive Atmosphere

If you're celebrating a special occasion or simply want to create a festive atmosphere, an ice bucket can be a great prop. Fill it with ice and add some colourful drinks or sparkling water for a touch of elegance and celebration.

Easy Access to Ice

During your glamping trip, you may need ice for various purposes, such as cooling drinks, icing injuries, or keeping food fresh. An ice bucket allows you easy access to ice without having to constantly refill ice trays or buy bags of ice.

Enhance the Vintage Camper's Aesthetic

When glamping in a vintage camper, an ice bucket can complement the retro style and enhance the overall aesthetic. Look for a stylish metal or acrylic ice bucket that fits the vintage theme.

Convenience and Portability

An ice bucket is easy to carry and can be placed anywhere in your vintage camper. It is a convenient way to store and transport ice, ensuring you always have a supply on hand.

Frequently asked questions