
Although ‘camping’ is only one word, it means many different things to different people and it got us wondering what’ the camping trends for 2013 and beyond might be. Ever heard of glamping or bamping?
Some of us love to set off with just a backpack, while others love to pack our best crockery, bedding and patio furniture. Then there are those who sleep on a mat under the stars or under canvas, while others stay in their beloved campervan or caravan. Then there are those who love the luxury side of glamping. In fact there are so many different ways to go camping we thought we’d summarise them and give our predictions for camping trends of the future.
Bamping
This is a relatively new name for basic camping. Anyone who indulges in this kind of activity loves to walk out of the house with only the essentials on their back and little else. Travelling and camping light is the ultimate aim of bamping.
Glamping
This is definitely the most glamorous side of camping reserved only for those who love to be outdoors with all the comforts of home. They indulge themselves in vintage, retro and luxury style and hate the thought of roughing it. We love smoothing the edges of roughing it!
Backyard Camping
Usually undertaken by families who love to camp with the kids but know there will be the inevitable early morning tears or late night teething nightmare to deal with, so having the family home only a stones throw away allows them to sleep under the stars without actually having to worry about any of the negatives of having young children under canvas. Some might think this isn’t camping, while others realise that sometimes it’s the only way of getting some time outside while keeping everyone happy.
Frugal Camping
As the economy continues to pinch this type of camping continues to grow in popularity. From frugal schemes such as BritStops to arranging a deal with a local farmer, all have the ultimate aim of keeping the change in your pocket while still being able to enjoy a holiday outdoors.
Naked Camping
There’s not much to say about this one. This is simply camping… with little else!
Geek Camping
Those who enjoy the pleasure of geek camping have the best satellite navigation equipment, the most efficient camping gear and know the percentage of natural down in all their sleeping gear and clothing. Having the best camping gadgets and gear is all part of being a geek camper.
Leave no trace camping
These campers are so good at leaving no trace some might think they’ve been trained by the Secret Services! They wouldn’t dream of leaving a fire pit uncovered, or some trash in the hedge, as they get their kicks out of being stealthy and leaving nature well alone.
Gorilla Camping
This type of camping is for those who like to camp out amongst the trees or totally in the wild. They are as stealthy as the ‘leave no trace’ campers and they take pride in the low impact they have on their environment. Also, if you are a gorilla camper you don’t always camp where you are allowed to, as you get a bit of a kick about rebelling against the ‘higher powers’.
Eco Warrior Camping
These campers recycle and generate power as they camp. This involves everything from up-cycling vintage campervans, tents and caravans to using homemade wind turbines and solar power generators to power their camping trip. They rarely go without, but always make sure everything they use on their camping trip is environmentally friendly.
Damping
Damping is for those who go camping no matter how much it’s going to rain. Often witnessed in the UK, these campers are robust and stubborn, and visit the campsite armed with matting for walkways and awnings of various sizes so they can be outside no matter what the weather or how damp and muddy it gets.
50 Shades of Camping
Inspired by the best selling novel, this type of camping is very cheeky. It takes place either in the wild or in adult only campsites, and the participants always require a red room of pain.
Inspired Camping
If you want to become an inspired camper then you don’t have to go far. All you have to do is sign up to our regular updates and it will give you access to all our competitions and giveaways, and will help you impress your friends with useful and entertaining information just in time for the new camping season.
So what do you think the camping trends for 2013 and beyond might be? Here’s what they are saying in America.
Happy Glamping!
Sarah – Founder of Inspired Camping
Picture credit: Canopy & Stars