Glamorous Glamping Gadgets: High-Tech Gear for Outdoor Divas

June 5, 2023 by Kathie Aldum

The Great Outdoors is for Glamorous Glamping!

Well I wanted to share some interesting(?) things to take with you for a total glamping Diva experience. You definitely need your own car with you, your music and your towbar. You need a towbar Glamping Queen – you never know what you may want to take with you or roll off down the hill on the way home. Just buy one… see? If they ask what you need to tow – just show them this and tell them you are going camping and you are taking your home back up with! They musn't get technical on you, right, but somehow you need to tow it and they must make it work. It weighs 234lbs which is probably bigger than you and you cannot lift it into your motor vehicle.

Description:

DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator 13000 Watt Gas or Propane Powered Electric Start-Home Back Up, Blue/Gray

You also need to buy one of these three wheeler bicycles.

Description:

3 Wheel Electric Bike for Adult, 350W Step Thru Electric Tricycle with 36V 13AH Battery, Adjustable Handlebars, Large Cruiser Seat. Rear Basket for Men, Women Senior.

Now that last line confused me a bit. I don't know any men, women or senior that would fit in that basket. But don't worry, you can put your oxygen tank and your Kate Spade purse in the basket along with your make up bag, hairstyler and lipstick. Don't forget to take with your lunch and adult beverage. If the basket can take men, women and seniors, you can fit your mirror in also. The Electric bike has a little light on the front so you can see to re-apply your lipstick.

Now the next item can also fold up and go into your purse. You never know when on your camping trip that you need some alone time. Take with your headphones and meditation music cause this will help you get your own little space outside and up close with nature, and everyone will leave you well alone. I promise. Just thinking, I wonder if it would work inside my house? Do you think my family would leave me alone to meditate in peace?

NB: Please watch the video's on how to set up your meditation pod. It's really quite entertaining. It might even make you laugh out loud, snort even.

Now my next favorite item for camping is what I will call the “Solo Silent Retreat Gear”. It's a hat for men, but women can use it too!

Description:

KOOLSOLY Fishing Hat,Sun Cap with UPF 50+ Sun Protection and Neck Flap, for Man and Women

The great thing about it is that when you put your tiara away and whip out this stylish hat, no one will know who you are, in fact, they won't know where you are either. You can go incognito around the campsite. If someone does approach you, you can pretend you are on a silent retreat and you can retreat right under the whole hat. It's just awesome! Also if you have not washed your hair (or your neck or face or cleaned your ears) no one will know and if you have halitosis breath, well those who do want to get up close will not smell it. Great right? And for $12 it's a steal!

I just loved this next item. It's just so innovative!

Description:

ENERGIZER LED Camping Lantern with Tent Fan S500 PRO, Rechargeable Camping Fan Light with Hanging Hook for Camping, Hiking, Hurricane, Emergency (USB Included)

Imagine how excited I felt finding a selfie ring light with a fan so us queens can look and feel cool while still keeping up with our social media postings in the wild. It's so innovative I tell you! I wonder if I can get one for home and use it for blowing my hair like the models and also for blowing my dress like Marilyn Monroe's. (She got millions for that photo – I'd be happy with just a few bucks from affiliate sales.) In my last blog post I suggested you buy some “S” hooks to take camping – so they would come in very useful to hang this in the tree when you doing your social media.

Conclusion

Now that you feel right at home with all the extra things to make you feel relaxed and rested, I know you cannot wait for tomorrow to see what else you can take with you to make your life easier!

You should subscribe to my newsletter so you can be the reason people at the campsite eye-roll. It's good for their eye-sight too.

How to Turn a Camping Bed into a Plush Oasis Fit for a Glamping Queen

June 4, 2023 by Kathie Aldum

After a busy day roughing it in the wild, away from the luxuries of that Hilton Hotel in the big cities, us glamping queens need to take off our tiara's and climb into our sleepy sacks. Of course, we do not need to have a crappy sleep, we need to settle into our plush oasis, as though we were in the big city close to the nail bar and coffee shops. Anyway, a girl can dream can't she?

We must adapt or climb into our cars and dash off to the Big City Hilton. Calm your nerves – I got you!

Padded Paradise

Upgrade your inflatable bed with a luxurious memory foam mattress topper. This will fit snugly onto the mattress and give you a sleep experience fit for any queen. My suggestion is that when that little Amazon van delivers your topper to your home, do not take it out the wrapper or disturb it in any way. Put it right in your own car and wait to unpack it at the campsite. If your sleeping partner knows you plan to take it with you after you open it, you may end up phoning a friend to help you bury the body. Glamping Queen, Listen to me – I have experience.

Plush Pillows Galore

Surround yourself with an assortment of soft and fluffy pillows, creating a cozy nest to rest your weary head. Pillows go everywhere. You can never have too many pillows. You need some for pretty sake, but you also need some for between the knees, under the knees, under the feet because you don't want to rest your oil massaged feet onto those luxury sheets. Who knows, if you have the inclination after a busy day, you may want one under your… lower back.

Snuggle-Worthy Bedding

Ditch the plain sleeping bag darling, and opt for Egytian Cotton high-thread-count sheets (no wrinkle of course) and a fluffy duvet to transform your sleep space into a heavenly oasis. My favorite duvets are the ones that come from Ikea – you can get light weight to heavy down duvets – just get one that makes you feel like you are in the Hilton and you will be just fine.

Twinkle Twinkle Little Lights

Hang twinkling fairy lights or string lights near your tent to create a dreamy ambiance and a whimsical atmosphere. If you need to be camping with bugs and all, at least you can have some dreamy little lights guiding you to sleepland. You also can't see the bugs in the dark when you need to go and wee. I mean if you were in the Hilton you would not need fairy lights, but it's so dark when you camping and you need to feel like there are street lights somewhere, right? If you order lights that are solar powered, be sure to put the solar panel where it gets some sun – else you are not going to have the right affect. 🙂

Portable Bedside Table

Add a small bedside table next to your bed, complete with cup holders and compartments to keep your cell phone, hair brush, breath freshener and tiara within arm's reach. If you can't find a decent one – just bring your own bedside table from home. If it fits in your own car, you can take it.

Aromatherapy Adventure

Infuse your sleeping oasis with calming scents by using a travel-sized essential oil diffuser or scented sachets. If you must be out in nature at least it can smell nice and help you relax somewhat in this rather unusual environment. I wonder why people give up the comforts of home to live in a tent and still have to pay to do that? It must have something to do with Men are from Mars book.

VIP Wake-Up Calls

Start your day with style by setting up a portable espresso machine or a personal barista and barista station right next to your plush oasis, ensuring your mornings are filled with caffeinated bliss.:)

If you have any glamping tips that are tried and tested, then please let me know and I can add them to a tips page from our readers. Who knows you may become famous.

If you enjoyed the post please share it with other queens that have to go camping too. If you didn't enjoy reading it – I don't really care 🙂

Confessions of a Glamp-Queen: How to Turn Camping Into ‘Glamping.’

June 4, 2023June 4, 2023 by Kathie Aldum

When someone suggests camping are you one of those who looks for the closest hotel to the campsite?

I am a hotel person, not a camping person. I will happily do the day things but night time is for no bugs, a comfortable bed, an airconditioned room and a wonderful bathroom with hot and cold running water. I may even like a sitcom or two.

HOWEVER I have learnt that I can enjoy it more if I make myself as comfortable as I can.

Here are some tips to take camping to glamping!

Obviously if you can do the booking – find a glamping site. Choose an option with comfortable amenities and stylish decor. If it's not an option, then these ideas will make your life much easier!

Go in your own motor vehicle. Follow the campers but take your own car. In your car you can pack anything and everything you like and need to make your trip comfortable for you! Don't cave under the pressure and go in someone with elses car. If you are not coping with the trip, you cannot leave to find the nearest hotel if you have to rely on others.
Plush bedding: Bring you luxury bedding, including soft sheets, cozy blankets, and fluffy pillows for a luxurious sleep experience. A comfortable mattress topper to put on top of your good quality inflatable bed. Don't forget the electric pump – one that does not make a huge noise and pumps quickly. I men who has time to waste on the mundane?
Comfortable camping chair: Invest in a comfortable camping chair with padded seating and back support for relaxation. Mine is amazing and I keep it in my car permanently so I always have a comfortable chair to sit in at a moments notice!
Portable camping hammock: Set up a hammock for a serene and comfortable place to lounge and enjoy nature.
Portable campfire pit: Bring a stylish and portable campfire pit that adds ambiance and warmth to the campsite.
Quality cookware: Bring high-quality pots, pans, and utensils for gourmet cooking. No one needs a fried egg that is stuck to the bottom of a rubbish fry pan!
Gourmet Utensils Use high-quality cookware and utensils for gourmet meals and culinary indulgence.
Portable espresso maker: Enjoy a cup of freshly brewed coffee with a portable espresso maker for a touch of luxury in the mornings.
Outdoor table setting: Pack elegant tableware, including beautiful plates, wine glasses, and cutlery, to elevate the dining experience.
Portable wine cooler: Keep your favorite bottle of wine chilled in a portable wine cooler to enjoy during your camping trip.
Outdoor rugs: Lay down outdoor rugs to create a comfortable and stylish space outside and inside the tent.
Soft outdoor lighting: Bring decorative string lights or lanterns to create a warm and enchanting ambiance.
Luxury toiletries: Pack high-end toiletries, including scented soaps, lotions, and beauty products, to indulge in self-care routines.
Water Wipes: Buy a few packs to leave round the campsite so you have “water” at your finger tips.
Portable Bluetooth speaker: Enjoy your favorite music or podcasts with a portable Bluetooth speaker for a personalized soundtrack.
Personalized campsite decor: Bring decorative elements such as throw pillows, blankets, and small decorative items to personalize your campsite.
Luxury camping towels: Use plush and absorbent towels for bathing or swimming to add a touch of luxury.
Outdoor lounge furniture: Consider bringing outdoor lounge chairs or a small outdoor sofa set for added comfort and relaxation.
Travel-sized luxury candles: Create a cozy and fragrant atmosphere with travel-sized luxury candles to enhance the ambiance.
Outdoor shower system: Invest in a portable camping shower system with hot water capability and a privacy tent for showering and a somewhat luxury bathing experience.
Outdoor Mat for stepping out of the shower to dry yourself and put on your shoes and clothes
Hooks: Take with some “S” hooks to hang your towel, clothes etc off the floor when you are in the shower
Fashionable Camping Attire: Pack stylish and comfortable clothing suitable for camping while reflecting your personal fashion preferences.
Outdoor entertainment: Bring your favorite books or magazines to enjoy leisurely reading. A journal to record the things you loved and didn't like and to keep your mind open and free. Bring your laptop and portable internet device so you can watch movies or sitcoms in the eveniing.
Portable Bluetooth speaker: Enjoy your favorite music or podcasts while relaxing at the campsite.
Portable shelving and storage: Take with portable shelving so you can construct a quick space to put everything out that you want. It keeps it off the ground and comfortable for you.
Bring along bug spray and lemon grass essence and put it on the shelf where you know how to find it – bugs are an absolute no no!

Camping can be fun on your own terms as long as you have the comforts of home at your finger tips. Don't listen to family and friends who belittle your glamping! They are just jealous that you planned well!

Camping Beds For Adults

June 4, 2023March 29, 2022 by Kathie Aldum

Choosing comfortable camping beds for adults can be quite an arduous process. When on vacation, busy days hiking, swimming, playing and sight seeing deserve an evening of rejuvenation and a comfortable bed to sleep on. Choosing the right camping cot or inflatable mattress can make or break a vacation.

I have slept on far too many uncomfortable beds with bars underneath that stick into you – it's just not right! If you are on the larger side of normal weight, you feel every bump and crevice. How does that make a great vacation?

That all changed when I found the Intex Dura-Beam Deluxe Comfort Plush Airbed Series with Internal Pump. There are two types of Intex Dura Beam and they are both awesome but I prefer the latest model because it is water resistant which the previous one isn't. This model is the number 2 best seller on Amazon. The top seller is the EnerPlex Queen Air Mattress.

Inflatable Camping Beds for Adults:

Intex Dura-Beam Deluxe

Buy Now

Pro's

22 Inch Height -easier to get up from
Weight limit 600 lbs
Choose your firmness
Built in Pump to inflate and deflate
Inflates in under 5 mins
Pillow top
Indented sides for sheet fitting
Dura-Beam won't dip or sag
Velvety sides and top making it more puncture resistant
PVC Plastic Material
Can be a bit slippy on the bottom
1 year warranty
Easy deflate
Carry bag

Con's

carry bag is too thin/weak to hold it long term
could inflate faster
cord isn't very long so needs to be close to a plug point

EnerPlex Queen Air Mattress

Buy Now

Pro's

18 Inch Height
Weight limit not disclosed
Choose your firmness
Water Resistant
Built in Pump to inflate and deflate
Inflates in Under 2 Mins
Designed with puncture-resistant PVC
Premium comfort top flocking to prevent leaking and provide non-slip stability
Non slip bottom
Sheet fits comfortably and “hooks” into the indents
No hassle 2 year warranty
Easy deflate
Carry bag

Con's

It does smell a bit like glue at first, but you can air it before use
There have been some complaints about it leaking, however the 2 year warranty is in place
The blue topping does create fluff on your clothes – use a sheet on top so that does not happen
The motor pump is fairly noisy – not worse than vacuuming your home and in under two minutes inflation – it's not really an issue

Click Here for Other Great Choices

There are many other inflatable camping beds for adults to choose from, these were just the top two that I have used and reviewed. I prefer the Intex Dura Beam Deluxe because it has a higher mattress, making it easier to stand up from – which is my sole reason to choose this one. It is definitely slower to inflate than the Enerplex and the Enerplex is a wonderful mattress.

Cot Style Camping Beds for Adults

Coleman Trailhead Cot

Coleman Trailhead II Cot

Buy Now

Pro's

Military style camping cot
Supports up to 300lbs
Maximum height 6 ft 2 in
foldable and portable
Weighs around 20lbs
No center crossbar so it is comfortable

Con's

The support bars are very difficult to get in place and it requires two strong adults to get it setup
The seam is not as sturdy as the frame
No side tables

Coleman Camping Cot, Air Mattress

Buy Now

Pro's

This is a cot, air mattress and pump combo
air mattress has dual air valve seals
supports up to 300lbs
Maximum height 6 ft
Weighs around 13lbs
Air mattress has a no slip sleeve
Has side tables
Cot does not require assembly – just fold out and add the air mattress
Mattress zips into the cot

Con's

Pump did not come with batteries – please buy some before going on the camping trip
Replacement air mattress is difficult to find.
Carrying case is flimsy
Mattress is noisy

Click Here for Other Great Choices

Small Camping Trailers

June 27, 2022November 24, 2021 by Kathie Aldum

Choosing Small Camping Trailers

Small Camping trailers are travel trailers that can be towed with a vehicle and provide a place to sleep, protected from the elements and the environment. Camping Trailers replace the common tent and is more comfortable. It is a sheltered way to enjoy the outdoors in temporary living accommodation.

Types of Small Camping Trailers

There are many flexible options to choose from when looking for lightweight travel trailers. We are going to explore what is available so that you can make the right choice to suit your outdoor camping needs.

Roof Top Tent Camping Trailer
Pop Up Camper Trailers
Teardrop Trailers
Lightweight Travel Trailers

Roof Top Tent Camping Trailer

The wonderful thing about having a roof top tent camper is that you can use them anywhere and anytime. There are several options to choose from and they are normally light and easy to set up and shut down.

Pros:

Convenient
Easy to setup
Choose between hard top and soft top tents
Can buy add on pieces for some tents
Safer from various forms of wildlife
Heavy duty canvas material can mostly withstand the elements and is mold resistant and waterproof for the most part
Ventilated through mesh windows should you wish for air without bugs
Easy to break down

Cons

May be more difficult to get up and down – particularly in the middle of the night
Once the rooftop tent is setup – if you need your vehicle you need to breakdown the tent – (The alternative would be to choose a trailer and set it up on the trailer)
Price – it costs more than a regular tent – you then need to weigh up the options and make your own pros and cons list
Be aware of height restrictions – particularly for your own garage
Dogs and children are not recommended in a rooftop tent

Find Rooftop Tents Here

Pop-up Camper Trailers

Pop-Up Camper Trailers

Pop-up camper trailers are a lot more affordable than purchasing an RV and other small camping trailers. They are certainly a great option because they are foldable and compact. Herewith a list of the pros and cons

Pros:

They are more costs effective than other tow type trailers
They are lightweight and convenient to tow
They feel like a tent but their support structure is more durable and safe
They are easy to setup although it will take a while to do it
They can be left at the campsite while you use your vehicle
Mesh venting for fresh air and some even have a rooftop window
Mattresses are more comfortable and the surface you sleep on is more solid
Can be stored safely in a garage and does not require specialized expense of storing
economical
Easy

Cons

The bigger the size the more the cost
Does not have a bathroom
Limited sleep capacity
More difficult to pack up but certainly worth it
Heavier than having a roof top tent – but definitely more space
Does require maintenance
Not great for inclement weather
Smaller surface area than trailers

Tear Drop Trailers

Tear Drop Trailers are perfect option if you want more than a tent and yet the convenience on sleeping on a good size mattress. They are easy to tow and require little setting up. They can be towed with most heavier cars with a tow hitch. Tear Drop Trailers may also be able to squeeze into your garage and that saves paying for storage elsewhere.

Pros

Compact
Kitchen for outdoor cooking
Economical and easy to tow
Beats staying in a tent
Comfortable camping option
Not too expensive
Can be custom designed interior

Cons

No toilet and shower
when you get up in the morning you cannot standup inside
kitchen is outdoors
heating and cooling in extreme weather is an issue
little packing space and storage
compact and can make you feel claustrophobic

Lightweight Travel Trailers

Lightweight travel trailers offer the best camping experience. They are budget friendly and comfortable offering a good mix of indoor and outdoor living. The lightweight trailer can be towed with a decent size pickup or heavier SUV.

Pros

Your trailer and your car are two separate entities and they allow you more freedom to use your vehicle while leaving your camper set up
Better than sleeping in a tent
Budget friendly
Different floor plans available
Offer protection from the elements and the wildlife
Mostly self contained
Small foot print
Economical to tow
Some Family Cars or SUV's can be used for towing
Lower insurance
Great resale value

Cons

Insulation may not adequate
Ground clearance can be an issue
Tow Hitch needs to be checked regularly
No passengers may ride in the trailer
limited storage
Takes time to setup and break down
Height restrictions need to be taken into consideration
Storage – they take up space and may not fit in a garage

Conclusion

Small Camper Trailers are a great way to get out when you want and go where you want to go. Most times you do not need to plan your camping trip too long in advance and it's definitely more cost effective than a hotel and costly eating out. The joy of getting close to nature without too many frills is a food for the camping Soul. With so many options available and plans to suit every need – by doing your research you will find an option to suit you.

Gently Used vs New Camper Trailers

When buying a camper trailer there are not too many moving parts that need to be checked and so it makes it more simple to buy a used trailer. Used trailers hold their value. If there are items that need replacing or repairing you can normally do that without a huge expense. New camping trailers often come with more updated opportunities and technical advantages and the necessary warranties which are not found when buying a used trailer. Make a list and compare your options. If that is difficult to decide, perhaps write down want you don't want/don't need and not important in a camper and that can help you with budget, type and style you should be looking at.

Whatever you do – get out and live each day – we need to do that for our own Soul food.

Best Folding Camping Chairs for Outside

June 27, 2022November 8, 2021 by Kathie Aldum

Best Folding Camping Chairs For Outdoor Recreation

Folding camping chairs come in all shapes and sizes and the ability to store them when not in use is as important as using them. There are many things to consider and my review has taken the biggest challenges about buying fold up chairs and packaging it into great results. Fold up chairs come in all shapes and sizes and her are the results of my research.

What is the Most Comfortable Folding Camping Chairs?

When you are out in your RV, tent or trailer camping, you really want to choose a camping chair that will be comfortable, relaxing and yet affordable. My research brought me to the most sold chairs, with the great safety ratings and 5 star reviews. The words common to all the top five star reviews were “sturdy” and “comfortable”. If you are looking for a solution to portable camping chairs that fold away under beds or into closets then these may be the solution for you.

#	Product	Rating
1	Outdoor Freestyle Rocker Portable Rocking Chair & Outdoor Camping ChairGCI	Sturdy and Comfortable
2	Coleman Camp Chair with 4-Can Cooler	Oversized and Durable
3	Kijaro Dual Lock Portable Camping and Sports Chair, Maldives Blue	Sturdy and High Quality

What To Look For When Buying Folding Camping Chairs

Everyone has different needs when buying a folding camping chair. However, everyone wants to be comfortable, confident in their choice of folding chairs and the chair needs to be sturdy, durable and of a high quality material. Support for your back and your weight, together with the ease of getting in and out of the chair are important points to consider, particularly when one matures.

Durable

The fabric and the structure need to be durable and easy to move around. The fabric needs to breathe so one does not get hot and sweaty when enjoying your surroundings. The framework needs to support the weight and height of the person so that the camping chair does the right job.

Support Your Lifestyle

When you are camping, it's important that you have the easy places to put your beverage down and even somewhere to store your book or cellphone if you do not have a side table handy. The chairs that I have reviewed all have some options for beverage holding and even some storage options. If it rains or you want to pack to move on, you want to be able to fold easily ready to pack away.

Easy to Store

It is important that the folding camping chair is easy to pack away and store. If it is a bulky item you have to consider where it can be stored when you are not using it. The camping chairs I have reviewed were all relatively light and easy to move around and store when not in use.

Folding Camping Chair Reviews

GCI Folding Rocking Chair

The GCI outdoor rocking chair, with a spring action shock absorber rocker, has a Mesh backrest and extra wide seat. Do buy the extra protection warranty particularly as the product has moving parts for the rocking action and could be the item that breaks.

Pro's

Easy to store
Stable yet comfortable
Large Seating
Rocking chair
supports up to 250lbs

Cons

Flimsy beverage holder
no storage for books or cellphone
check the return policy and back up service – seems challenging

Kijaro Dual Lock Portable Camping and Sports Chair, Maldives Blue

The Kijaro camp chair is a popular dual lock camping chair that comes in different styles and value pricing. It's a good idea to look at all the options that are available for a few minutes considering your options. You can get a better deal if you don't mind the color. Click Here to compare the types and color options

Pro's

Dual Lock chair
No sag seating
2 cup holders, organizer with zip & mesh pockets,
Sturdy and wide for plus size comfort
Arm supports are padded
supports up to 300lbs

Cons

Quite high off the ground if you are short it may be uncomfortable without a foot rest
They are a little more heavy to carry
Return fee policy and restocking fee.

Coleman Camping Chair with Built-in 4 Can Cooler

This Coleman Camping Chair is sturdy, durable and comfortable. It has a number of amazing reviews and is a popular choice. The chair itself has a wider seat. The armrests are adjustable and the chair is cozy and comfortable because of the cushioned seating and back.

Pro's

fully cushioned seat and back
Adjustable Arm Rests
Large Seating
Cooler box for drinks
Cup holder
supports up to 325lbs

Cons

Flimsy storage bag
The armrest was less durable than the chair and broke fairly easily
Return policy has a limited window so please use the chair for a bit before the return window closes

Folding Camping Chair FAQ's

Is there a weight limit to which camping chair I should purchase?

Yes there is a weight limit and it's important to check that when purchasing a camping chair. I have added the weight limit for those I have reviewed.

Does the chair come with a carry bag?

Yes all three options do come with a carry bag which is perfect for storing and carrying.

Conclusion

My favorite camp chair would be the Kiljaro Dual lock. I like a sturdier chair and I value that it has a double lock protection when the chair is open or closed up and ready to store. The extra weight may be a little more challenging, but I think from a comfort point of view it ticks all my boxes!