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Amira Aristeh reveals how chic camping can transform a simple campsite into a cosy, stylish retreat – without the need for expensive glamping gear.
Gone are the days of a blur of khaki and fishing gear – now, camping can be comfortable, practical and stylish. What’s even better is that you even don’t need to fill your car with expensive glamping equipment to create a campsite that feels inviting.
You don’t need expensive equipment to make your campsite look good. The easiest approach is to keep things simple and coordinated. Choose a few quality pieces rather than lots of decorations. A neutral tent, cosy bedding, comfortable chairs and warm lighting can make a big difference. You can also bring blankets or cushions from home, as long as they’re suitable for outdoor use.
With a few well-chosen pieces of chic camping gear, you can make your outdoor space feel cosy while still keeping things simple.
What do we mean by chic camping?
“Chic” camping is about combining practical camping equipment with a more stylish look. Instead of mismatched equipment, think about choosing a simple colour palette and a few quality pieces.
Say goodbye to that tent-green shade we grew up with and think about neutral colours which can be accompanied by comfortable camping chairs and cosy blankets. Depending on how invested in your camping trip you’re getting, you can look into wooden or canvas outdoor furniture – and make the atmosphere even warmer with some low-lit lanterns and picnic baskets.
The goal is simple: create a campsite that feels comfortable without taking too much equipment with you.
The best chic camping gear
A secure but stylish tent
Your tent is the most important piece of camping gear. Function is key: you need one that is waterproof, easy to put up, large enough for everyone on the trip, well-ventilated and durable.
For a stylish look, canvas bell tents and neutral-coloured tents are popular choices.
A comfortable mattress and bedding
A good night’s sleep can make a huge difference to your camping trip. A self-inflating mattress or camping bed is much more comfortable than sleeping on a mat on the ground.
But what really makes the mattress is the bedding on top of it. Add a fitted sheet, duvet, pillow and warm blanket for a cosy setup.
A cosy blanket
Blankets are great for adding cosiness to your sofa and living room aesthetic – so why would a tent be any different? Add one to your campsite: use it on your bed, over a camping chair or outside when you’re sitting around the fire.
Wool, fleece and outdoor blankets are good choices because they are warm and practical.
Stylish camping chairs
Comfortable chairs are essential if you’re planning to spend time outside your tent. Look for folding chairs that are easy to carry but still comfortable enough for relaxing.
Canvas, wooden and neutral-coloured chairs can give your campsite a more polished look, while there are also plenty of options if you’re looking for lightweight, more portable designs.
A small camping table
A folding table is useful for meals, drinks, games and storing small items. Choose a lightweight table that folds down easily so it doesn’t take up too much room in the car.
Match it to the rest of your campsite aesthetic and swap the standard metal for a wooden table – or get a storage box which transforms into a tabletop as well.
Camping kitchen essentials
You don’t need a full kitchen to enjoy good food while camping – but a few home comforts will go a long way.
Pack your enamel plates and mugs (it’s lightweight and easy to clean) to avoid feeling like you’re on an adults Duke of Edinburgh expedition, as well as a small French press or camping coffee maker so you can start the day loaded up with good caffeine. A good cooler keeps food and drinks fresh (and there are many compact ones available).
Chic camping accessories
Once you have the essentials, you can add a few small touches and useful items to have on you in the wild.
Outdoor rug
An outdoor rug can make your seating area feel more comfortable and homey. This is where you can add your personal style into things, too, such as this abstract Aegean-inspired design.
Cushions
A couple of cushions can make camping chairs much more comfortable.
Picnic basket
A picnic basket is useful for carrying food and adds a classic camping feel. This one from Marquis and Dawe will not only keep all your food in one place, but it also has two drinks holders to make the dining experience feel more elevated.
Reusable water bottle
An insulated reusable bottle is practical, keeps drinks cool and eliminates the need for disposable plastic bottles. LARQ water bottles allow you to filter your water at the click of a button.
An electric fan
Who knows what is happening with the continual heatwaves in the UK, so best to pack an electric fan for your trip. The Shark Chill Pill is the chicest cooling device out there right now – just don’t forget a power bank to charge it when you need.
Chic camping for couples
For a weekend away with your partner, focus on comfort rather than taking lots of equipment. Consider upgrading your sleeping situation to a more comfortable two-person tent, adding a double sleeping bag or duvet and a selection of warm blankets.
Remember – double up on everything such as camping chairs, as well as setting up your small folding table with lanterns and placemats to create a date night in the outdoors.
Chic camping for families
Family camping requires a little more organisation – a larger family tent, perhaps a folding table so everyone can fit round for dinner, more camping chairs… You may need to pack storage boxes to keep clothes, food and camping equipment organised, depending on the length of your trip, as well as outdoor games to keep the kids entertained (when nature fails to!)
