10 magical camping alternatives kids will love
Why camp when you can glamp? From yurts to castles to cabooses, these one-of-a-kind vacation rentals let you skip the tent.
1. Yurt
This Mongolian-style yurt on Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia was built and painted by hand by Mongolian families. Little ones will love being on the water where they can spot moose and eagles. From $187/night, glampinghub.com
2. Airstream
Treat your family to a blast from the past with a night in this vintage airstream located on the grounds of Northridge Inn and Resort. Guests will also have access to resort amenities, including a restaurant, bar and large private beach. From $220/night, airbnb.ca
3. Pipe
Why have your own room when you can have your own pipe? Kids will get a kick out of this bizarre holiday rental just outside of Mexico City. Each length of construction pipe contains a queen-size bed, desk light, fan, and under-bed storage. From $39/night, glampinghub.com
4. Airplane
Up, up and away! Tiny jetsetters will literally feel like they’re soaring through the air on this 1965 Boeing 727 airframe. Tucked into the jungles of Manuel Antonio in Costa Rica, the plane features two air conditioned bedrooms, two bathrooms, a kitchenette, an ocean view terrace and a private entrance up a river rock. From $841/night, glampinghub.com
5. Shipping container
This spacious holiday rental isn’t just cool to look at—it also has a colourful layout and is situated right on the beach about an hour north of Lisbon. Small but mighty, this container has everything you need for a relaxing family holiday. From $59/night, glampinghub.com
6. Truck
Does your kid like trucks? We’re going to bet they’ll love the idea of sleeping in one! Families will have to get cozy in the back of this open-air cabin with fold out deck and a wood-burning stove. From $84/night, glampinghub.com
7. Castle
Enchant your tiny princes and princesses with a night in a real 15th century medieval castle. While the kids explore all the nooks and crannies of the watchtower, parents can sample the rich Burgundy wines the region is known for. From $333/night, glampinghub.com
8. Caboose
All aboard! Choo-choose this as your next family getaway and your kids won't be able to contain their excitement. Built between 1882 and 1886, the Victorian Train Carriage is tucked away in an orchard in the Glasshouse Mountains of Australia. From $212/night, glampinghub.com
9. Oasis
Easily among Parks Canada's most unusual-looking accommodations, this tear-shaped hatch (located at Point Wolfe campground in Fundy National Park) looks futuristic. It provides sleeping for two (three, if you're willing to squish) and that's about it—there's no heat or lighting and it's BYO sleeping bag. From $120/night. pc.gc.ca
10. Glamping pod
Near the picturesque Campbell River in B.C., families can tuck away in a cozy pod outfitted with a private bedroom, spacious bathroom (with a shower and a two-person 70-jet hydro spa tub!) and a living room, which can be converted into a kids space. From $202/night, glampinghub.com
Read more:
13 hotel rooms that will blow your kids’ minds
19 magical Airbnb rentals for families
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Simone Olivero is a Toronto-based writer and editor specializing in lifestyle editorial including travel, home décor, beauty and food. Her work has also been published in print and online publications like Toronto Life, Chatelaine, The Toronto Star, CBC Travel, Yahoo! Canada and more. She was previously a senior editor at Today’s Parent and is currently the managing editor at House & Home.