Disconnecting from the busyness of day-to-day life and spending time in nature is one of the most rewarding ways to spend your free time, and many choose to do so by camping. Whether you wish to hike, fish, bike, canoe, or just sit back and relax, the first step to putting together the perfect camping trip is deciding what type of experience you prefer; the traditionally barebones tent camping experience, or the more comfortable and amenity-filled cabin experience. Both offer their own unique advantages, but which is better – tents, or cabins?
Modern tent camping is a continuation of a tradition as old as humanity itself. For millennia we have been sleeping under the stars, and in cases when the weather was particularly uncooperative, under makeshift shelters. These shelters were often basic, made out of common resources such as animal hide and sticks, and could be quickly set up and taken down. The tradition of tent camping has been passed down across generations, and some still see tent camping as the only true form of camping, even today. There are many others, however, who are embracing the cabin experience. Let’s take a look at what sets them apart:
- Closeness to Nature
- Affordability
- Unparalleled Flexibility
Closeness to Nature
Aside from sleeping on the ground, there’s no better way to feel a connection to nature while camping than staying in a tent, and it also provides more comfort. Tents provide a barrier between you and your surroundings, though it’s as minimal as it gets. Cabins, on the other hand, are a bit more insulated from the nature around them. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Some people prefer a zipper, and some prefer a locked door when it comes to separating themselves from curious critters.
Affordability and Comfort
Tent camping is amongst the most inexpensive ways to stay relatively safe and comfortable when sleeping outdoors. A tent is a great investment for the camper looking to keep costs down. However, there are trade-offs. A cabin can provide an indoor fireplace, cook surface, bathroom, and hot water amongst other comforting amenities, whereas a tent simply can not.
Unparalleled Flexibility
A clear advantage to tent camping is that there is no commitment to a given location. It is far easier to move a tent from one place to another than it is to move a cabin. This again is a point of personal preference. Some people love the adventure and convenience that tent camping allows them, while others are happy to stay settled in one place, with an increased level of comfort.
So, Tents vs. Cabins -Which is Better?
As with many things, camping has evolved more in the last century than it did throughout the rest of human history. With new camping “essentials” being invented every year, the conversation around what makes for an authentic and convenient camping experience has become muddled. When it comes to determining which is better, tents or cabins, the answer is actually quite simple. Camping experiences, much like people, are unique. While there are pros and cons to tents, cabins, and any other form of camping out there, what really matters is that camping is one of the last great methods to disconnect with society, and reconnect with yourself.
If you’re looking for a fun new way to do just that, take a look at our unique camping experiences, offering everything from cabins to domes, to big oak tents.