What Do You Sleep In When You Go Glamping? Glamping Cottages and Comfort Choices
Ever booked a glamping cottage and thought, 'Wait, what do I actually wear to bed out here?' You're not alone. Unlike camping, glamping usually delivers way more comfort—the kind that can leave you debating whether to bring your favorite pajamas or something you wouldn’t mind posting on Instagram.
If you’ve checked into a glamping cottage before, you already know: not all setups are the same. Some spots have plush beds with all the linens, while others stick to the basics and let you bring your own creature comforts. It pays to check what your cottage offers in advance—think pillows, extra throws, and how thick those duvets really are. That info can make or break your sleep game.
- Glamping Cottages: What’s Inside?
- Picking the Right Sleepwear
- Sleep Accessories Worth Bringing
- What About Bedding and Blankets?
- Staying Comfortable in Any Weather
- Packing Tips and Must-Have Items
Glamping Cottages: What’s Inside?
If you’re picturing glamping cottages as fancy tents, you’re only halfway there. Most glamping cottages are more like cozy mini-houses than anything you’d drag out of storage for a music festival. The biggest perk? You usually get a real bed. And we’re talking mattresses with springs, proper pillows, and either crisp cotton sheets or warm fleece covers, not just a sleeping bag on the floor.
The essentials you’ll find inside do depend on the spot you book. At most UK and US sites, you’ll walk into:
- A full-size bed or even a king (you read that right), sometimes with a memory foam mattress.
- Fresh linens and extra blankets—often included, but double-check if you're expected to bring your own, especially off-season.
- Heating or air-con units, electric outlets, and soft lighting—no stumbling around with a torch at midnight.
- A desk, chair, or sitting area for downtime, in case you want to read or work (or just snack in peace).
- Some have en-suite bathrooms; others offer a shared bathhouse just a short walk away.
Here’s a quick rundown of what some popular glamping cottages usually include:
| Standard Features | Common Variations |
|---|---|
| Proper beds & bedding | Extra throws, themed décor |
| Heating/cooling | Fireplaces or fans |
| Bathroom access | Indoor bathrooms or private outdoor showers |
| Seating area | Hammocks, bean bags |
| Lighting & power | USB charging ports |
If it’s your first time, always ask the host what’s included. Some places give you fluffy robes and slippers (not a joke), but others expect you to BYOB—bring your own blanket. Checking ahead saves you from freezing at night or desperately rolling up your sweater as a pillow.
Picking the Right Sleepwear
When it comes to glamping sleepwear, comfort is the whole point—but high style usually sneaks onto the list, too. The best sleeping clothes for a glamping cottage depend on where you’re going and what season it is. If you’re heading into the woods in spring or fall, plan for some chilly nights even if your cottage has heat. Summer glamping? You’ll probably want light, breezy options.
You really can’t go wrong with:
- Softer, stretchy pajamas for cozy sleeping (cotton is popular, but bamboo or modal feel great, too).
- A pair of leggings and a loose T-shirt—they double as comfy lounge wear for the whole trip.
- Thermal tops and bottoms if temps are dropping below 50°F at night—especially in mountain areas.
- Wool socks if you’re the “my feet get cold at night” type. Slipping on thick socks is basically a glamping hack for instant warmth.
- If your glamping cottage has AC or heat, go for something light that won’t leave you sweating or shivering if the indoor temp changes overnight.
Skip bulky pajamas with lots of buttons, ties, or anything that’ll get bunched up if you need to make a quick run outside (like, say, for a midnight bathroom trip to the bathhouse). No shame in picking something you’d want to be seen in if you end up having a s’mores session by the fire with your neighbors.
Fun fact: According to a 2023 glamping report, about 62% of glampers said they pack sleepwear they wouldn’t usually wear at home—think new PJs with fun prints or matching sets, just for the trip photos. So, don’t be surprised if your friends show up with coordinated pajama looks.
Got sensitive skin or allergies? Look for labels that say “hypoallergenic” or go for natural materials. Cotton, bamboo, and silk all keep things breathable and skin-friendly.
Sleep Accessories Worth Bringing
When you’re setting up for a solid night’s rest in a glamping cottage, it’s not just about the pajamas. Accessories can make a huge difference, especially if you want that homey sleep vibe. Some glamping cottages provide bedding, but often it’s pretty basic—think thin pillows or just standard sheets. If you’re picky about your sleep, you’ll want to pack a few extras.
Start with your own pillow if you’re particular. A familiar pillow beats a lumpy rental one every time. Throw in an eye mask for those early sunrises or bright moonlit nights—these cottages really let in the light. Earplugs can be a lifesaver, especially if you’re in a spot where the forest doesn’t sleep (hello, owls and early-morning birds).
Let’s talk blankets. Even if your glamping cottage promises heating, temperatures can dip suddenly, or maybe you just want the comfort of that fluffy throw from home. A lightweight, packable blanket or even a travel sleeping bag liner adds a warm layer without taking up much space in your bag. During warmer months, a breathable cotton sheet can keep sweat at bay and still feel cozy.
- Headlamp or Mini Flashlight: If you want to read before sleeping or find your way to the bathroom at night without stumbling, this is a must.
- Rechargeable Fan: For summer glamping, a portable fan can be a game-changer if AC is weak or nonexistent.
- Portable White Noise Machine: Perfect for drowning out those midnight noises and creating that familiar home hum, especially if you’re a city sleeper.
- Water Bottle with Lid: Hydration matters, and a spill-proof bottle means no worries about soaking your phone or gear during the night.
If you love stats, a 2023 glamping survey showed 61% of glampers bring at least one personal comfort item from home, and the top pick is a favorite blanket.
Bottom line: Packing a few well-chosen sleep accessories can take your glamping experience from decent to "I slept like a baby." Check what’s provided at your glamping cottage, then fill in the gaps for your own personal comfort.
What About Bedding and Blankets?
Bedding can really be hit or miss in glamping cottages. Some places pile on soft duvets and cute throws, almost like a boutique hotel. Others go for basic sheets and a single, thin blanket. To avoid surprises, check the cottage listing or ask your host directly what’s included in your glamping package. It helps to know—right down to the number of pillows and the thickness of the comforter. Trust me, nobody likes freezing in a cabin with just a thin sheet in early spring.
If your spot doesn’t spell things out, play it safe and pack backup options. Most seasoned glamping fans recommend these must-haves:
- A warm, lightweight sleeping bag (even if there’s a bed—sometimes you just need an extra layer)
- An extra blanket or packable throw (fleece is lightweight and insulates well)
- Your own pillow if you’re picky or sensitive to detergents
Worried about temperature swings at night? Some glamping cottages provide heated mattress pads or electric blankets. These are awesome for off-season trips, especially in places like the Scottish Highlands or mountain states in the U.S., where temperatures can dip close to freezing even in April. According to a 2024 survey from Glamping Hub, 48% of guests say "good bedding" is what sets glamping apart from regular camping.
Don't forget about allergies. If you’re sensitive, bring a zippered pillow protector or your own fitted sheet. It’s an easy way to sleep better and avoid sneezing all night.
Here’s a quick rundown of what amenities you’ll usually find in a glamping cottage versus what you might want to bring:
| Amenity | Usually Provided | Recommended to Bring |
|---|---|---|
| Sheets | ✔️ | If you’re sensitive or unsure |
| Pillows | ✔️ | Your preferred type |
| Duvets/Blankets | ✔️ (often) | Extra blanket in cold weather |
| Sleeping Bags | ❌ | For added warmth |
| Heated Electric Blanket | Sometimes | Rarely needed but nice |
Staying Comfortable in Any Weather
Weather can flip in a heartbeat, and nothing ruins glamping faster than shivering or sweating all night. Glamping cottages are usually better insulated than tents, but don’t count on them handling every temperature swing. Always check if your cottage has heating or air conditioning. Some have fancy minisplits or electric fireplaces, others might just have a small heater or fan. Don’t just assume—ask before you go, especially if you’re glamping off the grid.
If you’re glamping somewhere with chilly nights (think fall in the UK or anywhere above 1,000 feet elevation), pack layers. Thermal leggings and a long sleeve tee work way better than bulky pajamas. Slip socks on before bed—wool’s great—and stash a hoodie nearby just in case. According to research published in the Sleep Health journal, folks who wear socks to bed nod off faster thanks to better temperature regulation.
On the flip side, if you’re looking at warm, sticky weather—like late summer in the South—go for lightweight, breathable sleepwear. Cotton or moisture-wicking fabrics help, and a lot of glampers swear by sleeping with a cold, damp washcloth on their forehead if there’s no AC. Keep the windows open (if your cottage has screens) to let that night breeze do its thing, but zip them up in the morning to keep bugs out.
| Weather | Best Sleepwear | Essential Extras |
|---|---|---|
| Cold (below 50°F/10°C) | Thermal PJs, wool socks | Hot water bottle, extra blanket |
| Warm (above 65°F/18°C) | Cotton shorts & tee | Portable fan, bug spray |
Some glamping cottages get damp when it rains, so bring a quick-dry travel towel and use a liner for your pillow if it feels humid. If you’re really serious about sleep, a portable white noise machine comes in clutch for both stormy nights and those random countryside critter sounds.
‘It’s all about layers and options. The weather never follows the script, so you’ve got to be ready for anything,’ says Sarah Volker, owner of Willow Creek Glamping Retreat.
Lastly, don’t forget a flashlight or headlamp so you’re not fumbling around if you’ve got to get up at 3 a.m. That’s a quick and easy win for comfort, in any season.
Packing Tips and Must-Have Items
Packing for a night or two in a glamping cottage isn’t as simple as tossing a t-shirt into your bag, but you also don’t need to prep for Everest. The goal is to balance comfort with practicality, especially since weather and cottage style can surprise you. Here are some tips to help you pack like you’ve glamped a hundred times before.
- Check the amenities list first. Not every glamping cottage provides linens or towels. A quick look at the booking site saves space in your bag and avoids some eye-roll moments at check-in.
- Pack sleepwear for temperature swings. Even in summer, rural getaways can mean chilly nights. Bring both lightweight PJs and an extra pair of cozy socks or a hoodie just in case.
- Bring a beanie or sleep mask. A beanie keeps you toasty if temperatures drop, while a sleep mask is handy since window coverings in cottages aren’t always blackout level.
- Shoes you can slip on and off. Cottage bathrooms might be outside or down the hall. Slides or rubber flip-flops are perfect for those middle-of-the-night bathroom trips.
- A personal pillow. Even if pillows are listed as included, nothing beats your own for a good night’s sleep (some glampers swear by their “travel pillow” for trips just like these).
- Flashlight or headlamp. Electric lighting in glamping cottages can be quirky. Pack a headlamp in case you need to head outside at night—and don’t trust your phone’s battery alone.
- Bug spray and wipes. Some cottages are near water or woods, so mosquitos can crash your chill time. A small travel spray or wipes barely take up space.
Packing for pets? Most glamping cottages are pet-friendly, but call ahead on rules. Bring favorite blankets, bowls, and maybe a backup leash. Over half of glampers actually bring their pets along, and the ones who pack a dedicated pet bed always look more relaxed in the morning.
Here’s a quick reference table glampers find helpful when packing:
| Item | Why Bring It? |
|---|---|
| Layered Pajamas | Comfort for shifting temperatures |
| Slip-on Shoes | Late-night bathroom visits and quick outdoor steps |
| Personal Pillow | Better, familiar sleep |
| Headlamp/Flashlight | Lights can be unreliable or outdoorsy |
| Bug Spray | Mosquitoes, especially near water/woods |
| Sleep Mask/Beanie | Brightness and cold control |
Of course, toss in the basics: toothbrush, phone charger, and a reusable water bottle. Sticking to these essentials means you’re comfy without overpacking. You’ll be resting easy and Instagram-ready—whatever Mother Nature decides.