While traditional tents can be fun, a yurt tent offers a unique and spacious alternative that is perfect for comfortable family vacations and retreats in the great outdoors.
Originating from the nomadic cultures of Central Asia in areas like Mongolia, yurt tents continue to be celebrated for their durability in a range of weather conditions.
Yurts are becoming increasingly popular among glampers who seek a blend of comfort and adventure.
Basic Yurt Setup Notes:
Planning ahead to choose your location is essential to ensure that there are no unforeseen circumstances that can derail your camping trip.
Choose a flat, elevated site away from water sources to avoid flooding. Additionally, consider the orientation of the door in relation to prevailing winds to minimize drafts.
Generally, for a medium-sized portable yurt (around 16-20 feet in diameter), setup by an experienced person or team can take as little as 30 minutes to 3 hours. Larger yurts or those with more complex features (like additional rooms, stoves, or customizations) may take longer, potentially up to 4-6 hours or more.
Semi-permanent or permanent yurt tents set up for off-grid living, or as a tiny home, can range anywhere from a couple of days to a week or more. The timeframe will depend on how much of the platform and yurt is DIY or pre-built, as well as the number of your crew.
Whether you are looking for a permanent, semi-permanent, or portable yurt tent, we’ve got you covered.
Here are three yurt tent ideas filled with hacks, tricks and recommendations that will be useful on your next glamping trip.
1. Fully Portable Yurt Tent for Luxury Glamping
Buying a fully portable yurt tent for glamping involves maintaining a representation of traditional yurts, while offering the convenience and mobility required for multiple outdoor adventures. A well-designed portable yurt tent, even for glamping, can often be set up in under one hour.
Portability is most important for campers who prefer to stay on the move to optimize their time, while also saving a great deal of money.
Tips, Tricks and Hacks for a Luxury Portable Yurt Tent
Lightweight and Durable Materials – Lightweight yet durable materials are key for your portable yurt tent.
- Lightweight fabrics such as polyester or nylon are easier to transport and set up compared to heavier canvas options. This principle applies for all ultralight backpacking tents.
- Ensure the materials are also weather-resistant for durability in various climates.
- Fabrics should be treated with repelling agents for UV, mold, water and rot.
Quick Setup and Design Mechanisms – Invest in yurt tents with innovative time-saving mechanisms.
- Telescopic poles or quick-release connectors to streamline assembly, allowing efficient setup without the need for specialized tools. Fabric, poles, stakes, and accessories should fit into a compact carrying case or storage bag. This ensures ease of transportation in vehicles and even on foot for shorter distances.
- Interlocking parts or a collapsible frame system to simplify setup without compromising structural integrity. This feature is crucial for quick deployment and packing up when moving from one campsite to another.
- Interior space filled with multi-functional furniture and storage solutions. Folding beds, modular seating arrangements, and collapsible storage units optimize space without compromising comfort. This flexibility enhances the glamping experience by creating a cozy and organized living space.
Pro Tips
Elevated Flooring: Consider using an elevated platform or flooring system inside your yurt tent. This not only provides a level surface for sleeping and lounging but also helps in keeping the interior clean and dry, especially in damp or muddy conditions.
Maintenance and Storage: Regularly maintain and clean your portable yurt tent to prolong its lifespan and performance.
Whether you’re exploring remote landscapes or enjoying curated camping sites, a well-designed portable yurt enhances comfort, convenience, and overall enjoyment of outdoor adventures.
Luxury Portable Yurt Tent Recommendation
Boutique Camping – Luna Bell Tent
The Luna Bell Tent by Boutique Camping stands out as a premium offering in the realm of glamping.
Designed for those seeking both luxury and practicality, this tent combines aesthetic appeal with functional features to create a comfortable living space in various outdoor settings.
Features
Materials and Construction: The Luna Bell Tent is crafted from high-quality 100% cotton canvas, known for its durability and breathability. Excellent insulation keeps the interior cool in hot weather and warm during cooler nights. All fabrics have been treated with a repelling agent for water, UV, mold and rot. Available in multiple sizes (from 4m to 7m in diameter) for ample sleeping and lounging space. The center height of up to 3m allows most adults to stand comfortably inside, enhancing overall comfort.
Easy Setup: The Luna Bell Tent is relatively easy to pitch, aided by sturdy center poles and guy ropes for stability. It can be set up by two people within 20-30 minutes, making it suitable for weekend getaways and longer camping trips alike. A rubber mallet, carry bag, pegs and a spares bag are all included.
Ventilation and Windows: The tent is equipped with multiple windows and vents, strategically placed to optimize airflow and reduce condensation. Mesh screens on windows keep insects out while allowing fresh air to circulate freely.
Unique Features: Zippable groundsheet allows you to roll up the sides on warm days, as well as gain a closer connection with nature. Access point for electrical hook up, internal pockets, and a center pole with loop for attaching optional chandelier or inner tent. Integrated stove hole and flap, doorway canopy overhang and mesh doors/windows for ventilation and a bug-free experience.
Why It’s Great for Glamping
With its spacious design, durable canvas construction, and thoughtful features like zippable groundsheet and ample ventilation, this tent caters to both casual campers and serious glampers alike.
While it comes at a premium price within the portable glamping space, it is still far cheaper than semi-permanent and permanent yurt tent options.
Setup Tutorial
2. The Classic Yurt Tent
The wooden framework, often made of lattice walls and radial rafters, provides a robust skeleton that can support heavy canvas or felt coverings.
A classic yurt tent offers a circular design that feels more open and social, providing a welcoming atmosphere.
Tips, Tricks and Hacks for a Classic Yurt Tent
Strategic Layout – A well-planned and organized yurt tent pays dividends with efficiency. Your family saves time, while being able to bring all the gear and goodies they need.
- Place sleeping areas towards the perimeter and use the central area for communal activities. This layout trick not only maximizes space but also creates a cozy, intimate setting.
- One of the most valuable hacks is to incorporate modular furniture. Folding tables and collapsible chairs can save space and keep the interior organized.
- Keep belongings tidy and accessible. Ensure you have ample storage solutions, such as hanging organizers, storage straps and under-bed storage bins in addition to stackable storage bins.
Improve Ventilation and Comfort – A physically uncomfortable yurt camping trip can make it much more difficult and stressful for the entire family.
- A key trick for spring and summer is to open the roof dome, not only side windows, to promote cross-airflow. This will maintain a comfortable temperature and reduce condensation.
- Use breathable, weather-resistant materials for both the yurt fabric and additional coverings.
- Add a few fans or a portable heater in fall and winter to maintain a comfortable temperature.
Personalize with Practical Touches – Personalizing your yurt tent with practical touches makes it feel like a home away from home.
- Use colorful rugs and cushions to add comfort and style, and designate a small area for a family activity corner with games, books, and craft supplies.
- String up battery-operated fairy lights to create an inviting atmosphere. Solar-powered lanterns are a great hack that also eliminates the need for electrical hookups.
- Bring along board games for family fun, and don’t forget the essential kitchen setup for easy meal preparations.
By following these tips, tricks and hacks, your yurt tent will become more than just a shelter—it will be a delightful new home.
Yurt Recommendation
Pacific Yurts Classic Glamping Yurt – (Permanent, Semi-permanent)
Overview
Pacific Yurts is a pioneer in the modern yurt industry. Their Classic Glamping Yurt is renowned for its durability, elegance, and versatility. It’s an ideal choice for those looking to combine the rustic charm of camping with the comforts of a luxurious retreat.
Features
Durable Materials: Constructed with high-quality, weather-resistant materials including a robust frame and heavy-duty fabric cover.
Spacious Interior: Available in various sizes, offering ample living space for beds, furniture, and even a small kitchenette.
Natural Light: Includes a central skylight dome that can be opened for ventilation and stargazing.
Customization Options: Offers numerous customization options such as insulation, windows, and doors to suit different climates and preferences.
Why It’s Great for Glamping
The Pacific Yurt’s versatility and customizable options, plus 3D-design option make it an excellent choice for glamping.
The central skylight dome allows natural light to flood the space during the day and offers a breathtaking view of the night sky, while providing ample ventilation.
This yurt can be tailored to meet your needs, whether you want a cozy retreat for two or a spacious family abode.
See a typical pickup and transport
3. Eco-Friendly Yurt Tent
For environmentally conscious families, eco-friendly yurt tents are an excellent option.
These tents are made from sustainable materials such as organic cotton, bamboo, and recycled fabrics.
They often come with additional features like solar panels and rainwater collection systems.
Camping in an eco-friendly yurt tent allows your family to enjoy nature while also protecting it. It’s a great way to teach kids about sustainability and the importance of preserving our planet.
In addition to the basic guidelines for the classic yurt, there are additional considerations to ensure that your eco-friendly yurt tent is up to the latest standards.
Tips, Tricks and Hacks for an Eco-Friendly Yurt Tent
Building Materials – First and foremost, when choosing an eco-friendly yurt, look for materials that are sustainably sourced.
- Opt for a yurt made from organic cotton canvas or recycled polyester for the outer shell. These materials are not only durable but also reduce the ecological footprint.
- The frame should ideally be made from bamboo or reclaimed wood, both of which are renewable resources.
- Ensure the yurt is treated with non-toxic, water-based sealants to enhance its durability without compromising environmental safety.
Lighting – Most eco-friendly yurt tents are designed to maximize natural light, which is a great starting point.
- Use solar-powered lanterns and chargers. Solar lights charge during the day and provide light at night without drawing on grid electricity. They can be standalone units or integrated into the electrical system.
- LED bulbs use significantly less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs. They last much longer and are available in various colors and brightness levels.
- For a rustic and eco-friendly ambiance, use candles made from natural materials like beeswax or soy wax to provide soft lighting.
Leave No Trace – Follow cornerstone principles by cleaning up all waste and minimizing your impact on the environment.
- Bring biodegradable soap and other eco-friendly cleaning supplies.
- Select a campsite that adheres to Leave No Trace principles.
- Position the yurt on a flat, well-drained area to minimize soil disruption.
- Use eco-friendly ground tarps and mats to protect the ground flora and fauna.
- Insulate the yurt with natural wool or hemp.
- Set up a rainwater harvesting system to collect and utilize water efficiently.
- A portable, solar-powered stove can be a fantastic way to prepare meals while reducing carbon emissions. One of these backpacking stoves are also lightweight and efficient.
- Finally, educate your family on the importance of reducing waste by composting food scraps and using biodegradable toiletries.
Yurt Recommendation
Groovy Yurts Mongolian Yurt – (Permanent, Semi-permanent)
Features
Authentic: Traditional Mongolian yurt (ger) handcrafted by a Mongolian family under Fair Trade principles.
Spacious Interior: High central dome for added family space and comfort.
Ventilation and Light: Central opening at the top (toono) for ventilation and natural light that can be covered during inclement weather.
Why It’s Great for Glamping
The Groovy Yurts Mongolian Yurt (Ger) provides an authentic design, combined with sustainable materials and excellent insulation, offering a comfortable and unique camping environment in all weather conditions.
This is the most appealing choice for families looking to immerse themselves in a distinctive cultural camping experience.
And it’s also suitable as a Tiny Home for the ultimate in sustainable living!
Can’t afford to buy a yurt right now? Consider renting a glamping tent.
Read More:
- RV and Van Life Safety Tips to Keep You and Your Vehicle Secure
- Why Glamping is a Great Option for Families with Young Kids
- Shelter Building for Campers: How to Build a Lean-to and Other Simple Survival Shelters
- Solar Camping Gear: Unlimited Power Essentials for Off-Grid Adventures
- Van Life on a Budget: How to Save Money on the Road
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