Some holiday gifts quickly lose their appeal, but there’s one gift that will continue to give for years to come: the gift of a memorable experience. Unlike the pairs of socks you get in your stocking each year, you can never have enough experiences in your repertoire. So, this year, before you head into a crowded store or logon to Amazon for another thing to buy, check out our reasons why glamping is the ultimate gift for the holidays.

1. Nature is healing

Studies have shown that spending time in nature can have a variety of benefits on both our physical and mental well-being. Glamping is the perfect way to get a healthy dose of fresh air and rejuvenate our minds and bodies.

2. The outdoors builds bonds

Long before socializing and entertainment happened on screens, fires were the center of communal gatherings. Today, our fire circle is a sacred part of the glampground. It’s where our guests go to not only share light and warmth, but stories and conversations. There’s no need for screens when you can connect with those around you while participating in an ancient everyday ritual: gathering around the campfire.

3. Less environmental impact

An experiential gift, rather than a material one, usually means less packaging in the landfill and far less impact through a manufacturing process. Sure, travel still has an impact on the environment but when you stay at Firelight you have the chance to offset your carbon footprint with a donation to our friends at the Finger Lakes Climate Fund. We also work hard to make our glampground eco-conscious by sourcing local products, limiting the use of electricity and encouraging our guests to utilize our recycling and composting bins.

4. There’s something for everyone to enjoy

From the rustically-inclined hiker to the more refined foodie, glamping has a wide appeal for many types of travelers. Here in Ithaca NY, we are as rich in culture as we are in gorges natural landscapes. Hike along incredible trails and find a secrete swimming spot, take a boat out on the nearly 40-mile long Cayuga lake, or hit the wine/cider/beer trail and visit restaurant row. A trip to Ithaca is a chance to both explore the land and to experience the culture influenced by it.

5. Memories last, things don’t

When you reminisce on holidays past, do you think of the presents you were given? We think mostly of the memories we made celebrating with people we love. Instead of giving something that will eventually run its course, give a memory that can last for a lifetime.

6. Anticipation of your upcoming trip will pay dividends all through the winter

The winter can make it more difficult to spend time outdoors, and having a vacation marked down on the calendar for the spring can be a great way to remind yourself of the warmth, blue skies and adventures ahead. Studies have found that planning a getaway induces excitement for the future, which makes people happier in the present. Give the gift of Firelight so someone you love can start planning a trip!

You can purchase a gift certificate to Firelight for 15% off until 12/23. Email reservations@firelightcamps.com.

Why Glamping is the Perfect Holiday Gift