Traveling is not just about sightseeing, it's also about experiencing the natural beauty that the world has to offer. And what better way to do that than by camping or glamping? These outdoor experiences allow you to connect with nature, unwind from the hustle and bustle of daily life, and create unforgettable memories.
Today on Cozy Cabin Chats, we are heading to Peabody, Massachusetts, to introduce you to Beth and Eric from VintageGlampers. I started following their Instagram page last fall because I was fascinated by their 1968 Vintage camper and 1979 Jeep Wagoneer.
The campers from the past were undeniably cool! Their designs were carefully thought out, and they came in a wide range of body shapes, each with its own unique personality. However, in today's world, we seem to have shifted our focus towards bigger and boxier campers, who lack the charm and character of their vintage counterparts.
It's incredible how Beth and Eric have restored these vintage items while keeping their original beauty intact and giving them a modern touch.
Join Beth and Eric as they take you on a journey through the best destinations to visit in New England. You'll also get an exclusive look at their beautifully renovated camper and learn how they brought it back to life.
Tell us about yourselves! And why did you decide to renovate a vintage camper?
Eric and I met 9 1/2 years ago. Right before we met, I had purchased this vintage camper with my dad, thinking it would be a nice distraction in my newly single life. But when I met Eric, he not only fell in love with me but also with this beat-up camper I had, and we decided to spend the first year of our relationship restoring it together.
When did you start renovating your vintage camper?
Spring 2015
What was the biggest challenge when renovating the camper?
“The biggest challenge for us was maintaining the original footprint of the camper while trying to modernize it. We had to strike a balance between functionality and, of course, safety!”
We wanted to add an air conditioner, and we had seen it done in our model camper many different ways, but it involved it going in places that weren’t aesthetically ideal. So, we chose it to go beneath the refrigerator, which meant that we had to sacrifice the size of our refrigerator. We got the best of both worlds, and it looks great!
What is your favorite feature of your camper?
That’s a tough one! I would have to say the smart TV Eric installed near our bed. It lies flat against the wall but can be pulled out so we can watch TV while we are in bed.
💭The attention to detail in their camper's design is something that I appreciate, especially the consistent use of neutral colors. It's crucial to choose decor and colors that can make the most of a small space and create the illusion of more room. Your camper and decor look fantastic!
If you're interested in finding bed and bath pieces with a more neutral decor, please look at our roundup!
What made you use social media to share your life on the road?
It started as a fun way to showcase this renovation we were doing on our camper, and it has just evolved into sharing our overall lifestyle.
Do you rent out your vintage camper for photoshoots? If so, where can we find information about that?
We do! We rent our 1968 Vintage camper and 1979 Jeep Wagoneer. You can head to our website to find out more.
💭This is excellent news! It seems that more and more individuals and businesses are changing how they approach photography. Instead of opting for the traditional, cookie-cutter studio shoots and bland backdrops, they're looking for unique and memorable experiences that capture their personality, style, and brand.
Whether for personal, business, or product branding, people seek photography that stands out and tells their story. And let's not forget the joy of capturing moments with loved ones—family photos are always a treasure to cherish!
Are you seeking a creative photographer based in New England to capture your perfect outdoor shoot? Look no further than Katie Kelley, our trusted friend and photographer!
What are your camping plans for this upcoming season?
We travel around New England as we typically do each season, and we are camping a lot in Maine and New Hampshire.
When traveling with your camper, what is your farthest distance?
We have gone as far as Tennessee but typically like to keep our travels within a few hours!
We would like to know if you prefer a busy or more relaxed and spontaneous itinerary while traveling with Eric.
We like a mix! We love days when we are on-site, at the campground, going with the flow. On other days, we want to explore the town and surrounding area.
If we are in a new place, we do some research beforehand to see the "must-see" places!
What does your ideal weekend look like during the summer?
Our perfect weekend would be heading on a weekend adventure in the camper, coming home on a Sunday, and spending the afternoon cruising in the Jeep.
“We are so lucky to live near some amazing coastal towns like Ipswich, Rockport, and Gloucester!”
What does your ideal weekend look like during the winter?
Our perfect winter weekend would be enjoying a nice dinner out one of the nights and enjoying a nice relaxing night at home the other night, either entertaining or just the two of us!
Could you please share your favorite travel destination? I would love to hear about the place you enjoyed the most during your travels.
One of our favorite New England travel spots is Bayley's Camping Resort in Scarborough, Maine. It is such a beautiful campground with excellent amenities. It's also close to some fantastic bike trails, rivers to kayak, the beach, and downtown.
Looking for a fun day trip from Boston? Visit Scarborough's website, which lists events and places to visit!
What are your favorite things to do while traveling?
Our favorite thing to do is simply explore! We love trying new things when camping, whether it's something as simple as a new recipe or outdoor activity!
“If we are in a new town we really love seeing what that town has to offer.”
If you could recommend one place in New England for your readers to visit, where would it be? and why?
That is so tough! Make sure to drive the coastal route from Salem to Gloucester- it brings you through some fantastic coastal towns with scenic views.
If you want to go camping, head to Bayley's Camping Resort in Scarborough, Maine.
💭If you don't have a trailer or prefer not to tent camp, Bayley's Camping Resort offers Maine-made cabins for rent! It's the perfect way to experience the best of both worlds - giving you the feeling of back-to-nature camping but with all the comforts of home.
After a day at the beach, hanging by the pool, or sitting around a campfire, you can enjoy the peaceful luxuries our cabins have to offer. To make your stay convenient, each cabin is set up and ready for your vacation to begin.
Do you have go-to road trip snacks that you love?
It would not be a camping trip without popcorn!
Need a few more recommendations? Check out our list of top 10 delicious and easy travel snacks you can enjoy on your next adventure.
How important is it for you and Eric to get out into nature? What are your favorite outdoor activities?
We need to get out in nature. We love riding our bikes and kayaking—both of us can incorporate Lola into it!
It's date night! Share with our readers what you are planning and where you are going?!
If it's a date night camping, we make a nice meal, have wine, and sit by the fire! If we are home, we will most likely head to Salem, Massachusetts, and go to one of our favorite restaurants, like Ledger.
💭 Try out these fun springtime date ideas and make the most of the beautiful season.
Is there anything else you would like us to know or what to share with our audience?
We love having people follow along on our adventures, and if you want to join in, you can find us on Instagram @vintageglampers
I was so excited that Beth accepted our invitation to join the Cozy Cabin Chat. Her contagious enthusiasm, imaginative ideas for interior decor, and how she incorporates wanderlust into her everyday life with Eric are truly inspiring!
I firmly believe that it is crucial to recognize and appreciate the numerous ways we can explore and find serenity in nature. I strongly encourage everyone to consider adding camping and glamping to their travel bucket list. Nothing is more refreshing and rejuvenating than spending quality time amidst the great outdoors.