We’re not campers. Not even close. We’ve chalet’d. We’ve glamped. We’ve booked places with proper bathrooms and Wi-Fi passwords. Camping? Not for us, thanks.

Of course, it didn’t help that our dearest friends’ are avid campers. One couple swears by their rooftop tent. The other rolls around in an Invader Duo like a couple of bush-bound rockstars.

Less than a year ago, four couples (including us) gathered in Slanghoek for a camping weekend. We’d booked a glamping tent to try “meet the vibe halfway.” It turned out to be… well, let’s say freezing vintage rustic. Within 5 minutes we’d tapped out and paid in for a chalet upgrade. It was basic—but it had four walls, a roof and, crucially, a proper loo. That would do, thanks.

Fast-forward to April.

After deep research (the kind that involves spreadsheets, forums, and camping YouTube channels we swore we’d never watch), we found ourselves hiring a Mobilodge Continental from Anton at MobiRental (072 494 0442) and booking a weekend at Franschhoek Camping (082 959 5836).

We’d even done a due diligence site visit with Kobus and Alex (true gems), inspecting the Mobilodge (which is centrally stored in Paarden Eiland) like we were buying a house—not a holiday.

And honestly? It was magic. Here’s why we think even camping sceptics like us might fall for it:

Camping Lets You Unplug… Whether You Like It or Not

Camping is the original digital detox. No emails. No pings. Just birdsong (and, OK, the occasional rooster at 5am who clearly didn’t get the memo about sleeping in). With the Mobilodge Continental, you get to be in nature without sacrificing your spine, sanity, or sleep. There’s no groundsheet to fumble with or tent pegs to argue over—just fresh air and a well set out and planned Mobi Hotel on wheels.

Mobilodge = All the Cosiness, None of the Fuss

You know what’s miles better than a tent? Plot 9 and 10 at Franschhoek Camping, which come with private, modern bathrooms. Yes—your own shower, space to change, and not even a whiff of awful Jeyes Fluid in sight. The team at Franschhoek Camping were professional and organised and it was the perfect location for our maiden voyage. Add the comfy Mobilodge with the cosy bed, built-in kitchen, aircon, heating, and a moving system that makes parking a breeze, and suddenly you’re not camping. You’re living.

The private bathroom in our Mobilodge doubled as extra storage—because let’s be real, no one ever packs light for a weekend away.

Franschhoek Camping = Nature, and Fine Wine

Now here’s the best part: you’re not just camping in the wild—you’re camping in Franschhoek, with a view of springbokkies, zebra and an abundance of birdlife. It also means you’re a stone’s throw from world-class wine farms, fine dining, and chocolate tastings. One minute you’re flipping eggs on the gas stove, and the next, you’re sipping a crisp Chenin under an ancient oak tree at a five-star estate. This, dear friends, is camping, but make it fabulous.

Wake Up to Nature with Coffee in Hand

We brought the Nespresso machine from home (of course we did)—because priorities are important—and made proper coffee before stepping outside into the chilly mountain air. It’s the kind of moment that makes you pause and smile. Plush grass and no muddy shoes. Just you, caffeine, and that view. Bliss.

You Still Get the Best Bits of Camping

We still sat around in camp chairs. We still braaied and had a delicious potjie with fantastic Karoo Lamb in from Karoo Slaghuis De Aar (it just tastes so much better – obrigado Justin). We watched the sun go down and felt deeply smug about it. Then, instead of crawling into a tent and playing “zipper roulette,” we climbed into a real bed. With pillows. It was first-timer heaven. We slept like royalty!

It’s Social—But You Can Hide if You Want

We waved to the neighbours, chatted over the gourmet burgers, shared a drink or six, no one counts when you don’t have to drive—but we also retreated when we wanted downtime. Franschhoek Camping has Wifi if you’re really needing to check on the world. The Mobilodge gave us the choice: join in or close the door and read a book with a glass of wine. Sinatra would’ve been proud: we did it our way.

No Packing Panic

No tent, no pegs, no trying to remember how to light a gas stove last used in 2004. We packed clothes, food, and way too much cheese. The Mobilodge’s upright fridge handled the haul like a champ—fruit, veg, meat, charcuterie ingredients, and a suspicious number of drinks all fitted beautifully. It’s possibly more storage than most kitchens in chalets we hire.

Comfort First, Crickets Second

Some people love sleeping on the ground. We are not those people. The Mobilodge bed was so comfy, it honestly beat the one we have at home. Add a private toilet, power to charge devices, solar for off-grid adventures, and fresh morning air—and suddenly “camping” isn’t just tolerable. It’s luxurious.

So, Are We Campers Now?

Look, we’re not Bear Grylls. We’re not ready to sell the house and move into the bush (yet). But with the Mobilodge Continental, we found a version of camping that didn’t involve sacrificing our comfort or sense of humour. It was joyful, fun, and far more relaxing than we ever expected.

And being able to pop into Franschhoek for a wine tasting or a world class meal? That sealed the deal.

The only downside? Now I have to convince my other half that we definitely need to try a Bush Lapa… or an Invader… or maybe a Vagabond?

Just for research, of course.