Whether you’re eager to experience outdoor life as the nomadic tribes of Central Asia did centuries ago, or you just want to spend a weekend away, yurts are the perfect home away from home for reluctant campers. You can find them in parks and ski resorts across Canada and the U.S., with many concentrated in Oregon, Hawaii and British Columbia. Popularity of these ingenious cabins has skyrocketed so much that some require bookings a year in advance.

So what is a yurt? Basically, it’s a wood framed tent that’s covered with durable canvas. Lattice often surrounds the inside wall for stability. Yurts are very strong and weather-tight, so you won’t have to worry about waking up to a snow-hill in your bedroom. And it doesn’t matter what kind of vacation you enjoy, unless of course you like to literally sleep under the stars - the luxury level can vary widely. Some yurts are basic cabins with bunk beds and a small heater; others are lavishly decorated with every creature comfort you could desire, including full furnishings, kitchen, bathroom and TV. Many have skylights so you can feel a part of nature without battling the weather and insects that come with it.

Rustic experience
Adventurous yurt enthusiasts book backcountry yurt rentals, walking miles to reach their front door with only their clothes and food in their packs. Winter camping is also a popular excursion, whether in a national park, backcountry trail or on the slopes of a ski hill. And if you want to trek the Grand Canyon but don’t want to tote your supplies all the way from New England, yurts offer the perfect solution.

For those of you who enjoy the experience of hiking through the wilderness, you’ll be able to pack a lot lighter and enjoy your trip without the sore back. Since sleeping and cooking supplies will be there waiting, you don’t need to lug them around. Some allow several modes of access, including biking trails and driving, great for groups who like to stay together but have different ideas about how to get there.

The best thing about yurts - aside from their comfort, the beauty of your surroundings and getting away from it all, they’re pretty cheap to rent. Some are as low as $30 a night; of course the price rises if you want more amenities. Now, that’s sweet, right?

The Nomadik Fanatik community believes life is best lived outside where the air is clean, crisp and always fresh. They stand by the motto that you haven’t truly lived if you’ve never spent a night under the stars. Visit Their blogs for some adventure story swapping.