Glamping Business Ideas: How to Start and Thrive in the Luxury Camping Industry

The idea of camping has evolved from roughing it in the wilderness to indulging in a luxurious experience surrounded by nature. Glamping, short for "glamorous camping," offers a hybrid of traditional camping and resort-style amenities. 

The growing demand for outdoor experiences without sacrificing comfort presents an exciting opportunity for entrepreneurs looking to tap into the expanding eco-tourism and luxury travel markets.

If you're considering starting a glamping business, there are plenty of creative avenues to explore. This article will outline several glamping business ideas that cater to different markets, as well as tips for turning your dream into a profitable venture.

Is Glamping a Good Business Idea?

1. Growing Market Demand

The global glamping market has been growing steadily as more travelers seek unique, nature-based experiences without sacrificing comfort. Traditional camping may not appeal to everyone, but glamping allows people to enjoy the outdoors with luxurious amenities like comfortable beds, private bathrooms, and even gourmet food services. With a shift in consumer preferences toward eco-tourism and experiential travel, glamping is a niche that fits well with current trends.

2. High Profit Potential

While the initial setup costs can be high—due to luxury accommodations and the required infrastructure—glamping businesses often benefit from higher margins compared to traditional camping. Guests are willing to pay premium rates for unique and comfortable experiences. A glamping site can charge several times more than a standard campsite, especially if it offers high-end features like hot tubs, private decks, or scenic views.

3. Appeals to Diverse Markets

Glamping attracts a wide range of demographics, including:

• Couples seeking romantic getaways.
• Families wanting an outdoor adventure without the discomfort of basic camping.
• Luxury travelers looking for unique and exclusive accommodations.
• Eco-conscious travelers interested in sustainable tourism.
• Corporate groups seeking unconventional venues for retreats and team-building activities.

This versatility allows you to target multiple customer segments, increasing your potential bookings.

4. Flexibility in Business Models

There are many ways to structure a glamping business. You can start small with just a few accommodations like safari tents or yurts and expand as demand grows. Alternatively, you could develop a full-scale glamping resort, or even offer pop-up glamping experiences at festivals or events. This flexibility makes it accessible for both new entrepreneurs and seasoned business owners.

5. Opportunity for Differentiation

In the glamping market, creativity is key. You can differentiate your business with unique accommodations (like treehouses or floating tents), themed experiences (wellness retreats, adventure packages, etc.), or eco-friendly, sustainable setups. The more unique and appealing your site, the more likely you are to attract attention and premium-paying customers.

6. Scalable Business Model

Once established, glamping businesses are relatively scalable. After covering the upfront costs for land, structures, and amenities, maintaining and running a glamping site has lower ongoing operational expenses than traditional hotels. You can add more accommodations as your business grows or expand to other locations if the demand is strong.

7. Leverages Natural Attractions

If you choose a location near a popular tourist destination, scenic environment, or area with natural attractions, your glamping business can capitalize on the foot traffic and appeal of the region. Locations like national parks, beaches, mountains, or lakeside areas are naturally appealing to glamping customers, increasing your visibility and booking rates.

8. Eco-Tourism Alignment

Many travelers are looking for sustainable, eco-friendly accommodations. Glamping allows you to design off-grid, low-impact accommodations that align with this trend, making your business attractive to environmentally conscious tourists.

9. Potential for Year-Round Business

Depending on the setup, glamping can operate year-round, particularly if you invest in accommodations suited for all weather conditions, such as heated yurts or insulated cabins. This allows you to maximize revenue throughout the year.

1. Eco-Friendly Glamping Pods

With sustainability becoming more critical to travelers, eco-friendly glamping pods are an attractive option. These structures can be built from recycled materials or natural resources, like wood and bamboo. The key here is to offer off-grid, solar-powered accommodations that reduce environmental impact.

The aesthetic appeal of these pods, combined with their minimal carbon footprint, will attract eco-conscious travelers. You could cater to couples, solo travelers, or small families by offering a mix of smaller and larger pods. Amenities such as composting toilets, rainwater showers, and energy-efficient heating systems would further enhance your eco-credibility.

Business Tip: Collaborate with local artisans and eco-designers to create unique, sustainable designs that stand out from your competitors.

2. Luxury Treehouses

Treehouse accommodations offer a whimsical yet sophisticated take on glamping. Nestled high among the trees, these structures provide guests with an immersive experience in nature while offering all the comforts of a luxury hotel, such as plush bedding, hot tubs, and gourmet meals.

Guests could be couples seeking romantic getaways or families looking for a one-of-a-kind experience. Building treehouses in prime locations such as scenic forests, mountains, or overlooking lakes can offer stunning views, adding to the appeal.

Business Tip: Incorporate glass walls or skylights to allow guests to stargaze or enjoy sunrise views from the comfort of their treehouse.

3. Safari Tents with Modern Comforts

Safari tents are a popular glamping option due to their spaciousness and luxurious touches. These tents typically feature solid floors, stylish interiors, comfortable beds, and fully equipped bathrooms. By offering additional amenities like private decks, hot tubs, and fire pits, you can create an upscale camping experience that’s hard to resist.

This type of glamping setup can work in various locations, from remote wilderness areas to closer-to-home nature reserves. You can market safari tents as a unique blend of rugged adventure and five-star living.

Business Tip: Partner with local tour guides or experience providers to offer wildlife safaris, hiking trips, or other outdoor adventures to create an all-inclusive package for guests.

4. Yurts for Year-Round Glamping

Yurts, traditionally used by nomadic tribes in Central Asia, are another popular option for a glamping business. They are circular, portable structures made from wood and canvas, and can be fitted with insulation, heating, and luxurious decor to provide comfort all year round.

Yurts offer flexibility in terms of location and can be adapted to different climates. Whether nestled in a forest or on a beach, they provide a sense of adventure while still offering modern conveniences. This year-round glamping experience appeals to couples, small groups, or even wellness retreats.

Business Tip: Market your yurts as an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, ideal for a digital detox. Include wellness features like yoga classes, meditation sessions, or spa treatments to enhance the appeal.

5. Airstream Glamping

Airstream trailers, with their iconic retro design, make for stylish glamping accommodations. They offer a mobile and flexible option for a glamping business, allowing you to move them to different locations depending on the season or customer demand.

Renovated Airstreams can be outfitted with high-end amenities, such as king-sized beds, gourmet kitchens, air conditioning, and en-suite bathrooms. You can target a wide range of travelers, from families to couples and groups of friends.

Business Tip: Create themed Airstreams—like mid-century modern, beach-themed, or bohemian chic—that provide Instagrammable moments and attract social media-savvy travelers.

6. Glamping Domes with Panoramic Views

Geodesic domes offer a futuristic and eye-catching option for glamping businesses. These domes are both durable and spacious, often with large windows or even transparent panels for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Because of their unique design, domes can be placed in a variety of environments, from snow-covered mountains to desert landscapes. Furnishing them with upscale furniture, luxury linens, and high-tech gadgets will give them an edge over traditional tents.

Business Tip: Offer exclusive packages like stargazing events or private outdoor cinema setups to enhance the guest experience.

7. Floating Glamping Tents

For a unique twist, consider floating glamping tents on lakes or rivers. These tents are built on anchored platforms and provide an unforgettable water-based experience. Guests can enjoy swimming, fishing, or simply lounging on a deck while surrounded by nature.

Floating tents are particularly popular in serene, secluded locations and can cater to couples, honeymooners, or small groups seeking a tranquil escape.

Business Tip: Make safety a priority by providing life vests, floating devices, and clear instructions on how to safely navigate the floating platforms.

8. Glamping Resorts with Full-Service Amenities

If you want to go big, consider building an entire glamping resort. This would combine several of the above-mentioned accommodation styles—such as yurts, safari tents, and treehouses—alongside luxury resort amenities like spas, fine dining, pools, and outdoor adventure activities.

A full-service glamping resort caters to families, couples, corporate retreats, and weddings, providing a range of options for different types of travelers. The resort would offer a full package of experiences, from wellness programs to adventure activities like horseback riding, kayaking, and hiking.

Business Tip: Invest in staff training to provide a five-star customer experience. Personalization, attention to detail, and exceptional service will help your glamping resort stand out from others.

How to Start a Glamping Business

Starting a glamping business is about more than just choosing a unique accommodation type. Here are some important steps to follow:

1. Research and Planning: Begin by researching the market to understand your target audience, competitors, and location trends. A thorough business plan will outline your budget, marketing strategy, and operational needs.
2. Choose a Location: The location is crucial. It should offer scenic beauty, outdoor activities, and proximity to amenities. Consider accessibility and whether the area is in demand for nature-based tourism.
3. Legal Requirements: Obtain the necessary permits and licenses to operate. These may vary depending on your location and the type of structures you plan to build.
4. Accommodation and Infrastructure: Invest in high-quality, durable accommodations and ensure you have the necessary infrastructure like water, electricity, and sewage systems. You may need to work with engineers and designers to bring your vision to life.
5. Marketing and Promotion: Build an online presence with a website and social media channels. High-quality photos, videos, and customer reviews will help attract bookings. Partner with travel agencies, influencers, and online travel platforms to spread the word about your business.
6. Guest Experience: Focus on creating a memorable guest experience, offering unique packages like adventure tours, wellness retreats, or culinary events. The more personalized and exclusive the experience, the more likely you are to get repeat customers and referrals.

Glamping Cost 

The cost of starting and running a glamping business can vary widely depending on factors such as location, types of accommodations, amenities, and infrastructure requirements. Below is a breakdown of the various costs associated with a glamping business:

1. Initial Setup Costs

The initial costs can be significant, particularly if you're starting from scratch with purchasing land, building accommodations, and providing amenities. Here's a general breakdown of the setup costs:

1. Land Purchase/Lease:

• Cost Range: $50,000 to $500,000+ (depending on location, size, and market demand) If you don’t already own land, purchasing a suitable plot will likely be the most significant upfront expense. Alternatively, leasing land is a more affordable option, with rates varying widely depending on the location and size.

1. Accommodations:

The type and quality of glamping units you choose will significantly impact costs. Below are examples of popular glamping structures:

• Safari Tent: $5,000 to $15,000 per tent, depending on size and features.
• Yurts: $8,000 to $20,000 per yurt, depending on insulation and furnishings.
• Treehouses: $30,000 to $100,000+, depending on design and luxury level.
• Airstream or RV Units: $20,000 to $70,000 per unit for refurbished vintage Airstreams or high-end RVs.
• Geodesic Domes: $10,000 to $30,000 per dome, depending on size and materials.
• Cabins/Pods: $10,000 to $60,000 for prefabricated cabins or eco-pods.

1. Utilities and Infrastructure:

• Electrical System: $2,000 to $10,000 (depending on whether the site is off-grid or connected to the main power grid).
• Water Supply and Plumbing: $5,000 to $20,000, which includes water access, septic systems, or composting toilets.
• Waste Management: $1,000 to $5,000 for waste removal systems or eco-friendly solutions like composting toilets.
• Heating/Cooling Systems: $1,000 to $5,000 per unit, especially for year-round glamping options.

1. Amenities:

Providing luxury amenities is crucial to justifying higher rates for glamping. Costs will depend on how high-end your offerings are.

• Furnishings (beds, furniture, etc.): $1,000 to $5,000 per unit.
• Private Hot Tubs: $2,000 to $10,000 per hot tub.
• Outdoor Fire Pits/Decks: $500 to $5,000 per site.
• Shared Facilities (lounge areas, kitchens): $10,000 to $50,000, depending on scale.

2. Operating Costs

Once your glamping site is established, ongoing expenses include staffing, maintenance, utilities, and marketing. Here’s a breakdown of the most common operating costs:

1. Staff Salaries:

• Cost Range: $25,000 to $50,000 annually per staff member (depending on the size of your business and the scope of services). For a small glamping site, you may only need a couple of employees for cleaning, maintenance, and guest services. Larger sites with more luxury features (such as food service, guided tours, or wellness activities) may require a bigger team.

1. Maintenance:

• Cost Range: $2,000 to $10,000 annually. Maintaining the accommodations, land, and amenities is an ongoing cost. For high-end units like treehouses or domes, regular inspections and upkeep are critical to maintaining safety and guest satisfaction.

1. Utilities:

• Cost Range: $1,000 to $5,000 per month. Depending on whether your site is connected to the main power grid, off-grid (solar), or hybrid, energy costs can vary. Water supply, waste management, and heating/cooling also contribute to utility expenses.

1. Marketing:

• Cost Range: $500 to $5,000 per month. You’ll need to invest in building an online presence (website, social media, and booking platforms). Paid advertising, collaborations with influencers, or listing on platforms like Airbnb, Hipcamp, or Glamping Hub will also incur ongoing expenses.

1. Insurance and Permits:

• Cost Range: $2,000 to $10,000 annually. You’ll need business insurance to cover liability, property damage, and other potential risks. Additionally, you may need to pay for permits and licenses, depending on your location and the local regulations governing outdoor hospitality businesses.

3. Additional Considerations

1. Seasonal Variations:

Glamping businesses in locations with extreme weather conditions may experience seasonal downtime, reducing income in colder months. In this case, consider accommodations suitable for year-round glamping (e.g., insulated yurts or cabins with heating).

1. High-End Customization:

For premium glamping experiences, you may want to invest in high-end touches like luxury linens, personal chefs, guided excursions, or wellness amenities (yoga instructors, spas, etc.). These add to the initial and ongoing costs but allow you to charge significantly higher rates.

1. Scalability:

You can start with a small number of units and expand gradually based on demand. Expanding capacity will come with additional costs for more land, units, and services.

4. Revenue Potential

Glamping accommodations typically command a higher nightly rate than standard camping, and even some hotels. Depending on the location, season, and amenities offered, you can charge the following nightly rates:

• Safari Tents/Yurts: $150 to $500 per night.
• Treehouses/Airstreams: $300 to $1,000 per night (especially for high-end, unique units).
• Luxury Domes/Cabins: $200 to $600 per night.
• High-End Glamping Resorts: $500 to $2,000 per night for all-inclusive stays.

With proper occupancy and marketing, a glamping business can break even in 1-3 years depending on initial investment, and it can become highly profitable as you scale.

Glamping Franchise

Yes, glamping is generally considered a good business idea for several reasons:

Starting or joining a glamping franchise can be an appealing way to enter the glamping industry with the support of an established brand and proven business model. A franchise offers several advantages, including brand recognition, marketing support, operational guidance, and access to pre-existing infrastructure. Here's what you need to know about glamping franchises and how they work.

Why Choose a Glamping Franchise?

1. Established Brand Recognition

When you buy into a glamping franchise, you leverage an established brand that already has a customer base, market trust, and a proven business model. This can help you attract guests more quickly than starting a completely new, unknown business.

2. Operational Support

Franchisors provide guidance on how to set up and run the business efficiently. This includes everything from site selection, design and construction, marketing strategies, booking systems, staff training, and day-to-day operations. This support can be invaluable, especially for first-time entrepreneurs.

3. Marketing and Reservations

Most glamping franchises offer a centralized reservation system and assist with marketing, which can significantly reduce the time and money required to generate bookings. This can include everything from digital marketing campaigns to listing your site on travel booking platforms. Some franchisors also offer a comprehensive website where your location will be promoted.

4. Proven Business Model

Franchising offers the benefit of joining a business with a track record of success. Franchise models are based on experience and refined over time, which helps reduce the risk associated with starting a new business from scratch.

5. Group Purchasing Power

Some franchises offer group purchasing options for accommodations, furnishings, and other supplies. Buying through a larger network can reduce your costs for key business elements like tents, furniture, linens, and amenities.

Utilizing A Glamping Management System 

Utilizing a Glamping Management System can streamline operations and improve the guest experience for glamping businesses. This specialized software helps manage bookings, inventory, payments, and guest communications all in one place. By automating the booking process, it reduces the risk of double bookings and human error, ensuring smoother operations.

A good system will also provide a centralized calendar, allowing managers to track availability in real-time across multiple platforms like Airbnb or Booking.com. Some systems also integrate with accounting software, simplifying financial management and reporting.

For guests, a management system can enhance their experience through automated communication, such as sending booking confirmations, check-in instructions, and follow-up surveys. Additionally, it allows for online payment processing, making it easy for guests to book and pay securely.

Incorporating such a system not only increases efficiency but also frees up time for owners to focus on marketing and guest satisfaction, driving more bookings and repeat business.

Key Takeaways

The glamping industry offers endless possibilities for creative entrepreneurs. From luxury treehouses to eco-friendly pods and floating tents, there are a variety of glamping business ideas to choose from. 

The key to success is providing a unique, luxurious experience that allows guests to reconnect with nature while enjoying all the comforts of modern life. With careful planning, attention to detail, and a passion for hospitality, your glamping business can thrive in this booming market.

To learn more about how Booking Ninjas can help with your glamping business, schedule a call with us right now!