[Disclaimer: We are not accountants, lawyers, or financial advisors, so please consult your own team of professionals about the topics covered in this article.]
Glamping—a blend of “glamorous” and “camping”—has become an increasingly popular vacation option for those seeking a unique outdoor experience with the added comfort of high-end amenities, offering an appealing alternative to traditional short-term rentals. The term “glamping” was coined in the early 2000s, but the concept dates back to centuries-old traditions where the wealthy camped in lavish tents. Initially, glamping gained traction in Europe but has only recently surged in popularity in the United States.
In this article, we’ll explore how glamping offers a great opportunity to boost revenue for those who already own short-term rentals (STRs) or are looking to buy properties with extra land. We’ll also share real-world examples of how glamping can help STR owners stand out and increase their profitability.
What is Glamping?
Glamping takes traditional camping to a new level by offering nature lovers the comfort of home in outdoor settings. Instead of pitching a tent and sleeping on the ground, glampers can stay in luxury tents, domes, treehouses, tiny houses, yurts, or even retrofitted vehicles like buses or RVs. These structures are often equipped with full beds, climate control, and stylish decor, making the outdoor experience more accessible to those who aren’t keen on roughing it.
Glamping’s Rise in Popularity
Although the glamping movement began in Europe, it has seen explosive growth in the U.S. over the last decade. According to industry reports, the global glamping market is expected to grow significantly, with the U.S. leading the charge. The rise in popularity can be attributed to people seeking unique, socially-distanced vacation experiences, particularly after the COVID-19 pandemic.
Structures Commonly Used for Glamping
Glamping structures come in all shapes and sizes, offering endless options for creativity and uniqueness:
- Luxury Tents: These range from safari tents to bell tents, often equipped with queen-sized beds and chic furnishings.
- Domes: Geodesic domes offer a futuristic yet cozy retreat and are popular in colder climates because they can be easily insulated.
- Treehouses: Perfect for those looking for a nostalgic yet luxurious experience, treehouses combine adventure with modern amenities.
- Tiny Houses: These small, often mobile homes offer a full suite of amenities in a compact space.
- Yurts: Traditional Mongolian yurts have been adapted for glamping, offering a spacious and durable shelter.
- Converted Vehicles: Vintage buses, airstreams, and RVs can be retrofitted into stylish glamping accommodations.
Our stay in a luxury tent in Patagonia
Interior of our luxury tent
Example Glamping Business: The Dobčické Rybníčky Site
A close friend of ours, the owner of Dobčické Rybníčky (Instagram: dobcickerybnicky), has been running a successful glamping site in the Czech Republic for many years. They were even featured in our Fast FIRE to Freedom Summit. Their site, located in a scenic European countryside, offers a variety of structures, providing guests with unique, luxurious outdoor experiences. Over the years, they have seen a growing interest in glamping as travelers seek distinctive stays that combine nature with comfort.
Our friend’s glamping site in rural Czech Republic
Trends in U.S. Glamping and Growth Potential
In the U.S., glamping is just beginning to gain widespread traction, with more people seeking alternative vacation experiences. This trend presents a huge opportunity for real estate investors and STR owners. Websites like GlampingHub.com, Hipcamp.com, and Airbnb now offer a plethora of glamping accommodations, making it easier for hosts to attract guests interested in unique stays.
Using Glamping to Maximize Your STR’s Potential
Several members of our community have already started incorporating glamping into their STR business models. For example, Stephanie and Wilson converted an old Greyhound bus into a cozy, memorable stay. The uniqueness of their offering has significantly increased their property’s appeal, helping them stand out from other STRs. Unconventional stays like this can command higher rates and attract more bookings, leading to increased revenue.
Standing out in the crowded STR market is crucial. We’ve discussed the importance of differentiation in our article, “How to Make Your Short-Term Rental Stand Out,” where we emphasize that offering unique experiences can lead to higher occupancy rates and nightly rates.
A Greyhound bus converted into a glamping opportunity
A New Opportunity for Those Who Own Land
For those who already own land, glamping offers an exciting opportunity to generate cashflow. As we’ve discussed in our article, “The Dangers of Land Investing,” land alone doesn’t cashflow and can be a risky investment. However, adding glamping accommodations could help offset the costs of owning land, such as the mortgage, taxes, and insurance.
For those looking to invest, buying a property with a house and land could provide the best of both worlds. The house can serve as a traditional STR while the extra land can be used for glamping, creating multiple revenue streams from a single investment.
Wrap-Up
As the demand for unique, immersive travel experiences grows, glamping offers STR owners an excellent opportunity to enhance revenue. Whether you already own land or are looking to invest in a property with additional space, adding glamping structures can make your listing stand out and provide significant financial rewards. However, as with any investment, it’s important to weigh the risks, particularly when it comes to land. Combining a home and land for STR and glamping can mitigate those risks and offer an exciting, lucrative opportunity.
Download Your First $100k Year – Real Estate Blueprint Guide
