Glamping is a growing trend among modern travelers who want to enjoy nature, without losing the comforts of home. And more and more glampers are wanting to do this in a responsible and thoughtful way, without harming the environment.
Running a sustainable glampsite or glampground is a rewarding way to support environmental conservation while pursuing the creative satisfaction of entrepreneurship.
If you’re an aspiring “glamp-preneur” interested in setting up your own green glampsite while providing, this post is for you.
You’ve got the vision and the energy, but where to begin? How can you ensure success? How can you navigate all of the steps and hurdles along the way? We’ve got you covered!
In this post we’ll share the essential info you need for creating an eco-friendly luxury camping experience on your property that is guaranteed to provide guests with a comfortable and memorable experience.
Whether you’re envisioning a single cozy tent in your backyard or building a glamping village, the possibilities are endless. Here’s everything you need to know to get started:
STEP 1: Understand the Market
Glamping is growing fast, with North America accounting for over 40% of the global market. Industry predictions suggest it could reach $7.8 billion globally by 2033. Experiential travel, eco-tourism, and rising disposable incomes are driving this growth.
Glamping attracts a wide range of people, particularly Millennials and Gen-Z, who value eco-friendly, Instagram-worthy experiences. Families and older travelers are also significant contributors to the market.
This is perhaps one of the most rewarding parts of operating a sustainable glamping business: attracting and supporting like-minded customers and travelers who want to connect with nature responsibly.
STEP 2: Assess YOUR COST & Revenue Potential
Glamping offers high profitability with low overhead compared to traditional hospitality. With the right marketing, pricing, and amenities, annual profits can range from $40,000 all the way up to $250,000, depending on key factors like your location and occupancy.
Startup costs will vary tremendously based on your land size, infrastructure, and accommodations. Keep costs manageable by exploring financing options like bank loans, private investors, or eco-tourism grants.
It’s essential to carefully evaluate your site’s feasibility and USPs, and create a solid business plan outlining your costs, potential revenue, and competition. With mindfulness and commitment, there are significant opportunities for growth and profit.
STEP 3: PLANNING & PREPARATION
As a new business owner, your focus should be on minimizing operational costs while maximizing the ability to charge premium pricing. To ensure a thriving glamping business, you must provide guests with an unforgettable experience that keeps them coming back. In prioritizing guest satisfaction, offering unique amenities, and embracing eco-friendly practices, you can stand out in the competitive glamping market.
The #1 rule in sustainable glamping? Location Matters. The physical environment is key to the experience, not only for your customers, but you an operator as well. Choose a site that avoids harm to sensitive ecosystems and is accessible to area attractions and tourist destinations in order to minimize travel emissions. And of course, you must ensure your site offers a private, serene and scenic connection to nature.
Your lodging and accommodations are also vital to your guests’ experience. Glamping units can range from temporary tents to permanent cabins. Consider factors like durability, comfort, and eco-friendliness and when selecting your long-term investment. Prioritize QUALITY over price to ensure your purchase goes the extra mile for you and your guests.
HOT TIP: When choosing a glamping tent, look for superior performance in multi-season comfort, breathability, ventilation, and weather resistance, as well as safety features like fire-retardant materials and stable frames. Finally, choose tents that are backed by reliable customer service for repairs and maintenance. Diamond Brands’ American-made, hand-sewn glamping tents check all these boxes!
STEP 4: Differentiating Your Site with ECO-FRIENDLy Amenities
Eco-conscious travelers are on the rise, so integrating unique and sustainable practices into your glamping business can attract these guests. Here are just a few ideas to get you started!
- Sustainable Infrastructure: Investing in impactful infrastructure and utilities can enhance your behind-the-scenes sustainability and out front marketability:
- solar power
- composting toilets
- food scrap composting
- recycling programs
- rainwater harvesting systems,
- low-flow fixtures
- native plant landscaping
- pollinator garden
- eco-conscious furnishings and decor
- energy efficient appliances
- greywater recycling
- non-toxic housekeeping/cleaning products
Offering luxury features and services to guests helps set your glamping site apart from competitors. Some ideas:
- Outdoor Comforts: Include extras like hot tubs, hammocks, fire pits, and lawn games
- Indoor Amenities: Organic bed and bath linens, Eco-friendly toiletries, smart technology and zero-waste coffee makers
- Low-Waste Welcome Bags: Greet guests with reusable tote bags filled with eco-conscious items like compostable cutlery and local treats.
- Inclusive & Accessible Spaces: Ensure your site caters to all, including pet owners, families with children, and remote workers.
- Low-Impact Activities: Offer hiking, biking, and nature trails that minimize environmental impact.
- Spa & Wellness Services: Attract higher-end clients with on-site massages, saunas, or yoga classes.
- Farm-to-Table Dining: Partner with local farms to provide organic, vegetarian, and vegan meals, reducing the carbon footprint of your dining services.
- Digital Guidebooks: Replace paper manuals with digital guidebooks covering area attractions, arrival/departure info, and sustainability tips.
- Impact Information Packets: Provide eco-friendly guides, reminding guests to conserve water, energy, and adhere to “Leave No Trace” principles.
Step 4: Optimizing Guest Service & Satisfaction
Providing excellent service is at the heart of a successful glamping operation. Clear policies and timely responses are crucial for a smooth guest experience. You’ll also want to make sure you contingency plans and policies in place for weather, medical emergencies, and unexpected issues to ensure guest safety and security. And of course, make sure to keep your site pristine with regular maintenance and upkeep.
STEP 5: Expanding Your Visibility & Reach
A strong online presence and strategic collaborations are both essential for attracting guests and growing your glamping business.
- Build a Professional Website: Ensure your site is user-friendly, with an easy-to-use booking system.
- Leverage Social Media: Share your sustainability efforts on Instagram, Facebook, and other platforms. Create engaging content and encourage guests to share their experiences.
- Utilize Online Platforms: Listings on specialized platforms like Glamping Hub and Hipcamp can help reach your target audience.
- Influencer Marketing: Invite eco-friendly influencers to experience your site in exchange for social media promotion.
- Strategic Collaborations: Partner with local eco-conscious businesses, outfitters and artisans to offer authentic experiences or sustainable products that make your site special and memorable.
- Contribute to Conservation: Consider donating a portion of your profits to local environmental initiatives to reinforce your sustainability mission.
All Zipped Up
Glamping is a booming industry, with the potential for amazing financial returns AND your own inner fulfillment as a business owner. What could be more rewarding than being a part of someone’s lifelong memories and connection to nature?
By focusing on exceptional service, sustainability, and visibility, you can create a unique and profitable glamping business that delights guests while also protecting the environment for future generations of enjoyment.
By following these simple steps, you can create a sustainable glamping site that minimizes its environmental impact while offering a luxurious experience that your guests will never forget.
Are you ready to embark on the epic journey of navigating the growing outdoor hospitality industry and launching an eco-friendly glamping business with sustainable accommodations and amenities? After working with dozens of glamping sites, we’ve simplified the process into easy-to-follow steps for both landowners and entrepreneurs, enabling you to kickstart your glamping venture with confidence.
COMING SOON: Our new e-book, The Green Glamp-preneur: The Ultimate Guide to Building a Sustainable Glamping Business, is packed with expert tips, eco-friendly strategies, crucial details and in-depth advice to help you create a truly green and profitable glampsite. Join our email list below to be one of the first to get a copy, and start turning your green glamping dreams into reality!