Glamping: What is It and Why Has It Become So Popular?

Reconnecting with nature is a terrific way to unwind and release the pressure and anxiety of daily life. However, getting back to nature can have its pitfalls. Camping at traditional campsites means dealing with a lack of amenities and limited access to notable features, such as electricity and bathrooms. That is where Glamping comes into play.

What is Glamping?

In recent years, the term glamping has become popular. However, glamping started as far back as 2006. At that time, people wanted an option that allowed them to go camping without giving up on comforts and amenities. Glamping is unique, as it combines luxury and camping.

When you go glamping, you can reconnect with nature while enjoying access to a bathroom, electricity, running water, and even TV and entertainment features. This trend lets you access high-end destinations, without major expenses. Thanks to glamping, you can enjoy the best of two worlds: the great outdoors and the utmost comfort.

Are People Interested in Glamping?

According to a study conducted by Global Information Research, the global glamping market is set to reach a staggering $5.94 billion by 2030. This report also notes that Pods and Cabins had the highest revenue share in 2021, and states the revenue gained from Pods and Cabins is expected to grow even further in the coming years.

The glamping market is predicted to grow at a 17.5% CAGR until 2028, (according to Gitnux). The Gitnux report also states that the average price for luxury glamping is around $170 per person/night. However, in some cases this is just the starting point, with some places offering amazing, one-of-a-kind glamping experiences in remote locations, costing an astounding $3500 or more per night.

Imarc Group predicted that between 2024-2032, the cabins and pods market is likely to be the largest market within the glamping area, followed by yurts and tents. Imarc Group statistics also show that the 18–32 demographic is likely to be the dominant force in the glamping market going forward.

The 33–50 demographic will also occupy a major segment of the glamping market. This age group values spending quality time in nature; however, they are not willing to do away with basic amenities.

The Imarc Group study also found that 4-person glamping groups are a new glamping market trend, comprised of families and small groups. This tendency is driven by the growing popularity of group travel and family vacations.

Why is There Such a Large Interest in Glamping?

The truth is that glamping offers an opportunity to escape from life for a while but in an extremely comfortable manner. Sure, certain people like the idea of going out and exploring nature with the bare minimum. However, increasingly of us want to go out and just enjoy our time, without having to rough it too much. This is where the true value of glamping is seen. It offers us the opportunity to seek out new experiences and sights without compromising on basic amenities and comforts.

Regions like Asia Pacific are expected to witness the largest growth in glamping, in the world, according to Zipdo. They also state that New Zealand’s glamping market has experienced a 15% growth rate. North America alone is set to reach around $912 million in glamping market size by 2027.

According to Grand View Research, Europe dominated the glamping market with a market share of 35.29% in 2022. There are several reasons, ranging from great destinations to people offering more immersive and authentic experiences. There are also exotic locations to explore in Europe, which further adds to the appeal. France has around eight thousand campsites alone.

Glamping Trends to Watch Out for in 2024

Here are the top trends you should know for 2024 and beyond:

1. Health and Nature

Glamping destinations are increasingly focusing on the concept of using nature as a cure. They highlight connecting with nature and embrace the idea of improving your health in conjunction with natural, convenient, and eco-friendly experiences.

2. Glamping Pods

Glamping is also becoming more affordable. Glamping pods made up 40% of glamping bookings in 2023. Glamping pods offer an affordable glamping option, some costing around $20 a night. So, pods together with affordability are likely to be a focus for the glamping market in 2024.

3. Eco-friendly Glamping

Eco-friendliness is a major factor too, one that certain glamping businesses consider. Since many people are looking to protect the environment, glamping businesses have adapted to this need, offering various eco-friendly options for glampers.

4. Outdoor Festivals

With more festivals taking place outside these days, outdoor festivals have led to an increase in the number of glamping bookings in the surrounding area of the festival.

5. Remote Work Destinations

People see glamping as a new take on remote work. Digital nomads like the idea of going out and working in a natural and remote setting. It has become somewhat of a trend and many digital nomads are embracing combining work with entertainment and relaxation.

Certain hotels and property owners have started offering dynamic spaces. They are combining indoor and outdoor experiences, and even delivering outdoor work solutions.

What Can We Expect in 2024 for Glamping?

The glamping sector will continue to expand as people look for new, more immersive ways to spend time in nature. There is no denying that people are keen to step outside and explore the world, but they also want to retain the comforts of home living.

Glamping delivers the perfect blend of comfort and exploration. We are highly likely to see the glamping world expand rapidly in the years to come.