Glamping Trends: What Guests Want in 2025
Unlock the future of glamping by understanding the evolving desires of guests in the coming year.
Glamping Trends: What Guests Want in 2025
The glamping sector continues its remarkable growth, with guest expectations evolving rapidly. Understanding emerging trends helps operators stay competitive and maximise returns on their unique accommodation investments.
Key Takeaways from This Article
📈 Market Growth
The UK glamping market is projected to reach £280m with 10,000+ units by 2025.
💎 Premium Experiences
Guests are willing to pay significantly more for amenities like hot tubs, saunas, and unique outdoor features.
🌿 Sustainability Matters
Renewable energy and recycling facilities are increasingly essential, with certifications boosting bookings.
📱 Tech & Wellness Balance
While expecting seamless booking and connectivity, guests also crave digital detox and wellness escapes.
Market Overview
UK Glamping Growth
| Metric | 2024 | 2025 Forecast |
|---|---|---|
| Market value | £220m | £280m |
| Units in operation | 8,500+ | 10,000+ |
| Average nightly rate | £165 | £180 |
| Occupancy (peak) | 85% | 87% |
| Occupancy (annual) | 52% | 55% |
Guest Demographics
| Segment | Percentage | Key Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Couples | 45% | Experience-focused, higher spend |
| Families | 30% | Space requirements, activities |
| Groups | 15% | Celebrations, hen/stag |
| Solo travellers | 10% | Wellness, digital detox |
Accommodation Trends
Rising Unit Types
| Unit Type | Growth Rate | Guest Appeal |
|---|---|---|
| Treehouses | +35% | Unique experience, Instagram |
| Converted vehicles | +40% | Vintage charm, novelty |
| Geodesic domes | +25% | Stargazing, modern design |
| Floating cabins | +30% | Waterside, exclusivity |
| Off-grid eco pods | +28% | Sustainability appeal |
Declining Demand
| Unit Type | Trend | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Basic bell tents | -15% | Oversupply, commoditisation |
| Standard yurts | -5% | Differentiation needed |
| Basic pods | -10% | Premium pods preferred |
Experience Economy
What Guests Pay Premium For
| Experience | Willingness to Pay Extra |
|---|---|
| Hot tub included | +£50-100/night |
| Wood-fired sauna | +£40-80/night |
| Outdoor bath | +£30-60/night |
| Fire pit with seating | +£20-40/night |
| Private garden/deck | +£25-50/night |
| Stunning view | +£30-75/night |
Activity Integration
| Activity Type | Guest Interest | Implementation |
|---|---|---|
| Foraging walks | Very High | Partner or host-led |
| Wild swimming | High | Site feature or nearby |
| Stargazing | High | Dark sky location, equipment |
| Yoga/wellness | High | Pop-up or permanent |
| Wildlife watching | Medium-High | Hides, guided walks |
Sustainability Expectations
Guest Priorities
| Sustainability Aspect | Importance Rating |
|---|---|
| Renewable energy | 78% consider essential |
| Recycling facilities | 85% expect |
| Local/organic food | 65% prefer |
| Water conservation | 55% aware of |
| Wildlife protection | 72% value |
Certification Value
| Certification | Booking Impact |
|---|---|
| Green Tourism Gold | +15% bookings |
| Eco-Tourism certified | +12% bookings |
| Carbon neutral | +8% bookings |
| B Corp certified | +10% bookings |
💡 Pro Tip:
Highlight your sustainability efforts clearly on your website and booking platforms. Guests are actively seeking out eco-conscious options and are willing to pay more for them.
Technology Integration
Guest Technology Expectations
| Feature | Essential | Nice to Have |
|---|---|---|
| WiFi availability | 65% | 25% |
| Online booking | 92% | 6% |
| Mobile check-in | 45% | 35% |
| Smart heating control | 25% | 40% |
| USB charging | 78% | 18% |
The Digital Detox Paradox
Option for connectivity (emergencies, remote work)
Ability to disconnect (no pressure to check)
Instagram-worthy moments (then put phone away)
Printed local guides (reduce screen time)
Did You Know?
While guests desire strong WiFi for essentials, a significant portion also values the opportunity for a true "digital detox." Consider offering both options clearly.
Wellness and Wellbeing
Wellness Trend Growth
| Wellness Feature | 2023 Demand | 2025 Demand |
|---|---|---|
| Hot tubs | High | Very High |
| Saunas | Medium | High |
| Cold water immersion | Low | Medium-High |
| Meditation spaces | Low | Medium |
| Nature bathing | Medium | High |
Mental Health Focus
Guests seeking:
- Quiet, peaceful environments
- Connection with nature
- Permission to do nothing
- Screen-free options
- Mindfulness resources
Design and Aesthetics
Interior Trends
| Trend | Implementation |
|---|---|
| Japandi style | Minimal, natural materials |
| Cottagecore | Vintage, cosy, rural |
| Biophilic design | Living walls, natural light |
| Dark academia | Rich colours, books, leather |
| Coastal grandmother | Light, airy, comfortable |
Instagram-Worthy Features
| Feature | Photo Appeal |
|---|---|
| Statement bed frames | Very High |
| Outdoor bathtubs | Very High |
| Fire pit seating | High |
| Unique windows | High |
| Styled outdoor kitchens | High |
Pricing Trends
Premium Positioning
| Price Point | Market Position | Key Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Under £120 | Budget glamping | Basic but comfortable |
| £120-180 | Mid-market | Good amenities, some extras |
| £180-250 | Premium | Full amenities, experiences |
| £250-400 | Luxury | Everything included, unique |
| £400+ | Ultra-luxury | Exceptional in every way |
Yield Optimisation
| Strategy | Implementation |
|---|---|
| Minimum stays | 2-night weekends, 3-night peak |
| Early booking discount | 15% for 90+ days ahead |
| Last-minute pricing | Dynamic based on demand |
| Add-on packages | Experience bundles |
Future Predictions
2026 and Beyond
| Trend | Likelihood | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| AI concierge services | High | Personalised experiences |
| Carbon-negative accommodation | Medium | Premium positioning |
| Work-cation packages | Very High | Extended stays |
| Health-focused retreats | High | Specialist market |
| Multi-generational design | Medium | Family market growth |
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🚀 Your Next Steps for Glamping Success
To stay ahead in the evolving glamping market, consider these actionable items:
- **Review Your Offerings:** Benchmark your current units and experiences against the "What Guests Pay Premium For" and "Rising Unit Types" sections.
- **Enhance Sustainability:** Look for easy wins in recycling, energy, and water conservation. Consider pursuing a recognised green certification.
- **Optimise Technology:** Ensure your booking process is seamless and consider offering essential connectivity balanced with digital detox options.
- **Curate Experiences:** Beyond accommodation, think about integrated activities and wellness options that align with guest interests.
Manage your glamping bookings, track guest preferences, and optimise pricing with PayCamp's accommodation management platform.
Customer
James Mitchell · Berth A1
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