Summer is not far away. With the improving weather, many people have started thinking about a holiday. However, with the cost of living crisis, many people will forgo a foreign destination in favour of a low-cost holiday in the UK. Even before inflation rose rapidly, glamping became very popular with holidaymakers.

If you’re considering diversifying and taking advantage of the popularity of glamping, then there are quite a few things to consider.

Location
Where are you going to develop your site? Your glamping site should offer guests an attractive view and picturesque location. It has to be accessible, ideally away from main roads, sheds and unsavoury sights, sounds and smells. Remember, the plot needs to be large enough to give ample space around each accommodation unit.

Utilities
Providing mains water, drainage, and electricity are prerequisites to establishing a glamping site. Installation costs could reach six figures, so you need to be committed to the project.

Planning Permission
If your glamping business operates for more than 28 days a year, you will need planning permission to change the use of the land. Planning permission is also required for installing utilities.

Accommodation
Glamping sites take many different forms. There is a lot of variety, from shepherd huts to yurts, log cabins to treehouses. Choosing the best option for your site and facilities will be crucial to developing an attractive proposition.

Remember that accommodation such as tents and yurts are seasonal products and you need to provide kitchen and bathroom facilities, which will need to be nearby.

As well as buying your accommodation, you must budget for maintaining it throughout the year.

Insurances
As with most business operations, your glamping site must be insured. Public liability insurance will be mandatory, and you may need employer’s liability insurance too.

Promotion
You can have the best glamping site in the world, but it will not be a success if no one knows about it. You will need to invest in marketing. You will need a website, a social media presence and an easy way for people to book and pay for their visit. Professional photography is also worth considering, as it will bring your proposition to life. Remember, marketing is not a one-off cost incurred at start-up. Marketing is an annual commitment.

Business Plan
Giving your glamping business the best chance of success will be significantly increased if you take the time to develop a considered and realistic business plan. Examining your likely costs, the local competition and their pricing, and the strengths and weaknesses of your available land will allow you to calculate the necessary level of investment and potential income accurately. When armed with accurate figures, you can decide whether or not establishing a glamping site makes sense for you.

If you’re considering diversifying and would like professional advice, please call Ray Phillips on 01522 696496 or email ray@walters-rural.com