Find out the mistakes people make setting up a glamping business!
For many British landowners, the idea of launching a glamping site is equal parts exciting and overwhelming. It’s a chance to turn underused land into a new income stream — but only if it’s done right.
After helping hundreds of people take their glamping projects from idea to operation, we’ve seen a familiar set of mistakes crop up time and time again. The good news? Every one of them is avoidable.
Whether you’re just starting out or already knee-deep in research, here are five common missteps — and how to steer clear of them.
Overwater Decking of Glamping Pods
1. Skipping the Feasibility Check
Before you fall in love with the idea of luxury pods on your land, it’s worth asking one simple question: Is this even doable where I am?
Too many people rush ahead without fully considering the planning landscape — local council attitudes, flood risks, ecology surveys, or even access roads. One planning hurdle can bring a dream project to a standstill.
That’s why we always recommend starting with a Feasibility Study. It gives you a clear, honest picture of whether your land can support a glamping site — and what it would take to get it approved.
2. Ignoring the Financials for Too Long
A glamping site isn’t just a passion project — it’s a business. And that means understanding the numbers early on.
We’ve seen too many people delay the financial planning until after they’ve made big decisions: site layout, unit types, even purchasing accommodation. The result? Budgets get blown, ROI gets fuzzy, and the whole project becomes a stress point.
A strong feasibility process (yes, we’re mentioning it again) helps you assess the financial side too — including potential costs, breakeven point, and profit expectations.
Inside a Pod
3. Going Too Basic — Not High-End Enough
There’s a big shift happening in glamping. What worked five years ago — basic bell tents with shared facilities — isn’t necessarily cutting it anymore.
Guests today expect something special. Think private bathrooms, wood-fired hot tubs, curated experiences — not just a bed in a field.
If you’re investing in your land, it’s worth going that bit higher-end. It opens up better pricing, stronger reviews, and a more resilient business in the long run.
4. Underestimating the Power of Marketing
Even with a beautifully designed site, guests won’t just appear. Marketing isn’t an afterthought — it’s a core pillar of success.
From branding and websites to SEO and booking platforms, getting your message right is essential. A well-marketed site with three units can outperform a poorly marketed one with ten.
If you’re not confident on the marketing side, we recommend working with partners who know the glamping space — like Propelling Parrot, who’ve helped some of our clients create standout, bookable brands.
See glamping marketing experts Propelling Parrot here
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Inside of AvantGlamp Pods
5. Letting Neighbour Worries Hold You Back
This one’s emotional — and totally understandable. We’ve met so many landowners who hold back on glamping because they’re worried about how neighbours will react.
But here’s a story from our own experience:
On our second site, we had huge neighbour complaints at the planning stage. It felt personal, and it stung. But we got through the process — and now? Their daughter works for us at the site. The initial tension turned into community support.
The key is handling concerns with transparency, communication, and professional planning. People often fear what they don’t understand.
How to Start a Glamping Business the Right Way
The best first step? Do what the most successful glamping sites did.
Glamping isn’t easy — but it’s worth it. With the right plan, your quiet corner of land could become a source of pride, purpose, and profit.
👉 Start with a Glampitect Feasibility Study →
You’ll find out:
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If your land can work
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What it would cost
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How to make the idea real (or why it might not be the right fit)
Still browsing?
Then take a deeper look at our full guide:
👉 How to Start a Glamping Business in the UK →
This is what it actually takes.And if you’re ready to do it properly, we’re ready to help.
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