The glamping industry offers a wide range of unique lodging experiences, from luxurious tents to boutique-style cabins. A key distinction in this space is between Soft Wall Units and Hard Wall Units—two categories that shape the structure and overall guest experience.
Since 2022, we have been diligently tracking glamping data to provide in-depth insights into the industry. With over 330 properties and more than 7,300 glamping units recorded manually, our database offers valuable metrics on average rates, amenities, and more. This hands-on collection ensures our data is precise, focusing on direct bookings and glamping businesses with at least two years of operation.
Soft Wall Units
Soft wall units are known for their fabric exteriors, often blending seamlessly with nature. These units provide guests with the feeling of camping while offering more luxury than a traditional tent. Here are some common types of soft wall structures in the glamping world:
- Canvas Safari Tents
- Canvas Bell Tents/Lotus Tents
- Covered Wagons
- Domes
- Yurts
These structures are typically found in more natural settings, giving guests a chance to feel immersed in the outdoors while enjoying comforts like linens and often furniture. While they offer a rawer experience, soft wall units may be limited by weather conditions, as they aren’t as insulated as hard wall structures.
Hard Wall Units
On the other side of the spectrum are hard wall units, which are more permanent and sturdier in nature. These structures often resemble tiny homes or cabins and provide a more insulated, weather-resistant option for guests. Some popular examples include:
- Modern Cabins/Tiny Homes
- Rustic Cabins (Log)
- Vintage Trailers
- Airstreams
- Treehouses
Hard wall units are more likely to be available year-round due to their insulation and solid construction. They tend to offer more amenities and privacy, attracting guests who prefer the luxury of a boutique hotel in an outdoor setting.
Comparing Average Rates by Unit Type
The difference in structure between soft wall and hard wall units also reflects in the pricing. As the data indicates, hard wall structures generally command a higher price per night, with Domes averaging the highest rate at $531 per night, followed closely by Treehouses and Modern Tiny Home Cabins. In comparison, Bell Tents and Tipis, which fall under the soft wall category, have much lower rates averaging between $175-$179 per night.
Months in Operation
Another important factor when choosing between soft and hard wall units is how long they can remain operational throughout the year. Hard wall units like Modern Tiny Home Cabins and Airstreams tend to operate nearly year-round, with an average of 10-11 months in operation. Soft wall units like Tipis and Safari Tents operate for shorter periods due to their vulnerability to seasonal weather, with an average operational period of 6-8 months.
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between soft wall and hard wall units is crucial for glamping operators and investors looking to capitalize on trends in the industry. Soft wall units offer a more rustic, nature-immersive experience, while hard wall units provide greater comfort, weather resilience, and higher revenue potential. When deciding on which type of unit to invest in or stay at, it’s essential to consider your target market, climate, and the type of guest experience you want to deliver.