Thinking about launching a glamping site or expanding your accommodation options? Choosing the right structure is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make. It doesn’t just affect the experience you offer; your choice will directly influence set-up costs, long-term maintenance, and how profitable the venture becomes.

1. High ROI Choices – Start With What Pays Off

If your top priority is making your money back (and then some), look for structures that balance affordability, longevity, and strong guest appeal.

Premium yurts from sellers like Beyond Yurt are a smart example here. Their round design is incredibly efficient when it comes to space and heating. Plus, they offer a cosy, earthy feel that many glamping guests are drawn to. Best of all, they’re one of the more affordable structures to build and maintain. You’ll get a decent lifespan out of a well-made yurt, especially if you use quality materials and add insulation.

Other structures with strong return potential include:

• Safari tents – They’re relatively low-cost to set up and have a wide appeal, especially among families and couples.
• Cabin pods – More durable and often insulated for year-round use, these can demand higher nightly rates.
• Bell tents – Less expensive up front and ideal for seasonal or pop-up glamping, especially for large event bookings.

Whichever you choose, don’t just look at the purchase price. Consider how long it will last, how much maintenance it will need, and what kind of nightly rate you can realistically charge.

2. Guest Experience First – Think Comfort and Wow Factor

People glamp for an experience that’s different from a hotel or a regular tent. Your structure has to deliver that.

What creates that “wow” moment?

• Space – Nobody wants to feel cramped on a holiday.
• Natural light – Big windows or open sides give a strong connection to nature.
• Ventilation – Particularly for warmer months, airflow is key.
• A proper bed – Most guests expect real mattresses and fresh linen, not sleeping bags.

Even small touches like a skylight or a wood-burning stove can massively elevate the experience. So when comparing structure types, ask: can this space be turned into somewhere guests will remember—and recommend?

3. Weather Compatibility – Build for Your Climate

Not all structures suit every location. It’s tempting to choose something based purely on aesthetics, but if your setup can’t handle the local weather, you’re looking at early repairs or unhappy guests.

Wet and windy climate? Go with structures that have solid foundations and tough materials—think cabin pods or insulated yurts.

Hot and dry region? Prioritise ventilation and light-reflecting materials, and avoid low ceilings that trap heat.

If you’re in an area that experiences a mix of weather, you’ll need a structure that handles both extremes. Canvas-based tents, for example, need extra waterproofing and may not be suitable for year-round use unless properly upgraded.

4. Ease of Assembly and Maintenance – Don’t Set Yourself Up for a Headache

Some glamping structures look amazing on paper—until you try to build or maintain them. Keep in mind:

Will you need a team of specialists to install it?

How long does set-up take?

Can you replace parts easily if something breaks?

How often will it need upkeep (cleaning, re-treating fabrics, repainting)?

The more complex the structure, the more time and money you’ll spend keeping it up to standard. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t go for a beautiful build. But know what you’re committing to before you sign off.

5. Planning and Legal Considerations – Check Before You Invest

Glamping might feel low-impact, but many locations still require planning permission for certain structures. That can include things like:

• Permanent foundations
• Plumbing or electrical connections
• Size or height of the structure
• Proximity to neighbouring properties or protected areas

Some areas also restrict how long a temporary structure can stay up. It’s worth checking local rules early in the process—what you can and can’t do might narrow your options.

If you’re unsure, consider going with something more mobile or temporary while you test demand. That way, you can gauge interest before investing in more permanent accommodation.

6. Scalability – Can You Expand with Ease?

If you’re planning to grow, pick a structure that can be duplicated or modified easily. Some designs are easier to scale because they use standard components, simple layouts, or require minimal groundwork.

Ask yourself:

Will adding another unit be straightforward?

Is there enough demand to support more?

Will extra structures affect the feel of the site?

Yurts and bell tents are easy to scale up for festivals or seasonal rushes, while cabin-style units might take more time and investment per build. That’s not necessarily a downside: just something to weigh against your long-term plan.

7. Off-Grid Potential – Think Beyond the Power Lines

Glamping guests often seek peace, quiet, and an escape from the modern world. Structures that support off-grid setups give you more location flexibility and lower overheads if you can skip mains power or sewage.

Some structures are better suited to this than others. Look for options that:

• Retain heat well for cooler months
• Allow natural ventilation for hot days
• Support solar panels or compost toilets
• Use minimal electricity or plumbing

Choosing an off-grid-friendly design opens up more remote locations, which are often cheaper to lease or buy. It also taps into a growing niche of travellers who want to disconnect completely.

Worth the Time to Get Right

Choosing the right glamping structure isn’t just about trends or what looks good in photos. It’s a practical decision with long-term impacts on your costs, guest experience, and potential to grow.

Start with a clear goal—high ROI, wow factor, or off-grid appeal—and build from there. The best structures balance all the key factors: comfort, durability, legal compliance, and scalability.

It’s a decision that deserves proper research and a clear plan. Because when you get it right, the results aren’t just beautiful, they’re profitable, sustainable, and built to last.