When we first considered expanding beyond direct bookings, we were cautious about using third-party platforms.
This wasn’t a decision we took lightly, especially since we take great pride in achieving an exceptional 95%+ direct booking rate, thanks to our strong brand and marketing efforts.
Our initial attempts with larger OTAs like Expedia and Booking.com didn’t deliver the results we hoped for. They weren’t driving significant traffic and seemed to miss the mark in attracting guests who truly wanted the full glamping experience.
In July, we decided to give Hipcamp a try, thinking it might mostly attract traditional campers.
However, the results surprised us.
Hipcamp didn’t just bring a steady flow of bookings—it connected us with guests who were genuinely seeking an immersive, outdoor experience. These guests didn’t just want a place to stay; they wanted something special. That alignment made all the difference and transformed how we see third-party platforms.
Why Hipcamp Works for Glamping (& Ferncrest)
Unlike broader OTAs, Hipcamp is designed for outdoor stays, making it a perfect fit for glamping. The guests we’ve attracted through Hipcamp have been eager for the unique experiences we offer, rather than just a place to sleep.
From July to September, we hosted 24 stays through Hipcamp, generating $6,217 in revenue. We were pleasantly surprised by the average stay cost of $384 and an average daily rate (ADR) of $214. This showed us that Hipcamp’s audience is willing to pay for premium experiences, dispelling our initial concerns about lower spending.
Based on this, I see a clear line of site for our single property to add at least $25,000 from Hipcamp per year. Not a trivial amount.
Most importantly, I view these initial bookings as entirely incremental—ones we wouldn’t have captured without being on Hipcamp. In that sense, I believe this is just the beginning of the potential this platform could unlock for us.
Here’s a screenshot of some of our upcoming bookings (check out the total booking size of each of these reservations!) ⬇️
Engaged Guests and Tailored Tools
Hipcamp’s platform is not only easy to use, but it also allows us to offer extras like sauna sessions, adding value to our guests’ stays and boosting revenue. Plus, like most OTAs, but worth noting, there is no contract or monthly fees, so it’s free to start a listing and try it out
The guests we’ve welcomed from Hipcamp have also been more engaged, leaving thoughtful reviews that help strengthen our credibility.
In just a few months, positive reviews like these have led to more bookings and a deeper connection with our audience.
If you’re planning to launch or expand your glampground, we highly recommend exploring Hipcamp as a complement to your direct booking strategy.
Best,
Brian & Joanna Linton
P.S. I just got back from The Glamping Show, and it was an incredible experience! I had the pleasure of meeting so many of you who read this weekly newsletter—it’s always great to connect in person. Another highlight was stopping by the Hipcamp booth and getting to meet their fantastic team. It was a great reminder of the community and passion that drives this industry forward.
