Australia’s diverse landscapes and love for outdoor activities have created a thriving market for glamping experiences. From the lush rainforests of Queensland to the dramatic coastline of Victoria and the striking landscapes of the Northern Territory, glamping options are popping up across the nation, catering to various budgets and tastes.

The glamping industry in Australia has undergone significant evolution in the last year or two, reflecting a global trend towards more luxurious and eco-friendly outdoor experiences. As of 2023, the global glamping market is estimated to reach $4.8 billion by 2025, underscoring the rapid growth and potential of this sector​​. Specifically, in Australia, there are over 2,100 glamping sites, illustrating the country’s vibrant and expansive glamping industry, which harmonizes luxury with nature​​.

The latest trends in Australian glamping include a strong emphasis on sustainability and eco-friendly practices, as evidenced by the increasing adoption of measures like using renewable energy and minimizing waste by glamping operators​​. Another notable trend is the preference for remote and secluded locations, where glampers can disconnect from the digital world and immerse themselves in tranquillity​​. Wellness and spa experiences have also gained popularity, offering guests restorative and rejuvenating activities in nature​​.

Unique accommodations, are a key part of the glamping experience, providing a blend of luxury and uniqueness​​. These trends are not just about the aesthetics or location of glamping; they also reflect a broader shift in consumer preferences towards unique, eco-conscious, and wellness-oriented travel experiences.

In terms of industry performance, the average occupancy rate for glamping retreats typically falls within 60-80% (though we have seen even higher), a range that highlights the popularity and success of glamping as a travel option​​. Additionally, the revenue per available tent, cabin, or dome is an important metric for understanding the financial performance and efficiency of the accommodations, though benchmarks for this can vary significantly based on various factors including location, amenities, privacy and target market​​.

Specific statistics are hard to come by in Australia when it comes to glamping, as it is still quite a niched industry. My recommendation here is to find an Aussie glamping provider that you like the look, vibe and/or size of and check their nightly rates and how often they are booked out. It’s not a perfect solution but gives you an idea at least.

Apart from COVID, screwing around with the statistic of domestic travel, we had seen a steady rise in Aussies taking more vacations for less time. This means that we much prefer to take 3-7 days off (so realistically only 1-5 work days off) several plus times per year as apposed to the 2-4 week holidays 1-2 times per year. This aligns perfectly with the glamping model as the average duration of a stay is between 2-3 nights per visit.

Our recommendation for this is to have various itineraries of different lengths, that target different demographics. Some people may want to go to National Parks in the area and go on hiking adventures while others may want to stroll around a winery and eat some fine foods. There are limitless ways to entertain your guests both on and off your property. This is not to say that all your guests will want to do these activities (some may just want to stay on-site and forget the stresses of life, which is totally understandable). Just having the options there, is a great way to get booked up more often.

It also seems to be the millennials who are the largest client base when it comes to booking glamping accommodation, with baby boomers not too far behind. Consider this when designing your glamping site.  What do these demographics want out of their glamping experience?

These statistics and trends paint a comprehensive picture of the glamping industry in Australia, demonstrating its growth, diversity, and the evolving preferences of consumers. As the industry continues to expand, it offers numerous opportunities for businesses and a unique travel experience for consumers seeking comfort, sustainability, and a connection with nature.

At the more basic end, you have glamping setups that are a far cry from wrestling with a tent in the dark. Think bell tents kitted out with real beds, outdoor seating areas, and a trusty BBQ for cooking up a storm. These setups often include a camping-style bathroom area, offering a taste of the outdoors without all the hassle. It’s for those who want to say g’day to the great outdoors, but goodnight to the backaches from a blow-up mattress.

High-End Glamping: Eco-Resort Extravagance

Then there’s the high-end stuff. We’re talking luxury eco-resorts hidden away in the bush, where the only thing ‘camping’ about it is the setting. These places are decked out with full kitchens, en-suite bathrooms, bedrooms with all the trimmings, air-conditioning for those scorching Aussie days, and wood-fire stoves for the nippy nights. Picture outdoor seating areas perfect for sipping a local Shiraz, hot tubs under the stars, outdoor baths, and fire pits for late-night yarns.

This isn’t just camping with a bit of gloss. It’s a five-star hotel under a million stars. High-end glamping spots are sought after by those willing to shell out $500+ per night for secluded luxury. They’re chasing comfort, fine food and drinks, entertainment, and privacy – and they’re happy to pay top dollar for it.

Return on investment: the high-end advantage

When it comes to ROI, our experience, backed by discussions at industry conferences and market research, suggests that the investment in high-end glamping pays off handsomely. Yes, the initial setup costs might make your wallet wince, but the demand is there – and so is the willingness to pay premium prices. Unlike basic glamping, where guests are looking for a step up from traditional camping, the high-end market seeks an experience that rivals top-tier hotels.

It’s all about the experience

But here’s the thing – it’s not just about plush pillows and gourmet brekkies. People are seeking experiences, something beyond the concrete and glass of city life. They want to create memories, whether that’s feeding cows and horses, plucking fruit straight from the tree, or planting seeds. It’s about getting back to basics but in a way that feels special and unique.

Why would someone choose a high-end glamping site over a Hilton hotel? Because it’s not just a stay – it’s an adventure. It’s the chance to disconnect from the daily grind and connect with nature and loved ones. It’s about the smell of eucalyptus, the sound of the bush, and the taste of food cooked over an open flame.

To Summarise

To summarise, glamping in Australia offers a spectrum of experiences. From the basic, where the charm lies in its simplicity, to the high-end, where luxury meets the wilderness. The key is understanding that, regardless of the level of luxury, glamping is about crafting memorable experiences. It’s about offering something unique – a chance to escape, explore, and enjoy the Aussie bush in a way that resonates with each guest, whether they’re after a simple retreat or opulent seclusion.