Tech-savvy solutions for glamping properties

The glamping trend is booming! Travelers continue to seek destinations that allow them to enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors with a greater degree of comfort and luxury. Whether it is upscale yurts or fully furnished cabins in the mountains, people will pay to stay. The global glamping market worth is expected to surpass $3.79 billion by the end of 2025.

While this growth is exciting, it has not been without growing pains. Search engine visibility and reaching target audiences are just some of the challenges glamping property owners face. Leveraging the right technology can help owners overcome these challenges and grow their businesses.

Read on to learn how to glam your tech and boost your online presence.

Google for glampers

Today’s world is a digital one. Establishing a strong online presence is your first step to attracting potential guests. When it comes to search engines, Google reigns supreme, holding more than 90% of the global search share. You want to make sure your glamping property ranks well on Google.

Here are some ways to improve your property’s visibility on Google:

Google business profile

Your Google presence begins with a Google Business Profile. This profile should be as complete and accurate as possible. Use high-quality photos, keep your business details up to date, and regularly check for new reviews.

Google Business Profile has other features, including a Q&A section in which the public can ask questions about your business, which you can then answer. Those Q&As stay live so that future viewers can see them, and they also help inform your business description

Google’s algorithm loves regularly updated content, so post updates to your profile and website regularly. Add photos and videos with information about your business, local things to do or new happenings at your property.

Speaking of reviews, these are a powerful tool for boosting both your rankings and your reputation. Always ask for reviews! Research shows that online reviews significantly influence travelers’ decisions. The saying “any press is good press” applies to reviews. Bad reviews present a chance to influence people to stay with you, if you respond to them appropriately and fairly.

Ads

Google Ads are self-explanatory. You pay Google to run ads for you. Not all ads are created equal. A strategically placed ad can boost your presence, especially if you include eye-catching images, inviting descriptions, and clear calls to action.

Text/organic listings

To appear in the text/organic listings, you will need to have a website. The website should meet certain minimum standards, such as easy navigation, a fast load page, clear calls to action, etc. Solutions like ThinkWeb can help with website optimization and design.

In addition to a pleasing user experience, your website should also be optimized for the search queries most used to find businesses like yours in your local area. This is best determined by an SEO (search engine optimization) professional. Consider ThinkMarketing if you need help crafting engaging and high-ranking SEO content.

Local/travel

When it comes to Google Local results, Travel is very different from other types of business search results. As you can see in this example, the Local/Travel section (or the 3-pack) pricing appears in the results:

These come from third-party partners that feed availability and pricing to Google, based on a default date of a one-night stay.

If you use a booking partner who works with Google, you would still need to have availability on the default date and not have any two (or more) night minimums. This piece is often dominated by OTAs (online travel agencies) like Booking.com and Expedia unless your property works with a partner and uses free booking links or Google Hotel Ads.

You may have noticed that the example query was “Best Glamping in Zion National Park,” and that Google automatically activated the “Top-Rated” qualifier.

Smart technology in glamping

Managing a glamping property comes with a separate set of operational challenges outside of Google’s scope. This is especially true if your glamping property spans large areas or is in a remote location. The right technology can streamline operations, increase revenue, and enhance the guest experience.

Online visibility

In addition to managing your Google presence, you should make sure your property is visible across multiple booking platforms. Channel management systems, like those offered by ThinkReservations, automatically sync your inventory and rates across various distribution channels in real time, preventing overbookings and ensuring your property reaches a wider audience without manual effort.

Remote management

Depending on the location and layout of your glamping setup, it may not be feasible for you to be onsite 24/7. Cloud-based solutions allow property owners and staff to access all property management tools from anywhere, whether on-site or off-site. This flexibility enables you to manage bookings, communicate with guests, and oversee operations no matter where you are.

We recommend taking this a step further with contactless technology. It has become a game-changer for glamping businesses. Guests can communicate with staff, check-in online, make payments, and even use digital room keys through their mobile devices.

Upsell add-ons to boost revenue

Glamping properties can diversify their revenue streams by offering guests add-ons like luxury amenities, guided tours, or special experiences. Smart property management platforms can help upsell these extras by automatically suggesting relevant add-ons during online booking and check-in, thereby increasing overall revenue without adding additional operational strain.

A glamping future driven by technology

To stay competitive and scale your business, it’s crucial to leverage smart technology and optimize your Google presence. With a solid digital strategy, including a well-managed Google Business Profile and the right hospitality tools, you’ll be able to attract more guests, boost revenue, and ensure your glamping business thrives in the evolving landscape of outdoor accommodations.

Request a demo to see how ThinkReservations can help you manage your glamping property and help grow your business.

Want to read more about Google and the glamping business? Make sure to check the Glamping Business Americas article (page 17) by Annie Buck, our education manager. She goes into much more detail in regards to Google and Glamping properties.

ThinkReservations for glamping

Struggling with a clunky booking system for your Glamping Properties? Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort found the solution with Think Reservations! Learn how they overcame lost bookings & optimized revenue with this powerful platform. Manage lodging, activities, & more efficiently!