The glamping industry in Ontario has become increasingly competitive, with more dome sites opening near Toronto. To make a new glamping dome business stand out, it’s essential to offer the amenities that today’s guests most value. Based on 2024 data from existing dome operators, here are insights into which amenities drive the highest bookings and revenue, helping new businesses make strategic decisions.
1. Water Access Doesn't Guarantee Higher Bookings
While it might seem that lakeside or riverside settings would attract more guests, data from early 2024 tells a different story. Domes with water access averaged $60,000 in annual revenue, while domes without water access performed better, averaging $90,000. Why? Water-bound locations often face restrictions on utilities like wells or septic systems, which can limit the range of amenities available, especially a full-service flushing toilet. When choosing a site, consider whether water access is worth the trade-offs in potential comfort and convenience.
2. Flushing Toilets: A Revenue-Boosting Must-Have
One of the clearest takeaways from 2024’s data is that glamping guests highly prioritize flushing toilets. Here’s a comparison of how toilet types correlate with average annual sales:
| Toilet Type | Average Annual Sales |
|---|---|
| Conventional | $80,000 |
| Outhouse | $60,000 |
| Shared | $50,000 |
| Compost | $50,000 |
Providing a conventional flushing toilet can significantly increase bookings, attracting guests who prioritize comfort and modern facilities. For a new glamping dome, this may be one of the most valuable investments.
3. Pet-Free Sites Outperform Pet-Friendly Sites in Revenue
Allowing pets may seem appealing to attract a broader audience, but our data shows that pet-free sites tend to yield higher earnings. Here’s how annual sales compare:
| Pet-Friendly Status | Average Annual Sales |
|---|---|
| Yes | $40,000 |
| No | $70,000 |
Pet-free policies often translate to a higher standard of cleanliness, which attracts guests looking for a pristine environment. For owners seeking to maximize revenue, keeping a pet-free policy may help draw more bookings from guests who prefer a spotless, allergen-free space.
4. Romantic Themes Drive Higher Bookings Than Family-Oriented Designs
Designing your dome for romance rather than family appeal can make a significant difference in revenue. Based on 2024 figures, romantic themes are linked with higher sales than family-oriented designs:
| Design Theme | Average Annual Sales |
|---|---|
| Romantic | $80,000 |
| Family | $60,000 |
This “romantic” theme could include intimate lighting, cozy seating, and décor designed for couples. While family-oriented designs can be profitable, appealing to couples can lead to even higher bookings, particularly if you’re close to urban centers where many guests seek a quiet getaway.
2024 Takeaways: What Amenities Should I Add to My Glamping Dome?
For those looking to launch a successful glamping dome, here’s a summary of which amenities to prioritize for maximizing revenue based on early 2024 data:
- Invest in a conventional flushing toilet to meet guest expectations and increase the likelihood of higher bookings.
- Consider maintaining a pet-free policy to appeal to guests who prioritize cleanliness and a pristine environment.
- Design with a romantic theme to attract couples seeking a getaway, a popular demographic in the glamping market.
- Carefully evaluate the impact of water access on the range of amenities you can offer, as it doesn’t always guarantee higher revenue.
By focusing on these high-value amenities, you can better position your glamping dome to stand out in a crowded market, attract steady bookings, and maximize revenue. For more insights on glamping trends and how to get started, subscribe to Northern Glamping’s newsletter.
