In this episode of The Glamping Business Roundup, hosts Vicki Jones and John Maddy explore a big question many aspiring operators ask:

If we were starting a glamping business today, what would we do differently?

Drawing on years of industry experience, they share honest insights into site planning, guest expectations, marketing strategies, and the lessons learned from running their own businesses. From wildlife-proofing structures to deciding the ideal number of units, this episode is packed with practical advice for anyone dreaming of starting – or improving – a glamping site.

Along the way, Vicki and John also share behind-the-scenes stories from their own sites, discuss the realities of staffing and operations, and imagine what their “dream glamping site” would look like if they were starting again in 2026.

Whether you're researching a future glamping project or already running a site, this episode offers real-world tips, industry trends, and plenty of honest reflections.

💡 In This Episode We Discuss

• What we would prioritise when starting a glamping site in 2026
• Why location can make or break a glamping business
• Choosing the right structures – domes, cabins, tents, and more
• Deciding the ideal size of a glamping site
• The balance between luxury experiences vs affordable stays
• Guest-favourite features like hot tubs, saunas, outdoor baths and cinemas
• Wildlife challenges and how to protect your structures
• Why simple, proven solutions often beat expensive custom builds
• The importance of great staff and team chemistry
• Marketing strategies including social media storytelling, OTAs, PR and awards
• Designing for accessibility and inclusive guest experiences
• The biggest mistakes to avoid when building a glamping site

For our next episode we would love to feature your crazy guest stories so send them over to us at glampingpodcast@gmail.com

Thanks so much for listening.

To find out more about how GITA can help you and your glamping business then visit www.gitauk.org or find us on the socials...

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/glampingassociationuk/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564207155053

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/glamping-industry-trade-association-uk

Are OTAs Your Enemy or Biggest Asset? – Glamping Industry Insights

In this episode, hosts Vicki Jones and John Maddie explore the complex relationship between glamping sites and online travel agents (OTAs). They share practical tips on how to leverage OTAs effectively, maximize direct bookings, and balance dependence on these platforms for a thriving glamping business.

Key Topics:

• The pros and cons of using OTAs: reach, convenience, and costs
• How to turn OTA bookings into repeat direct customers
• Strategies for optimizing your OTA listings (photos, keywords, seasons)
• The importance of collecting guest emails for marketing
• Setting smart pricing: balancing OTA commissions with direct income
• The role of Google Hotels integration in competitive pricing
• When and why to rely on OTAs during low season or last-minute bookings
• How specific OTAs target different customer personas
• Tips for branding subtly within OTA listings and during guest experiences
• Managing cancellations, policies, and hidden costs effectively

Connect with the Hosts: Vicki Jones & John Maddie by emailing glampingpodcast@gmail.com

Thanks so much for listening.

To find out more about how GITA can help you and your glamping business then visit www.gitauk.org or find us on the socials...

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/glampingassociationuk/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564207155053

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/glamping-industry-trade-association-uk

Unlock the secret to making your glamping business bulletproof—and save thousands in the process. In this episode, John reveals why a comprehensive risk assessment isn’t just a box-ticking exercise; it’s the foundation that can protect your guests—and your profits. Discover how routine safety checks, proactive maintenance, and a mindset shift can slash costs, boost compliance, and elevate guest experience.

You’ll learn the step-by-step process for creating a simple, living risk assessment that evolves with your site. John shares why safety is “not a gadget but a state of mind,” and how thinking like a guest can expose hidden hazards before they become costly accidents. We break down real-world examples: from hot tub safety to the power of high-quality materials, and how investing once can save you from repeated costly repairs.

You'll discover practical tactics: digitizing procedures with affordable apps, establishing systems that make staff training seamless, and maintaining consistency across multiple locations. Our conversation uncovers how small tweaks—like sign-off sheets, detailed checklists, and understanding your space from a guest’s perspective—can save time, money, and reputation. Think safety isn’t glamorous? Think again—when enforced properly, it’s your secret weapon for a thriving, stress-free business.

Perfect for glampsites ready to streamline their operations, owners aiming to improve safety standards, or anyone feeling overwhelmed by compliance. This episode gives you the tools to protect what matters most—your guests, staff, and bottom line—without extra hassle. Tune in to learn how a safety-first approach can empower you to grow confidently and avoid costly mistakes. Make safety your strategic advantage—your future self will thank you.

Thanks so much for listening.

To find out more about how GITA can help you and your glamping business then visit www.gitauk.org or find us on the socials...

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/glampingassociationuk/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564207155053

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/glamping-industry-trade-association-uk

We are ‘Supa’ excited for this week's episode we were joined by Mark from Supa heater. He explained how their portable system heats hot tubs on demand, cutting energy costs by up to 70% and ensuring every guest jumps into a perfectly warm tub—every time. No more waiting, no more disappointing surprises.

We also delve in to regulations, demystifying legislation and talk about how anyone can have hot tubs on their site. We chat through simplifying the process and explore what the reality of changing water looks like. Spoiler alert! Its not that bad…

This episode is a must for anyone who manages hot tubs, or is thinking about adding them to their glamping site.

Please don't forget to like and subscribe so you never miss an episode and share with anyone who is missing out!

Thanks for listening.

Thanks so much for listening.

To find out more about how GITA can help you and your glamping business then visit www.gitauk.org or find us on the socials...

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/glampingassociationuk/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564207155053

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/glamping-industry-trade-association-uk

Welcome back to our second season of the Glamping Business Roundup with your hosts Vicki Jones and John Maddy

In this episode we discuss the latest trends and challenges in the glamping industry as we prepare for the 2026 season.

We reflect on our holiday experiences, booking trends, and the importance of enhancing guest experiences through curated packages and sustainability efforts. The conversation also touches on the impact of AI on the industry and the need for glamping sites to adapt to changing market dynamics while maintaining a focus on customer service and connection.

Dates for your diary
Kate & Vicki's Upskill Day - 21st April at Tractors and Cream

Buy Tickets – Upskill Day for Hospitality Operators - Run Your Own Workshops – Tractors & Cream Glamping & Events

GITA Spring Summit

12th May 2026 at Tractors and Cream

Thanks so much for listening.

To find out more about how GITA can help you and your glamping business then visit www.gitauk.org or find us on the socials...

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/glampingassociationuk/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564207155053

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/glamping-industry-trade-association-uk

The Glamping Business Round-Up Podcast
Hosted by Vicki Jones & John Maddy
📧 Email the show: glampingpodcast@gmail.com

In this final episode of the series, Vicki and John are joined by Brian Searl — Founder & CEO of Insider Perks, creator of Modern Campground, and one of the leading voices in AI, automation, and technology within outdoor hospitality.

Brian has worked with more than 500 campgrounds, RV parks, and glamping resorts across North America, helping operators embrace the future through AI-first solutions, predictive analytics, smart operations, and cutting-edge marketing strategies.

This is a must-listen episode for any UK or international operator wondering where to start with AI, how the U.S. market differs, and what practical tools actually make sense for small glamping businesses.

🌟 What We Cover in This Episode

🔹 Brian’s Journey Into AI & Outdoor Hospitality

🔹 AI for Small Glamping Businesses: What to Use First

🔹 Guest Experience, Personalisation & the “Tech-Free” Debate

🔹 Lessons From the U.S. vs UK Market

🔹 Future Tech: What’s Coming Next?

🔹 Practical, Actionable Advice for UK Operators

📨 Get in Touch

We’d love your ideas for Season 2!
Email us anytime at glampingpodcast@gmail.com



🎙️ Brought to You By

GITA – The Glamping Industries Trade Association
Supporting glamping businesses and growing our industry.

Thanks so much for listening.

To find out more about how GITA can help you and your glamping business then visit www.gitauk.org or find us on the socials...

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/glampingassociationuk/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564207155053

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/glamping-industry-trade-association-uk

The Glamping Business Round-Up Podcast
with Vicki Jones & John Maddy
📧 Email the show: glampingpodcast@gmail.com

In this episode, Vicki and John dive into one of the most important (and often overlooked) parts of running a successful glamping business — technology.

From the moment a guest discovers your site to the moment they check out, every step of their journey can be made smoother, clearer, and more profitable with the right tools. But with so many options out there, where do glamping owners actually start?

This episode breaks it down simply and practically, sharing real-world insights that glamping hosts can apply immediately — whether you’re brand new, scaling up, or feeling stuck with clunky systems that no longer work.

🌿 What We Cover in This Episode

1. The Customer Journey: From Click to Check-Out

Vicki and John explore what the ideal customer journey looks like and where tech makes the biggest impact — including booking flows, online touchpoints, communication, and upsells.

Highlights:

• How many “clicks to purchase” is too many
• Where guests commonly get lost or frustrated
• How automation can elevate communication without losing the personal touch
• Simple tools for pre-arrival, on-site, and post-stay engagement

2. Choosing the Right PMS (Property Management Software)

From pen-and-paper beginnings to full digital automation, Vicki and John unpack what PMS actually is — and why it’s essential for modern glamping operators.

What We Discuss:

• Calendar syncing (and why iCal ≠ API)
• Avoiding double bookings
• The PMS features glamping owners genuinely need
• Integrations with Airbnb, Booking.com, Google Business Profile, Stripe and more

3. Tech for Marketing & Guest Engagement

Tech isn’t just back-end — it’s also your most powerful marketing ally.

Topics Covered:

• CRM tools and why they matter for loyalty
• Email marketing that encourages repeat guests

CRM Benefits for Glamping:

• Centralised guest data
• Automated reminders and upsells
• Personalised offers
• Insights into guest lifetime value

💡 Key Takeaway

“Tech isn’t about replacing the personal touch — it’s about freeing up your time so you can focus on creating amazing guest experiences.”

Start small. Pick one tool that solves your biggest pain point and build from there.

Thanks so much for listening.

To find out more about how GITA can help you and your glamping business then visit www.gitauk.org or find us on the socials...

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/glampingassociationuk/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564207155053

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/glamping-industry-trade-association-uk

In this episode, we sit down with Wendy Wilkinson, owner of the award-winning Acorn Glade Glamping in the heart of Yorkshire. Before creating her peaceful lakeside retreat, Wendy spent 25 years as a Cabin Service Director with British Airways, leading a team of 16 crew and caring for up to 400 passengers per flight. Now, she brings those decades of customer service, communication, and crisis-management experience down to earth — transforming it into world-class hospitality at Acorn Glade.

Wendy shares how her aviation career shaped the way she runs her adults-only, nature-filled escape, and how the art of staying calm under pressure translates perfectly to hosting glamping guests. From de-escalation techniques to confidence-boosting rituals (including her iconic red lipstick!), this episode is packed with practical, thoughtful advice for any glamping owner who wants to elevate their guest experience.

We also explore how teamwork with her husband Andrew keeps Acorn Glade running smoothly, how to set the right tone the moment guests arrive, and the small service touches that make a lasting impression.

Whether you’re dreaming of opening a site, already hosting, or simply love a behind-the-scenes look at hospitality done right, this episode delivers real gold from 36,000 feet and from a tranquil Yorkshire lakeside.

About Acorn Glade Glamping

Acorn Glade is a peaceful, adults-only glamping retreat located near Melbourne in East Yorkshire. Set around a private lake and surrounded by wildflowers and woodland, the site features beautifully styled spaces including:

• The Lake Vista Yurt
• The Roundhouse
• The Bluebell Cabin
• The Woodland Hut

Designed for relaxation, romance, and reconnecting with nature, Acorn Glade offers guests a digital-detox experience with sustainable values, wildlife, and serene countryside views at every turn.

Learn more about Acorn Glade: www.acornglade.co.uk

Thanks so much for listening.

To find out more about how GITA can help you and your glamping business then visit www.gitauk.org or find us on the socials...

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/glampingassociationuk/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564207155053

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/glamping-industry-trade-association-uk