How Much Do Glamping Pods Cost?

Jun 28, 2025

Thinking of buying a Glamping Pod? Short answer: it’ll cost you anywhere from £5,000 to over £30,000. Why the gap? Size, style, plumbing—and yes, hot tubs. Keep reading to find out what you’re really paying for, from DIY dreams to luxury escapes that scream “Instagram me, darling.”

The Upfront Cost: Buying or Building Your Pod

Price Tiers: From Basic to Luxury

The cost of buying a glamping pod in the UK ranges from around £5,000 to over £30,000.

Entry-Level Pods (£5,000–£15,000): These are perfect for budget-conscious buyers. They typically include a comfy bed, simple furniture, and maybe a basic kitchen. They're about 10–15 sqm in size.

Mid-Range Pods (£15,000–£30,000): These offer more comfort with larger interiors (15–25 sqm), better insulation, and en-suite bathrooms.

Luxury Pods (£30,000+): These include hot tubs, fully equipped kitchens, and custom furnishings. Sizes start from 25 sqm.

Small arched wooden glamping pod with black curved roof, set on green grass with stepping stones and brick wall backdrop.

DIY vs. Pre-Built: A Cost-Benefit Analysis

You can either build a glamping pod yourself or buy a pre-built one. DIY can save money on labour, but it requires time, skill, and patience. Mistakes can be costly.

DIY comes with lower upfront costs, but it's riskier and more time-consuming.

Pre-built pods cost more initially but usually come with warranties, professional quality, and faster setup.

Hidden Costs: Site Preparation, Permits, and Utilities

Upfront costs don’t stop at buying or building the pod. There are hidden expenses you need to consider:

Planning permission typically ranges from £500 to £2,000, depending on location and size.

Site preparation, like clearing land and laying foundations, can cost £1,000 to £5,000 or more.

Utilities—including plumbing, electricity, and heating setup—vary in cost. Electrical installations alone can range from £800 to £2,000.

Key Factors That Influence the Price

Size and Design: How Dimensions and Style Affect Cost

Larger pods cost more to build and furnish. The style also affects cost—simple curved structures are cheaper than bespoke, multi-room pods.

Materials and Build Quality

Better materials mean a longer lifespan and lower maintenance, but they cost more upfront.

For example:

Structural Frame: £1,000 (low-cost) to £3,000 (high-end)
Insulation: £500 to £1,500 depending on quality

Amenities and Features: From Bare Bones to Fully Equipped

Pods with basic amenities are cheaper. Those with luxury add-ons like hot tubs, kitchens, and high-end bathrooms raise the price significantly.

Custom features drive up cost but also increase comfort and appeal.

Oval wooden glamping pod with round window and green-black roof, placed on wooden deck beside a red cabin and garden lawn.

Running Costs and Maintenance

Ongoing Expenses: Utilities and Insurance

Once set up, you’ll need to cover utilities—electricity, water, and heating—as well as insurance.

Costs vary by location and usage, but they should be factored into your budget from the start.

Cleaning and Maintenance Considerations

Regular cleaning is essential for guest turnover.

Maintenance includes repairs, upgrades, and seasonal upkeep like weatherproofing. Luxury pods usually cost more to maintain.

The Lifespan of a Glamping Pod

A well-built glamping pod can last 10–20 years or more with proper care. Higher quality materials and good maintenance can significantly extend its lifespan.

Is a Glamping Pod a Good Investment?

The Business of Glamping

Starting a Glamping Business: A Step-by-Step Guide

Research your market and choose a location.
Budget for pod costs, permits, and setup.
Secure permissions and prepare the site.
Install your glamping pods and amenities.
Launch your site and list on booking platforms.

Marketing Your Glamping Business

Use social media, travel blogs, and glamping directories to attract guests.

Unique features and great photography can set your site apart from competitors.

Light wooden barrel-shaped glamping pod with black shingle roof, surrounded by green trees and gravel path in a sunny garden.

Potential Return on Investment (ROI)

Calculating Your Potential Earnings

Rental income varies, but mid to high-end pods can fetch £70–£200 per night, especially in popular rural areas.

High occupancy rates can lead to a return on investment within a few years.

The Future of Glamping: Trends and Demand

Glamping is growing fast in the UK. More people are seeking nature with comfort.

Eco-conscious travel and domestic tourism are on the rise, making glamping pods a potentially smart long-term investment.

Other content you might like:

Back to Glamping Pods Blog