What Are Glamping Pods?

Being able to find a truly unique glamping experience is something that every adventurer dreams of. And while high-end tents have become very popular in the glamping space, glamping pods have become even more popular. Yet, not too much is known about glamping pods or that they are even an option to create a unique experience. In this blog, we will explain what a glamping pod is, what it includes, and how to make your glamping pod experience one of a kind.

What Is A Glamping Pod?

So, what on earth is a glamping pod? Glamping pods are small buildings used to create a glamping experience. Typically, a glamping pod includes some small appliances, a small area to eat a meal (available in our 12×17 model size), and a cozy bed with a large window to take in the surrounding one-of-a-kind views. These structures usually have electricity and are climate-controlled, providing your guests with an enjoyable space no matter where they are. 

Do Glamping Pods Require Electricity?

Yes. A glamping pod, or Vista Pod as Zook Cabins calls them, requires electricity. For the best possible situation, we recommend 50 amp service to power the unit effectively. This will allow you to ensure that the pod is climate-controlled and can power a few small countertop appliances. 

Are Glamping Pods Climate Controlled?

Yes! At least a well-built one should be climate-controlled. A Vista Pod will have a heating and cooling system to make for an excellent climate inside, even when the outdoors is less than desirable. To go the extra mile in offering you a glamping pod with proper cooling, your glamping pod has an AC unit and a fan. So, even if you place your pod in the middle of the desert, you can keep your guests comfortable.

How Many People Can Stay In A Glamping Pod?

A well-built glamping pod can comfortably accommodate two adults as these units fit a queen-sized bed. A small child could sleep in a sleeping bag on the floor at the foot of the bed or along one side of the bed. However, anything beyond those three would be very uncomfortable to accommodate. 

Do Glamping Pods Have Running Water?

No. Most glamping pods do not have running water, which allows them to be placed in more remote locations. However, some other companies that build larger glamping pods, similar to our park models, have a full plumbing setup. If you are worried about your guests wanting water in your glamping pod, you can easily fit some water bottles in the in-unit fridge. However, if you want them to be able to have their own private bathroom facilities, we would recommend that you look into a park-model tiny home. If you do not desire a park-model tiny home and still want your guests to have a private bathroom, be prepared to build your own accommodations.

What Are The Most Popular Kinds Of Glamping Pods?

There are two very popular kinds of glamping pods. The first is an A-frame-style glamping pod, and the second is a wigwam-style glamping pod. Some other types of glamping pods would include geo domes or shed cabins; however, they are not built the same way as a glamping pod and may require different components to set them up.

A-Frame Glamping Pods

A-frame glamping pods, like our Vista Glamping Pods, are named for their A-frame appearance. The pods are typically built on a shed skid and can be placed in almost any location. At one end, they have a large window that allows guests to look out over the scenery surrounding them. 

Wigwams

Wigwams are another type of glamping pod that tends to be more popular in the UK. However, they are starting to make their way in popularity in the US. These pods are similar to what we view as park model homes in the States. However, unlike park model homes, wigwams are not built on a trailer. 

How Big Is A Glamping Pod?

Our glamping pods from Zook Cabis come in two sizes. Our smaller glamping pod is 12’x14’, 168 sq. ft., and our larger size is 12’x17’, 204 sq. ft. If you want to be able to provide a space that has a kitchenette area, the 12×17 is the way to go. However, if you intend to use your glamping pod solely as a “bunk house”, the 12’x14’ is probably all you will need. 

How Much Space Do I Need For a Glamping Pod?

For a glamping pod, you will need at least two feet bigger than the building itself. This allows you to have a foot of walkway space around the entire perimeter. So for a 12’x17’, you will need a space that is at least 14’x19’. However, the smaller glamping pod will only require a space that is 13’x15’.

Does A Glamping Pod Need a Foundation?

Yes! Your glamping pod will need some kind of foundation to prevent the building from getting stuck doors or twisting as the ground beneath it settles. We recommend that your place your glamping pod on something like a gravel shed foundation. While the video above is used to explain a shed foundation, the same principals would apply to your glamping pod foundation. This is because glamping pods and sheds are built on the same kind of skid system. 

Are Glamping Pods A Good Investment?

Yes. Glamping pods are a great investment if you are looking to get into the short-term rental space or want to update your campground. These units are especially great if you have extra space on your personal property and want to offer a glamping experience without a high initial investment cost on a building. 

Are Glamping Pods The Same Thing As A Park Model Tiny Home?

No. Park model tiny homes, and glamping pods are not the same thing. A glamping pod is built on a shed foundation, making it easier to maneuver to your desired location. It also does not have plumbing in the unit. However, a park model home is built on a trailer and will meet the requirements of RVIA 119.5. Each park model home will have at least one bedroom, a kitchen area with running water, and a full bathroom with a standard toilet and walk in shower. 

Are Glamping Pods More Affordable Than Park Model Tiny Homes?

Yes, glamping pods are more affordable than park-model tiny homes. However, because glamping pods are typically ordered in multiples, it can seem that a park-model tiny home is not that much more money than a glamping pod. But keep in mind 

Where Can I Stay In A Glamping Pod?

At Zook Cabins, we recommend that you take a look at our experience rentals page. Here you can find one of many locations to stay in a glamping pod. However this page is not limited to glamping pods alone, here you can find all sorts of other building styles to stay in so that you can find the space that fits your needs best. If you want to stay in the glamping pods that you see above, check out Somerset Resort.

How Long do Glamping Pods Last?

On average, glamping pods will last about 25 years. Now that is to say that you are only doing minimal upkeep to the structure. If you stay on top of needed repairs and are vigilant in making renovations and repairs quickly, your building should be able to last far longer. 

How Do I Make A Great Glamping Pod Experience? 

Making a one-of-a-kind glamping experience is something that does take a bit of work. While some people think that if you put a glamping pod in any location and rent it out with no issue, you are somewhat mistaken. To create a truly unforgettable experience, we have three tips to get you started.

One Of A Kind Location

Glamping is all about finding one-of-a-kind spaces with one-of-a-kind views. One of the most fun things you can do with a glamping pod is place it where almost no other building can go. For example, if you have a pond on your property that offers great views but not a large amount of space a glamping pod may be just the perfect way to create space for a short-term rental. Additionally, we have seen people do all sorts of things with our pods, in fact some people have made it so that their pod is suspended in the air. 

Premium Amenities

Premium amenities are a great way to draw people to your glamping pod experience over others. For example, one of our customers purchased a glamping pod and then added a sauna and outdoor shower experience for the guests. This gave their guests a unique way to enjoy their glamping pod stay. Check it out above!

Unreasonable Hospitality

When we say unreasonable hospitality, we mean finding a way to make your guests stay so much better than any other place they have ever visited. Offer a s’mores package for when they arrive, with the firewood and fire starter included. Leave them a small gift certificate to a local coffee shop. If they stay for multiple days, offer to clean the unit every other day so they have a clean room when they arrive from their day out. This is about things that you would appreciate a one-of-a-kind stay, and be the venue that offers those things!

Conclusion…

Glamping pods are a great way to provide people with a one-of-a-kind stay in a one-of-a-kind place. Unlike other larger buildings, glamping pods do not include plumbing and only require 50 amp of service to provide the electricity needed. If you think a glamping pod is the next right thing for you or your campground. Contact us at Zook Cabins, and we will be happy to walk you through the process of getting your very own Vista glamping pod. Not sure if a glamping pod or park model would be best for your needs? Check out our blog on glamping pods vs park models vs conestoga wagons.