Supporting UK Glamping and Staycation Businesses: How Principal Business Finance Can Help

The UK staycation and glamping market has seen remarkable growth in recent years, fuelled by shifting travel habits, a desire for sustainable tourism, and increasing consumer demand for unique experiences. According to industry data, the UK’s glamping sector is now worth over £3 billion annually and continues to attract entrepreneurs looking to capitalise on this booming industry.

This past weekend, The Glamping Show 2025 brought together business owners, suppliers, and investors from across the country, showcasing the opportunities and innovations that are driving the sector forward. But alongside creativity and vision, one of the biggest challenges for operators, whether they’re launching a new site or scaling an existing one, is securing the proper funding.

That’s where Principal Business Finance Limited can make a real difference.

The Rise of Glamping and Staycations

The staycation boom began during the pandemic but has now become a permanent trend. Rising travel costs, concerns about sustainability, and the appeal of local exploration mean that more consumers are choosing UK-based breaks. Glamping sites offer the perfect blend of comfort and adventure, with unique accommodation options ranging from luxury yurts and safari tents to eco-pods and converted cabins.

For business owners, this presents a golden opportunity. However, setting up and running a glamping or staycation business requires significant investment—whether in land development, high-quality equipment, or marketing to attract the right customers.

The Funding Challenges for Glamping Businesses

Despite the industry’s growth, many glamping operators face barriers when it comes to financing. Traditional banks often lack the appetite for lending against non-traditional or seasonal businesses. High upfront costs, long return-on-investment timelines, and the unique nature of assets can make approvals more complex.

Common funding challenges include:

• Purchasing or leasing land for development.

• Installing eco-friendly infrastructure such as solar power or wastewater systems.

• Buying accommodation units like pods, cabins, or yurts.

• Investing in marketing and digital booking platforms.

• Covering seasonal cash flow gaps.

How Principal Business Finance Supports Glamping Businesses

At Principal Business Finance Limited, we work with a wide panel of lenders—including high street banks and specialist funders—to create tailored funding packages designed specifically for industries like glamping.

Here are some of the key ways we can support businesses in this sector:

Asset Finance for Accommodation Units

Glamping sites rely on durable, high-quality structures such as pods, cabins, and safari tents. Through asset finance, businesses can spread the cost of these purchases over manageable instalments, freeing up capital for other growth areas.

Development and Fit-Out Loans

Transforming land into a fully functional site often requires significant upfront investment in infrastructure. We arrange development funding to cover costs like utilities, pathways, communal facilities, and eco-friendly upgrades.

Working Capital Loans

Running a glamping business often involves seasonality strong summer revenues may not sustain winter expenses. Working capital loans help smooth cash flow, ensuring staff, suppliers, and marketing budgets are supported year-round.

Invoice Finance for Partnerships

Suppliers or B2B contracts in the tourism sector sometimes come with delayed payments. Invoice finance unlocks cash tied up in receivables, ensuring liquidity for day-to-day operations.

Green Asset Funding

With sustainability at the heart of glamping, many operators are turning to renewable energy, water recycling, and eco-friendly facilities. Green asset finance makes it easier to invest in these solutions, often at more competitive rates.

Case Study Example

One of our clients, a family-run glamping site in the East Midlands, approached us needing £250,000 to expand their facilities. Banks were reluctant to lend due to the seasonal nature of their revenues. By combining asset finance for accommodation units with a working capital loan, we created a blended package that enabled them to double their site capacity and extend their marketing reach. Within 18 months, their turnover had grown by 40%.

Why Work with Principal Business Finance?

• Sector Expertise – We understand the unique challenges and opportunities within the glamping and staycation industry.

• Flexible Funding Options – From asset finance to development loans, we structure solutions around your specific needs.

• Speed and Efficiency – With direct broker contact to underwriters, we can often secure funding much faster than traditional banks.

• Tailored Support – We don’t just look at the numbers; we look at your business plan, growth potential, and the long-term vision for your site.

Conclusion

The glamping and staycation industry is more than just a trend—it’s a long-term shift in how people choose to holiday. For UK entrepreneurs, this sector offers incredible opportunities, but accessing the right funding is key to success.

Principal Business Finance Limited is here to help glamping businesses secure the capital they need to build, expand, and thrive. With tailored solutions and access to a broad lender network, we ensure your business has the financial foundation to grow with confidence.

Get in touch today to discover how we can support your glamping or staycation venture. Contact us on 01604217998, email info@principalbusinessfinance.co.uk, or enquire here.