Glamping Pods vs Yurts: Best for Resorts, Airbnb

Imagine your guests arriving at your site: will they step into a cozy wooden pod tucked among the trees, or a spacious canvas yurt with room to stretch out under the stars? Both create unforgettable glamping experiences, but they’re built for different needs. 

At Tree Tents USA, we’ve spent years helping hosts choose the right setup, and in this guide, we’ll walk you through the pros, cons, and insider tips on pods vs. yurts.

Glamping Pods vs Yurts: Key Differences You Should Know

Here’s a quick guide to glamping, comparing pods and yurts side by side:

What Are Glamping Pods?

Glamping pods are compact, cabin-like structures designed for modern comfort with minimal fuss. They are usually prefabricated, insulated, and quick to install.

Unlike camping tents or a bell tent, pods often feature solid walls, windows, insulation, and even electrical hookups, making them a reliable, year-round option for glamping accommodation.

Think of them as a cozy hut or lodging in miniature:

• Strong enough to handle the elements

• Simple to heat or cool

• Highly customizable

• Made of wood for durability and a rustic, but comfortable and stylish feel

For Airbnb hosts or resorts, pods deliver a boutique look without major construction headaches. Pods are often perceived as upscale stays that provide the amenities of a hotel while letting guests enjoy the outdoors.

At Tree Tents USA, pods like our Birdhouse and Tree Tent combine off-grid design with lightweight builds that slip into natural settings without heavy machinery. They are ideal for anyone who wants quick ROI and long-term durability.

What Are Yurts in Glamping?

A yurt is a traditional, round glamping tent with origins in Central Asia. These circular structures are framed with wooden lattices and covered with canvas or felt, typically made for portability since they were used by nomadic tribes.

Over the years, yurts are a popular choice in the different types of glamping, offering a premium camping experience with a distinctive shape and large open floor plan.

Yurts feature:

• A central pole

• An opening at the top for ventilation

• Interiors that can be styled with wood-burning stoves, hot tubs, or full furnishing

This combination creates the perfect blend of traditional yurts with modern amenities.

For resort owners, glamping yurts can work well as larger group lodging or centerpiece units that wow visitors. They are one of the most popular glamping structures for eco-resorts, offering a chance to reconnect with nature while also enjoying a variety of amenities.

Glamping Pod vs Yurt Cost: Which Is More Affordable?

When comparing types of glamping accommodation like pods and yurts, cost is a big deciding factor.

• Glamping Pods: Start around $12K for entry-level models like the Birdhouse and go up to $40K+. Installation is quick, saving labor costs. Long-term, pods can outlast yurts, offering better ROI.

• Yurts: Basic 16–20 ft yurts cost $8K–$15K, while larger luxury setups can hit $30K+. Add costs for decking, insulation, and upkeep.

If you want a premium camping experience with longevity and ROI, pods win. If you want a sense of adventure with a distinctive shape, yurts shine.

Curious about the full breakdown of costs? Check out our guide on how much glamping pods cost

Glamping Pods vs Yurts: Which Offers More Space?

• Glamping Pods: Compact, 80–120 sq ft. Great for couples or small groups.

• Yurts: 200–700 sq ft, with space for group stays, yoga retreats, or glamping tipis-style gatherings.

If you want multiple rentals on one glamping site, pods maximize space. If you want one wow-factor lodge for guests to enjoy the great outdoors, yurts are ideal.

Which Is More Profitable for Airbnb and Resorts?

Profitability depends on guest demand and site goals.

• Glamping Pods: Attract eco-conscious travelers year-round. Their comfortable and stylish feel makes them similar to boutique lodging or tree house-style escapes.

• Yurts: Pull higher nightly rates in scenic destinations but may lose bookings in cold weather unless upgraded with running water or hot tubs.

Many Airbnb hosts who choose pods see ROI in under 2 years, especially near national parks, lakes, or forests.

Do Glamping Pods and Yurts Require a Foundation?

• Glamping Pods: Usually don’t need permanent foundations. Can sit on stilts, decking, or lightweight platforms, eco-friendly and semi-permanent.

• Yurts: Need circular deck foundations, which add to labor costs but support their conical shape and longevity.

FAQs

Are glamping pods good for Airbnb?

Yes. Pods are durable, compact, and provide comfortable accommodation with a boutique-style design.

Can yurts handle snow and rain?

Yes, but they require regular maintenance. Pods generally perform better for year-round glamping in harsh weather.

Do pods or yurts need permits?

Glamping pods under 120 sq ft often don’t require permits. Yurts, however, usually need decking or structural permits.

Which is easier to install?

Pods can be set up in just a few days. Yurts typically take weeks and often require a skilled crew for installation.

Choose the Right Structure to Boost ROI

When it comes to Glamping Pods vs Yurts, the best option depends on your goals:

• Choose glamping pods if you want fast ROI, simple setup, and reliable year-round glamping.

• Choose yurts if you want large, rustic showcase stays with a traditional camping vibe and sense of adventure.

At Tree Tents USA, we believe both can shine in the right setting. But if you want sustainable, ROI-friendly, and comfortable and stylish structures, our pods and cabins set your eco-retreat apart.

Whether it’s a cozy Birdhouse pod or a striking Tree Tent, your site can stand out while letting guests enjoy the outdoors and experience luxury camping in the great outdoors.