Why Wigwam Holidays’ Flat 20% Commission Beats the Booking Agents for Glamping Operators

Written By Christo Gallagher

If you're considering launching or growing a glamping business, you’ve likely come across booking agents like Sykes, Cottages.com, or even glamping-specific portals like Glamping Hideaways. These platforms promise exposure and bookings, but behind the scenes, their commission structures, pricing policies, and hands-off approach can create confusion and reduce earnings. 

With the updated Wigwam Holidays franchise model, franchisees benefit from a flat 20% (ex VAT) commission rate, Wigwam-specified cabins, and end-to-end booking management handled by our dedicated and experienced franchise team. It's a smarter, simpler model built specifically for the outdoor accommodation market we pioneered. 


Why Booking Agents are Often More Costly than They Appear

Most booking agents charge a base commission—but that’s just the beginning. Behind the scenes, they often apply a range of tactics that reduce your actual income:

  • Variable commission rates that climb with added services

  • OTA commissions paid on top of booking agency commissions.

  • Dynamic pricing tools that reduce your rates

  • Last-minute discounts that erode your margins

  • OTA markups that inflate guest prices without passing any benefit to you

For example, agents like Sykes or Cottages.com may list your property across platforms like Airbnb or Expedia with hefty markups. The guest ends up paying more—but you still earn the same or sometimes even less.


The Wigwam Holidays Franchise Model: Designed for Your Success

The new Wigwam Holidays Franchise model is a complete rethink of how outdoor accommodation businesses should be supported. It provides clarity, consistency, and real value for site owners.

✅ Flat 20% Commission (ex VAT)

You always know where you stand. No tiered pricing or hidden charges. Just a simple, fair commission that keeps your margins healthy and your income predictable.

✅ Wigwam-Specified Cabins + Site Design Support

To ensure guests receive the best experience at the best price, Wigwam® Holidays specifies the design and finish of all cabins. They also help shape the overall site layout and design, so every location feels thoughtfully planned and professionally delivered. The result? Higher guest satisfaction, better reviews, and stronger return bookings.

✅ Full Booking & Listing Management

Wigwam® Holidays manages your listings, booking rules, and pricing strategy across channels. This saves you time, ensures consistency, and optimises revenue while preventing the pricing confusion and guest dissatisfaction often seen with third-party platforms. It’s a true hands-off experience for owners, without losing control.


More Than a Platform: An Experience Delivered Through a Proven Franchise Model 

When you partner with Wigwam Holidays, you’re not just signing up for a listing—you’re joining a franchise system with decades of experience, national recognition, and commitment to giving great holidays in the great outdoors.

You’ll receive:

  • Detailed guidance through site planning and setup

  • Your own dedicated franchise account manager

  • Premium cabin designs specified for long-term guest satisfaction

  • Managed pricing, rules, and OTA integration

  • A dedicated booking platform and franchise support team

  • Training, operational advice, and community support

It’s everything you need to launch, grow, and sustain a truly successful glamping business.

Want to learn more? Get in touch today.

Christo Gallagher