Hipcamp Review [2023]: Does it offer the most unique stays?

Do you love the peace and serenity of nature surrounding you? Maybe you're yearning to spend time with like-minded adventure seekers and outdoor enthusiasts. Then there may be a new website you haven't uncovered yet that might have the perfect camping recommendations!

Introducing Hipcamp, a website that helps adventurers find exciting spots to go glamping or camping! 

The website lists several rental properties owned by private individuals offering unique camping experiences. Campsites vary from tents or RV sites to cozy cabins and treehouses with their own kitchens and electricity.  

Similar to sites like Glamping Hub and iOverlander offering outdoor glamping and camping experiences, Hipcamp is another site that provides the same services with minor differences.   

Let's explore the best features of HipCamp and the possible flaws of the site. Find out if this website is all hype or whether it will actually help you find an excellent new adventure spot!

What is Hipcamp? 

Hipcamp is a rental vacation service that allows you to rent out private campsites for unique outdoor stays. New Yorker Magazine has called it the "Airbnb of the Outdoors." With a simple mission to "get more people outside," Hipcamp makes camping cool again. 

On the Hipcamp website, you can find and book places for setting up your camp. Primarily a website, Hipcamp also has its own mobile app, Hipcamp Hosts, where campers can connect with landowners. 

Aside from booking and camping at the locations, campers can also review the different sites. Users can leave their opinions with thumbs up, emojis, a written review, and photos.

Since its launch in 2013, Hipcamp has been serving campers across the globe. Hipcamp currently has several camping locations in various countries such as Australia, Canada, France, the United Kingdom, and the US. 

Easy Booking with Hipcount

Booking on Hipcamp is a breeze! After exploring their camping options, you can choose a spot you like. Then select a date and proceed to the booking page. You'll get an email or SMS that tells you your booking is confirmed. 

It's just that easy.

How Much Does It Cost? 

The cost of staying at the campsites listed on Hipcamp can vary. Typically, the nightly price can be between US$5 to US$100, depending on the spot and amenities included.

Service fees also have to be considered apart from the booking fees. Just like Airbnb, Hipcamp needs to make money somehow. According to the company, 90% of the nightly price goes to the landowners, and the company only takes 10%. 

Features of Hipcamp

Let's begin by discussing the features that make Hipcamp enjoyable to use! 

Easy to search and book

Hipcamp makes it extremely easy to search and book campsites. Out of all the camping booking platforms I've used, it is one of the most comprehensive websites with a great user interface. 

Secluded and private locations

Hipcamp locations are secluded and private. Most properties available for booking are extensive, spanning five acres or more. The cabins are well-built, and even if most are small, they're built and designed for privacy. The surrounding environments, often forests, feel like a sanctuary where you can explore and hike the wild!

Excellent booking options

There are also many excellent booking options on the Hicamp website with many activities. Campsites often have fire pits and picnic tables. Additionally, if it's near a body of water, fishing and swimming gear are available.

Easy to connect with hosts

Another great benefit of using Hicamp is how easy it is to connect with the hosts. The app allows you to message your host and notify them of any change of plans or needs during the camping trip. If you need more blankets, firewood, or need help repairing your tent, your hosts can often help! 

Drawbacks of Hipcamp

Every good review looks at the possible flaws in a product or service. So, next up will be a few issues customers could have while using the service. Just remember that it's essential to understand that every person will have a different camping experience. 

Buggy Website

The first issue many customers have is that Hipcamp's website can be slightly buggy. Moreover, certain listings can be unclear at times. People have also complained about not seeing many locations that allow RVs. 

Service fees

Another drawback is that pre-booking can have some financial consequences if your plans change. Hipcamp can charge you for service fee if you need to change or cancel plans, according to many users. These service fees average around 15% but can sometimes even go up to 20% for smaller transactions due to their US$3 minimum charge rule. 

Campsites feels desolate

You may be disappointed if you're a social camper who wants to meet new friends and have big campfires. Many of Hicamp's campsites feel desolate, and it could feel like you're the only person or group camping in the area. Although there may be other people in the area, the enormous size and lack of visibility at some sites make it feel extremely isolated. 

Is Hipcamp Worth It?

Hipcamp is a handy option for people looking to camp in new and exciting places. Although it may not please every type of camper, it seems well-suited for seasoned campers with groups or those who enjoy solitude. 

You can camp on someone else's land and enjoy the peace and quiet of nature for a great price. And, if you think about it, this app can benefit both campers and owners with lots of lands.

If you're a property owner and own land that's great for camping, Hipcamp is an excellent way to earn money. All the while providing an unforgettable and unique experience for others. 

So, if you're a massive fan of camping, give Hipcamp a try! Those next camping pictures with a whole new setting will turn out to be stunning.

Our Rating: 3.9/5

Pros:

• Easy booking and ability to find ideal camping sites 
• Safe, private camping locations 
• Variety of activities to do 
• Easily connect with host 
• Affordable fees

Cons:

• Sometimes buggy website (i.e. unreliable at times)
• Hard to find RV-friendly campsites
• Campsites are isolated

Make Your Camping Trip Memorable

After going through this review, you're probably excited about browsing through some of the listings on Hicamp. Hipcamp is a service that allows people to explore more camping sites and regions worldwide. 

But how do you plan an entire camping trip if it's international? Hipcamp may not have the scope, but Pilot is specifically made for organizing and planning trips! Whether you're braving the adventure alone or planning for a group camping trip, Pilot has you covered while you organize.