If you’ve ever dreamed of owning a cute little cabin in the woods or a quirky glamping spot that pays for itself—and then some—you’re not alone. With platforms like Airbnb and Hipcamp booming, travelers are actively looking for unique stays that give them something different from your standard hotel room.
Enter the world of tiny properties for vacation renting. From yurts to prefab pods, these small-scale stays can generate big-time profits if planned right. Whether you have a spare acre of land, a backyard that’s begging for something fun, or you’re ready to invest in land near a tourist hot spot, here’s a breakdown of the best small structures you can build to attract short-term renters.
1. Yurts (aka Mongolian Tents): Cozy Circles of Profit
Yurts have gone from nomadic shelter to Instagrammable vacation spots. These circular canvas tents are easy to set up, surprisingly spacious inside, and have a rustic charm that glamping fans love.
Why people love them:
- Earthy, peaceful vibe
- Often come with wood stoves and skylights
- Perfect for off-grid or semi-off-grid getaways
Pro tip: Add insulation and a solid base to make your yurt a year-round rental.
2. A-Frames: Classic Looks with Modern Magic
A-frames are those cute, triangle-shaped cabins that scream cozy retreat. With their steeply sloped roofs and photogenic aesthetic, they’re especially popular in mountain or forest settings.
Why people love them:
- Architecturally striking
- Great for snowy destinations
- Feels bigger than it looks thanks to vaulted ceilings
Pro tip: Go for glass walls on one side to create that “wow” moment.
3. Container Homes: Industrial, Chic, and Eco-Friendly
Shipping container homes are made from recycled cargo containers and can be turned into sleek, modern rentals. They’re durable, weather-resistant, and modular, which means you can start small and scale up.
Why people love them:
- Modern, minimalist aesthetic
- Eco-conscious vibe
- Often cheaper to build than traditional homes
Pro tip: Insulation is key—metal gets hot in summer and freezing in winter.
4. Conventional Tiny Homes: Small Footprint, Big Charm
These are your classic tiny houses on wheels or foundations, often built to resemble mini cottages or cabins. They’re well-loved for maximizing space and comfort without going overboard.
Why people love them:
- Feels like a “real” house
- Has everything in one place (kitchen, bathroom, loft, etc.)
- Great for long weekends or even week-long stays
Pro tip: Prioritize clever storage and open layouts.
5. Prefabricated Pods: Plug-and-Play Vacation Spots
Pods are modern, pre-made structures that can be delivered and installed on your site in a matter of days. They often come with built-in plumbing, electrical, and minimalist furnishings.
Why people love them:
- Minimalist, futuristic appeal
- Fast setup
- Can be used for remote “workcation” retreats
Pro tip: Look for pod manufacturers that specialize in off-grid features if you’re on land without hookups.
6. Prefabricated Modular Homes: Bigger Investment, Bigger Return
Think of these as larger siblings to pods. Modular homes are built in sections off-site and assembled like LEGOs on your property. They’re ideal for those who want a more permanent or higher-end rental.
Why people love them:
- More space and comfort
- Feels more like a boutique stay
- Can attract higher-paying guests
Pro tip: Consider adding luxury finishes to stand out in the premium vacation rental market.
7. Glamping Tents: Nature Meets Comfort
Luxury safari-style tents have exploded in popularity. They offer a tented experience, but with real beds, furniture, and sometimes even clawfoot tubs under the stars.
Why people love them:
- The romance of camping, minus the discomfort
- Instagrammable settings
- Often located in serene, private spots
Pro tip: Offer add-ons like fire pits, hammocks, or breakfast baskets.
8. RVs: Road-Ready and Guest-Ready
An RV or retro camper parked on your land can be turned into a nostalgic, cozy rental. They’re especially appealing to those who want the RV experience without driving one.
Why people love them:
- Quirky and fun
- Often more affordable than building from scratch
- Mobility means you can reposition if needed
Pro tip: Decorate with a theme—vintage, boho, surf shack, etc.—for extra appeal.
9. Neo-Glamping Homes: Where Innovation Meets Nature
Neo-glamping homes blend smart design with natural surroundings—think dome houses, eco-pods, or mirrored cubes in the forest. These are high-concept stays for design-savvy travelers.
Why people love them:
- Totally unique experience
- Often eco-friendly and off-grid
- Great for special occasions or romantic getaways
Pro tip: Lean into the experience. Provide robes, aromatherapy, stargazing kits—anything to make it memorable.
Final Thoughts: Should You Start Small to Profit Big?
Absolutely. The charm of small vacation rentals lies in their uniqueness, not their size. Start with one unit, test the market, gather feedback, and scale from there. Whether it’s a single yurt or a fleet of luxury glamping tents, the right setup on the right land can be a cash-flowing dream.
And best of all? You can escape there yourself anytime you want.
