The pandemic has created some interesting and unique challenges over the last year. Among the many issues experienced by Canadians, has been a shortage of outdoor spaces and camping sites, as people flock to experience the outdoors in a way that allows them to remain socially distanced. Founded in 2013, a company called Hipcamp that connects landowners with travellers looking for unique outdoor experiences, has recently launched in Canada.
The company has partnered with Canadian startup Pitched to offer hundreds of tent camping, cabin, glamping, RV park, and treehouse listings throughout the country. Similar to AirBnB, the site allows farmers, ranchers, vintners, and other landowners to post listings that let them generate revenue and conserve their land.
More than 600 Canadian hosts have already listed their properties to Hipcamp’s global community, with new hosts signing up daily. Listings are available in every province throughout Canada, with the majority currently available in Ontario, British Columbia, and Alberta. Some offer remote wilderness retreats only accessible by water, while others are more conveniently located within close proximity to major roads.
“When I founded Hipcamp nearly a decade ago, my dream was to create an easy way for people to get outside, and that dream is now reality in multiple countries around the world,” said Hipcamp founder Alyssa Ravasio. “For some time, we’ve seen that demand for outdoor experiences in Canada has outpaced supply. So, we’re excited that today we’re able to offer Canadians a new way to recreate responsibly during the pandemic – in the great Canadian outdoors.”
Canadian hosts receive protection and benefits, including Hipcamp’s Liability Insurance Policy, which protects Hosts for up to $1M CAD. “We have been extremely impressed with Hipcamp’s vision for private camping in Canada,” said Pitched Co-Founder Olaf Dunn.
We may not be able to travel Internationally just yet, but we are fortunate to live in a country that is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the world. The company offers a full credit for any cancellations related to COVID-19 lockdowns and provides recommendations on how to lower your impact on the communities you visit. Also, wear a mask indoors, travel in small groups, respect the neighbours and take your trash with you.
Hipcamp is also currently running a contest where you can win a 40-day travel experience and $20 grand. Visit their website to learn more.
