Getaway Raises $41.7M to Expand Tiny Cabin Network

Getaway's Success Amidst a Changing Landscape

Jon Staff, CEO of Getaway, noted that the company’s services, though not initially conceived with a pandemic in mind, proved remarkably suitable for a period when individuals actively sought secure alternatives to virtual interactions and the confines of their homes.

The Concept of Outposts

Established in 2015, Getaway specializes in constructing Outposts – groupings of compact cabins situated in secluded, natural environments within a two-hour radius of major metropolitan areas, including cities like Atlanta, Austin, Los Angeles, and New York.

These cabins present an ideal setting for socially distanced getaways. Guests enjoy self-check-in procedures, private fire pits, and substantial spacing between cabins – ranging from 50 to 150 feet – with no shared communal spaces.

Disconnecting from Modern Life

Staff emphasized that Getaway prioritizes disconnection from the pressures and distractions inherent in contemporary life, rather than promoting conventional tourism. Consequently, the cabins lack Wi-Fi access.

Furthermore, visitors are provided with lockboxes to securely store their mobile phones throughout their stay, encouraging a digital detox.

The Value of Doing Nothing

“Our aim is to encourage inactivity, in its purest form,” Staff explained. “Opportunities to truly have ample free time are rare. And if not complete rest, to engage in meaningful conversations with loved ones, or to savor the preparation and enjoyment of a meal with those around a campfire?”

Navigating Investor Expectations

Staff recounted facing skepticism from some investors regarding Getaway’s commitment to self-construction of cabins and Outposts. Tech-focused venture capitalists questioned why it wasn’t a platform, anticipating rapid valuation growth.

Conversely, real estate investors inquired about the potential for large-scale skyscraper development.

Embracing a Unique Approach

“For a time, I felt anxious about not fitting neatly into any established category,” he admitted. “However, I came to recognize the advantages of this unconventional position – it is precisely where genuine innovation flourishes.”

Significant Growth in 2020

The Getaway model proved particularly resonant in 2020, experiencing a 150% increase in bookings year-over-year and achieving nearly full occupancy across its Outposts.

The company has now announced a $41.7 million Series C funding round, led by Certares, a firm specializing in travel and hospitality investments – as initially reported in a regulatory filing.

Expansion Plans

Getaway intends to utilize the new funding to expand its network to at least 17 Outposts this year, a significant increase from the 12 in 2020 and the nine in 2019.

According to Crunchbase, the startup has secured over $81 million in total funding to date.

Beyond Tiny Cabins

Staff suggested that Getaway may diversify its offerings in the future, stating, “The brand represents more than just small houses or cabins; it embodies the need for respite from an increasingly noisy and interconnected world.”

He added that Getaway could explore other solutions to address this issue.

Maintaining Focus on the Guest Experience

However, Staff stressed the importance of maintaining a clear and focused approach to the experience Getaway provides.

“We consistently remind ourselves that we do not create the experience at Getaway,” he clarified. “You, the guest, are the creator. Our role is to facilitate, providing everything necessary and nothing superfluous.”

Defining Boundaries

“There’s considerable freedom to shape your experience as a guest, but also defined limits.”

For instance, Staff mentioned receiving requests to host work retreats at Getaway Outposts, but emphasized that this is not their intended purpose. “We won’t actively prevent it, but we won’t install Wi-Fi.”