In April 2020, amid the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, the San Francisco-based outdoor travel startup Hipcamp conducted a significant round of layoffs due to a sharp drop in bookings as shelter-in-place orders took effect. According to a report from an employee, approximately 60% of the company's workforce was let go over a two-week period, though Hipcamp disputed that specific percentage, stating the actual figure was significantly lower. The layoffs were a direct response to the economic uncertainties and travel restrictions that crippled the industry. By August 2020, however, the company had rebounded as outdoor activities gained popularity, even rehiring some previously laid-off employees and expanding through the acquisition of the Australian startup Youcamp.
