Travel can get expensive.
The costs start to pile up.
You have your flights, airport transfers, uber, buses, food, etc, so why not save on accommodation? Were you aware that you actually don’t always have to pay for accommodation while traveling?
Hear me out.
I am not talking about staying at a hotel and not paying the bill. What I am saying is you can make your trip a little more interesting by trying out some of these ways to get free accommodation while you’re exploring the world. You can achieve this in many different ways, it really just depends on what type of trip you’re planning.
The best way to decide would be to ask yourself these questions:
- Am I a long term traveler or going on a quick trip?
- Do I want to connect with local culture or keep to myself/trip partners?
- Am I introverted/extroverted? How do I feel about that?
- What do I want out of this trip?
- Do I want to learn a new skill/try new things?
Once you’ve answered the questions above, you will have a little more clarity on deciding what the best option is for you to save money on your future accommodation. Now let’s get into it.
How To Get Free Accomodation While Traveling
image source pexels.com
1. Wwfooing, Workaway, Worldpackers etc.
Whether you’re completely new to traveling or a seasoned backpacker you’ve probably heard about at least one of these programs through research, or someone you know who has done it.
These are great ways to get your hands dirty as you dig into learning new skills, join a project with the skills you already have, and plant yourself directly in a community where you get to get to know the local culture of your destination. These programs allow people from all over the world to host backpackers, offering them a free place to stay and free meals in exchange for around 20 hours of work per week. The opportunities range from physical labor like farming, gardening, and building, to art projects, and administrative tasks. So if you’re interested in learning about the local agriculture and experiencing ‘a day in the life’, this could be perfect for you!
Although all hosts are screened and run through these organizations, it is important to use your common sense and do your research. Look at the reviews from former volunteers and guests, and make sure to read the entire listing before you apply, or arrive. There are some hosts that require payment or don’t provide meals, and there will be hosts who try to get more work than allowed. Remember you are not obligated to stay anywhere you don’t feel comfortable. These programs have been around for a very long time and have a very high success rate. To access these opportunities you will need to pay an annual membership fee usually around $80. (Prices vary)
2. Trusted HouseSitters
Another great way to score a free place to stay is house sitting. You’d be surprised at how many people want their houses lived in while they go away. Sometimes it’s because they have pets that need taking care of, or simply feel safer knowing someone is present so no one notices an empty house (especially for longer trips.)
Although you won’t be staying with anyone, it’s also a great option to get to know the local culture because you probably won’t be staying in a tourist area, so you’ll get to experience a locals life to your destination. Maybe you’ll find a great coffee shop, or a beautiful trail you may not have come across staying in the areas catered to tourism.
So when you’re planning your next trip, just download the app and see what’s available. Whether you know where you’re headed or just seeing your options around the world, this program can take you to some amazing places. Trusted HouseSitters is also a paid membership, and I believe they also have a referral program, so if you’re a member you can get paid when you get friends to sign up with your link.
image source pexels.com
image source unsplash.com
3. Facebook Travel Groups
This is probably one of my favorite ways to travel. Although I know a lot of people have moved onto TikTok and Instagram when it comes to social media, Facebook has something neither of those platforms can offer. Niche groups.
I’m sure at some point you’ve joined a Facebook group by accident or on purpose, but the point is you’re part of a digital community one way or another. There are so many different groups for travel, whether you’re a digital nomad, a backpacker, or a solo female traveler, there’s a group out there for you.
What’s great about these groups is that you can ask questions about destinations, see who’s around , and even make connections in your destination before you arrive. One of my favorite groups is called “Host A Sister” (sorry boys, but this one is for the ladies). You just post where you’re going and what you’re looking for and a little about yourself, and people in your destination will reply. I’ve traveled to quite a few places this way and met some amazing people who’ve offered me a makeshift bed on their living room floor, or even my own guest suite. It’s a great way to make new friends while experiencing the local life.
4. Volunteer At A Hostel
Have you found yourself at a hostel and you keep deciding to extend your stay because you’re just not ready to leave yet? Did you know that most hostels will always have room for a volunteer? Your paid hostel stay can now be free by simply working the front desk for a few hours, helping out with house keeping, or any other small jobs they might have for you.
This works out great because they can definitely use the help, and as a budget traveler, it’s an easy way to score a free place to stay for as long as you need.
image source unsplash.com
image source unsplash.com
5. Talk To The Locals
I know this sounds so simple, yet there are a lot of people who don’t take advantage of this. Just be yourself. While you’re traveling, there are no limitations to the people you may meet. The best thing you can do is tell people your story, your ideas, and why you are where you are, and see where it can lead you. I can’t tell you the number of times I’ve simply shared my story with locals who were inspired and told me if I needed a place to crash, they’d be happy to host.
I’ve met people at local markets, coffee shops, and even just walking on the street. Traveling gives you the opportunity to create the reality you’ve always dreamt of. So don’t be too shy to be the version of yourself you came here to be.
These are just a few of the ways you can essentially find free accommodation while traveling. There are so many ways to do this you just have to set out on your journey with an open mind, and be ready for anything. Some of the volunteer/work trade options may have minimum stay requirements, so be sure to check if it works with your trip plans.
Have any other suggestions on ways to find free accommodation while traveling? Leave your suggestions in the comments!
