Since the pandemic, a growing number of young people have chosen to leave their homes and dedicate their time to exploring the world. Both as a reason and a consequence, in the past few years, travelling from country to country has become increasingly accessible and affordable.
With Travel & Tourism contributing to 9.1% to the global GDP, in 2023, many travellers have left their home countries to embark on global adventures.
“That has to be unbelievably expensive,” you might think. Well, not necessarily.
In this article we will introduce you to all the things you need to know to travel the world (almost) for free and make the most of every moment of your trip!
Volunteer to get free accommodation: travel for free with Workaway & BackPackers
Workaway
Workaway is an online platform that offers users the chance to exchange their time for accommodation. Sometimes, additional perks such as food, property facilities, and compensation. Through Workaway, travellers can choose the type of work they’ll assist hosts with. These job opportunities range from common tasks like carpentry and gardening to unique opportunities in resorts, specialised farms, surf houses, diving schools. On the platform there are even families seeking short-term au pairs and babysitters! There are also options for digital work or teaching, making Workaway and its incredibly detailed, easy-to-use search bar a great solution for any interest.
Founded in 2002, the platform has experienced rapid and exponential growth. And as time passed, the platform has welcomed millions new hosts from nearly every country in the world. In European countries like Portugal, Spain, and France, as well as in Australia, New Zealand, the United States, and Canada van life and solo travelling are very common. In this exact countries, budget tourism has grown fast,. As a consequence, this led multiple hosts to open their doors to individuals looking for a new, temporary home.
WorldPackers
Similar to Workaway, WorldPackers provides a wide range of locations and host types for travellers who want to exchange their time and skills for accommodation. Alongside Workaway, Worldpackers is one of the most popular work exchange platforms, offering an extensive network of hosts around the world.
If you can’t find a place or position that suits you on Workaway, do not fear!
Here’s a short list of other platforms worth considering before making your final decision. Embrace your explorer mindset and take a look at the following options to ensure your travel expectations are met.
- WWOOF (World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms). Unlike the previously mentioned platforms, WWOOF has a specific focus on organic farmers and cultivation-related hosts.
- Go Change https://www.gochange.it
- HelpX (Help Exchange) https://www.helpx.net
- Go Cambio https://gocambio.com
Hosted by locals
CouchSurfing
No, it’s not a dream. Through CouchSurfing, you can indeed be hosted on people’s couches who, aside from some company and conversation, won’t ask for anything in return. Except for a symbolic monthly fee of €1.50 to help run the platform, you won’t have to spend a penny to stay with hosts! Sofas, beds, and often even rooms are offered to you as free accommodation by locals; sometimes, they’ll even provide food.
CouchSurfing is a fantastic way to meet locals and experience their cultures and habits firsthand. It all through simple, genuine interactions and shared stories.
TrustedHouseSitters
TrustedHousesitters is a platform that connects homeowners and pet owners with travellers seeking free accommodation. Through TrustedHousesitters, people from around the world can contact hosts and agree to take care of their homes and pets in exchange for a roof over their heads. Living like a local has never been this easy!
And that’s not all! Some hosts may even allow you to invite friends or guests. Always remember to ask permission first!
Nature all the way: camping
When discussing budget-friendly travel, camping is a topic that cannot be overlooked!
Popular for being a great way to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature, camping isn’t only a great way to disconnect from the world for a few days, but also one of the most economical options available to travel.
In almost every country you’ll discover campsites where you can spend a night or more for just a few pounds.
These sites typically offer fenced and often protected areas for your car, van, or tent, as well as water, bathrooms, toilets, and sometimes additional facilities like bars and restaurants.
A unique and safe way to spend one or few nights in nature!
Moreover, in many countries, free camping is also possible. This practice generally gives you the chance to sleep outdoors in open areas without having to pay fees or purchase tickets. When done correctly, consciously and responsibly, it offers an unforgettable experience that everyone should try at least once in a lifetime!
For more details on countries where you’ll have the chance to free camp and their specific regulations click here.
NOTES ON THE POST
This content is solely a demonstration of my writing skills and is not affiliated with any specific publication, paper, or magazine. The style, tone, language, and length would be tailored to align with the unique guidelines and preferences of any magazine or blog for which a hypothetical piece might be created.
USEFUL INFORMATION
Language: British English
Style chosen: straightforward, simplistic, friendly, SEO-optimised
Type of content: informative, travel blog, in-depth list, budget-friendly solutions
Suited for: travel blogs & magazines, budget travel
Word count: 790
If you’re interested in publishing this article on your blog/magazine, please contact me at teresa.bigioli@gmail.com.
