If you are looking to travel as cheaply as possible, you may have heard of Couchsurfing. Is this inexpensive lodging opportunity right for you? How do you get started? Here is everything you need to know about Couchsurfing, and how to get started.
What is Couchsurfing?
Couchsurfing is when someone allows travelers to stay in their home. These generous people are called hosts. Often the accommodations are Spartan. You will most likely be crashing on a couch, floor, or spare bed. While it is no five star hotel, it is a cheap, safe, and easy way to find lodging while traveling.
Couchsurfing is Free
Yes, you read that correctly. Couchsurfing is free. If you are looking to cut travel expenses and travel the world as cheaply as possible, you cannot get cheaper lodging. Why would someone let you stay in his or her home free of charge?
First, you need to understand that everyone involved in Couchsurfing views themselves as part of a large community. The hosts help fellow travelers by giving them a place to stay, and when the hosts need a place to stay when they travel, they turn to the very same community. So, hosts offer their homes as way to help fellow travelers and meet new people.
You Need a Profile
When you join the Couchsurfing community, you will need to fill out a profile. Be descriptive. Add lots of pictures, and explain who you are and what interests you. Remember, your profile represents you, and you are asking people to take you into their homes. Represent yourself well.
Send Out Lots of Host Requests for Lodging
When looking for a place to crash on Couchsurfer, you will need to send out a lot of host requests. These will be hosts offering a place to stay in or near your destination. This part is a bit like applying for a job. You are basically applying to stay in someone’s home. Not everyone will be willing to take you in, as you might not be a good match.
Therefore, you will need to send out at least 10 or more host requests. That way, you will find someone who is a good match for you.
Follow the Rules
If you find a host, make sure that you are a good guest. Follow the house rules and make friends with your host. This will ensure that you get a good review, and can find hosts for future travels. Likewise, make sure you leave good feedback for your host, too.