How I Learned to Travel Cheap (and free)

From Lost in the Mountains to Budapest Bound: My Workaway Story

There I was, working in the mountains of Montenegro, surrounded by breathtaking views. But my peaceful retreat turned into a bit of a predicament when I realized my funds were running low. My grand European adventure was in jeopardy, and I was starting to worry. How was I going to afford food, let alone make it to my next destination, UK, back to Spain or something new?

That's when a fellow solo traveler mentioned Workaway, a website connecting travelers with hosts offering accommodation and sometimes meals in exchange for a few hours of work per day. It sounded like a lifeline, but I was skeptical. Could it really be that simple?

With nothing to lose, I decided to give it a try. I created a profile highlighting my skills (a bit of writing, some basic photography, and a willingness to learn anything), and started browsing opportunities in nearby countries. Within a few days, I had a message from a lovely family in Hungary looking for help with their guesthouse.

And just like that, my trip was back on track! I spent several months in Hungary, exploring the countryside, learning about local culture, and making new friends, all while working just a few hours a day. It was an incredible experience, and it completely changed the way I travel.

How to Get Started with Workaway (or Similar Platforms)

1. Create a profile: Be honest about your skills and interests, and upload some photos to make your profile stand out.

2. Browse opportunities: Use the filters to narrow down your search by destination, type of work, or dates. You can even find last-minute opportunities if you're flexible!

3. Read reviews: Before contacting a host, carefully read reviews from previous volunteers to get an idea of what to expect.

4. Contact hosts: Reach out to hosts that interest you, and ask any questions you have about the work, accommodation, or local area.

5. Confirm details: Once a host accepts your application, confirm all the details of your stay, including dates, work hours, and any other expectations.

Tips for a Successful Work Exchange Experience

• Be flexible: Things don't always go according to plan, so be prepared to adapt and go with the flow.

• Communicate clearly: Talk to your host about your expectations and any concerns you have.

• Be respectful: Remember that you're a guest in someone's home, so be respectful of their culture and customs.

• Have fun! Work exchange is a great way to meet new people, learn new skills, and experience different cultures.

Beyond Workaway

While Workaway is a great platform, there are others worth exploring too:

• Worldpackers: Similar to Workaway, with a wide range of opportunities in different countries.

• Couchsurfing: Connect with locals offering free accommodation in their homes.

Ready to start your own work exchange adventure?

Use my code [your code] to get a discount on your Worldpackers membership and start exploring the world!