Experts Corner

How to Sleep for Free When Traveling

May 13, 2024   By JM Carpiso
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Travelling on a budget is a lot of fun, but it can also be challenging when you want to save up on accommodations. Hotel and hostel prices can go at very high rates. But seeing the world and getting new experiences is still important. So, how do you make a compromise? Can you still sleep for free when travelling?

Despite the connotation that travelling is expensive and only for those who can afford it, new and exciting trends have emerged to allow you to sleep for free despite leading a jet-setting life.

Let us look at how you can sleep for free when travelling. 

1. Couchsurfing

A sofa bed set up for sleeping

Use platforms like Couchsurfing to connect with locals prepared to provide a free place to crash. Create a strong profile to boost your chances of meeting hosts who share your interests.

Couchsurfing is a great way to travel with very minimal spending. You get to meet new people and experience a slice of their lives. You just have to be careful with whom you crash with. Let your contacts know where you are staying and give them all the details. 

2. Hostels and Work Swaps

Many hostels provide free lodging in exchange for a few hours of work. Workaway and HelpX are two platforms that link visitors with employment opportunities in exchange for lodging and board. 

If you’re willing to get your hands dirty and work hours for lodging, why not try this out? It’s a great way to see the world and visit new places.

3. Airport and bus station sleeping

Some airports and bus stations welcome travellers and allow overnight stays. Be unobtrusive, observe security protocols, and bring a sleeping bag for extra comfort. 

There are posh airports that allow you to stay for the night. You just need to manage sleeping on chairs or couches. If you wait a few hours until your next flight or destination, you can do this trick. 

4. Camping in the wild

Investigate local rules and regulations about wild camping. Choose safe, private settings away from residential areas, and be mindful of the environment.

Camping can be a super fun experience, especially if you like the outdoors. You can pitch a tent at night and sleep for free in the forest.

5. Hospitality Swaps

Check on apps or platforms that link tourists for mutual stays, such as BeWelcome or Hospitality Club. When you’re not on the road, offer your home in exchange.

There’s a movie about this one in which they swapped houses. It’s a fun way to travel almost for free. 

6. Parks and public spaces

In some cities, overnight stays in public parks are permitted. Be careful, follow local laws, and bring light bedding for comfort. Learn more about what is allowed and what isn’t so that you can avoid getting into trouble with authorities. 

Sleeping in parks can be a bit uncomfortable though since you don’t have a proper bed, but if you’re willing to weather it out, it can be a great adventure.

7. Trains and buses that run at night

A woman sleeping in the airport

Choose overnight transportation to save time and money on both travel and lodging. Bring a travel cushion and blanket for extra comfort during the trip.

If you have heard of sleep trains and sleep buses, you can try them out and sleep while you are in transit. This can allow you to explore much more during the day. 

8. Apps for Low-Cost Accommodation

Sometimes, a free stay isn’t possible, so you have to pay a little. Use apps like HotelTonight to locate last-minute offers or reductions on low-cost lodgings. Look for hotel chain specials and reward schemes.

There are many low cost hotels and hostels that you can sleep in and these will offer you a better rest at night. 

9. Volunteer for Accommodation

Participate in community initiatives or events where the organisers arrange lodging for participants. Look for local initiatives that match your interests and abilities. There is a lot of volunteer work out there that you can join that provides travel opportunities. 

10. Stay with Family and Friends

Contact friends or family members who live in the destination. Small actions of gratitude, such as cooking a meal or assisting with chores, can be used to express gratitude.

Staying with family or friends can be a nice and safe way to get accommodations while you travel. It can also be for free which is the best thing about it.

11. Campground Exploration

Unlike camping on the fly anywhere, camping at campgrounds can be a safer bet. Many local campgrounds in areas with nature provide tailored camping opportunities. Look for campsites that provide free or low-cost tent camping. Plan ahead of time and select locations with basic amenities such as toilets and water sources.

12. Rest Stops and Community Centers

In certain areas, public rest stops or community facilities provide temporary shelter. Inquire locally or in online forums to learn more about such facilities.

13. Participate in Travel Meetups

Join travel gatherings where like-minded people frequently share free accommodation tips. Attendees may give spare couches or share information about nearby sleeping possibilities.

You can join FB communities for these or other online groups that do such meetups.

14. Use Loyalty Points

Use hotel or hostel loyalty programs to earn points toward free stays. To optimise your rewards, keep an eye out for promotions and special deals. If you are a frequent traveller, you can make use of this to your advantage.

15. Find Out More About Religious Accommodations

Certain religious institutions offer free housing to visitors. Respect their laws and restrictions while appreciating their kindness to tourists. Remember to wear the right clothing and be quiet.

16. Be a House Sitter

A dog sleeping with a man watching him in the background

Register on house-sitting websites where homeowners look for trustworthy people to look after their houses and pets. Enjoy a nice stay in exchange for helping out around the house. Don’t forget to take good care of their pets and houses.

17. Programs for Local Cultural Exchange

Participate in cultural exchange programs that include overnight accommodations. Participate in the local community, share your culture, and become immersed in the destination.

18. Use Travel Forums

Browse travel forums for free accommodation information and recommendations. Make contact with experienced travellers who can provide useful insights and tips.

19. Stay on College Campuses

Some institutions allow visitors to stay in dorms during breaks or as part of cultural exchange programs. For more information, contact the university’s housing office.

20. Look into Local Events

Look for local events or festivals that are taking place during your visit. Some organisers provide free or subsidised lodging for participants, providing a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the region’s culture.

21. Be adaptable and open-minded

A woman on the beach

Accept unorthodox sleeping arrangements and embrace the spirit of adventure. The more adaptable you are, the more likely you will come across innovative and free housing options.

When choosing unusual sleeping arrangements, consider safety and local laws. With these suggestions, you may travel the world without breaking the bank on lodging. Travel safely and affordably!


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