Travel & Hotspots

Practically free travel: here's how to make it happen

For a pittance around the world. Yeah, we all want that, of course. It's a bit trickier if you don't have a Kardashian behind you. Actually, it's not that bad, there are a few ways. I'll tell you which ones.

House swapping

Staying in someone else's house instead of an expensive hotel? Just swap homes with someone who also wants to vacation for free. Okay, you shouldn't have a fear of germs, but home exchange is booming and you won't find a cheaper option. There are four well-known and large organizations that offer home exchange: HomeLink, Huizenruil, Intervac, and HomeExchange. Now that's a cheap way to end up on the beach.

Put that thumb up in the air

And of course, I'm talking about hitchhiking. My most exciting mini-break was undoubtedly the weekend I went hitchhiking to Berlin with a friend. It's still a wonder how many people stop along the way to give you a ride. Gas stations, bus stops, and toll roads are good places to hitchhike. Additionally, sturdy shoes (the horror) are a must. It might take some time, but really, this is an experience that everyone should have. Just make sure to take someone with you. Never go alone.

”First the home exchange, then three months of sweating as a tour guide”

Camping

Look at a family member or neighbor sweetly with a camper, think of a good return favor for borrowing it, and go on a road trip. There are plenty of places where you can camp for free (for example, on the beach), especially in Ireland, England, Portugal, and Mexico. And let's be honest, such a van is pretty cool and Instagram-worthy.

A free upgrade to business class…

There are tricks for that too. Arrive late, arrange it at the gate, and travel alone. Check here but.

Go work abroad

Well, that wasn't really part of the plan. But let's say you want to travel for a year in Asia, then you need to work really hard for that. And that can be done, for example, in Australia. First the home exchange, then three months of sweating as a tour guide, au pair, apple picker, you name it, and you can easily earn twenty thousand euros due to the high wages. You can travel for a year with that. Okay, not completely free, but it feels that way when you don't have to work for months and can still spend.

Go do volunteer work

Got some free time and in the mood for a truly special experience? Go do volunteer work. People all over the world are eager for volunteers, and if you arrange it well, you will plane ticket have your costs and accommodation covered. Bon voyage!