Again, this should be clarified with your host beforehand. Their offering is limited, but it seems like all the reviews for the project are accurate – which can make it safer. It makes the whole experience safer – especially for female solo travelers. With this insurance, Worldpackers can help you find a new volunteering project and will also cover accommodation until your next placement. I haven’t been volunteering for a while now, but there are lots of new platforms out there and Worldpackers caught my attention. Of course, some opportunities only include free accommodation, so you should learn more about the project before committing to it.
How to Evaluate HelpStay Reviews Effectively
Some have minimum stay requirements, so they don’t have to continually train new volunteers, others are more flexible, but don’t expect to find many placements for a week or less. As well as trading your work for accommodation, these kinds of placements are also fantastic opportunities for cultural exchange. As you and your host get to know each other you will learn about each other’s culture, helping you both to understand more about the world we all live in.
I am a member but I haven’t done any volunteer placements for this reason. I had previously been unimpressed by Volunteers Base as I didn’t like the lack of transparency on their website regarding the cost of creating an account. It seems like the site is still fairly small, after launching in 2014, currently with over 1500 hosts registered but no indication of how many volunteers are members. Membership for volunteers currently costs €42.99 (approx $46 USD) for one year for a single membership and €51.99 (approx $55 USD) for a joint membership, but prices look set to increase later in 2025. I’ve spoken to several people who have had trouble getting responses from prospective hosts on Workaway, and there is nothing more frustrating than paying for a service where hosts don’t respond. However, if there aren’t any listings on Worldpackers for the destination you want, then you will have better luck with Workaway.
Tips for a Successful HelpStay Experience
- I haven’t needed to contact support myself so I’m not sure how the experience is lately.
- Your money goes to pay the employees of the company and keep the site running.
- You could find a hostel job, work on a farm, or in a non-profit organization.
- A low Tranco ranking means that the website has relatively few visitors.
Francavilla is a peaceful place with beautiful landscapes full of magic. Being able to work with a great artist (Ruudt Wakers) was unforget… There is nature everywhere, so it’s perfect to take a rest and calm down. They’ve got a special personality, which can be quite a bit challenging sometimes. If you own this website you can update your company data and manage your reviews for free.
- As it turned out, that was the correct and normal price 🙂 Happy day!
- They all have their own pros and cons, so take a look and see which is the best work exchange website for you.
- It’s always a good idea to pick a reputable site with lotsa happy users.
- I wasn’t working at the reception, but I had a few different tasks to do such as helping with the breakfast and decorating the hostel.
- These roles often involve working with local communities, schools, or youth groups.
Which site is best? Reviews of WWOOF, Workaway, Worldpackers, HelpX, HippoHelp, Volunteers Base
Yes, you can volunteer abroad even if you’re not a student. There are many work-exchange opportunities available for all types of travelers. This answer will vary depending on your nationality and the country you wish to volunteer in. We recommend doing research on this topic before applying for any positions. The company has been around for many years and has helped thousands of travelers find volunteer opportunities abroad. If you’re interested in finding volunteer opportunities and are willing to help out in exchange for free accommodation, HelpStay is definitely for you.
The Best Work Exchange Websites Compared PLUS $10 Worldpackers Discount
This guide will definitely give you the answers to some of your questions, and you’ll be a step ahead of helping people who really need your help. Be sure to discuss any special requirements you might have, such as food intolerances or asthma, and make sure your host is aware. Talk about the work schedule, expected hours, accommodation, and facilities.
Which Is Better – HelpStay Or Worldpackers?
My time in Malaysia had finally come to an end and it was time to get out of the country to explore a new one. I had been wrestling with what to do and where to go for a while and all I really knew was that I wanted to continue to volunteer somewhere, but just didn’t know where. Projects range from eco-friendly initiatives and teaching roles to hospitality and creative opportunities. Maintain open and honest communication with your host throughout the process. Discuss any concerns or preferences early to ensure a smooth experience.
There are different programs you can use to get free accommodation in exchange for work. I signed up for my first volunteering exchange program abroad. HippoHelp thought that other platforms felt outdated, unnecessary complicated or too expensive (I don’t disagree!).
If you don’t have any relevant experience but are willing to learn on-the-job then say it. Most hosts won’t expect you to be a seasoned gardener or experienced English teacher. Back when I started volunteering abroad, there were only three platforms offering work exchange projects. In this guide, you will find information on how to volunteer abroad, how to travel for free (or almost free), and which volunteering platforms you can use to find projects overseas. Volunteering programs allow you to get free accommodation in exchange for work.
The Couples / Friends Plan allows you to apply to volunteer positions that accept couples or friends worldwide. The Single Plan allows you to apply to volunteer positions worldwide. As it’s a work-exchange program, you need to do some work to get your accommodation.
Though part of me was a bit nervous to give away information about myself and Skype a literal stranger in a foreign country, the minute we chatted I knew I’d made the right decision. Before committing to a project, research the host, location, and tasks in detail. Packing appropriately and setting clear expectations can prevent misunderstandings.
Workaway Review
If you’re going to volunteer in a non-governmental organization or a foundation, you will need helpstay reviews a special visa for volunteers, depending on the country. That said, we recommend you pick a host with reviews to clearly understand what to expect. Although, if you wish to browse the work-exchange positions first, you can take a look for free.
They have a nice range of projects, but the offering seems a bit more limited if we compare it to the other platforms above. Worldpackers is a platform that connects travelers and hosts around the world. After completing your stay, you can submit feedback on the platform, sharing your experience with future volunteers. Many hosts seek volunteers to assist with eco-friendly initiatives, such as organic farming, reforestation, or sustainable construction.