Are you looking to improve your CouchSurfing experience as a host or a traveler? It is a great way to meet and connect with people all around the globe. The real magic behind it is the ability to connect with locals and experience unfiltered cultures.
Wikipedia defines CouchSurfing as a social networking service and hospitality exchange service by which users can request homestays or interact with other people who are interested in travel. It is accessible via a website and mobile app.
Life-Saving CouchSurfing Tips and Tricks
Although CouchSurfing is a convenient way to get accommodation, it might not always work for everyone. Your relationship with the host will determine the quality of your stay.
Let’s go over some tips to improve your experience and make it memorable.
1. Choose a Host You can Connect With
Before settling on a host or a CouchSurfer, always assess your compatibility. The model behind CouchSurfing is to host strangers in one’s home. The CouchSurfing site has an “about” section where you can find details of the host or traveler to get a feel of what you should expect.
You can base your preference on age, gender, sleeping arrangements, occupation, or interests. Moving in with someone you met online, even on CouchSurfing, is a security risk. So look them up on Nuwber to ascertain their real identity.
Having common interests is the first key to a great connection, and it determines how great your stay will be. Some hosts may include extra services they can offer you during the stay on their profiles. Try to identify some similarities you share or compatibilities before committing to a prospective host or traveler.
2. Give Your Host an Early Notice
When it comes to CouchSurfing, etiquette can never go underrated. How the community works is pretty straightforward, but for a great experience, you need to adhere to some rules.
It is generally advisable to give prior notice to your host to allow for adequate time for them to sort out the logistics. Decorum and personal interactions will create a good rapport and a smooth environment for your stay.
3. It’s Okay to Buy Your Host a Gift
Carry a unique gift for your hosts as a token of appreciation. If you have traveled before, you can opt to bring something from the last place you visited. Getting something that represents the culture of your home country is also a great idea. You can get some ideas for a perfect gift from your host’s profile. Check their home on the site to get an idea of what they might like.
Your gift doesn’t have to be over the top or expensive. Usually, it is the thought that counts.
4. Ensure Your Safety
Being a host or a guest comes with several unique safety concerns. There also have been several safety concerns with CouchSurfing in the past. For your safety as a host or guest, follow these helpful tips:
- Ensure your host has a verified profile.
- Chat with your hosts beforehand to know their personalities.
- Share your hosts’ addresses with your family.
- Take photos with and of your host.
- Make a free hotel reservation as a backup.
5. Build Friendships
Although traveling solo is fun, making friends on the road adds a rich taste to the whole experience. Some of the friendships grow and stick for a lifetime.
Create a friendly environment while at your host’s place. You can do this by being fun and reserving certain comments or stereotypes. Minimize your use of gadgets and strive to have an engaging conversation. Remember to smile and make genuine facial expressions.
It is also great to exercise flexibility as a CouchSurfer. It’s okay if you have a plan, but also listen to the host’s suggestions during your stay, or you will lose out on incredible opportunities.
6. Offer to Help with Light Duties
It is only polite to help with light chores around the home, such as cooking; it will build on your experiences as you learn about the culture. You can also help clean up the living room and your living space.
It is just good manners, a sign of respect, and appreciation for the accommodation and new culture. Good deeds rarely go unreciprocated.
7. Tidy Up After Yourself
Cleaning up after yourself is an expression of self-discipline. You want to leave the best impression of yourself to the hosts. There is no better way to do it than keeping the place neat.
Make your bed, clean up the dishes you use, and mop up any dirt you brought in. This shows that you are considerate and humane.
Offering to pay part of the bills is another excellent way to express your concern towards the host. You do not want to overwhelm them with new responsibilities during your stay.
8. Follow The Host’s House Rules
Find out what rules they have and follow them keenly. For example, playing loud music may not sit well with some hosts, having friends over, or coming in late as well. You should find out beforehand what is acceptable and what’s not.
If they don’t like pets in their house, don’t bring one. Make deliberate steps to avoid conflicts and find amicable ways to solve any issues that may arise. Establishing and maintaining a cordial relationship throughout your stay makes the trip more satisfying.
9. Have Fun
Whatever your reason for traveling is, make the best of your stay. Have fun and visit as many places as you can. Link up with other travelers and check out reviews of the best places to visit within your locale.
Make a point to have a memorable visit, and take as many photos as you can to keep memories. Let loose and create memorable experiences.
Conclusion
CouchSurfing has a catchy ring to it. You can save a good amount on travel and accommodation expenses through CouchSurfing compared to booking a hotel or getting an Airbnb. Enjoy your stay, travel with friends and family, and tick yet another place on the world map.
The featured photo is by Te lensFix from Pexels
