Workaway used to be the king of work exchange platforms – sites that help you find cool volunteering opportunities around the world where you can stay for free. Now there are a lot of sites like Worldpackers and HelpStay that are offering fierce competition. 

I think the idea of work exchanging to travel is definitely worth it, but whether you should use Workaway or a competitor is the real question!

Is Workaway Worth It?

If you’re thinking about work exchanging but not sure if Workaway is worth it, here are some of the pros of Workaway that you should know. Let’s dive into it. 

Pssst – want to get started right away? Get 3 extra months of Workaway for free with my link.

Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links that will cost you nothing extra but offer me a little commission for any purchases made. These commissions help me continue to offer helpful tips. Thank you so much for your support.

Largest Work Exchange Platform

Simply put, Workaway is not only the largest work exchange platform with 50k+ volunteering gigs, but it’s also been around for a long time. There’s a lot of name recognition for Workaway.

Many travelers learn about the whole concept of work exchange from someone recommending that they try doing Workaway. You can also refer other people to get extra months of Workaway membership for free.

Wide Variety Of Work Exchanges

Workaway offers a huge variety of different travel volunteering gigs. You can find things like fixing up a sailboat, housesitting, building a treehouse, helping at a hostel, managing an Airbnb, marketing, website, social media help, kitchen help, cleaning, etc.

Some work exchange platforms have different focuses – whether that be on purpose, or just how they have grown.

You can see the organization of WWOOF (World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms) is explicitly for farming work exchanges.

The benefit of Workaway is that it does have a lot of options so you can choose different types of helping to do!

Widest Country Coverage

The idea of ‘traveling’ to most people meant going on a vacation for a week, and though there’s nothing wrong with that, the idea has expanded.

Traveling can mean going for more extended periods, like a gap year, or choosing to live abroad for a few months. Either way, if you want to have a lot of flexibility, Workaway has work exchange gigs in 170 countries.

This is great if you would like to be spontaneous or you’re doing a big trip with many destinations.

Why Workaway Isn’t Worth It

To put it bluntly, there is a lot of competition now for Workaway. There are some cons of Workaway that you should know. For many budget travelers, Workaway isn’t worth it anymore. The main concerns that travelers have about the platform:

• Customer service/support is lacking
• Workaway hosts don’t respond that much
• Workaway doesn’t offer as much value compared to competitors
• It might be better to pay for accommodation if the work is unreasonably long

Why Worldpackers Is Better Than Workaway

A little bit smaller than Workaway, Worldpackers has 10k+ volunteering gigs in 140+ countries.

They state that they have 4.6 million travelers and hosts, which is a huge number when considering the ratio of travelers to available work exchange positions.

Interestingly enough, they as say that 97% of members who send 3 applications receive responses from hosts. My experience has been the same, I normally get more responses on Worldpackers than I do on Workaway.

But that’s not the only reason why Worldpackers is better than Workaway.

It’s also because they offer a lot of perks and some ways to make extra cash with WP! Both of their membership plans include WP insurance which just means you’re covered if your work exchange goes wrong.

Like if you arrive and things are not as they were portrayed or the host breaks the agreed-upon conditions. Worldpackers support will then help you find a new work exchange and cover the cost of staying at a hostel nearby for a few nights.

Get reimbursed:

• $49 on the Trip Plan
• $199 on the Pack Plan
• $399 on the Pack Plus Plan

This ‘insurance’ perk of Worldpackers is really special because most other work exchange platform offers this level of assistance.

*Recently, Workaway has also added a “3 nights emergency help” feature when you sign up. They will reimburse up to $49 (the original amount you paid for your Workaway membership).

There is also the online WP Academy that has tons of resources to help you continue learning on the road. You can check out the different sections depending on what you’re interested in.

The basic one is included in the Trip Plan and all three sections are included in the Pack Plan and Pack Plus Plan.

The Pack Plan also offers lots of great travel discounts that might be worth it for you – you’ll have to decide on your own which plan suits your needs. Check out the complete breakdown of the WP membership plans here.

Why HelpStay Is Better Than Workaway

One of the biggest advantages that HelpStay has over Workaway, is that there aren’t as many travelers on the platform yet.

Though there are perks to Workaway being extensive, the authority also means there are tons of travelers signing up and messaging hosts.

It’s not published how many travelers are on Workaway, but it’s well-known that they greatly outnumber the number of hosts.

This means that hosts get bombarded with messages a lot, creating a lot of competition to get good work exchange gigs between Workawayers.

Since hosts receive a lot of inquiries, it is difficult to answer everyone since realistically people’s time is limited. They can’t spend all day replying.

So Workaway is known for being oversaturated, meaning that you will send many messages with few replies. Since HelpStay is smaller, the ratio between travelers to hosts is good. You can expect to get more responses from people due to this.

Are you covered? ➡️ I always reccommend trip protection, especially for work exchanging. My favorite is SafetyWing Insurance.

More Things To Consider

Workaway (and work exchanging in general) is often claimed to be a cost-effective way for budget travelers to explore new destinations while minimizing expenses. But does it always live up to its promises?

While the concept of exchanging labor for accommodation and sometimes meals sounds appealing on the surface, there are several potential drawbacks that budget travelers should consider before committing.

First and foremost, the term “work exchange” can be deceptive. In some cases, the amount of work required can far outweigh the benefits received.

Many work exchange programs demand a significant time investment, ranging from a few hours per day to full-time shifts. For a traveler eager to explore a new place and be immersed in local culture, this can be a substantial hindrance.

Time spent working could be better utilized for sightseeing, cultural activities, or even finding other forms of employment that offer financial compensation rather than just room and board.

Also, work exchange programs can often lack transparency regarding the nature of the work required. Tasks can range from enjoyable and enriching experiences to mundane and physically demanding chores.

Participants might find themselves disappointed when they realize they spend more time cleaning toilets or doing repetitive tasks than engaging in activities that contribute to personal growth or skill development.

This mismatch between expectations and reality can lead to frustration and dissatisfaction.

Related:

• Is Worldpackers safe?
• Worldpackers vs Workaway
• Doing Worldpackers in Budapest, Hungary

Besides that, relying solely on work exchange can limit a traveler’s ability to experience a destination fully. While the allure of cost savings is enticing, it can result in missing out on other opportunities.

For instance, budget travelers might sacrifice the chance to engage in activities that require upfront costs, such as guided tours, entrance fees to attractions, or local events.

These experiences can offer a deeper understanding of the local culture and history, enhancing the overall travel experience.

Another concern with work exchange is the lack of financial compensation. While it’s true that accommodation and meals are often provided, travelers still need to cover other essential expenses like transportation, personal items, and unforeseen emergencies.

This can strain a tight budget, leaving travelers feeling financially vulnerable. In some cases, the cost of travel to a work exchange destination might outweigh the benefits gained from the arrangement.

There’s also the issue that work exchange programs might not provide the level of security and support that budget travelers need.

Traditional accommodation options like hostels or budget hotels come with a certain level of reliability, whereas work exchange arrangements can be more unpredictable.

Travelers might find themselves in uncomfortable situations with limited recourse if issues arise with their Workaway host or the work environment.

Like anything, there are positives and negatives. Work exchange has some drawbacks, so choosing opportunities carefully is important. 

If you’re looking for alternative ways to get free accommodation while you travel, read how to become a housesitter with no experience.

House sitters normally have to contribute a lot less time and effort in exchange for a free stay. The best and biggest platform is called TrustedHousesitters.

House sitters normally have to contribute a lot less time and effort in exchange for a free stay. The best and biggest platform is called TrustedHousesitters.

Is Workaway Worth It? Final Thoughts

Is Workaway worth it? Ultimately, you need to decide based on your own preferences – like how long your trip will be, how much security and perks you want, where you want to work exchange, etc.

I hope this guide has helped you sort this out – to know if Workaway is worth it for you and your travel plans.

It is one of the most beautiful countries in Europe, and there are endless available opportunities for work exchange in France.

From helping to teach a family English to volunteer on a farm, Workaway France has something for everyone.

Want to sign up right away? ✔️ 
Get the bonus of 3 extra months of Workaway.

Top Tips For Workaway France

I spent 2 months volunteering through Workaway at a bed and breakfast in the South of France. I was paired with the most wonderful host family, and it was one of the best experiences of my life. 

Although doing a Workaway in France is a fantastic way to immerse yourself into a new culture, there are definitely things to consider before committing to a program.

Here are 9 things I learned during my work exchange in France.

Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links that will cost you nothing extra but offer me a little commission for any purchases made. These commissions help me continue to offer helpful tips. Thank you so much for your support.

1. Your Work Exchange In France Might Mean More Work Hours

When I signed up to do a work exchange in France at a bed and breakfast for the summer, I didn’t really have any expectations as far as the workload.

I thought I might be greeting guests and helping with breakfast, as well as cleaning a room or two a day. Most days I had 2-3 rooms to clean and some laundry to help fold.

On other days I’d spend 6-7 hours cleaning apartments and rooms, helping with laundry, getting lunch prepared, and so on.

Workaway states that you’re only supposed to work 5 days and up to 25 hours per week. This definitely was not the case with my Workaway experience.

I worked 6 days per week, with only one day off, and at least 30 hours per week.

Luckily, I really connected with my host family and wanted to help them out as much as possible, since they were overwhelmed with the amount of work to do.

This is definitely something to keep in mind, as you may be expected to work more hours than is stated online.

2. Spending Time Outside Of Your Workaway In France 

My French Workaway host family was extremely generous and kind.

They offered to take me out to dinner at different restaurants and even drove me to the Mediterranean to stay at their daughter’s place for a weekend.

While I wasn’t expecting to spend so much time with my host family outside of work and meals, I definitely enjoyed getting to know them.

I went into my Workaway experience with an open mind and with the goal of immersing myself in local life.

By saying yes to things, I was able to have once-in-a-lifetime experiences with locals and truly immersed myself in French culture.

Learn how to get awesome work exchanges 🤝 
8 steps to finding the best Workaway hosts.

3. Household Help During Your France Work Exchange

Outside of the normal work exchange duties, you may have to help prepare meals and do other tasks around the home. I helped clean up breakfast, prepare lunch, and would often help to prepare dinner as well.

On top of that, I did some weeding around the house, helped clean the pool, and did any other maintenance tasks they needed help with.

It can be a lot of work at the end of the day, but I figured these are things I’d have to do at home anyways, so I was happy to help.

4. Workaway France Is Often Unglamorous

When you think of a bed and breakfast in Southern France, vineyards, picnics, beautiful countryside views, and lavender fields may come to mind. 

While all of these lovely things do exist, you’re not going to be living the picture-perfect life on your Workaway in France.

I spent my mornings, from 8AM – 1PM (or longer), cleaning toilets, changing sheets, ironing sheets, folding sheets, and mopping floors. My job was to clean rooms for two months.

This is probably the most unglamorous way to spend a summer in Southern France, and yet, it was one of the best summers of my life.

I went in with the expectation that I’d be working hard and therefore, I had no hard feelings about it. I spent my mornings working efficiently to get the work done as fast as possible.

I then spent my afternoons exploring the area, going on bike rides, eating pastries, or lounging by the pool. In other terms, I worked hard and I played hard.

Are you covered for helping out in France? ➡️ I always reccommend trip protection, especially for work exchanges. My favorite is SafetyWing Insurance. 

5. Access To Transportation During Your Workaway In France

A lot of work exchange experiences are located somewhere remote or in the countryside. This was the case for my Workaway in France.

I didn’t have access to any local transportation during my work exchange in France. Instead, I had a bike that the host family let me borrow.

And let me tell you, I rode that bike everywhere. The nearest town was only a 10-minute bike ride away from the bed and breakfast. I’d often spend the afternoon wandering around town or relaxing at a cafe for a bit.

If I wanted to take the train somewhere for the day or needed to catch the bus, the host family was more than willing to drop me off at the station.

It was a bit of an inconvenience to have to ask to be dropped off and picked up at the station, but I usually only asked to do this once a week.

Related: Amazing hostel jobs in France

6. Workaway France Means Making Lifetime Friends 

Not only did I become very close friends with my French Workaway host family, but we have also kept in touch with them many years later.

I even went to visit them 3 years after my work exchange and stayed with them for a week at the bed and breakfast. My hope is to visit them again in the near future.

I also became good friends with a fellow Workawayer at a nearby bed and breakfast. She was from Italy and was staying just a five-minute walk away from my work exchange.

We’d often meet up in the afternoon after cleaning rooms and would hang out by the pool or go on an excursion.

One of my favorite memories from my Workaway in France was when we took the bikes on a half-day trip to a nearby historic town.

My host wrote down directions on how to get there on a piece of paper and off we went. Somehow we arrived in the right place 2 hours later.

I’m amazed that we found our way back to the bed and breakfast without “real” directions, but it’s a memory that I’ll have forever.

7. Get To Know The French City Or Region Where You’re Volunteering

One of the perks of doing work exchanges long-term is that you have the chance to really get to know the region you’re in.

It would have been easy to spend every afternoon inside my room or around the bed and breakfast. Instead, I made a goal to explore as much of the region as I could.

On my days off, I caught the train and went to one or two of the bigger towns in Provence. I’d spend the day walking around and visiting museums (there’s so many French Riviera attractions to see).

On days when I couldn’t travel as far, I rode my bike somewhere new, even if it was just to a small local site.

Making an effort to explore the area will enhance your Workaway France experiences and will help you to understand and get to know the culture better.

8. Your Work Exchange in France Will Help You Practice French

I took French in high school and college and this was the perfect way to spend two months improving my language skills.

During my first week as a volunteer, I had to answer the phone (in French) and check people into the bed and breakfast (in French).

It was nerve-wracking, to say the least, but what better way to learn than being thrown right into it? By the end of the summer, I was a much more proficient French speaker. 

How to create the best Workaway profile ⭐️

9. Doing Workaway France Is The Cheapest Way To Travel

I have backpacked all over Europe and Asia, and I have stayed in hostels all around the world trying to travel as cheaply as possible.

In all of my experience traveling, I’ve found that doing work exchange programs is the most affordable way to travel long-term.

With your room and board being covered by the host, all you have to pay for is any extra activities and transportation to and from your Workaway.

If you’re looking to travel on a tight budget, then a work exchange might be the answer for you. Learn my tips to get a free Workaway account (spoiler, it’s not easy).

Workaway France Visa Advice

The visa process is different for everyone depending on which country you are from. As a US resident, I can spend up to 90 consecutive days in the Schengen Area in Europe.

Because my work exchange was unpaid and for less than two months, I was able to do my Workaway on a normal tourist visa. Make sure to double check all visa requirements to ensure you are prepared for your trip.

Please note that this blog post is only for information purposes and should not be regarded as a substitute for immigration or legal advice.

Final Thoughts About Workaway In France

Doing a work exchange in France is a great way to travel cheaply and experience the culture firsthand.

Not only will you learn how to live like a local, but you’ll also have the opportunity to make lifelong friends and memories.

Whether it’s exploring a new country, learning a language, or wanting to travel long-term, there are so many ways to take advantage of this program and travel the world.

Overall, I loved doing a Workaway in France. It’s a unique experience that I would highly recommend to anyone wanting to immerse themselves in a new culture!

I hope you found this Workaway France guide helpful. If you’re interested in more country guides, check these out.

Submitted by Jenoa at The Travel Folk

Related Workaway Guides:

• Complete Guide To Workaway France
• Complete Guide To Workaway UK
• Complete Guide To Workaway Ireland
• Complete Guide To Workaway Italy

My New Zealand work exchange was volunteering on an orchid farm. It was easily one of the most rewarding travel experiences I’ve ever had. 

Not only did I get to explore and experience the beautiful New Zealand countryside, but I also gained new friendships, incredible stories, and memories that I’ll treasure for a lifetime.

Let’s talk more about what you should know about Workaway in New Zealand.

Want to sign up right away? ✔️ 
Get the bonus of 3 extra months of Workaway.

Top Tips For Workaway New Zealand

I have learned many important lessons during my time as a volunteer that can help make your own Workaway experiences successful.

Here are 9 tips for making the most out of your own Workaway New Zealand adventure.

Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links that will cost you nothing extra but offer me a little commission for any purchases made. These commissions help me continue to offer helpful tips. Thank you so much for your support.

1. Your New Zealand Work Exchange Hours Can Be Different Than You Expect

When embarking on a work exchange in New Zealand, it’s important to keep in mind that the hours you work may be different than what you initially expected. 

When my husband and I started our Workaway in New Zealand, the expectation in our mind was that we’d work from 9 am – 1 pm and then we’d have the rest of the day to go off and explore.

However, the hours that our host needed us to work ended up being from around 11 am – 3 pm.

This simply meant that we needed to adjust some of our plans and rearrange a few of our longer day trips for the weekend when we got a day off.

It’s best to prepare yourself mentally and physically for varied hours so sometimes your activity for the day needs to be shortened or adjusted.

That way, when things get busy and your workday is a bit longer than you initially anticipated, you’ll have the energy and motivation needed to see your tasks through.

2. Make New Friends On Your Workaway In New Zealand

One thing about Workaways is that you’ll make new friends. My husband and I volunteered for two weeks at an orchid farm with a wonderful New Zealand work exchange host.

She had just recently started her flower farm and was busy planting the seeds of her new business.

Two weeks is quite a long time to spend with a stranger, and initially, there was some hesitation on our end about committing to a volunteer program for so long.

What if we don’t get along? What if we have a hard time keeping up a conversation?

But if you go into the Workaway experience with the expectation that you are ready to help, and are kind and friendly, you’ll make new friends along the way.

Learn how to get awesome work exchanges 🤝 
8 steps to finding the best Workaway hosts.

We loved our host. Over the two weeks, we met both of her parents.

In fact, her parents ended up inviting us over for dinner, introducing us to New Zealand rugby, and taking us out for a day trip to see the beauty of the region.

3. Workaway New Zealand Might Be Working or Staying With Animals

When we signed up and created a Workaway profile, we had mentally prepared to get our hands dirty digging in the garden.

One of the unexpected joys was that our host owned a pet cat. We love animals, so having a four-legged friend around the house was a treat.

However, if you are allergic or if you aren’t fond of animals, you may want to contact the host ahead of time and ask if they have pets or animals around the house.

Our host also had sheep, and her dad brought his dog by daily to visit. It was so fun getting to meet all of the animals and we had a blast playing with them.

If you are uncomfortable around animals, that could make for an uncomfortable stay. We learned that it is best to ask these questions ahead of time before committing to a Workaway.

4. Workaways In New Zealand Can Change Depending on the Season

When my husband and I did our Workaway New Zealand gig during our crazy trip around the world, we weren’t quite sure what to expect.

We both love flowers and were excited to learn about how to raise and grow orchids from seeds.

However, when we arrived on the farm, it was just turning to early fall in New Zealand, meaning that the orchid season was coming to a close.

We spent some time cleaning up greenhouses and prepping them for the upcoming season, but a lot of our main tasks turned into yard work around the property. We were completely fine with that.

Though it made me realize that the needs of Workaway hosts change can change according to the season, and to not be disappointed if the type of work you originally signed up for changes.

5. Go Into Your New Zealand Work Exchange With An Open Mind

When doing Workaway New Zealand, it’s important to keep an open mind. You are entering someone else’s space, and the way you live may not always match the way that person lives.

Since we were living in a shared space with our host, we wanted to make sure that we weren’t ever overstepping our bounds, and that we were respectful of her home and her rules.

10 tips for being a good Workawayer ⭐️

It can be easy to get caught up in our own expectations for how things should go.

When we approach situations with an open mindset, we allow ourselves to learn new things and have more meaningful experiences.

Even when our work changed from working with orchids to weeding, removing dead branches, or reorganizing the woodshed, we decided to keep an open mind with our new tasks.

It was best to make the most of being outside in such a beautiful country. Would we have liked to have worked more with the orchids? Sure. But, we didn’t let our change of work ruin the experience for us.

By going into a Workaway in New Zealand with an open mind, you can better appreciate your host’s culture and lifestyle while still enjoying yourself.

6. Many New Zealand Workaways Are Remote

My husband and I got an affordable car rental for our work exchange in New Zealand. In fact, we needed one because our host lived in the countryside in a beautiful part of the country.

If we didn’t have a car, we would have been stranded on the farm for the entire time we volunteered. Fortunately, our car gave us the freedom to explore after our workday was over.

Many New Zealand work exchanges are located out in the countryside far from the main city.

New Zealand’s public transit system in the countryside is very limited, so taking the bus or train was not an option for us.

Are you covered for volunteering in New Zealand? ➡️ I always reccommend trip protection, especially for work exchanges. My favorite is SafetyWing Insurance. 

7. Order Fish and Chips

This is not a joke. If you are planning on doing a Workaway New Zealand gig, your experience won’t be complete without some fresh fish and chips from a nearby beach town.

Nearly every coastal town in New Zealand has a fish and chips joint, and they are the best fish and chips I have had in my life.

The fish was fresh and the food was incredible. They are also the cheapest food you can find around.

8. It’s Okay to Say No

When you are on your Workaway in New Zealand, you may feel indebted to the host for having them open your house to you.

Sometimes, they may have a task for you that makes you feel uncomfortable, or that you simply aren’t able to help them with.

The best practice is to be honest and say no if you can’t help them with a particular task. Now, as a good guest, you’ve agreed to help them out before you’ve arrived.

Make sure to keep an open mind and be willing to help out where you can. If you have an injury, are feeling ill, or otherwise have a gut feeling that something is wrong, it’s okay to say no.

Come to a compromise on another task you can work on for them.

9. Be Willing to Help in Anyway

One of the most beautiful things about Workaways is that someone is opening up their home to you.

This is not a hotel or a vacation rental. They are inviting you in and it’s respectful to go above and beyond.

This can be as simple as preparing a meal for your Workaway host and not expecting them to cook your meals every day.

You can run to the grocery store, pick up around the house, keep your room tidy, sweep the floor, or do the dishes.

Just be ready to help out where needed and view yourself as a guest in their home. One of my favorite parts of travel is exchanging culture through food.

Taking the time to prepare a meal for your Workaway host and show them something that you typically eat can be a really fun icebreaker and really enhance your experience.

We found a good rule of thumb is that if your host cooks, offer to do dishes that night. And if you cook, still offer to do dishes.

Workaway New Zealand Visa Advice

Since we are from the United States, we did not need to apply for a traditional visa to visit New Zealand.

Instead, we had to get an ETA, which is an Electronic Travel Authorization. This allowed us to stay in New Zealand for up to 90 days. 

You must get the ETA before boarding your flight. You can apply for it on the official New Zealand website.

Which work exchange platform is best? 💡
Workaway VS Worldpackers - Full Comparison

If you’re from another country, you can check visa requirements here. 

For those of you who are looking to do paid work in New Zealand, then you will need to apply for the Working Holiday Visa.

Please note that this blog post is only for information purposes and should not be regarded as a substitute for immigration or legal advice.

Final Thoughts On Workaway In New Zealand

If you’re thinking about doing Workaway New Zealand, hopefully, this article helps you get an idea of what your experience may be like.

While each New Zealand work exchange is different, they all share a few things in common.

You will make new friends, meet interesting people, and you’ll need to be ready to roll your sleeves up and get to work.

Workaway can be a great way to experience a new country. It lets you slow down, share cultures, and really gain a new perspective on a country.

I’d definitely recommend doing a Workaway in New Zealand if you get the chance.

Submitted by Jenoa at The Travel Folk

More Workaway Guides:

• Complete Guide To Workaway France
• Complete Guide To Workaway UK
• Complete Guide To Workaway Ireland
• Complete Guide To Workaway Italy

There are so many cool workaway experiences to discover in the world and summer is the perfect time to try one out.

Whether you’re a student on summer vacation or a long-term traveler looking for a new adventure, use this list to find your next summer Workaway experience!

Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links that will cost you nothing extra but offer me a little commission for any purchases made. These help me continue to offer helpful tips and information. Thank you so much for your support.

Nordic Workaway Experiences

The Nordic countries are extreme. They are extremely beautiful but extremely expensive (unless you live and work there).

Doing a work exchange would allow you to see some of these places without breaking the bank along the way. Accommodation is always one of the biggest travel expenses.

Also, the summer is an amazing time to visit because they have such long daylight hours in the summer months.

This gives you more time to see and do things, and better weather to spend time outdoors.

 1. Sweden

If you’re open-minded and interested in an alternative way of living, you need to check out this workaway experience in Norway.

This off-grid farm is located in the beautiful Swedish wilderness. If you’re not familiar with the great outdoors, this is a place that has animals like moose, deer, bears, bats, wolfs, foxes, and beavers.

It’s also good for seeing the northern lights, the milky way, and the midnight sun. You can go hiking, practice yoga, or enjoy the wood-fired sauna or the wood-fired hot pot.

2. Norway

Here is an exciting opportunity for those who have been wanting to visit Norway.

For this Workaway experience, you would be helping out with handywoman/man projects on a beautiful property.

Located on a peninsula near Oslo, you would be staying in a large, historic house that has been featured in magazines and films and is also used for weddings.

There are caves to explore and forests and lakes nearby for swimming and hiking. You can easily visit Oslo and other nearby small towns with public transport.

If you’re still not convinced, check out more of the photos, the house is absolutely gorgeous.

Workaway Experiences In North America

North America is quite vast, so there are endless opportunities to volunteer with Workaway.

The ones I wanted to highlight are further north because summer is a great time to visit. Similar to the Nordic countries, you will have longer days and better weather.

This is also the tourist season, and since many Workaways are based on local tourism, they are more likely to be available in the summer.

Personally, I grew up in an extremely cold climate in North America, so I know how brutal it can be – I avoid this now as an adult.

These places shouldn’t be missed, so if you’re like me, you need to visit in the summer!

3. Canada

Here is a Workaway experience that gives you an idea of what life is like in the Yukon Territory, Canada.

This adventurous family is inviting Workawayers who love kids, animals, and being outdoors.

Joining them in their home means you will wake up to some stunning views since they are right on the border of Kluane National Park and Reserve.

They are looking for someone who doesn’t mind hard work and wants to share some of their culture and experiences.

The activities possible are endless but here are a few – lake swimming, biking, hiking, rafting, wilderness camping, whitewater canoeing, sailing, staying in remote cabins, etc.

4. Alaska, USA

Have you ever wanted to visit Alaska? With this Workaway experience, you get to learn about the Alaskan outdoors, northern culture, sleddogs, and animal husbandry.

You get to stay with a sleddog racing family that lives 30 minutes from Anchorage. You will get to learn about racing and also share your own culture!

Plus, you get your own apartment with great wifi. There is plenty of nature to explore, so be prepared to enjoy some skiing, biking, swimming, etc.

Pssst – If you want to become a Workawayer, don’t forget to get 3 extra months of Workaway for free with my link.

Mediterranean Workaway Experiences

Countries on the Mediterranean Sea have my heart! If you don’t already know, I live in Albania because that’s how much I love it.

The slow, Mediterranean lifestyle is just amazing to me, I enjoy it a lot. And I think many people would agree that it is a huge summer destination!

If you are wanting to taste some incredible food, lounge on gorgeous beaches, hike stunning landscapes, etc., then you need to check out these Workaways near the Mediterranean Sea.

5. Lebanon

Lebanon might not be the first country that comes to mind when you think of the Mediterranean but just wait.

This Workaway experience is incredible if you want to live in harmony and sustainably with the surrounding environment.

This combination guesthouse and organic farm is located in the small village of Akoura – 1400m high in Mount Lebanon.

Their main focus is on agriculture, agritourism, ecotourism, wellness, and learning. They want to immerse people in the local cultural heritage and the food heritage of Akoura.

You can expect to try homemade typical Lebanese dishes and Arak, a typical Lebanese spirit.

Some other activities are practicing yoga, cooking classes, exploring caves, hiking, rappelling, rock climbing, etc.

PS – if you know French, it will help you greatly as they speak both Arabic and French in Lebanon.

6. Italy

If you’re obsessed with art and Italian food, this Workaway experience is for you!

Help out at this rural olive farm in a gorgeous region in Italy, Umbria. This Australian family of three follows the principles of slow living and slow food.

Besides learning about the Italian lifestyle, you can enjoy the pool and use bikes to explore further.

Have you ever looked at different Workaway opportunities and wished there was more information?

This opportunity in the beautiful Italian countryside details every single aspect of what you can expect.

This is especially great if you are a first-time Workwawayer because it can be hard to take the initial step into trying work/cultural exchanges.

Related: Epic hostel jobs in Italy

7. Tunisia

Are you looking for an unexpected Meditteranean Workaway? You should consider visiting Tunisia, a beautiful country in North Africa.

At this Workaway experience, you only need to help out around the house for a few hours a day for full room and board at this beautiful property in Southern Tunisia. It’s located only 1km from the sea.

When you’re not enjoying the beach, you can play with the cats, ride horses, learn Arabic, and explore Tunisia!

PS – if you know French, it will help you greatly as they speak both Arabic and French in Tunisia.

Caribbean Workaway Experiences

I think the reputation of the Caribbean region speaks for itself, but let me tell you just in case you aren’t familiar.

Caribbean islands are known for having some of the most pristine beaches with turquoise waters – not to mention the lush forest and incredible hiking trails.

Because of this, it has attracted people from all over the world for quite some time, meaning that it is a pricey travel destination.

Doing a Workaway here will save you money and give you ample time to explore.

8. St. Lucia

If you’re wanting to experience a longer Workaway experience in paradise, then this opportunity is for you.

Help out an 80-acre property with a 180-year-old plantation house and 5 guest cottages that act as a combination eco-lodge, museum, and farm on the island of St. Lucia.

It has gardens, trails, an old sugar mill, fruit orchards, and secluded beaches for you to explore.

They are looking for a variety of help like property maintenance, construction, carpentry, plumbing, and electrical as well as web design, online marketing, or teaching (elementary school level).

Also, this gig has the possibility of being a paid Workaway – check out the profile for more info.

9. Jamaica

Do you want to help out around the house at a villa in Jamaica?

A Colombian / German couple is looking for someone to do some light household duties and help with their cats in exchange for staying with them.

They offer a quieter Workaway experience where you can see what life is like in Jamaica. PS this villa has a pool to cool off in!

Workaway Experiences In Asia

The vast size of Asia can be overwhelming. There are so many incredible places to visit and cultures to experience.

The best way to immerse yourself is through a work exchange so you can try local dishes and understand what day-to-day life looks like for locals.

10. Mongolia

When people think of Asia, your mind might not immediately jump to Mongolia but I promise you, that is what makes it so interesting.

Since it hasn’t seen a massive surge in tourism (yet) like Japan or Thailand, it has many raw, authentic cultural experiences waiting to be discovered!

For a small peek into this fascinating country, try out this Workaway experience in Ulaanbaatar, the capital city.

You can play and teach young kids or help out with digital marketing for tourism (blogging, photography, etc). 

11. Nepal

Are you a tea lover? If so then this is where you need to be! Help out at an organic tea farm in Nepal!

Listen to how this family describes their location,

“Ilam’s rolling hills are lush green with tea gardens. Thick white fogs alternatively descend to veil the gardens and then suddenly vanish.”

How beautiful is that?!

This Workaway experience involves you getting to help tea farmers / local communities cultivate and harvest organic tea through sustainable farming methods.

The family outlines that the accommodation is basic compared to western standards so that’s something to keep in mind. Also, this opportunity does have a small daily fee.

Final Thoughts

I hope all of these Workaway experiences have opened your eyes to how many incredible and diverse opportunities are out there.

If these have inspired your summer travel plans, please let me know which Workaway experience you decide to do – and don’t forget to get 3 extra months of Workaway for free when you sign up with my link here!

Interested in finding out how to be a great volunteer? Check out my article detailing how to be the best Workawayer that you can be!

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Are you interested in traveling affordably through work exchanges, but not sure which platform to use?

This Worldpackers vs Workaway comparison is for you then! Let’s go over the pros and cons of both to see which will work best for you.

Why Use Workaway Or Worldpackers?

The term ‘work exchange’ means that you exchange your help for free food and accommodation.

It’s known by many names like help exchange, travel volunteering, voluntourism, etc. Many travelers use work exchanges to not only save money but to be immersed in local culture.

Both Workaway and Worldpackers are work exchange sites where you can browse volunteer opportunities from all around the world.

If you’re wanting to get involved with any particular work exchange, you will need to pay a fee to sign up for the yearly membership, create a profile, and then message the host of the work exchange that you’re interested in.

The main point of Worldpackers and Workaway is to connect you with locals around the world so you can arrange a unique and meaningful travel experience.

These sites didn’t create the concept of ‘work exchange’. Travelers have been doing them for a long time, so the goal of these platforms is to make it safer and easier to arrange them.

Though it’s important with any travel adventure, having travel insurance is even more important when doing work exchanges.This has to do with how you will most likely be more active during a work exchange.

Plus, many volunteer opportunities are set in gorgeous, but remote settings, so it’s important to be covered. It doesn’t matter where you are, emergency evacuations are expensive! 

If you’re on a budget, check out SafetyWing for affordable coverage – their coverage is incredibly competitive ($40 for 4 weeks).Still need to know more? Check out these 12 helpful tips to find the right travel insurance for working and volunteering abroad.

Worldpackers VS Workaway

Even though this is an article that compares Workaway vs Worldpackers, the aim of this isn’t to convince you one way or another.

Since everyone is different, what works for me or you, might not work for someone else.

I want you to know that there isn’t one completely perfect work exchange platform, but I do hope that going over the pros and cons of each will help you see what’s best for you.

Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links that will cost you nothing extra but offer me a little commission for any purchases made. This income helps me continue to offer helpful tips and information. Thank you so much for your support. I was also compensated by Worldpackers to create this content, but these are 100% my own honest opinions expressed.

Worldpackers

Founded in Brazil in 2014, Worldpackers was created to help travelers have transformative experiences, develop new skills, and make a positive impact.

Since Worldpackers started in South America, they used to be focused on opportunities there, but they have grown to the point where they have volunteer gigs all over the world now.

They also have a wide variety of volunteer opportunities to choose from – social and ecological projects, NGOs, farms, hostels, holistic centers, schools, homestays, etc.

They have almost 10,000 volunteer projects in 140 countries. You can browse these opportunities without paying or needing to make an account, so you can see what’s available before joining.

Hosts are manually vetted and verified by the Worldpackers team. They have to complete the verification before being able to message travelers or post any opportunities.

Their website is well organized and easy to use. They also have a convenient mobile app to use on the go.

Pros Of Worldpackers

• Major emphasis on safety (especially for women)
• Volunteers receive an official agreement between them and the host that outlines what was agreed upon
• They offer insurance (WP Insurance) to cover you in case the volunteer opportunity doesn’t work out – this doesn’t take the place of travel insurance though!
• They have their own platform (WP Academy) to learn more about volunteering and making travel a lifestyle
• They offer a few different ways (WP Programs) for you to earn some extra cash to help you travel longer

Cons Of Worldpackers

• Fewer volunteer opportunities
• Not as well known
• More expensive (but with my $10 discount it’s cheaper than Workway)

Worldpackers Review

One of the top priorities of Worldpackers is safety. It’s a huge emphasis for them. Around 60% of members are women, so it makes sense that they focus on women’s safety.

Since many members are solo female travelers, they have a helpful blog category dedicated to traveling women. You can find many great articles that will inspire and inform you there.

Another unique thing about Worldpackers is that you get an official agreement with the host you will be helping.

Once you find a host and agree to collaborate through the Worldpackers platform, you’ll get an official agreement.

This means that both parties know what is expected of them. Everything is clear, out in the open, and set in writing.

Having an agreement helps to foster safety and gives you peace of mind that your trip is safely confirmed.

The insurance that Worldpackers offers is a huge selling point for me. It’s there in case the host does not abide by what was previously agreed upon. If this happens, Worldpackers will help you find another host nearby.

If they cannot relocate you, Worldpackers will pay up to 3 nights of accommodation in a shared room in a hostel in the same city/area.

Also, it is automatically part of the Worldpackers membership, you don’t pay anything extra for this.

They also have the Worldpackers Academy – a learning platform made by travelers, for travelers.

The academy aims to help you learn how to have a life full of more freedom, flexibility, and travel. Plus, all of the video lessons are created by travelers in the Worldpackers community.

You also can earn extra income through Worldpackers. There are 4 different opportunities to do this. I go more into detail about the Worldpackers ‘programs’ here.

These extra features are all something that no other work exchange sites do.

If you are looking for a site that offers great safety and insurance, ways to make extra income online, and even a learning platform, then Worldpackers would be great for you.

Like I mentioned in my pros and cons list, there are fewer opportunities than Workaway but in my Workaway review below, I talk about how that can be both good and bad.  

Workaway

Founded almost two decades ago in 2002, Workaway is the largest site for volunteering with work exchanges.

Currently, they have 50,000+ opportunities in 170 countries. Workaway states that they want to help travelers connect globally and travel differently and describes those who use workaway to be, 

“a traveller who wants to give back to the communities and places they visit. Open to helping hosts and using the experience to learn and immerse in the local culture.”

Similar to Worldpackers, they also have a wide variety of volunteer opportunities to choose from.

You can browse these opportunities without paying or needing to make an account, so you can see what’s available before joining.

Potential Workaway hosts are manually reviewed by the Workaway team before being accepted.

Also, one of the Workaway team members let me know that on average they reject over 50% of host applications.

Their website is easy to use and they have a mobile app to use on the go too.

Pros Of Workaway

• Well known – founded almost 20 years ago
• Even some of the most remote places are represented (opportunities in 170 countries)
• Largest work exchange platform in the world (50,000+ volunteer opportunities all in one place)

Cons Of Workaway

• Hosts are known to sometimes be unresponsive (potentially because they receive so many inquires)
• Workawayers often say they don’t like the review system and don’t receive adequate support
• Doesn’t have the extra features that Worldpackers has

Workaway Review

Workaway is great for a big, long-term trip (eg a gap year) because they have the most opportunities in the most countries.

If you’re trying to cast a wide net for your once-in-a-lifetime trip, Workaway makes the most sense.

If you want to find places all over the world because you’re planning to visit a lot of different countries, then you’ll want to have a platform with the most opportunities.

It’s not like you want to pay a membership fee for a year and then realize there are not many options, or any at all, in the place you want to go next.

It’s also great if you don’t have a fixed plan for your trip because the wide variety of options allows for being more free and spontaneous.

There is something to be said for quality over quantity though. Many in the Workaway community talk about how it can be difficult to get responses from hosts.

My Workaway hosts in Montenegro said that they receive so many messages that it’s impossible to keep up with answering them, especially since they have children and a business to run.

The popularity of Workaway is a curse and a blessing.

On one hand, it’s amazing because when you sign up, you’re going with a well-known organization/website with the most volunteer opportunities all in one place.

They have some very unique opportunities in remote countries that probably wouldn’t be on some of the smaller work exchange sites.

The downside of Workaway’s skyrocketing popularity is that it has caused it to be flooded with travelers looking for free accommodation and food.

This means that the hosts are bombarded with a lot of messages, so the chance of getting a reply will be lower (especially in popular tourist destinations like Paris or Hawaii).

Which Is For You – Worldpackers Or Workaway?

Workaway is great for…

• Those going on a big trip where you need a wide variety/availability of volunteer opportunities
• Those who are already experienced travelers and don’t need a lot of extra features

Worldpackers is great for…

• First-time travelers and those new to volunteering with work exchanges
• Women travelers
• Anyone wanting extra support and safety measure
• Those wanting to learn how to make travel their long term lifestyle (through the WP Academy)
• Those who want to make extra income to continue traveling (through WP Programs)

Final Thoughts

I hope this Worldpackers vs Workaway comparison has helped you figure out which work exchange site is best for you and your travel plans!

Have you used Workaway or Worldpackers before? Let me know which you like better in the comments.

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Usually, if people are familiar with the idea of volunteering through work exchanges, it’s probably because they know about Workaway.

It makes sense, it is the biggest and most well-known site for travel volunteering. Unfortunately, most don’t know that there are other websites like Workaway.

They are great sites similar to Workaway, but smaller and less known. Trust me, they are still worth checking out.

Today we’ll go over 7 incredible sites like Workaway that you should consider using.

What Is Workaway?

Let’s not get ahead of ourselves. If you don’t know what Workaway is, let’s quickly go over it.

Workaway is the biggest and most well-known work exchange site, with over 50k volunteer opportunities all around the world.

This online volunteering platform connects communities, hostels, families, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), etc. with travelers.

In exchange for helping out, travelers are provided with free food and accommodation.

You can find seriously amazing opportunities all around the world – everything from farm stays, house sitting, language exchanges, child care, environmental projects, and so much more!

Workaway is a great platform for finding lots of different types of opportunities all in one place.

That’s why it’s perfect for those just starting to do work exchanges since it gives a wide variety to choose from.

Check out my whole page on Workaway that answers common questions and links to all of my Workaway articles.

Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links that will cost you nothing extra but offer me a little commission for any purchases made. These commissions help me continue to offer helpful tips. Thank you so much for your support.

Summary Of Websites Like Workaway

This is a lengthy guide, so if you don’t have the time to read each section in detail, here is a summary! Click on the links to jump ahead to the section.

Worldpackers – the best & highly recommended alternative to Workaway

TrustedHousesitters – great for those who love animals & don’t want physically demanding work exchanges

HelpStay – great for those who want lots of different support channels & to be part of a smaller work exchange community

WWOOF – good for those who only want to do farm stays and plan to slow travel in only 1 country

HelpX – good for those on a budget – $24 for 2 years of membership

Volunteers Base – good for experienced travelers that don’t need any extra frills and are watching their budget

Top 2 Recommendations For Websites Like Workaway

If you’re wanting the best websites similar to Workaway, my top two suggestions are Worldpackers and Trustedhousesitters.

They both shine above the rest based on things like how usable the website is, the support offered, safety, extra perks, etc.

Worldpackers

Founded in Brazil in 2014, Worldpackers was created to help travelers have transformative experiences, develop new skills, and make a positive impact.

Being in South America, they used to be focused on opportunities there, but they have grown to the point where they have volunteer gigs all over the world now.

Here are some things that Worldpackers do well.

Like Workaway, they don’t have a specific specialty, which means they have a wide variety of volunteer opportunities to choose from

You can browse opportunities without paying or needing to make an account. It’s nice to see what it’s like before committing to a membership.

Hosts are manually vetted and verified by the Worldpackers team. They have to complete the verification before being able to message travelers or post any opportunities.

Their website is beautiful, well-organized, and easy to use. They also have a convenient mobile app to use on the go.

Worldpackers insurance – a huge selling point for me. Basically, in case the host does not abide by what was previously agreed upon.

If this happens, Worldpackers will help you find another host nearby.

If they cannot relocate you, Worldpackers will pay up to 3 nights of accommodation in a shared room in a hostel in the same city/area.

This is something that no other work exchange site does!

It gives peace of mind to everyone, but especially to those who haven’t traveled or are new to volunteering through work exchanges.

The 24/7 support is quick to respond and attentive – which is essential since they offer insurance!

There are also a few different channels to contact them on.

Safety is a big priority, especially since around 60% of those using Worldpackers are solo female travelers.

Since they provide excellent support, Worldpackers insurance, manual verification of every host, giving official agreements between the host and volunteer, and more – it’s easy to see that they take safety seriously.

The main negative that comes up with Worldpackers is that it is a little more expensive than other work exchanges.

For one year, the solo plan is $49 and the couples/friends plan is $59. Honestly, you get what you pay for though.

If you are looking for a site that offers great safety and insurance, ways to make extra income online, and even a learning platform, then I think it’s worth the price.

If you want to know more about the incredible perks that Worldpackers offers, check out my article about how Worldpackers is the ultimate Workaway alternative!

Fortunately, since I’ve partnered with Worldpackers, I can offer my audience (you) a great discount.

$10 off your yearly membership or you can also use my code ‘MAPTREKKING’ to get the discount. 

This costs you nothing extra but it means that Worldpackers offers me a small commission for any sign-ups.

Not only does this income help me continue to create helpful content for you, but you get a nice discount.

Trustedhousesitters

As I’m sure you can tell from the name, the main point of the site is to find trustworthy house sitting opportunities.

Though it’s not traditionally similar to Workaway, Trustedhousesitters is an online platform where you help out in exchange for free accommodation. 

Usually, you’ll be helping take care of pets and watching over a home while the owners are away.

Since pets are the main focus here, it’s essential that you like animals and have experience taking care of them.

Work Exchanges vs House Sitting

Both work exchanges and house sits are great in their own way, it just depends on what you are looking for.

Work exchanges can vary greatly – you could be doing physical labor, doing a language exchange, working at an animal sanctuary, helping at a hostel, etc. 

House sitting doesn’t vary as much so you know more about what you’re getting into.

One of the biggest things to note is that generally there is a lot less time you need to commit to house sitting.

It is less likely to be physically demanding and perfect if you need your own space since you’ll have the whole place to yourself!

If this sounds like it aligns with what you’re looking for, you have to check out Trustedhousesitters. Here’s why!

Joining Trustedhousesitters means you get access to unlimited, worldwide house sitting opportunities.

They have house sits in 130 countries, which is more than all other housesitting websites in the world combined.

There are both short and long-term accommodation stays available. The 1-year membership is $119/€99, so if you use it 6 times, it means you paid around $20 for each stay.

It is so much more affordable and cost-effective than traditional travel accommodation like hotels or resorts.

It’s also an affordable way to stay in expensive destinations like London or New York City.

Instead of a cookie-cutter hotel room, it’s great because you can find unique and amazing accommodation that could normally be priced quite high.

Trustedhousesitters is perfect for animal lovers and those with previous animal care experience.

They have great customer service & support for members, plus free access to a 24/7 vet advice line.

For more convenience, there’s an easy-to-use mobile app for your phone and free identity verification (this can help you get more housesits!).

They also are rated with 4.7 stars out of 5 on Trustpilot.

Though it’s important with any travel adventure, having travel insurance is even more important when doing work exchanges.This has to do with how you will most likely be more active during a work exchange.

Plus, many volunteer opportunities are set in gorgeous, but remote settings, so it’s important to be covered. It doesn’t matter where you are, emergency evacuations are expensive! 

If you’re on a budget, check out SafetyWing for affordable coverage – their coverage is incredibly competitive ($40 for 4 weeks).Still need to know more? Check out these 12 helpful tips to find the right travel insurance for working and volunteering abroad.

3 Good Alternative Sites Like Workaway

Though Worldpackers and Trustedhousesitters are wonderful for finding alternative, affordable accommodation, there are still other options too.

If you’re still searching for something that fits your needs, you’ll need to check out these 3 great websites similar to Workaway.

HelpStay

Founded in 2014, HelpStay was started by an Irish guy who took a 6-month sabbatical from his IT desk job.

He traveled to Australia and New Zealand where he saw people exchanging their help and was eventually inspired to start his own platform.

HelpStay has a wide variety of opportunities to choose from that are located all around the world. A large part of the work exchanges is in Europe.

Some of the most popular places they list are Spain, the UK, Thailand, and France, and for these, they actually have individual volunteering guides!

They also have an active blog that has relevant volunteering content from travelers around the world.

For browsing opportunities, the website looks great and works well. You don’t have to make a payment or account to view the work exchanges available.

It’s straightforward to sign up. The 1-year membership is currently €29.99 ($35.50) for a single account and €39.99 ($47) for a couple/friends account. 

They have a designated tab on the site for ‘support’ with a few different ways to contact and get questions answered.

You can directly email the founder, use the support forum on the website, and also join them on Reddit and their Facebook group to get any queries answered by the HelpStay team.

Some things to consider – they are still a small platform with 1,000+ hosts. They say this has to do with safety and trust though because they are thorough in vetting and approving hosts.

Also, they don’t have a mobile application, though that could be coming soon.

WWOOF

Founded in the UK in 1971, WWOOF stands for ‘World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms’.

WWOOF has been around for 50 years now – it’s kind of the original work exchange platform/organization.

The main focus is on homestays and farm stays. It’s a great platform for those who know they definitely want to do farm work and only farm work.

Helping out on a farm can be strenuous and can mean staying in very basic facilities sometimes.

If you’re someone who wouldn’t want to stay in isolated, ‘rustic’ accommodations, this platform might not be for you.

The main website looks nice and is easy to use, but there is no mobile application.

And it makes sense why they don’t because each country has its own WWOOF website where you need to sign up for a membership.

Unfortunately, the websites for different countries might not be as nice as the main site and you can also go to a specific country’s WWOOF site and find zero opportunities.

This means extra effort on your part and can mean searching could be unnecessarily confusing.

Membership prices vary between countries. As an example, for 1 year, WWOOF USA charges $40 for a single account and $65 for a couple/joint account.

I think WWOOF is great for slow travelers because they charge per country.

So if you know you’re going to do a working holiday in Australia, you can purchase just that particular membership.

If you plan to move around quite a bit or just like to leave your options open, it might be better to go with a platform with a wide variety of opportunities and countries available.

HelpX

Founded in 2001, HelpX was founded by an English guy who traveled extensively around Australia and New Zealand.

He did what we consider now as ‘work exchanges’ there, which inspired him to create Helpx.net.

Similar to Workaway, HelpX has a variety of different work exchanges to choose from.

Most exchanges are in Canada, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand. You can view opportunities without needing to make a payment or account.

Unfortunately, you can’t see the whole opportunity though – the reviews don’t show till you pay.

The website feels a bit outdated and it’s not intuitive to use at all. It feels like work to browse opportunities because the layout is lacking.

Also, I tried searching for opportunities in Europe and had the 4th and 5th results were work exchanges in Canada and Argentina?

For two years, the membership costs $24 (€20), but the payment is also not the most straightforward thing. 

They state, 

“…in order to contact any hosts directly, you will be required to upgrade to be a premier helper member. If you provide a comprehensive and inspiring helper profile you might get invited by a host to come and be a helper for them without having to upgrade. But realistically speaking, you will require to be a premier helper in order to truly benefit from being a HelpX helper. It costs just €20 to upgrade to be a premier helper, which lasts for 2 years worldwide for both single and twin memberships. The upgrade option will be available once your profile has been created and verified.”

So technically you can make a free account and *maybe* have a host message you first, then you don’t have to pay.

It seems unnecessarily confusing to me. And it doesn’t matter if you sign up for a single or couple account, you still have to pay the same amount.

Honestly, I don’t like that – other platforms make the single account cheaper. 

Either way, I think HelpX is a great option if you’re on a budget and just need the bare minimum in a work exchange platform!

A Free Site Similar To Workaway

I know many people are trying to find information about how they can get free Workaway or find completely free websites like workaway.

Unfortunately, there aren’t many good options that are still free out there.

Volunteers Base

It’s not the most fun or easy to browse opportunities, but if you’re looking for a completely free option for volunteering, this is it!

The website is not the best- it is a little outdated. On the home page, there’s an icon to ‘sign up’ which takes you to Facebook to share an image about the site.

I find this strange. If you do click on a different button to make an account, it is straightforward at least.

They also have an option to send them a Whatsapp message, which is a little unusual for a work exchange platform.

I think Volunteers Base is a site to consider if you’re not concerned with safety since hosted aren’t vetted – there’s also no support.

If you are a very experienced traveler and don’t need any extra frills this platform could be worth a try.

Final Thoughts

I hope this guide helped you discover how many great alternative sites like Workaway that are out there.

Every person is different so what you want in a work exchange can differ from what I want.

I do want to say that out of all the websites like Workaway that I went over, I think Worldpackers is the best.

Please let me know in the comments if you get to try any of these 6 great websites like Workaway!

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