A new trend among travelers plays on the compassion of others while simultaneously cutting the outrageous costs of lodging. "Couch surfing" occurs when visitors stay in a stranger’s home, rather than booking a hotel room. The concept gained popularity through the website couchsurfing.com which has been helping travelers find hosts all over the world for more than a decade. Because it is a foreign idea to many people, there are plenty of mistakes and misconceptions that still surround couch surfing. Here are some tips on how to do so safely.
Do the Research
Make sure you read many reviews before finding a host that is right for you. You may need to read between the lines, as some visitors may not want to be rude to the person who just opened their doors to them. You don’t want to stay somewhere if you will be exploited.
Initiate Conversations with Your Host
You want to be friendly when staying in someone’s home. Polite conversation can help to break the tension on both ends. You can tell stories of your traveling adventures, and they can talk about previous couch surfers that they’ve hosted. You may even make a new friend on your vacation.
Exchange Contact Information
Get a phone number and an email address. It is important that you are able to reach your host if you need them, especially before you make it to their home. You may show up at the wrong address or find that your train is going to be six hours late. Either way, you'll need to let them know.
Make Sure Someone Knows Exactly Where You Are Staying
Your mom is going to ask you anyway. In the unlikely event of an emergency, you want someone to have your information. Everything will probably be fine, but you can never be overly cautious. You are staying with a stranger, after all.
Have Your First Meeting in a Public Place
If it is possible to meet your host before your stay, I would highly recommend doing so. You don’t want to have any negative stigmas toward your host, but you want to be prepared for every possible scenario. Just remember that this is just as weird for them as it is for you.
Offer to Help Out Around the House
If someone is gracious enough to open their doors to you, the least you can do is lend a hand when it comes time to take care of chores. Wash dishes, help with the cooking, and (above all else) clean up after yourself. Try to leave everything a little bit better than you found it.
Go With Your Gut
If something doesn’t feel right, then maybe the situation isn’t right for you. You aren’t bound to any host. Most awkwardness can be avoided if you choose a host that is compatible with your specific needs.
