The ability to travel the world is a dream of many people. But they stick to cost.
But what if you could travel for free? If there was a way to travel the world without spending a fortune, would you choose it?
You might be surprised at how many ways you can earn free travel. Let’s take a look at the options here.
1. Work program
Various work programs allow you to provide valuable services to others in exchange for covering travel expenses, especially lodging.
Employment programs such as Worldwide Opportunities on Organic Farms (WWOOF) and Search Associates can help you find a place to work abroad at a cost. Additionally, websites such as Workaway let you put your skills to work while showcasing international jobs, job exchanges, and other free travel opportunities.
2. Volunteer Program
Another option is to join a volunteer program that covers your expenses. Depending on the program, you may be able to travel to other countries for two years (or more) or manage short vacations.
The Peace Corps is one of the oldest ways to enlist on the road to free travel. A two-year contract is required and includes travel, living expenses and health insurance. Additionally, you can receive a small scholarship.
For short stays, sites like Go Overseas can connect you to volunteer opportunities to teach English, build infrastructure, or provide medical services. The United Nations also has a volunteer program that allows you to travel for free.
3. Someone else’s house
These days, there are many sites designed to let you take part of your trip for free if you can comfortably stay in someone else’s home.
Instead of paying for hotels, Couchsurfing International allows you to stay with locals. If you don’t mind letting someone stay in your house, you can use HomeExchange to exchange accommodations with others. There is an annual fee, but it may be worth saving on accommodation.
There are also some websites that can help you connect with people who are willing to take care of their homes and pets while you are traveling and let you stay for free. Start with Trusted Housesitters or MindMyHouse.
4. Learn about heritage
Want to know more about your roots? Some countries offer travel or part of travel expenses to learn more about ancestral heritage and culture.
Israel, Macedonia and Armenia have birth rights programs. In addition, Hungary, Greece and Cuba offer opportunities for their extended descendants to travel to their countries. Look for programs that focus on providing accommodation, cultural experiences and even airfare.
5. Drive someone else’s car cross country
If you want to travel close to home for free, consider driving someone’s car across the country. You may be able to cover gas bills, lodging and other expenses.
According to HireAHelper, up to 24% of trips from one county to another are at least 500 miles apart, so you might be able to find someone who needs help moving their car. This can create opportunities for free road trips.
First, look for a job at a company such as Auto Driveaway or Driveaway USA.
6. Ask others for help
Celebrating a big milestone? Ask for travel help instead of gifts.
Ask friends and family to donate to GoFundMe or provide travel gift cards, from graduations to weddings and other celebrations. Rather than setting up a gift registry for more, let your loved ones know what you would like to experience.
Some loyalty programs allow you to send airline or hotel points. Once you hit the network, you might be surprised at what’s available.
7. Use Credit Card Points and Loyalty Programs
Remember, you can earn free trips through the program with regular purchases.
With a variety of travel credit cards, you can quickly accumulate points and redeem them for free travel. On top of that, when you sign up for a new credit card, you might get a hefty signing bonus that can be applied to your airfare, resulting in free travel. Offers are constantly changing, so check back regularly for the best travel rewards credit cards.
Loyalty programs can even get you free travel. Many hotel chains offer the chance to earn points for free hotel stays. You can also use programs like Swagbucks to earn points and get cash back. Even travel sites like Orbitz offer loyalty programs that you can use to save money on your travels. With the right strategy, you can plan free trips using credit cards and loyalty programs.
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