Although, if you wish to browse the work-exchange positions first, you can take a look for free. HelpStay didn’t exist back then, but I did several work-exchange experiences on farms, hostels, and more. On HelpStay, you’ll find work-exchange positions everywhere in the world. Simply type your destination and search to browse the positions available on HelpStay. Plus, you’ll get to meet new people and have unique experiences that you wouldn’t have otherwise.
For hosts
We’re here to help you get out there to help global causes and enjoy authentic, local experiences abroad. Our community of fellow helpers and hosts helpstay reviews has put together a great list of resources that can be found in our journal. Rather than focusing on individual reviews, look for recurring themes. If multiple users mention the same positive or negative aspect, it’s likely a consistent feature of the host or project. There are more critical factors to consider when choosing a suitable project to visit.
The best part about work-exchange programs is that they offer an opportunity to really get to know the culture of your destination. These programs allow you to stay in a new place rent-free, in exchange for working a set number of hours each week. I felt very much welcomed and appreciated at their place. BanNaa is a small village, with friendly helpful people, no tourists.
- In exchange for your help, the hosts will provide you with free accommodation and often meals as well.
- Navigate to the bottom of your host listing, where you’ll find the section for helper feedback.
- Once you find feedback from previous volunteers or customers, read it carefully.
- HelpStay is a skills-based volunteering platform that connects travellers with hosts of great projects around the world.
HelpStay Reviews: Keeping Safe
- The Couples / Friends Plan allows you to apply to volunteer positions that accept couples or friends worldwide.
- Providing a safe and enjoyable experience for helpers is our most paramount concern.
- You can read some of the stories inside my guide to volunteering abroad in exchange for free accommodation.
- For artistic individuals, opportunities to contribute through photography, videography, or social media management are often available.
During the call, don’t hesitate to ask any lingering questions, even if they’re things you already know. Confirm any claims and ask for clarification where needed. Most importantly, ensure the conditions are clear for both parties. While this might seem like an invasion of privacy, as a volunteer, you’re likely not working under a formal contract, which means there are no guarantees.
Connect with us
We will then email the helper with a link where they can leave feedback for you. Recording the call can be useful if you find yourself without cell service and need to recall phone numbers or any important details. If the conversation happens months before your volunteering stint, it’s easy to forget some specifics. According to Dr Simester’s 2014 study, as mentioned in The New York Times, only a small fraction of people, about 1.5 percent or 15 out of 1,000, actually write reviews.
Is HelpStay Safe?
Always trust your instincts and conduct your own independent checks—never leave anything to chance. Once you find feedback from previous volunteers or customers, read it carefully. If the reviews seem dull, overly general, or lacking in detail, it’s worth approaching with caution. Once you’re approved, you’ll get to your destination and start volunteering.
In today’s world of global volunteering and cultural exchange platforms like HelpStay have made it easier than ever for travelers to connect with hosts worldwide. Whether you’re looking to volunteer your skills in exchange for accommodation or seeking a meaningful way to explore new cultures, HelpStay offers a wealth of opportunities. Naturally, one of the first things prospective users look for is HelpStay reviews to gauge the reliability and experiences of others who have used the platform. HelpStay reviews are an invaluable resource for anyone considering a volunteering experience through the platform.
Become a Helper
This doesn’t imply that these projects should be avoided; it simply means they either haven’t been visited by helpers or, if they have, feedback hasn’t been provided. Overall, HelpStay is a great platform that connects travelers with hosts all over the world. There is a membership fee that allows you to access all the features of the platform. For example, you’ll need a membership to apply for volunteer positions.
To truly grasp HelpStay’s position within the market, a comparison to established platforms like Workaway and Worldpackers is essential. The objective is not to simply locate the most affordable option, but to identify the platform that best aligns with your individual needs and preferences. Helpers can browse the profiles of different hosts by location or type of help activity. Comments and posts that have nothing to do with volunteering abroad, traveling and related topics will be classed as spam.
However, there are clear opportunities for improvement concerning website usability, host verification methodologies, and the clarity of its review system. For travelers who are comfortable with conducting comprehensive research and communicating proactively, HelpStay can potentially be a good fit. However, individuals seeking a more streamlined user experience and more robust support features might find greater satisfaction on alternative platforms. Carefully assess your personal priorities, and then embark on planning your dream trip! The best way to determine if HelpStay is the right option for your next adventure is to carefully weigh these considerations.
Is HelpStay safe & trustworthy?
Depending on the position, you might also get free meals. You can find all the details on what’s included in the position in the listing. When creating your profile, make sure to include photos. If you already volunteered in the past, add photos from those times too. Once you find a place you’re interested in, make sure to sign up to be able to contact the host. Nowadays, several websites help you find work-exchange opportunities, and in this guide, we’ll talk about HelpStay.
HelpStay.com is a community of individuals who travel with a purpose. For us, travel is about learning, sharing, and personal growth. HelpStay is a community of people who travel with a purpose. That’s why we found a way to make travelling and volunteering easy, safe, affordable, and accessible to everyone.