If you’re a long-term traveler looking to cut down on costs, house sitting could be your golden ticket. Our content editor, Sam, has been living the dream, traveling the world as a house sitter for years. She’s lived rent-free in beautiful locations, from the US Virgin Islands to the forests of North Carolina, and in bustling cities like New York and London.
She’s stayed in luxury condos with rooftop hot tubs and solar-powered homes with outdoor showers. She’s cared for adorable pets, from a kitten named Marshmallow to a parrot named Sunshine. She’s made friends with locals, discovered hidden gems to eat, and truly lived like a local in each place she’s visited.
So, how can you live this dream life? The answer is house sitting. It’s a simple exchange – you take care of someone’s home and pets while they’re away, and in return, you get free accommodation. It’s a win-win situation.
House sitting is becoming more popular, but it’s still a new concept for many travelers. It might sound too good to be true, but Sam assures you it’s not. House sitting can significantly reduce your travel costs, connect you with locals, and even provide extra perks like a vehicle to use. The only catch? You must love animals, as most house sitting gigs involve pet care.
If you’re ready to give house sitting a try, Sam has some tips to get you started. First, figure out your goals and preferences. Do you want to house sit locally or globally? Are you looking to buy a home, take a sabbatical, travel full-time, or just save on a weekend getaway?
Once you’ve figured out your goals, sign up for a house sitting website. These platforms connect pet owners and house sitters, making it easy to find gigs. You’ll need to pay a membership fee, but the savings you’ll make from house sitting will more than cover it.
Next, create your profile. This is your chance to showcase your pet-care experience and tell pet owners why you want to house sit. Don’t forget to ask for references to boost your profile’s credibility.
Now, you’re ready to browse and apply for gigs. If you find a gig that interests you, apply right away. Remember, applying doesn’t mean you’re committing to the gig, it’s just expressing interest.
Before you agree to a gig, arrange a video chat with the pet owner. This is your chance to ask questions and make sure the gig is a good fit for you. Once you’ve agreed to a gig, keep in touch with the pet owner and ask any questions that come up.
Finally, enjoy your house sitting experience! Remember to honor your commitment and have fun exploring your new location. After your gig, ask for a review to build your portfolio of references. Reflect on your experience, learn from it, and get ready for your next house sitting adventure.
House sitting is a fantastic way to travel at a reduced cost, make new friends, and see the world from a different perspective. It requires some planning and responsibility, but the rewards are well worth it. Happy house sitting!
