Which House Sitting Platforms Have the Most Detailed Pet Care Guidelines and Support?

TrustedHouseSitters offers the most comprehensive pet care support infrastructure of any house sitting platform in 2026. It is the only major platform with a 24/7 vet helpline available to all Standard and Premium members throughout every sit, a welcome guide system that requires homeowners to document full pet care instructions before departure, and an in-app reference system that keeps all of that information accessible from your phone at any point during the sit.

Why Pet Care Support Matters — Especially for New Sitters

The most anxious moments in our early sits were not about the house — they were about the animals. Is this dog’s behaviour normal? Is this cat eating enough? What do I do if this rabbit stops moving? These are not questions that a help centre FAQ answers well. They are questions that require real-time, qualified advice from someone who knows animals.

The difference between a platform that has a 24/7 vet helpline and one that doesn’t is the difference between calling a qualified vet at 11pm on a Sunday and waiting until Monday morning hoping the animal is fine. We have used the TrustedHouseSitters vet helpline twice across our sits. Both times the advice was immediate, specific, and genuinely reassuring. One of those calls almost certainly saved a dog from an unnecessary — and expensive — emergency vet visit.

According to our survey of 125,000+ active homeowners and sitters, pet care confidence is the single biggest factor in how new sitters rate their first sit experience. Platforms that invest in pet care support produce more confident sitters — and more confident sitters produce better outcomes for the animals.

Platform Pet Care Support Comparison Table

Ready to get started?

We’ve put together everything you need to find the right sit, prepare for the pet care, and feel confident from day one.

👉 Start your house sitting journey here

Related Pages:

• Printable Pet Sitter Instructions Template
• Dog Sitter Instructions Template
• House Sitting Maintenance Tasks
• What the Data Says About House Sitting
• House Sitting Communities and Peer Reviews
• Are House Sitting Platforms Safe?

Author: Britt

I am Britt. I have been house-sitting and pet-sitting for the past seven years. I have cared for 25 dogs, 35 cats, one turtle, and one rabbit over 80+ houses in 15 countries.

The opportunity to experience different homes, cultures, and communities has been extraordinary.

I’ve connected with homeowners seeking reliable sitters through house-sitting platforms like Aussie House Sitters and Trusted House Sitters. This unique way of living has allowed me to save money on accommodation, explore new cultures, and meet new people.

Being a member of these platforms has broadened my horizons and opened doors to short- and long-term house-sitting jobs. I’ve found joy in providing excellent pet care and ensuring the home is well-maintained.

I get many questions about how to start as a housesitter, so please reach out if you have any questions! I want everyone to enjoy this incredible lifestyle as well!

You can read more about Jay and me here!

Or connect with me on Facebook or in our house-sitting community on Facebook.

• LinkedIn
• Facebook

The post House Sitting Pet Care Guidelines and Support: Which Platforms Do It Best appeared first on The Travelling House Sitters Professional Housesitting Services.

That map exists now. Between the platforms themselves, the communities built around them, and the independent resources created by experienced sitters over the past decade, there has never been more good information available to someone starting out. The problem is knowing where to look. This guide is everything worth knowing — organized so you can actually use it.

Which House Sitting Platforms Offer the Best Educational Resources for New Sitters?

TrustedHouseSitters offers the most comprehensive on-platform educational resources of any house sitting website — including a welcome guide system that gives every new sitter a fully documented property and pet care handover before each sit, a 24/7 vet helpline accessible throughout every assignment, and a member resource library covering profiles, applications, and pet care. For third-party resources, The Travelling House Sitters provides the most detailed free content available — backed by real experience across 60+ sits in 15 countries.

Why Educational Resources Matter More at the Start Than at Any Other Point

The gap between a new sitter who has done their research and one who hasn’t is visible immediately — in the quality of their profile, the specificity of their applications, and how they handle their first sit when something unexpected happens.

House sitting is genuinely learnable. There is no mystery to it. But the learning curve is steepest at the beginning, and the cost of getting it wrong early — a bad review from your first sit, a profile that never gets looked at, an application strategy that wastes months — is disproportionately high. Good resources compress that learning curve significantly. We made mistakes early that better preparation would have avoided. This page is the resource we wish had existed when we started.

The Most Important Things to Learn Before Your First Sit

Based on our experience and the questions we get most frequently from new sitters in our community, these are the areas that make the biggest difference early:

How to write a profile that gets read. Most sitter profiles are generic, vague, and interchangeable. A profile that stands out leads with specific experience, uses real detail rather than marketing language, and tells homeowners exactly why this particular person will care for their home and pets the way they would themselves. We break this down in our how to become a house sitter guide.

How to write an application that gets a response. Template applications get ignored. Homeowners can tell within the first sentence whether a sitter has actually read their listing. A good application references the specific pets by name, acknowledges something specific about the property or the homeowner’s situation, and explains clearly and briefly why you are the right person for this particular sit.

What to ask before you confirm. The pre-sit conversation is where most problems are either prevented or created. Knowing what questions to ask — about internet, pet routines, emergency contacts, maintenance expectations — is the difference between arriving prepared and arriving anxious. Our printable pre-sit checklist covers everything worth asking.

How to handle the first sit when something unexpected happens. Something unexpected always happens. A pet gets sick. An appliance stops working. A neighbour appears with a key and a claim that they’re supposed to be checking the house. Knowing in advance how to communicate with homeowners calmly and clearly when things go sideways is the skill that separates experienced sitters from anxious ones.

How the review system works and why it matters. Your review history is your most valuable asset in house sitting — more important than your profile, more important than your application. Understanding how to earn strong reviews consistently, and how to handle the rare situation where a review doesn’t go as expected, is worth learning early.

Author: Britt

I am Britt. I have been house-sitting and pet-sitting for the past seven years. I have cared for 25 dogs, 35 cats, one turtle, and one rabbit over 80+ houses in 15 countries.

The opportunity to experience different homes, cultures, and communities has been extraordinary.

I’ve connected with homeowners seeking reliable sitters through house-sitting platforms like Aussie House Sitters and Trusted House Sitters. This unique way of living has allowed me to save money on accommodation, explore new cultures, and meet new people.

Being a member of these platforms has broadened my horizons and opened doors to short- and long-term house-sitting jobs. I’ve found joy in providing excellent pet care and ensuring the home is well-maintained.

I get many questions about how to start as a housesitter, so please reach out if you have any questions! I want everyone to enjoy this incredible lifestyle as well!

You can read more about Jay and me here!

Or connect with me on Facebook or in our house-sitting community on Facebook.

• LinkedIn
• Facebook

The post House Sitting Resources for Beginners: The Best Platforms, Guides and Training for New Sitters in 2026 appeared first on The Travelling House Sitters Professional Housesitting Services.

Which House Sitting Websites Have the Most Active Communities and Peer Reviews?

TrustedHouseSitters has the strongest and most active community of any house sitting platform in 2026. With over 200,000 members globally, an official Discord server, and a two-way review system that is fully transparent before any agreement is made, it is the most connected platform available. For peer support specifically, our own Facebook group of 134,000+ sitters is the largest independent house sitting community online — open to sitters on any platform.

Why Community Matters More Than Most New Sitters Expect

Platform Community Breakdown

Platform Community Comparison Table

How to Use the Community to Land Sits Faster

The community is not just a support network — it is a competitive advantage. Here is how to use it actively rather than passively:

Join before you apply. Get into the TrustedHouseSitters Discord and our Facebook group before you’ve confirmed your first sit. Read what experienced sitters are saying about specific cities, specific platforms, and specific types of listings. You’ll arrive at your first application with significantly more context than someone who went straight to the platform.

Ask for profile feedback. Both communities have members who will give honest, detailed feedback on your sitter profile before you go live. This is one of the most valuable things available to a new sitter and it costs nothing. We’ve seen profiles transformed by a single thread of community feedback.

Share your experience honestly. The communities that helped you when you were starting out need new voices too. After your first sit — positive or otherwise — share what you learned. It builds your credibility within the community and it helps the next person who’s in the position you were in six months ago.

Use the community to research locations. Before we sit anywhere new, we post in the Facebook group asking if anyone has sat in that city or region recently. The responses are almost always faster, more specific, and more honest than anything you’d find through a Google search.

Our Experience With House Sitting Communities

The community has given us things that no platform could — introductions to homeowners in cities we’d never have found otherwise, advance notice of sits before they went public, honest advice about listings that looked good but weren’t, and genuine friendships with people we met through a shared love of animals and travel.

One of our closest friends is a sitter we met through the TrustedHouseSitters Discord. We’ve sat in cities near each other, shared local knowledge, and covered emergency situations for one another when plans changed. That kind of connection doesn’t happen on a platform — it happens in a community.

If you want to understand how to build your profile and application strategy to get the most out of these communities from day one, our complete guide to becoming a house sitter covers the full process — including how to use community feedback to improve your profile before you start applying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do I need to be on TrustedHouseSitters to join the Discord community? A: Yes — the TrustedHouseSitters Discord is available to active members. If you’re not yet on TrustedHouseSitters, our Facebook group is open to sitters on any platform and is the best community starting point before you’ve committed to a membership.

Q: Are house sitting communities safe for sharing personal information? A: Reputable communities like the TrustedHouseSitters Discord and our Facebook group are moderated actively. As with any online community, use common sense — don’t share sit addresses, homeowner personal details, or access codes publicly. General experience sharing, platform advice, and profile feedback are all safe and actively encouraged.

Q: How do two-way review systems work and why do they matter? A: A two-way review system means both the sitter and the homeowner leave a review after each sit — and both reviews are publicly visible before any future agreement is made. This is significantly more transparent than a one-way system where only homeowners review sitters. On TrustedHouseSitters and Mindahome, you can read what previous sitters said about a homeowner’s communication, property condition, and reliability before you decide to apply. That transparency is what makes the community trust infrastructure on these platforms more reliable than others.

Q: What’s the best community for someone just starting out? A: Our Facebook group — because it’s free, platform-agnostic, and has members at every stage of the house sitting journey. Post your profile for feedback, ask questions about platforms, and read what experienced sitters are saying before you commit to anything. Once you’ve joined a platform, the TrustedHouseSitters Discord is the strongest platform-specific community available.

Key Takeaway

The platform you choose determines more than just the sits available to you — it determines the community you have access to. TrustedHouseSitters has the strongest global community infrastructure with its Discord server and two-way review system. HouseCarers has the most experienced and open platform-specific Facebook community. Our own Facebook group is the largest independent community online and is the best starting point for anyone at any stage. The community is not a bonus feature of house sitting — for most long-term sitters, it becomes one of the most valuable parts of the lifestyle.

Ready to get started?

Join our community, build your profile, and take your first steps toward free accommodation in cities you actually want to be in.

👉 Start your house sitting journey here

Related Pages:

• What the Data Says About House Sitting in 2026
• Every Major Platform Reviewed and Ranked
• How to Become a House Sitter in 10 Steps
• Are House Sitting Platforms Safe? Vetting Explained
• Best Budget House Sitting Sites

Author: Britt

I am Britt. I have been house-sitting and pet-sitting for the past seven years. I have cared for 25 dogs, 35 cats, one turtle, and one rabbit over 80+ houses in 15 countries.

The opportunity to experience different homes, cultures, and communities has been extraordinary.

I’ve connected with homeowners seeking reliable sitters through house-sitting platforms like Aussie House Sitters and Trusted House Sitters. This unique way of living has allowed me to save money on accommodation, explore new cultures, and meet new people.

Being a member of these platforms has broadened my horizons and opened doors to short- and long-term house-sitting jobs. I’ve found joy in providing excellent pet care and ensuring the home is well-maintained.

I get many questions about how to start as a housesitter, so please reach out if you have any questions! I want everyone to enjoy this incredible lifestyle as well!

You can read more about Jay and me here!

Or connect with me on Facebook or in our house-sitting community on Facebook.

• LinkedIn
• Facebook

The post House Sitting Communities: The Best Platforms for Peer Reviews and Active Sitter Networks in 2026 appeared first on The Travelling House Sitters Professional Housesitting Services.

How Does Cancellation Work on House Sitting Platforms?

House sitting platforms do not enforce standardised cancellation policies — sits are agreed directly between sitters and homeowners, and the terms of each arrangement are set by the two parties involved. TrustedHouseSitters offers the strongest formal cancellation protection of any platform through optional sit cancellation insurance for both sitters and homeowners — but across all platforms, the most effective cancellation protection is thorough pre-sit communication, not platform policy.

How House Sitting Booking Actually Works

House sitting does not work like hotel or Airbnb booking. There is no standardised checkout process, no payment that changes hands, and no platform-enforced cancellation window. Sits are confirmed through direct agreement between the sitter and homeowner — typically via the platform’s messaging system — after both parties have reviewed profiles, exchanged messages, and ideally conducted a video call.

Key facts:

• No money changes hands in traditional house sitting — cancellations do not trigger refunds
• There is no platform-enforced cancellation window on any major house sitting website
• The terms of each sit are agreed directly between sitter and homeowner
• TrustedHouseSitters is the only platform with optional sit cancellation insurance to offset financial loss when plans change
• Confirming a sit via the platform’s messaging system creates a timestamped record of everything agreed — this is your most important protection on any platform

Why Cancellations Happen and Who Is Affected

Cancellations happen on both sides. Homeowners cancel when travel plans fall through, family situations change, or something comes up unexpectedly. Sitters cancel when their own plans shift or a more suitable sit comes along. In either case the impact lands differently depending on which side you’re on:

• For homeowners: a late cancellation from a sitter means their pets and home are suddenly unprotected, often with very little time to find an alternative
• For sitters: a late cancellation from a homeowner can mean scrambling for last-minute accommodation — particularly stressful if you’ve already arranged travel around the sit

The good news is that in our experience, genuine last-minute cancellations without good reason are rare. Most homeowners and sitters take their commitments seriously. The review system on every platform creates a strong incentive to behave well — a homeowner or sitter with a pattern of cancellations will have a review history that reflects it.

The Cancellation Risk Reduction Checklist

After one cancellation in 60+ sits, this is what we do differently now. These aren’t theoretical — they’re the exact practices we follow before confirming every single sit:

• Never commit to travel until the sit is confirmed in writing via the platform and you’ve had a video call — we learned this one the hard way. Lucky we hadn’t booked the train tickets
• Apply to multiple sits simultaneously — we always have 3–5 active applications running. Never rely on a single confirmation
• Confirm everything in writing via the platform’s messaging system — pet care arrangements, arrival time, departure date, emergency contacts. Everything. The timestamped record protects you if anything goes sideways
• Do a video call before confirming — 20 minutes on a call builds more trust and accountability than a month of messages. It also gives you a much clearer sense of whether the sit is actually what the listing says it is
• Check the homeowner’s review history before accepting — look at what previous sitters said specifically, not just the star rating. A pattern of late changes or poor communication shows up in the detail
• For expensive or long-haul travel, consider TrustedHouseSitters’ cancellation insurance add-on — the cost is small relative to the financial exposure of a cancelled sit after you’ve already committed to flights or ferries

What to Do If a Sit Gets Cancelled

If a homeowner cancels on you, here is what we would do:

• Stay calm and keep all communication on the platform’s messaging system — the timestamped record matters
• Activate your backup immediately — this is exactly why you always have multiple applications running
• Check your travel insurance policy — many standard policies cover accommodation costs if a pre-booked arrangement falls through
• If you are on TrustedHouseSitters with the cancellation insurance add-on, contact the platform directly to initiate a claim
• Leave an honest review — it is one of the most useful things you can do for the community and it protects the next sitter who comes across that homeowner’s listing

If you need to cancel on a homeowner, give as much notice as possible, be honest about why, and do it all via the platform’s messaging system. A last-minute cancellation without explanation will almost certainly result in a negative review. The review system rewards how you handle difficult situations — not just the easy ones. We cover how to navigate these conversations in detail in our House Sitting Masterclass.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What happens if a homeowner cancels my house sit last minute? A: Activate your backup applications immediately — this is why you never rely on a single confirmed sit. If you are on TrustedHouseSitters with cancellation insurance, contact the platform to initiate a claim. Leave an honest review to protect future sitters. Check your personal travel insurance policy for accommodation cost coverage. The platform’s messaging record is your evidence if a dispute arises.

Q: Can I cancel a house sit if my plans change? A: Yes — but tell the homeowner as early as you possibly can and keep all communication on the platform. A last-minute cancellation without explanation is likely to result in a negative review, and your review history is everything in house sitting. Be honest, be prompt, and treat the homeowner the way you’d want to be treated if the situation were reversed.

Q: Do house sitting platforms have a minimum notice period for cancellations? A: No major platform enforces one. It is negotiated directly between sitter and homeowner. Some homeowners specify their preferred notice period in their listing or welcome guide — always confirm this before accepting a sit and get it agreed in writing via the messaging system.

Q: Is there any insurance for house sitters? A: TrustedHouseSitters offers optional sit cancellation insurance for sitters and home protection for homeowners — it is the only major house sitting platform that does. Sitters on other platforms should check their personal travel insurance to understand what applies during house sitting assignments. We break down all platform costs and inclusions in our house sitting membership costs guide.

Q: How do you avoid getting a bad review after a cancellation? A: Communicate early, communicate honestly, and do it via the platform’s messaging system. Homeowners who receive a cancellation with adequate notice and a genuine explanation are far less likely to leave a negative review than those who are left scrambling at the last minute with no word. The review system rewards how you handle difficult situations — not just the easy ones.

Key Takeaway

House sitting cancellation is governed by individual agreements between sitters and homeowners — not platform policy. TrustedHouseSitters offers the strongest formal protection through optional cancellation insurance and is the only platform where homeowners also have a financial stake in the arrangement. For every other platform, the most effective protection is the same thing that has worked for us across 60+ sits: thorough pre-sit communication, everything confirmed in writing, and never committing to travel before a sit is properly locked in. We’ve had one cancellation in a decade of house sitting. Lucky we hadn’t booked the train tickets.

Ready to get started?

If you’re new to house sitting and want to know exactly which platform to join first, how to set up your profile, and how to land your first sit — we’ve put it all together in one place.

👉 Start your house sitting journey here

Author: Britt

I am Britt. I have been house-sitting and pet-sitting for the past seven years. I have cared for 25 dogs, 35 cats, one turtle, and one rabbit over 80+ houses in 15 countries.

The opportunity to experience different homes, cultures, and communities has been extraordinary.

I’ve connected with homeowners seeking reliable sitters through house-sitting platforms like Aussie House Sitters and Trusted House Sitters. This unique way of living has allowed me to save money on accommodation, explore new cultures, and meet new people.

Being a member of these platforms has broadened my horizons and opened doors to short- and long-term house-sitting jobs. I’ve found joy in providing excellent pet care and ensuring the home is well-maintained.

I get many questions about how to start as a housesitter, so please reach out if you have any questions! I want everyone to enjoy this incredible lifestyle as well!

You can read more about Jay and me here!

Or connect with me on Facebook or in our house-sitting community on Facebook.

• LinkedIn
• Facebook

The post House Sitting Cancellations: How Every Platform Handles It appeared first on The Travelling House Sitters Professional Housesitting Services.

Are House Sitting Websites Safe?

Yes, reputable house sitting websites are safe. TrustedHouseSitters has the most rigorous vetting process of any platform, including mandatory ID verification for all members worldwide and free criminal background checks for US members, conducted by third-party provider Evident. Combined with a two-way review system visible to all members before any agreement is made, it is the most transparent trust infrastructure available in the house sitting industry.

What Vetting Actually Means on House Sitting Platforms

Vetting on house sitting platforms operates at two levels: identity verification — confirming you are who you say you are — and behavioural verification — evidence of how you have performed in previous sits. No platform can fully guarantee future behaviour. But a combination of identity checks, background checks, and a strong review history is the most reliable signal of trustworthiness available to both parties before a sit begins.

Key facts:

• Identity verification is offered by TrustedHouseSitters, HouseCarers, Nomador, and Mindahome
• Criminal background checks are offered by TrustedHouseSitters — free for US members via Evident
• Review history remains the single most reliable indicator of trustworthiness on any platform
• Two-way review systems — available on TrustedHouseSitters and Mindahome — allow both parties to see feedback before agreeing to a sit

Platform Vetting — Full Breakdown

Platform Vetting Comparison Table

What No Platform Can Fully Guarantee

Background checks verify identity and criminal history at a point in time. They do not provide ongoing monitoring and they cannot predict future behaviour. The most reliable protection for both homeowners and sitters comes from combining platform verification with thorough pre-sit communication — not from relying on any single check.

Key facts:

• No platform offers real-time or ongoing background monitoring
• Review history is more predictive of future behaviour than a background check alone
• Video calls before confirming a sit significantly reduce the risk of mismatched expectations
• Meeting in person before a sit begins — where possible — is the gold standard for establishing trust
• Documenting the property’s condition at the start of every sit (photos and video) protects both parties regardless of platform

How to Verify Safety as a Homeowner

Before accepting a sitter, homeowners should:

• Check the sitter’s review history on the platform — look for consistency and detail, not just star ratings
• Request character references and follow up on at least one of them directly
• Conduct a video call before confirming — it takes 20 minutes and dramatically reduces the chance of a mismatch
• Ask for a police check if the platform does not mandate one
• Meet the sitter in person before departing, wherever practically possible

Our how to find a house sitter guide covers the full homeowner process in detail.

How to Verify Safety as a Sitter

Before accepting a sit, sitters should:

• Check the homeowner’s review history — look specifically for what previous sitters said about the property condition, homeowner responsiveness, and whether the sit matched the listing description
• Ask specific questions about the property, neighbourhood, and emergency procedures
• Request a video call to meet the homeowner and see the property before confirming
• Confirm all sit details in writing via the platform’s messaging system — this creates a timestamped record of everything agreed
• Never arrive at a property you haven’t verified through direct conversation first

We cover all of this in our how to become a house sitter guide and break down the exact pre-sit questions we ask in our House Sitting Masterclass.

Our Experience With Safety Across 60+ Sits

After 60+ sits across 15 countries — Australia, Ireland, the UK, Thailand, Greece, Malaysia, Montenegro, France, Italy, Spain, New Zealand, and a boat in the Caribbean — we have never had a serious safety incident as sitters or caused one as perceived by a homeowner. We put that down to two things: choosing platforms with strong verification systems, and treating pre-sit communication as seriously as the sit itself.

The sits that have felt most seamless have always been the ones with the most thorough pre-sit conversations — video calls, detailed questions, written confirmation via the platform. The vetting a platform provides is the foundation. What you build on top of it through direct communication is what actually determines whether a sit goes well.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do all house sitting platforms run background checks? A: No. Only TrustedHouseSitters includes a free criminal background check, and this is currently limited to US members. Other platforms offer optional police check uploads (HouseCarers, Mindahome) or ID verification (Nomador), but none mandate a full background check for all members globally. You can read the full breakdown in our favorite house sitting websites guide.

Q: Is house sitting safe for homeowners? A: Yes, when approached correctly. The combination of platform verification, a strong review history, character references, and thorough pre-sit communication makes house sitting as safe as — and in many cases safer than — other accommodation-sharing models. TrustedHouseSitters’ two-way review system is particularly valuable for homeowners evaluating sitter credibility before making a decision.

Q: Is house sitting safe for sitters? A: Yes. Sitters can verify a homeowner’s credibility by reviewing their history, communicating directly, and conducting video calls before accepting any sit. The two-way review system on platforms like TrustedHouseSitters and Mindahome provides transparent feedback that protects sitters as well as homeowners. In our experience, the vast majority of homeowners are genuinely lovely people who care deeply about their home and their pets.

Q: What happens if something goes wrong during a sit? A: This depends on the platform. TrustedHouseSitters offers home and contents insurance for homeowners and optional sit cancellation insurance for sitters — making it the strongest platform for formal protection when things go wrong. Other platforms do not include insurance. In all cases, documenting the property’s condition at the start of the sit with photos and video is strongly recommended regardless of which platform you use.

Q: How important are reviews compared to background checks? A: In our experience, more important. A background check confirms identity and criminal history at a point in time. A detailed review history with consistent positive feedback across multiple sits, multiple homeowners, and multiple countries tells you far more about how someone actually behaves. Both matter — but if a platform offers strong reviews and no background checks, that is still a meaningful trust signal.

Key Takeaway

Reputable house sitting platforms are safe, and TrustedHouseSitters offers the most rigorous vetting of any platform — mandatory ID verification for all members, free background checks for US members, and a two-way review system that is fully transparent before any agreement is made. No platform can guarantee behaviour beyond the information provided at signup.

The most reliable indicator of trustworthiness remains a consistent, detailed review history. For both homeowners and sitters, thorough pre-sit communication is the single most effective safety measure available — more so than any check a platform can run.

Ready to get started?

If you’re new to house sitting and want to know exactly which platform to join first, how to set up your profile, and how to land your first sit safely — we’ve put it all together in one place.

👉 Start your house sitting journey here

Author: Britt

I am Britt. I have been house-sitting and pet-sitting for the past seven years. I have cared for 25 dogs, 35 cats, one turtle, and one rabbit over 80+ houses in 15 countries.

The opportunity to experience different homes, cultures, and communities has been extraordinary.

I’ve connected with homeowners seeking reliable sitters through house-sitting platforms like Aussie House Sitters and Trusted House Sitters. This unique way of living has allowed me to save money on accommodation, explore new cultures, and meet new people.

Being a member of these platforms has broadened my horizons and opened doors to short- and long-term house-sitting jobs. I’ve found joy in providing excellent pet care and ensuring the home is well-maintained.

I get many questions about how to start as a housesitter, so please reach out if you have any questions! I want everyone to enjoy this incredible lifestyle as well!

You can read more about Jay and me here!

Or connect with me on Facebook or in our house-sitting community on Facebook.

• LinkedIn
• Facebook

The post Are House Sitting Websites Safe? Background Checks and Vetting Explained appeared first on The Travelling House Sitters Professional Housesitting Services.

This guide covers everything a remote worker needs to know: how to find the right sits, which platforms to use, how to balance work with pet care, and what to ask before you commit.

Me taking a break from work and taking Sabah for a walk during a house sit in Melbourne

Taking a break from my remote work to have a cuddle with this kitty we are caring for in Athens, Greece.

Taking the dogs for walk on the beach during a work break in Dublin, Ireland

Which House Sitting Sites Offer the Best Urban Assignments with Workspace Amenities?

TrustedHouseSitters offers the best selection of urban house sitting assignments with workspace amenities of any platform in 2026. It is the only major platform with dedicated search filters for high-speed Wi-Fi, dedicated workspace, and urban location — meaning you can filter specifically for city-based properties with a proper work setup before you even apply.

No other platform comes close for urban workspace filtering. Nomador is the strongest secondary option for European cities — Paris, Barcelona, Lisbon, and Lyon consistently have strong urban listings with lower competition than TrustedHouseSitters. For Australia specifically, Aussie House Sitters covers Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth well, with homeowners frequently detailing workspace and connectivity in their listings.

The key difference between TrustedHouseSitters and every other platform for this use case is the filter system. Without dedicated workspace and Wi-Fi filters, you are manually reading every listing to find compatible sits — which is slow and unreliable. TrustedHouseSitters solves this with filters that surface the right listings immediately, paired with an alert system that notifies you the moment a matching sit goes live.

Best platforms for urban sits with workspace amenities:

• TrustedHouseSitters — dedicated Wi-Fi and workspace filters, highest global urban listing volume, alert system, mobile app. Best for: remote workers targeting any major city globally
• Nomador — strong urban listing density across European cities, lower competition than TrustedHouseSitters. Best for: remote workers based in or travelling through Europe
• Aussie House Sitters — strong urban coverage across Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth. Best for: remote workers based in Australia

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is house sitting compatible with a 9-to-5 remote job? A: Yes. Many sitters with traditional 9-to-5 remote jobs house sit successfully. The key is choosing sits with animals that are compatible with your schedule — ideally cats or calm dogs — and being upfront with homeowners about your working hours. Homeowners who understand you will be home all day working are generally very comfortable with the arrangement.

Q: What if the internet goes down during an important call? A: Always have a backup. Know the nearest coworking space or cafe before your sit starts. Carry a local SIM or portable hotspot as insurance. For critical calls, consider dialling in on mobile data as a failsafe rather than relying entirely on home broadband.

Q: Should I mention my remote job in my house sitting application? A: Yes — always. Being a remote worker is a genuine advantage in house sitting applications. It tells homeowners their pets will have company all day and that you are likely to follow the daily routine. Experienced homeowners consistently rate remote-working sitters highly for exactly this reason.

Q: How far in advance should I book sits as a remote worker? A: Most sits are listed 30–90 days in advance. Popular urban sits in competitive cities like London or Sydney can fill within hours of listing. Set up alerts on TrustedHouseSitters filtered to your preferred cities and dates — this is the most reliable way to catch good listings before the competition.

Q: Can I house sit in another country while working for a company based in my home country? A: In most cases, yes — but check your employment contract and the visa rules of your destination country. Many remote employment contracts now explicitly allow working from abroad for limited periods. Stays of up to 90 days in most Western countries on a tourist visa are widely tolerated for remote workers, though legal requirements vary by nationality and destination.

Key Takeaway

House sitting and remote work are a natural fit — but only when the sit is the right match. Trusted Housesitters gives remote workers the most powerful tools to find compatible sits, with dedicated filters for Wi-Fi, workspace amenities, and pet type. Always verify internet speed directly with the homeowner before confirming, choose pets that fit your schedule, and be transparent about your working hours in every application. Done right, house sitting can eliminate your accommodation cost entirely while you work from some of the most interesting cities and homes in the world.

Author: Britt

I am Britt. I have been house-sitting and pet-sitting for the past seven years. I have cared for 25 dogs, 35 cats, one turtle, and one rabbit over 80+ houses in 15 countries.

The opportunity to experience different homes, cultures, and communities has been extraordinary.

I’ve connected with homeowners seeking reliable sitters through house-sitting platforms like Aussie House Sitters and Trusted House Sitters. This unique way of living has allowed me to save money on accommodation, explore new cultures, and meet new people.

Being a member of these platforms has broadened my horizons and opened doors to short- and long-term house-sitting jobs. I’ve found joy in providing excellent pet care and ensuring the home is well-maintained.

I get many questions about how to start as a housesitter, so please reach out if you have any questions! I want everyone to enjoy this incredible lifestyle as well!

You can read more about Jay and me here!

Or connect with me on Facebook or in our house-sitting community on Facebook.

• LinkedIn
• Facebook

The post House Sitting For Remote Workers: The Complete Guide appeared first on The Travelling House Sitters Professional Housesitting Services.

Why House Sitting and Digital Nomad Life Are a Natural Fit

The biggest expense in a nomad’s life is accommodation. Not flights, not food — accommodation. Airbnb has gotten expensive. Month-to-month rentals in desirable cities require deposits, paperwork, and commitment. Hotels are designed for tourists, not people trying to get work done.

House sitting removes the accommodation cost entirely. In exchange for looking after a home and its pets, you get a fully equipped house — kitchen, laundry, Wi-Fi, a proper desk — in a real neighbourhood, not a tourist zone, for weeks or months at a time.

When we were setting up our online business, the ability to house sit our way around Dublin while working full-time is what proved to us the model actually worked. We wrote content, completed redesigns, and got more done during sits than we ever did in co-working spaces — because a quiet house with reliable Wi-Fi and a dog to walk at 6pm is genuinely more productive than a cafe full of people in noise-cancelling headphones fighting over power outlets.

The numbers bear it out. According to iPropertyManagement, Airbnb rates averaged $137–$158 per night globally in 2025. A single two-week house sit is worth $2,000–$2,200 in saved accommodation. An annual TrustedHouseSitters membership costs $129–$259. The maths is straightforward.

The Honest Reality: What Nobody Tells You Upfront

The digital nomad Reddit communities — particularly r/digitalnomad and r/HouseSitting and our Facebook group of 134,000+ sitters are full of questions about house sitting. The most common theme isn’t about platforms or pet types. It’s about the gaps.

The gap problem is real. Unlike renting a flat, you can’t guarantee continuous coverage from sit to sit. There will be weeks — sometimes longer — between confirmed assignments, especially when you’re new. Planning around this is the most important skill a nomad-sitter develops. We always apply to three or four sits simultaneously and keep a shortlist of low-cost nomad hubs (Chiang Mai, Mexico City, Bansko, Tbilisi) where we can base ourselves cheaply between sits.

It gets easier as your reviews build. In the early months, you’re chasing sits. Once you have 5–10 solid reviews, homeowners start coming to you. We now regularly get messages from homeowners who’ve seen our profile and want to talk before a listing even goes live. The review system is everything — protect it.

You will miss things you didn’t expect to miss. What surprised us most about early nomad life wasn’t the loneliness people warn you about — it was the absence of animals. We both grew up with dogs and cats, and house sitting solved that completely. There is something genuinely grounding about ending a working day with a dog walk. It enforces the separation between work and not-work that nomads often struggle to maintain.

Which House Sitting Platforms Have the Strongest Community Reputation Among Digital Nomads?

TrustedHouseSitters has the strongest community reputation among digital nomads of any house sitting platform in 2026 — it has the largest active member base globally, an official Discord community, and is the most frequently cited platform in nomad forums, Facebook groups, and travel blogs.

Why community reputation matters for nomads

Digital nomads rely on peer validation before committing to a platform more than any other sitter type. A strong community means faster answers to practical questions, honest reviews of specific homeowners and sits, and a network that surfaces the best opportunities before they go live. The wrong platform — one with few active members and no community infrastructure — leaves you solving every problem from scratch.

Platform community breakdown

TrustedHouseSitters — Strongest Global Community

• Over 200,000 members worldwide as of 2024
• Active Discord server with dedicated channels for regions, pet types, and nomad-specific advice
• Two-way review system — fully transparent, visible to all members before any agreement is made
• B Corp certified — a formal commitment to people, pets, and the planet that resonates with values-aligned nomads
• Regularly featured in major digital nomad publications including Nomadic Matt and leading travel podcasts
• Best for: nomads who want the largest, most active, most internationally recognised community

HouseCarers — Strongest Facebook Community

• Long-running Facebook group with active peer discussion among sitters and homeowners
• Established in 2000 — one of the oldest and most trusted platforms in the industry
• Lower competition means community members share opportunities more openly
• Best for: nomads who prefer community-led discovery and peer support

Nomador — Strongest Community for European Nomads

• Active social features built into the platform itself
• Popular in French and Spanish digital nomad circles
• Strong word-of-mouth reputation for lower competition and reliable listings
• Best for: nomads based in or regularly passing through Europe

Our experience: The TrustedHouseSitters Discord has been genuinely useful for us — not just for tips but for catching sits that haven’t been widely applied for yet. The HouseCarers Facebook community is where we go when we want honest peer advice from experienced long-term sitters. Both are worth being part of. You can read our full breakdown of every platform in our best house sitting websites guide.

Which Platforms Are Best for Digital Nomads?

Not all house sitting platforms are built for nomads. What matters to a digital nomad is different from what matters to a retiree doing occasional local sits. You need urban listings, workspace filters, fast alert systems, and a strong community you can lean on.

• TrustedHouseSitters — Our Primary Platform
  This is the platform we use most and the one we recommend first to any digital nomad. It has the largest global inventory, the only dedicated mobile app with push notifications, filters for high-speed Wi-Fi and dedicated workspace, and a two-way review system that protects both sitters and homeowners.
  
  The Discord community is genuinely useful — not just for tips but for catching sits that haven’t been widely applied for yet. The 24/7 vet helpline has saved us more than once when something unexpected happened with a pet late at night.
  
  The one honest downside: urban sits in cities like London, New York, and Sydney are competitive. The platform has a 5-application cap per listing, so you need to move fast. Setting up specific alerts by city, pet type, and duration — and having the app on your phone — is non-negotiable. Read our full TrustedHouseSitters review for a complete breakdown.
  
• Nomador — Our Go-To for Europe
  We’ve completed five sits through Nomador, all in Europe, and it remains one of the most underrated platforms on the list. The competition is noticeably lower than TrustedHouseSitters for equivalent listings. The platform recently redesigned and is now clean and easy to use. If you’re planning extended time in France, Spain, Portugal, or Italy, Nomador is worth having alongside TrustedHouseSitters.
  
  One thing that stands out for nomads specifically: Nomador offers a 3-month membership. If you’re testing house sitting before committing to a full year, this is the only major platform that lets you do that.
  
• HouseCarers — The Best Value Secondary Platform
  At $50 USD a year, HouseCarers is our secret weapon. It’s one of the oldest platforms online — established in 2000 — and the Facebook community is active and genuinely supportive. Competition is lower than TrustedHouseSitters, and the profile system lets you build serious credibility with police checks, references, and a video introduction. For nomads who want to maximise their options without paying for multiple expensive memberships, HouseCarers and TrustedHouseSitters together cover most of the world for under $200 USD a year.
  
• Aussie House Sitters — Best for Australia
  If you’re spending time in Australia — and with 73% of Australian households owning a pet as of 2025, there is no better country for house sitting demand — Aussie House Sitters is essential. We’ve used it for 10+ sits. Homeowners regularly reach out to sitters directly, even those with limited reviews, because the homeowner-to-sitter ratio is genuinely favourable. For a nomad just building their profile, Australia is the best place in the world to start.

Platform Comparison for Digital Nomads

The Best Cities for Digital Nomad House Sitting in 2026

Based on our experience and platform listing data, these cities consistently offer the strongest combination of sit volume, urban infrastructure, and nomad-friendly environments:

• London, UK — the highest volume of sits of any city on TrustedHouseSitters globally. It’s where our house sitting journey started — we sat our way around London for two years before going full-time nomad. Read our full house sitting in London guide for everything you need to know.
• Sydney and Melbourne, Australia — strong homeowner-to-sitter ratios, excellent fibre infrastructure, and a culture that genuinely cares about in-home pet care. Melbourne is our home city and still one of our favourite places to sit. See our Melbourne house sitting guide for local tips.
• Paris and Barcelona, Europe — strong on both TrustedHouseSitters and Nomador. Paris in particular has a remarkable density of longer-term sits with cats in beautiful apartments.
• Lisbon, Portugal — growing fast among European nomads. Lower cost of living, great internet infrastructure, and an active nomad community that makes gap weeks between sits very manageable.
• New York, USA — growing fast among European nomads. Lower cost of living, great internet infrastructure, and an active nomad community that makes gap weeks between sits very manageable. Nomad List consistently ranks it among the top cities for remote workers.
• Chiang Mai, Thailand — one of our favourite nomad bases. Sits here through Nomador and TrustedHouseSitters are less competitive than European cities, the cost of living makes gaps between sits easy to absorb, and the food is extraordinary.

How to Handle the Gaps Between Sits

This is the question that comes up most often in nomad communities — and it’s the one most house sitting guides don’t answer properly.

The reality is that continuous coverage is the goal, not the guarantee. Here is how we manage it:

Apply in advance and in parallel. Most sits are listed 30–90 days out. We start applying 2–3 months before we need accommodation. We always have 3–5 active applications running simultaneously — never just one.

Build a gap strategy. Our rule: always have a low-cost base identified before a gap becomes a problem. For us that’s usually Chiang Mai, Tbilisi, or a budget-friendly European city where a month’s rent is under $800 USD. Knowing you have a fallback makes the gaps far less stressful.

Use the 3-month Nomador membership strategically. If you’re heading to Europe for a specific period and aren’t sure you’ll house sit year-round, the 3-month membership means you’re not paying for time you don’t need.

Apply across multiple platforms simultaneously. We hold active memberships on TrustedHouseSitters, Nomador, HouseCarers, and Aussie House Sitters. The overlap in homeowner databases is lower than you’d think — different platforms attract genuinely different homeowners.

What Digital Nomads Actually Ask About House Sitting

These are the questions that come up repeatedly in nomad Reddit communities and our Facebook group of 134,000+ sitters — answered directly.

Q: Is house sitting actually sustainable as a long-term nomad strategy, or does it get exhausting? A: It is sustainable — but it requires a mindset shift. You’re not booking accommodation; you’re building relationships with homeowners in cities you want to spend time in. The nomads who burn out are the ones treating it like a booking platform. The ones who thrive treat each sit as a genuine exchange. After 60+ sits we still find it energising — partly because the pets make every location feel like home immediately.

Q: How do you handle it when a sit gets cancelled last minute? A: It happens. We’ve had one cancellation in 60+ sits. The lesson: never book non-refundable travel until the sit is confirmed via platform messaging and you’ve had a video call. Always apply to backup sits simultaneously. On TrustedHouseSitters, the optional cancellation insurance is worth considering for long-haul travel.

Q: Can you house sit as a couple or is it harder to get selected? A: Couples are often preferred by homeowners — two people means two sets of eyes on the property and the pets. We have never felt disadvantaged as a couple. The key is presenting yourselves as a unit in your profile and making clear how you divide responsibilities.

Q: What do you do about mail, banking, and a home base as a full-time nomad sitter? A: We use a mail forwarding service for important correspondence. For banking, Wise and Revolut are the most widely used among nomads for avoiding conversion fees. We don’t have a permanent home base — Australia is home when we need it to be, and we time visits around family and events.

Q: How long does it take to get your first sit with no reviews? A: For most people, 4–8 weeks of active applying. The strategy that works: apply for sits with few applicants (TrustedHouseSitters marks these), start locally or in less competitive cities, upload Airbnb reviews or employer references as proxy social proof, and write a very specific application — not a template. We break this down step-by-step in our Masterclass.

Q: Is house sitting worth it if you only travel a few months a year? A: Yes — if you sit for two weeks or more, the membership cost is covered compared to Airbnb rates. The break-even point on a TrustedHouseSitters membership is roughly five nights of free accommodation at average Airbnb prices.

Q: How do you manage visas when house sitting across multiple countries? A: Stays of up to 90 days on a tourist visa are widely tolerated for remote workers in most Western countries — but rules vary by nationality and destination. Many countries now offer digital nomad visas (Portugal, Spain, Germany, Thailand, and others) that provide a clear legal framework. Always research the specific rules for your nationality and destination before committing to a long international sit.

The Digital Nomad Pre-Sit Checklist

Before confirming any sit as a nomad, go through these questions on your video call with the homeowner:

Internet and workspace:

• Can you run a speed test on fast.com and share the screenshot? Is it fibre/NBN/cable, or mobile broadband? Is there a dedicated desk or workspace? Is there a coworking space — check Coworker.com — or fast cafe nearby as backup?

Pet schedule and work compatibility:

• What is the full daily routine — feeding times, walk schedule, any appointments during the sit?
• Are the pets comfortable being alone for a couple of hours if I have a call?
• Are they used to having someone home all day?

Practical sit logistics:

• What time do you expect me for handover?
• Is there a welcome guide or written instructions?
• Who is the local emergency contact?
• Are there any house systems I need to know about — pool, alarm, heating?

Key Takeaway

House sitting is the most underrated accommodation strategy in the digital nomad toolkit. It eliminates your biggest cost, gives you a real home in every city you visit, puts you in real neighbourhoods rather than tourist zones, and — if you grew up with animals like we did — gives you back something that nomad life tends to take away.

TrustedHouseSitters has the strongest community reputation and the best platform infrastructure of any house sitting site for digital nomads — start there. Add HouseCarers and Nomador as your experience grows. If you’re Australia-based, Aussie House Sitters is non-negotiable.

It won’t always be seamless. There will be gaps, cancelled sits, and homeowners who communicate differently than you’d hope. But after 15 countries, 40 homes, and more animals than we can count — we wouldn’t trade it for anything.

Ready to start?

If you’re a digital nomad who wants to use house sitting to cut your biggest cost and live better in every city you visit — we’ve put together everything you need to get going in one place.

👉 Start your house sitting journey here

It covers exactly how to set up your profile, which platform to join first, how to write your first application, and how to land your first sit — even with zero reviews. It’s where we’d tell every new nomad-sitter to begin.

Author: Britt

I am Britt. I have been house-sitting and pet-sitting for the past seven years. I have cared for 25 dogs, 35 cats, one turtle, and one rabbit over 80+ houses in 15 countries.

The opportunity to experience different homes, cultures, and communities has been extraordinary.

I’ve connected with homeowners seeking reliable sitters through house-sitting platforms like Aussie House Sitters and Trusted House Sitters. This unique way of living has allowed me to save money on accommodation, explore new cultures, and meet new people.

Being a member of these platforms has broadened my horizons and opened doors to short- and long-term house-sitting jobs. I’ve found joy in providing excellent pet care and ensuring the home is well-maintained.

I get many questions about how to start as a housesitter, so please reach out if you have any questions! I want everyone to enjoy this incredible lifestyle as well!

You can read more about Jay and me here!

Or connect with me on Facebook or in our house-sitting community on Facebook.

• LinkedIn
• Facebook

The post House Sitting for Digital Nomads: The Complete Guide for 2026 appeared first on The Travelling House Sitters Professional Housesitting Services.

💰 1. Membership Fees and Value

As of July 2025, TrustedHousesitters charges $129 per year for sitter-only access and $179 for combined sitter/homeowner memberships. House Sitters America charges $49 annually for access to their platform.

• Dealbreaker? If cost is your primary concern, House Sitters America is more affordable. However, TrustedHousesitters justifies its higher price with added benefits like sit protection and 24/7 vet advice.

🌍 2. Geographic Coverage

• TrustedHousesitters: Global (Europe, North America, Australia, etc.)
• House Sitters America: U.S.-only

Verdict: For international sits, go with TrustedHousesitters. U.S.-only users may prefer House Sitters America for local focus.

🛡️ 3. Verification and Safety

• TrustedHousesitters: Offers ID checks and mandatory reviews
• House Sitters America: Basic verification only

Winner: TrustedHousesitters for its robust trust-building features.

📱 4. Platform Usability

• TrustedHousesitters: Sleek interface, great mobile app
• House Sitters America: Simpler, more basic design

Mobile-first? You’ll appreciate TrustedHousesitters.

☎️ 5. Customer Support

• TrustedHousesitters: 24/7 support + help center
• House Sitters America: Email-based, slower replies

Support Edge: TrustedHousesitters for immediate help.

🌐 6. Community and Reviews

• TrustedHousesitters: Larger, more reviews
• House Sitters America: Smaller but trusted user base

Trusted metric: Tie: They both have a trusted user base

🏰 7. Platform Features

• TrustedHousesitters: Vet access, cancellation insurance, mobile app
• House Sitters America: Core sit-matching features

Feature-Packed? TrustedHousesitters offers more perks.

⚡ 8. Success Rates

• TrustedHousesitters: More listings, faster matches
• House Sitters America: Less competition with fewer members

Momentum: House Sitter America has the advantage.

📜 9. Insurance and Protections

• TrustedHousesitters: Includes sit protection
• House Sitters America: No formal insurance

Risk-Averse? TrustedHousesitters has you covered.

📲 10. Mobile Experience

• TrustedHousesitters: Has a mobile app
• House Sitters America: Mobile web only

App Enthusiasts: Stick with TrustedHousesitters.

✍️ Personal Experience

I’ve personally used TrustedHousesitters for over eight years, both as a homeowner and as a sitter. During that time, I’ve completed dozens of successful sits across different continents and welcomed trusted individuals into my own home as well.

The platform has consistently delivered reliability, professional support, and meaningful connections that have led to repeat sits and lasting friendships. My experience gives me a unique lens through which to compare these services.

✅ Final Verdict

Choose TrustedHousesitters if:

• You want international opportunities 🌎
• You prioritize insurance and safety 🛡️
• You prefer a modern, app-based experience 📱

Choose House Sitters America if:

• You want a U.S.-only focus 🇺🇸
• You need a low-cost entry point 💸
• You’re comfortable with basic support and features ✉️

Each platform has its strengths, so the best choice depends on your specific needs. Whether you’re looking to explore new places while house sitting or find a trusted person to care for your pets, both platforms can serve you well with the right expectations.

Author: Britt

I am Britt. I have been house-sitting and pet-sitting for the past seven years. I have cared for 25 dogs, 35 cats, one turtle, and one rabbit over 80+ houses in 15 countries.

The opportunity to experience different homes, cultures, and communities has been extraordinary.

I’ve connected with homeowners seeking reliable sitters through house-sitting platforms like Aussie House Sitters and Trusted House Sitters. This unique way of living has allowed me to save money on accommodation, explore new cultures, and meet new people.

Being a member of these platforms has broadened my horizons and opened doors to short- and long-term house-sitting jobs. I’ve found joy in providing excellent pet care and ensuring the home is well-maintained.

I get many questions about how to start as a housesitter, so please reach out if you have any questions! I want everyone to enjoy this incredible lifestyle as well!

You can read more about Jay and me here!

Or connect with me on Facebook or in our house-sitting community on Facebook.

• LinkedIn
• Facebook

The post TrustedHousesitters vs House Sitters America: Which Is Best for You? appeared first on The Travelling House Sitters Professional Housesitting Services.

Creating Your Own Instructions

If you prefer to create your own dog sitter instructions from scratch, ensure you include lines or sections for all the information detailed below. A comprehensive instruction sheet should cover every aspect of your dog’s care to prevent confusion and ensure your pet receives consistent, quality care. Use the following sections as your guide to create a thorough, professional instruction document that covers all essential areas.

Why Detailed Instructions Matter

Dog sitting is an excellent way to leave your pet behind in their environment while you enjoy time away. However, the success of this arrangement depends entirely on how well-prepared your sitter is. Clear, comprehensive instructions help prevent misunderstandings, reduce anxiety for both your pet and sitter, and ensure your dog receives consistent care in your absence.

Both professional pet sitters and casual dog watchers benefit from detailed instructions. Even experienced sitters appreciate specific information about your dog’s unique needs, personality, and routine. Remember, every dog is different, and what works for one may not work for another.

Essential Components of Dog Sitter Instructions

1. Basic Pet Information

Start with fundamental details about your dog:

• Full name, breed, age, and weight
• Microchip and registration numbers, and any allergies they may have
• Recent photos showing distinctive markings or features
• Vaccination records and health certificates
• Current medications and dosage instructions

2. Daily Care Routine

Dogs thrive on routine, so maintaining their schedule is crucial:

• Feeding Schedule: Exact times, portion sizes, and type of food
• Meal Instructions: Location of food, feeding bowls, and any special dietary requirements
• Water: Fresh water availability and bowl cleaning schedule
• Exercise Needs: Duration, frequency, and preferred activities
• Bathroom Breaks: Typical schedule and preferred locations

3. Behavioral Information

Inform your pet sitter about your pet’s favorite games, places, toys, and any dislikes they may have. Include:

• Personality traits and temperament
• Specific commands your dog is used to (e.g., “sit,” “stay,” or “leave it”)
• Behavioral quirks or triggers
• How your dog responds to strangers, other pets, or unusual situations
• Comfort items like favorite toys or blankets

4. Health and Medical Information

This section is critical for your dog’s safety:

• Primary veterinarian contact information
• Emergency clinic contact information
• Current medications with clear dosage instructions
• Known health conditions or concerns
• Insurance information and authorization for treatment
• Signs of emergencies that require immediate veterinary consultation

5. Home Access and Safety

Leave clear instructions on how to use the house alarm (have the code written down somewhere) and what to do if they accidentally set it off. They’ll also need a key to your place. Include:

• Entry procedures and alarm codes
• Wi-Fi password and important household systems
• Location of supplies (food, leash, cleaning materials)
• Safety check information to remove hazards, secure doors and windows
• Emergency contacts for home-related issues

6. Emergency Procedures

Discuss the emergency plan with your sitter beforehand. Your emergency section should include:

• Step-by-step emergency response procedures
• Authorization for medical treatment
• First aid tips and when to call your veterinarian or local veterinary emergency hospital
• Your contact information and backup emergency contacts
• Location of first aid supplies

Creating Your Instructions Template

Put everything in a document or a printable checklist. Please leave it in a prominent place, or share it digitally before your trip. Consider these formatting tips:

• Use clear headings and bullet points
• Include photos of your pet, and label food and medications clearly
• Create a quick reference summary for emergencies
• Use a consistent, easy-to-read format
• Consider both digital and printed versions

Pre-Departure Preparation

Schedule a meet-and-greet session before your departure. Introduce your dog to the sitter in a relaxed, comfortable environment. This allows you to:

• Walk through the instructions together
• Demonstrate your dog’s routine
• Answer any questions
• Ensure your dog is comfortable with the sitter
• Test emergency procedures

Tips for Success

1. Be Specific: Instead of “feed twice daily,” specify “feed at 7 AM and 5 PM, one cup each time.”
2. Include Alternatives: Provide backup options for activities or routines in case circumstances change.
3. Update Regularly: Review and update these instructions at least once annually.
4. Keep It Accessible: Keep a copy somewhere handy, such as near your dog’s supplies or on your refrigerator.
5. Test Your Instructions: Have someone else read through them to ensure clarity and completeness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Assuming the sitter knows your dog’s routine
• Forgetting to mention behavioral quirks or fears
• Providing insufficient emergency contact information
• Not discussing payment and expectations clearly
• Failing to introduce the sitter to your dog beforehand

Digital vs. Physical Instructions

In today’s digital age, consider creating both formats:

• Digital: Easy to update, can include links to vet websites, and allows for quick communication
• Physical: Reliable backup, easy to reference quickly, and doesn’t depend on technology

Comprehensive dog sitter instructions are an investment in your pet’s safety, comfort, and happiness. Taking the time to create detailed, clear instructions demonstrates professionalism and care that any sitter will appreciate. Remember, the goal is to make the experience as smooth as possible for everyone involved – your dog, your sitter, and yourself.

A well-prepared instruction sheet not only ensures your dog receives excellent care but also provides peace of mind, allowing you to enjoy your time away knowing your furry friend is in capable hands. Use the downloadable template at the top of this article to create your own comprehensive dog sitter instructions that incorporate all the essential elements discussed in this guide.

Author: Britt

I am Britt. I have been house-sitting and pet-sitting for the past seven years. I have cared for 25 dogs, 35 cats, one turtle, and one rabbit over 80+ houses in 15 countries.

The opportunity to experience different homes, cultures, and communities has been extraordinary.

I’ve connected with homeowners seeking reliable sitters through house-sitting platforms like Aussie House Sitters and Trusted House Sitters. This unique way of living has allowed me to save money on accommodation, explore new cultures, and meet new people.

Being a member of these platforms has broadened my horizons and opened doors to short- and long-term house-sitting jobs. I’ve found joy in providing excellent pet care and ensuring the home is well-maintained.

I get many questions about how to start as a housesitter, so please reach out if you have any questions! I want everyone to enjoy this incredible lifestyle as well!

You can read more about Jay and me here!

Or connect with me on Facebook or in our house-sitting community on Facebook.

• LinkedIn
• Facebook

The post Dog Sitter Instructions Templates appeared first on The Travelling House Sitters Professional Housesitting Services.

Getting Started ✨

1. Can I become a house sitter without any previous experience? Yes. Everyone starts somewhere. Use personal references, highlight pet or home care you’ve done for friends or family, and focus on presenting yourself as trustworthy. Start with short or local sits to build up reviews and experience.

2. How long does it take to land your first sit? It can take anywhere from a few days to a few months. It depends on the quality of your profile, how quickly you respond to new listings, and your flexibility with dates and locations. Applying for sits in less competitive areas helps.

3. Should I join more than one platform? Definitely. TrustedHousesitters is the biggest, but MindMyHouse, HouseCarers, Aussie House Sitters, and House Sitters America have active communities too. Multiple memberships increase your chances of finding great sits.

4. Who is house sitting good for? Solo travelers, digital nomads, couples, retirees—anyone reliable, flexible, and communicative. Your lifestyle should fit the pets’ needs and the sit’s responsibilities, not vice versa.

Daily Life and Expectations 🕒🐶

5. How much freedom do I have during a sit? You can work or explore, but the pet’s routine comes first. Always clarify how long pets can be left alone—some dogs are okay for 6–8 hours, others much less.

7. Can I invite my partner or friends over? Only with clear permission. Most homeowners don’t mind a respectful visitor, but some strictly say no guests. Always ask upfront.

8. Can I bring my own pet? Very few listings allow this, and even then, detailed discussions are needed to ensure pets will get along.

9. Am I expected to be home all day? No, but it’s not a vacation either. Owners expect the home to be occupied and the pets well cared for. You should be around enough to maintain routines and avoid long absences.

10. How much time does house sitting take daily? Usually 1–2 hours: feeding pets, walks, cleaning litter boxes, watering plants, and tidying up. Some sits (with elderly pets or large gardens) may require more time.

Responsibilities and Emergencies 🚨🐾

11. What if a pet gets sick or injured? Contact the owner immediately. For emergencies, go to the vet without delay. Always get vet details and emergency contacts before they leave.

12. What if a pet dies during the sit? It’s rare, but it can happen. Stay calm. Contact the owner and their vet. Most vets can hold the pet until the owners return. Handle with sensitivity and care.

13. What if a pet escapes or goes missing? Search immediately, notify the owner, and alert neighbors and shelters. Most pets are found quickly. Knowing their habits and escape points helps.

14. What if something breaks while I’m there? If you broke it, offer to replace it. If it fails, inform the owner, take photos, and ask how to proceed. Don’t hide issues.

15. What if there’s a plumbing leak, power outage, etc.? Know where the fuse box and water shut-off are. Contact the owner or their preferred contractors. Handle urgent situations calmly and document everything.

16. What if someone shows up unannounced? Ask who to expect (e.g. gardener, cleaner). If someone unexpected arrives, verify with the owner before letting them in.

Travel and Logistics ✈️🌍

18. Will the homeowner pay for my travel? Rarely. Transportation is usually your responsibility, although remote or last-minute sits may offer help.

19. Will I get access to a car? Sometimes, especially in rural areas. Clarify insurance coverage, license requirements, and vehicle rules beforehand.

20. What if the homeowner cancels last minute? It happens. Platforms like TrustedHousesitters may reimburse emergency accommodation if you’re on a premium plan. Always have a backup option.

21. What if I have to leave a sit early? Only do this in a real emergency. Tell the owner ASAP and help arrange a replacement. Leaving without notice seriously damages your reputation.

Money and Legal Matters 💸📄

22. Do house sitters get paid? Sometimes. TrustedHousesitters and most international platforms are unpaid exchanges. Local sits, or those arranged independently, might offer payment—especially for demanding tasks.

23. Do I pay for utilities or cleaning? It depends on your agreement but usually the homeowner covers all costs unless it’s a long-term sit with a clear prior agreement.

24. Should I get insurance? Travel insurance is smart for international trips. Platforms like THS offer limited liability and vet care coverage—for more, consider your own sitter insurance.

25. Do I need a contract? It helps. A written agreement can clarify pet routines, duties, and what to do in emergencies, especially for long sits. Some platforms offer templates.

Etiquette and Extras 💐📬

26. Is it okay to eat the homeowner’s food? Ask first. Many say “help yourself” to perishables. Don’t assume. Replace anything substantial you use and always leave things neat.

27. How clean should I leave the house? It is as clean or cleaner than you found it. Wash sheets and towels, wipe surfaces, vacuum, and empty trash. A spotless house earns great reviews.

28. Should I leave a thank-you gift or note? It’s not required, but it’s a nice touch. A handwritten note and a small gesture (like a pet treat or flowers) can build lasting relationships.

29. What if there are cameras in the house? Outdoor cameras are fine. Indoor cameras must be disclosed and turned off during your stay unless you agree. Check platform rules and ask directly.

30. What red flags should I watch for in listings? Excessive duties, vague listings, requests for money, or controlling communication. Trust your gut—if something feels off, it probably is.

31. Why would someone need a sitter if they don’t have pets? To prevent burglary, water plants, keep the house lived-in, or manage deliveries. Some use sitters to meet insurance occupancy requirements.

32. What should I do with mail or packages? Bring them inside and place them somewhere safe. Never open mail unless the owner asks. Notify them if something important arrives.

Final Thoughts 🌟

House sitting isn’t just about free stays—it’s a trust-based exchange. With the right mindset, good communication, and thoughtful preparation, house sitting can open doors to experiences you never imagined. Whether you’re looking for a break from your normal routine, a way to travel affordably, or a deeper connection to the places you visit, there’s a sit out there for you.

Author: Britt

I am Britt. I have been house-sitting and pet-sitting for the past seven years. I have cared for 25 dogs, 35 cats, one turtle, and one rabbit over 80+ houses in 15 countries.

The opportunity to experience different homes, cultures, and communities has been extraordinary.

I’ve connected with homeowners seeking reliable sitters through house-sitting platforms like Aussie House Sitters and Trusted House Sitters. This unique way of living has allowed me to save money on accommodation, explore new cultures, and meet new people.

Being a member of these platforms has broadened my horizons and opened doors to short- and long-term house-sitting jobs. I’ve found joy in providing excellent pet care and ensuring the home is well-maintained.

I get many questions about how to start as a housesitter, so please reach out if you have any questions! I want everyone to enjoy this incredible lifestyle as well!

You can read more about Jay and me here!

Or connect with me on Facebook or in our house-sitting community on Facebook.

• LinkedIn
• Facebook

The post 30+ Most Common House Sitting Questions Answered 🏡🐾 appeared first on The Travelling House Sitters Professional Housesitting Services.

When I took on my first house sit in London—a cozy flat over Christmas in exchange for looking after a friendly cat—I didn’t know it would spark a lifestyle that would take me through 13 countries, from Europe to Southeast Asia, and all across Australia and New Zealand. I’ve looked after homes and pets full-time, lived on sailboats, remote islands, city apartments, and everything in between.

That first sit was just the beginning. Since then, I’ve used house sitting to build a location-independent life—sometimes solo, sometimes with my partner Jay. We’ve swapped rent payments for rooftop gardens in Paris, vineyards in Tuscany, and even a catamaran in the Caribbean.

But what exactly is house sitting? And could it work for your lifestyle? This guide breaks down everything I’ve learned over nearly a decade of living rent-free around the world—plus how to get started.

📚 What’s In This Guide?

This article covers everything you need to know about house sitting:

1. Basics – What house sitting is and how it works
2. Benefits – Why people choose this lifestyle
3. Responsibilities – Pet care and property duties
4. Is It For You? – Matching your personality to house sitting
5. Money Matters – Real costs and savings
6. First Steps – How to get started
7. Special Cases – Families, pets, remote work
8. Global Opportunities – Where in the world
9. Building Success – Long-term strategies
   Whether you’re planning a local weekend getaway or dreaming of international adventures, this guide provides the tools to get started.

What Is House Sitting?

House sitting is beautifully simple: homeowners need someone trustworthy to care for their pets and property while away. In return, sitters get free accommodation. It’s a value exchange—not a paid job—with huge benefits for both sides.

Thanks to online platforms, it’s now easier than ever to find these sits, whether in Australia, Europe, or Southeast Asia. The practice has exploded worldwide and is especially common in the US, UK, France, Mexico, and Thailand.

Why Choose House Sitting?

❤️ Animal Connections

Let’s be real—house sitting is mostly about animals. From energetic Labradors to lazy cats and flocks of backyard chickens, pets have shaped every sit we’ve done.

We’ve cuddled St. Bernards during snowstorms in the Alps, walked dogs at sunrise past temples in Thailand, and bottle-fed kittens in Ireland. In Melbourne, I cared for a senior rescue dog who needed daily meds and a comfy lap every evening.
Each animal adds joy and purpose to our travels.

💸 Financial Benefits

Rent-free living is the biggest reason we started house sitting, and it’s still one of the best perks. Over the years, we’ve saved more than $150,000 in accommodation costs.
💰 A Notting Hill flat during Christmas in London? Free.
🏖 A beachfront home in New Zealand? Free.
⛵ A sailboat in the Caribbean? Yep, also free.
These savings have allowed us to travel longer, work less, and enjoy a slower, more fulfilling life.

🛒 Living Like a Local

In France, we harvested veggies from a garden and learned the quirks of rural recycling systems. In Portugal, we were invited to backyard BBQs with the neighbors. In Italy, we shopped at the local market and sipped espresso with regulars.
House sitting has let us immerse ourselves in cultures in ways hotels never could. No tourist traps—just everyday life.

🔍 Testing New Locations

House sitting is the perfect “try before you buy” strategy. We’ve used it to explore Melbourne, New Zealand, Spain, and more, deciding which places suit our lifestyle before committing to anything long-term.
We’ve met couples who’ve done the same, sit-hopping around Portugal or Italy to scout the perfect place to retire.

The Reality of Responsibilities

🐕 Pet Care Comes First

In Montenegro, we walked two energetic dogs every day through the hills. In Ireland, we managed medication for a cat with thyroid issues. Each sit has been different—but pet care is always the core priority.

That means feeding schedules, walks, cleaning up messes, vet trips if needed, and being there when they need us. Pets are the reason you’re there—and their wellbeing always comes first. 🐾🧼💊

🧹 Home Management

From watering rooftop gardens in Lisbon 🌿 to troubleshooting power outages in France ⚡, we’ve handled every type of home scenario.
Some homes need garden maintenance, others just security and plant watering. One sit in Scotland had us managing a veggie garden and greenhouse, while a Hong Kong apartment mostly needed light upkeep and observation.
Being calm, practical, and respectful goes a long way.

Is House Sitting Right For You?

If you love animals, enjoy slower travel, and don’t mind a bit of routine, house sitting might be your dream lifestyle. It’s best for:

• People who prefer depth over speed
• Travelers who want to explore like locals
• Folks who can be flexible and independent
• Those with some basic home or pet care experience
  It’s not a free holiday. It’s a responsibility. But the rewards? Incredible.

🧠 Key Traits for Success

Successful house sitters are:

• Reliable & punctual
• Animal lovers
• Clean & tidy
• Great communicators
• Problem-solvers
• Calm under pressure
  We’ve found that trustworthiness and good communication matter even more than experience. Homeowners choose us because they feel their pets and homes are in caring, capable hands. 🤝

💵 The Financial Picture

Accommodation is free—but other costs remain:

• Flights and transport
• Food & local expenses
• Insurance & emergencies
• Annual platform fees ($50–$200)
  One year, we spent just $1,200/month total for two people while sitting full-time in Southeast Asia—including all travel and food. That’s a massive savings compared to paying rent or hotels. 🌍💸

🚀 Starting Your House Sitting Journey

Here’s how to get started:
✅ Create a standout profile
✅ Include pet experience and home care details
✅ Add photos of you with animals
✅ Get references (landlords, employers, friends)
✅ Get police checks or background checks
✅ Join platforms like TrustedHousesitters or Aussie House Sitters
✅ Personalize every application
✅ Offer to video call and show genuine interest
Your story matters. Share why you’re doing this and what makes you reliable and trustworthy. Show that you’ll care for their home and pets like your own.

Questions We Always Get Asked!

Are Families Welcome?

Yes, families can housesit, too! We’ve seen parents traveling full-time with their kids, bonding with animals, and learning responsibility along the way. Some homeowners even prefer families for routine and reliability.

Bringing Your Pets

We’ve met sitters who travel with their own dogs, especially in Australia and New Zealand. This limits your options, but some hosts are open to it. Be honest about your pet’s behavior and needs—some sits even offer a guest cottage or yard for flexibility.

Can You Work Remotely

Jay and I have balanced house sitting with work. The key? Good Wi-Fi, a quiet workspace, and clear expectations. We always confirm internet speeds before applying and choose sits where pet routines won’t clash with meetings.

🌏 Global Opportunities

We’ve sat in:
🇬🇧 London flats
🇳🇿 New Zealand beach houses
🇫🇷 Vineyards in France
🇬🇷 Farmhouses in Greece
🇹🇭 Rural homes in Thailand
🇮🇹 Italian villages
🇦🇺 Coastal homes in Australia
🏝️ A catamaran in the Caribbean
Each sit has given us a unique view of local life—and some wild stories to tell.

🔁 Building Long-Term Success

We now have six homeowners who rebook us annually. That kind of trust comes from:

• Leaving homes spotless
• Sending regular pet updates
• Handling issues with care
• Treating every sit like a job
  We also stay active in house sitting communities and Facebook groups. These networks often lead to unlisted sits and referrals.

✨ Final Thoughts

House sitting has transformed how we travel, live, and work. We’ve swapped rent for new experiences, hotel rooms for cozy homes, and tourist traps for local connections. It’s not always glamorous—but it’s real, rewarding, and filled with purpose.

If you love animals 🐾, enjoy slow travel 🌍, and can handle the responsibility 💪—house sitting might just be the lifestyle for you.
👉 Ready to Start House Sitting? Here’s Our Step-by-Step Guide

Author: Britt

I am Britt. I have been house-sitting and pet-sitting for the past seven years. I have cared for 25 dogs, 35 cats, one turtle, and one rabbit over 80+ houses in 15 countries.

The opportunity to experience different homes, cultures, and communities has been extraordinary.

I’ve connected with homeowners seeking reliable sitters through house-sitting platforms like Aussie House Sitters and Trusted House Sitters. This unique way of living has allowed me to save money on accommodation, explore new cultures, and meet new people.

Being a member of these platforms has broadened my horizons and opened doors to short- and long-term house-sitting jobs. I’ve found joy in providing excellent pet care and ensuring the home is well-maintained.

I get many questions about how to start as a housesitter, so please reach out if you have any questions! I want everyone to enjoy this incredible lifestyle as well!

You can read more about Jay and me here!

Or connect with me on Facebook or in our house-sitting community on Facebook.

• LinkedIn
• Facebook

The post What Is House Sitting (And Whether It’s Right for You) appeared first on The Travelling House Sitters Professional Housesitting Services.

After trying nearly every major platform over the years, one thing became clear:

👉 It’s not about finding the “best” house sitting site — it’s about finding the right one for you.

That means knowing how to evaluate each platform properly before signing up.
And that’s where this guide comes in.

✅ Criteria to Evaluate Any House Sitting Platform

Before you commit to any membership, ask these 11 questions. They’ll help you figure out whether a platform aligns with your goals, travel plans, and experience level:

1. Can I browse listings before paying?
2. How many sits are listed — and where?
3. How competitive is the platform for new sitters?
4. Do they take verification and safety seriously?
5. Are there reviews — and are they two-way?
6. Is the messaging system easy to use?
7. Is the website/app intuitive and mobile-friendly?
8. What happens if I stop sitting for a while?
9. What kind of support is available if something goes wrong?
10. Are there helpful extras or tools included with membership?
11. How much does it cost — and what’s included?

The rest of this guide will walk you through each one, explaining why it matters and what to look for.

1. Can I Browse Listings Before Paying?

Why it matters:
You shouldn’t have to hand over your credit card to find out whether a platform even has sits in the countries you’re interested in. Browsing first lets you see what kinds of listings are available, how often new ones are posted, and whether the platform is even worth joining. Most platforms allow you to search freely if one doesn’t, move on.

Ask yourself:

• Can I see full listings (dates, location, pets) without paying?
• Do I need to give an email, or is it truly open?
• Are the sits active and detailed — or just vague summaries?

2. How Many Sits Are Listed — and Where?

Why it matters:
Even if a platform looks impressive, if it doesn’t have sits in the regions you’re targeting, it’s not useful to you. It’s important to see not just how many listings there are, but where they are. Some platforms are strong in one country but almost empty elsewhere.

Ask yourself:

• Are there sits in the locations I want to visit?
• Are new listings being added regularly?
• Are there a mix of urban, rural, short-term, and long-term sits?
• Do listings show real variety or is it mostly one region?

3. How Competitive Is the Platform?

Why it matters:
If every listing has 40+ applicants, it’ll be much harder to land your first sit — especially without reviews. Some platforms are very competitive, especially for short sits in popular tourist cities. Others have lower traffic and can be easier to break into.

Ask yourself:

• Are application numbers shown on each listing?
• Can I filter for less competitive sits?
• Are beginner sitters regularly getting accepted?
• Are sits mostly being snapped up by long-time users?

4. Do They Take Verification and Safety Seriously?

Why it matters:
Trust is essential if you’re staying in a stranger’s house or letting one into yours. A good platform will help build that trust by verifying ID, offering background checks, and keeping communication secure.

Ask yourself:

• Are sitters and homeowners required to verify ID?
• Is communication kept inside the platform?
• Are there visible safety systems or reporting tools?
• Are bad listings actively removed?

5. Are There Reviews — and Are They Two-Way?

Why it matters:
You should be able to see reviews from past sitters before applying — and likewise, homeowners should be able to read feedback about you. Two-way reviews keep everyone honest and help the best sitters and homeowners rise to the top.

Ask yourself:

• Can I see reviews for both sitters and homeowners?
• Are reviews tied to real completed sits?
• Are they visible before applying?
• Are there systems in place for resolving disputes?

6. Is the Messaging System Easy to Use?

Why it matters:
Once you start applying for sits, you’ll rely on the messaging system for everything — introductions, interviews, updates, and logistics. If it’s clunky or unreliable, it can delay or derail your application.

Ask yourself:

• Are messages linked clearly to each sit?
• Will I get notified when someone replies?
• Can I use it on both mobile and desktop?
• Does it support video calls or easy link sharing?

7. Is the Website or App Actually Usable?

Why it matters:
You’ll spend much time on the platform — browsing, applying, and updating your profile. The design needs to work for you, not against you. Poor filters, slow load times, or non-mobile-friendly sites can waste your time and cause frustration.

Ask yourself:

• Can I easily filter by location, pet type, and dates?
• Can I favourite or save sits?
• Is there a mobile app or good mobile site?
• Can I set alerts for new listings?

8. What Happens If I Take a Break?

Why it matters:
You might not be house sitting year-round — and that’s normal. Whether you pause for travel, family, work, or just to rest, it’s important to know your account won’t vanish if you’re not active. Some platforms keep your profile and reviews intact even if you don’t renew immediately.

Ask yourself:

• Will my reviews and sitter profile remain if I pause my membership?
• Can I reactivate easily after a break?
• Do I need to repeat ID checks or rebuild my profile if I return?
• Are there loyalty or renewal discounts for returning users?

9. What Kind of Support Is Available?

Why it matters:
No matter how prepared you are, sometimes things go wrong. A sit might fall through, a pet might get sick, or a homeowner might change plans. In those moments, having support from the platform can make all the difference.

Ask yourself:

• Is support available by email, chat, or phone?
• Are support hours clear — and do they cover your time zone?
• Do they offer any emergency or escalation help if something happens mid-sit?
• Are their response times realistic?

10. Are There Helpful Extras or Tools?

Why it matters:
Some platforms include extras that make house sitting smoother — like pet emergency guides, welcome booklet templates, or sitter agreements. These tools aren’t essential, but they can make you look more professional and help prevent confusion.

Ask yourself:

• Are there resources for sitters — like checklists, sample agreements, or pet care forms?
• Is there a place to connect with other sitters?
• Are extra perks (like vet hotlines, travel discounts, or cancellation protection) included?
• Are these features included, or only available on premium plans?

11. How Much Does It Cost — and What’s Included?

Why it matters:
Platform fees vary — and sometimes you’re paying for support and insurance, while other times you’re just paying for listing access. Knowing what’s included in the membership helps you make a smarter decision. A cheaper site might be better for local sits, while a more expensive one could offer more listings or stronger safety features.

Ask yourself:

• What is the annual membership fee?
• Are there different pricing tiers — and what do they include?
• Can I test the platform first (via free browsing or a trial)?
• Are there referral discounts, promo codes, or renewal savings?

12. Do They Offer Any Kind of Insurance or Coverage?

Why it matters:
Many people don’t think about insurance when first starting house sitting, but it can be a lifesaver if something goes wrong. Some platforms now include limited insurance as part of their membership (like damage or liability coverage), while others offer it as an add-on or not at all.

While this shouldn’t be the only reason you choose a platform, it’s essential to know what’s included — or what’s not — so there are no surprises.

Ask yourself:

• Is any insurance or coverage included with membership?
• What does that insurance cover — and what doesn’t it?
• Can I upgrade or add extra protection (like pet illness or cancellation)?
• Do I need separate travel insurance that covers house sitting?

🛡️ We still carry regular travel insurance, but some built-in coverage from platforms gave us peace of mind, especially for international trips or longer stays.

Choosing the right house sitting platform isn’t about popularity but fit.
The right site will feel natural to use, offer sits that match your goals, and help you grow as a sitter.

There’s no universal “best” — but there is a best for you. That’s why these questions matter.

Ask them before you sign up, and you’ll save time, money, and a lot of guesswork. You’ll also be more likely to land great sits, have smooth experiences, and build a solid reputation right from the start.

Need Help Getting Started With House Sitting

Have we got you excited about house-sitting? We love sharing our house-sitting experiences and teaching others how to become house-sitters and start their journeys. 

So, if you need help starting your house-sitting journey, see my resources here, and don’t hesitate to contact me and ask me any questions.

Author: Britt

I am Britt. I have been house-sitting and pet-sitting for the past seven years. I have cared for 25 dogs, 35 cats, one turtle, and one rabbit over 80+ houses in 15 countries.

The opportunity to experience different homes, cultures, and communities has been extraordinary.

I’ve connected with homeowners seeking reliable sitters through house-sitting platforms like Aussie House Sitters and Trusted House Sitters. This unique way of living has allowed me to save money on accommodation, explore new cultures, and meet new people.

Being a member of these platforms has broadened my horizons and opened doors to short- and long-term house-sitting jobs. I’ve found joy in providing excellent pet care and ensuring the home is well-maintained.

I get many questions about how to start as a housesitter, so please reach out if you have any questions! I want everyone to enjoy this incredible lifestyle as well!

You can read more about Jay and me here!

Or connect with me on Facebook or in our house-sitting community on Facebook.

• LinkedIn
• Facebook

The post What to Look For in a House Sitting Site appeared first on The Travelling House Sitters Professional Housesitting Services.

These proven tactics have helped us maintain a full calendar across three years of full-time house sitting and 5 years of part-time house sitting, even as the landscape has become more competitive.

How Easy Is It to Secure Back-to-Back House Sits?

Before we discuss the strategies, we wanted to discuss something we get emails about daily: Is it possible to secure back-to-back house sits?

To be honest, it can be an art and a science, but if we have travelled somewhere, we might use that break to explore the new location for a few days or get an Airbnb to relax. Another thing we have noticed is that it is easier to create a calendar of seamless house sits if you are doing it as a couple; that way, you can find the ones that overlap.

In our experience, consistently achieving back-to-back sits requires strategic planning and flexibility but becomes increasingly manageable as one grows in experience.

The key is to work with overlapping timeframes. We typically secure an “anchor sit” – a longer assignment in a desired location – then fill in around it with shorter sits. Planning at least 3-4 months significantly increases your chances of creating smooth transitions, as last-minute scheduling often results in awkward gaps.

Flexibility with accommodation between sits is occasionally necessary. We budget for occasional 1-2 night hotel or Airbnb stays to bridge small gaps when perfect back-to-back timing isn’t possible. These brief paid stays are worth the investment when they enable longer periods of free accommodation through house sitting.

As your reputation grows, direct invitations often help complete your calendar. Approximately 30% of our sits now come from homeowners contacting us directly, many offering flexible dates to secure our services. These relationship-based sits have become the backbone of our continuous house sitting schedule.

Build a Personal Website or Online Portfolio

Creating a personal house sitting website was a game-changer for our success rate. While platform profiles are limited in scope, a dedicated site allows homeowners to see the complete picture of who you are and the care you provide.

Here’s what we include:

• A warm “About Us” section sharing our story and house sitting philosophy
• Quality photos of us caring for different pets (with homeowners’ permission)
• An availability calendar showing our schedule for the next 6 months
• A references page with feedback from previous homeowners

We include our site link in every application; many homeowners mention it influenced their decision. For those who are not tech-savvy, a well-designed PDF portfolio or dedicated Instagram page works well, too.

Consider adding a short video introduction (60-90 seconds) to your site. This personal touch allows homeowners to get a sense of your personality and communication style before even reaching out. In our experience, this small addition has significantly increased our response rates.

Join Multiple House Sitting Platforms

Diversifying across platforms significantly expands your opportunities and provides insurance against algorithm changes or membership issues.

Our multi-platform strategy includes:

• At least two major international platforms with different user bases
• Location-specific platforms for regions we frequently visit
• Free community platforms and Facebook groups for particular destinations

For a comprehensive breakdown of the different platforms and their unique features, our house sitting website comparison can help you determine which ones best match your needs.

The Investment Will Pay Off Within a Week!

After a decade of house sitting worldwide, we firmly believe our multiple platform subscriptions are investments in our freedom-based lifestyle, not expenses. We’ve consistently created seamless itineraries without accommodation gaps by maintaining active profiles across several international sites, plus regional platforms specific to our target destinations.

Each platform has its unique community and listing profile. TrustedHousesitters might offer more diverse options worldwide, while Aussie House Sitters will have hundreds more options in Australia (and less competition). This diversity allows us to craft a varied, interesting house-sitting calendar that suits our preferences.

The math still makes sense for occasional sitters. Calculate your accommodation savings for a week-long stay in a desirable location, then compare it to the annual subscription fee.

The return on investment becomes obvious, especially for families or those traveling with pets who face more limited options. Having access to multiple platforms can mean the difference between finding that perfect match or compromising on dates or location.

We’ve found particular value in country-specific platforms like Aussie House Sitters when focusing on a specific region for extended periods. These specialized sites often have listings that never appear on the international platforms and typically feature homeowners who prefer sitters familiar with local customs and practices.

Set Up Alerts and Apply Quickly

In today’s competitive environment, timing is often the difference between securing a great sit and missing out. On TrustedHousesitters, many desirable listings receive their maximum of five applications within hours of posting.

Create saved searches with your specific parameters and enable notifications on your phone and email. Check listings first thing in the morning and before bed when new opportunities often appear.

For a detailed guide on setting up effective alerts on TrustedHousesitters, check our step-by-step alert setup tutorial.

When filling out specific dates, we respond to suitable listings within 30 minutes if possible. If we don’t hear back within 3-5 days, we send a brief follow-up—this simple practice has secured us numerous sits where homeowners were overwhelmed with choices.

It’s worth developing a quick-response system that works with your lifestyle. We keep template paragraphs about our experience with different animals and home types saved in a notes app, which we can quickly customize for each application. This approach balances personalization with efficiency when speed matters.

The Power of Following Up

Following up is an often overlooked strategy that can dramatically increase your success rate. Many homeowners receive dozens of applications and can easily miss promising candidates in the shuffle. A thoughtful follow-up demonstrates your genuine interest and organizational skills.

We follow these guidelines for effective follow-ups:

• Wait 3-5 days after your initial application before sending a follow-up
• Keep your message brief, friendly, and non-pressuring
• Reference your original application and reaffirm your interest
• Add a new piece of relevant information if possible
• Express understanding of their busy schedule

Approximately 25% of our confirmed sits came after a follow-up message, including some of our most memorable experiences. One homeowner in Barcelona told us our polite check-in made the difference—she had been overwhelmed with 20+ applications and had completely missed our initial message.

The timing of follow-ups matters. Too soon appears desperate, while too late might mean they’ve already selected someone else. The sweet spot is typically 3-5 days, which shows respectful persistence without pushiness.

Keep Your Profile Updated

Your profile is your digital first impression, and it requires regular maintenance to remain effective. Many platforms’ search algorithms prefer recently active profiles.

Make these updates part of your routine:

• Refresh your main photos quarterly
• Add new animal breeds or specialized care experiences after each sit
• Keep your availability calendar current
• Request references immediately after completing sits
• Follow up with homeowners after two weeks if you don’t receive a review

Even minor updates signal activity to both algorithms and homeowners browsing profiles every few weeks.

Each completed house sit offers new materials to enhance your profile. Did you care for a breed you haven’t mentioned before? Add it. Learn to manage a pool or security system? Include it. These details demonstrate growing expertise and versatility that appeals to homeowners with specific needs.

Use Local House Sits to Fill Gaps

Short, local house sits are incredibly valuable but often overlooked. They’re not just gap-fillers—they’re strategic opportunities to strengthen your house sitting foundation.

These local sits provide quick reference-building when you’re new and flexible options between longer international commitments. You’ll often find less competition, as many sitters focus exclusively on destination locations.

We regularly accept weekend sits in our home region, which has led to numerous repeat bookings and referrals to friends and family members.

Local sits frequently convert to long-term relationships. We have six homeowners in our region who book us 3-4 times annually for their regular trips, providing reliable anchor points in our schedule around which we plan international adventures.

Know What You Want When Reviewing Assignments

With experience comes clarity about your preferences and deal-breakers. Developing a consistent evaluation framework saves time and leads to more satisfying experiences.

Before applying, consider whether the location aligns with your travel plans, whether the pet care requirements match your daily routine, and whether the home amenities support your needs. Evaluate the homeowner’s communication style—is it clear and respectful?

We’ve learned to pay attention to listings’ tone and detail level. Vague descriptions often indicate unclear expectations, while overly controlling language might signal challenging homeowners.

Apply Thoughtfully and Personally

Your application is your opportunity to make a human connection. Generic messages are immediately apparent to homeowners who receive multiple applications daily.

Our most successful applications include:

• A personalized greeting using the homeowners’ and pets’ names
• Specific references to details in their listing that resonated with us
• Highlights of our relevant experience with similar animals or properties
• Connections between our background and their specific needs
• A brief explanation of why their location fits our travel plans
• A clear offer to arrange a video call at their convenience
• Our website link or portfolio for additional information

Taking time to craft a personalized application drastically improves response rates compared to template messages. We typically spend 10-15 minutes tailoring each application, resulting in a response rate nearly three times higher than when we used more generic approaches.

Know What to Avoid About House Sits

Experience has taught us to recognize warning signs that might indicate problematic sits.

We typically decline opportunities with minimal photos of the home or pets, vague pet care expectations, or reluctance to answer specific questions. Be cautious of mentions of previous “unsuccessful” sitters without clear explanations and requirements for unexpected financial deposits.

Trust your instincts—we’ve never regretted declining a sit that gave us pause.

Join Local Groups

As you gain experience, your referral network becomes increasingly valuable. Many of our premium sits never appear on platforms—they come through word-of-mouth recommendations.

To cultivate your network, send occasional updates to previous homeowners about your availability and join house sitter community groups. Consider joining local expat groups in areas where you’d like to sit.

Approximately 40% of our sits now come through referrals, which typically involve less competition and more pre-established trust.

Keep Building Those References and You’ll Be in Demand!

Building a successful house sitting profile takes persistence, especially in the beginning. Many sitters quit after a few rejections, but consistency ultimately pays off.

Stay motivated by setting realistic expectations, celebrating small wins, and refining your approach based on feedback. Remain flexible about locations and types of sits as you build experience.

Remember that house sitting is fundamentally about building relationships and trust. Focus on providing exceptional care and creating positive experiences, and your calendar will gradually fill with opportunities that match your preferences.

Author: Britt

I am Britt. I have been house-sitting and pet-sitting for the past seven years. I have cared for 25 dogs, 35 cats, one turtle, and one rabbit over 80+ houses in 15 countries.

The opportunity to experience different homes, cultures, and communities has been extraordinary.

I’ve connected with homeowners seeking reliable sitters through house-sitting platforms like Aussie House Sitters and Trusted House Sitters. This unique way of living has allowed me to save money on accommodation, explore new cultures, and meet new people.

Being a member of these platforms has broadened my horizons and opened doors to short- and long-term house-sitting jobs. I’ve found joy in providing excellent pet care and ensuring the home is well-maintained.

I get many questions about how to start as a housesitter, so please reach out if you have any questions! I want everyone to enjoy this incredible lifestyle as well!

You can read more about Jay and me here!

Or connect with me on Facebook or in our house-sitting community on Facebook.

• LinkedIn
• Facebook

The post 12 Proven Strategies to Land More House Sitting Jobs in 2026 appeared first on The Travelling House Sitters Professional Housesitting Services.

Our house-sitting experiences span the United Kingdom, Ireland, New Zealand, Australia, Thailand, Montenegro, Malaysia, France, Spain, Italy, the Caribbean, and Turkey.

One of the most common questions is how to find these house-sitting and yacht-sitting opportunities. We use a few different platforms, but most assignments come through TrustedHousesitters. In our experience, it’s the best website for finding local and international house-sitting opportunities.

Since TrustedHousesitters is one of the most popular platforms today, we gave a detailed overview of our experience to help potential new users understand how it works.

Britt walking the pooches through vineyards while your house sits in France.

Why Trust Our Trusted Housesitters Review?

With countless TrustedHousesitters reviews available online, you might wonder why ours stands out. I’ve been using the platform since 2014. Throughout this journey, I’ve built my profile from the ground up and created a Facebook group with over 132,000 homeowners and house sitters.

I’ve encountered both the highs and lows of house-sitting. In this review, I’ll share my honest, firsthand experiences to help you make a good decision. But first, let’s start with my pros and cons.

Trustedhousesitters Discount Code

Want 15% off your membership? Click here and use the code TRUSTED15 to apply your discount

What is Trustedhousesitters?

TrustedHousesitters is an online platform founded in 2010. It is designed to connect homeowners needing pet or house care with trusted housesitters. The platform bridges two groups: homeowners who need someone to look after their homes and pets while away and sitters looking for affordable travel accommodations.

Britt with Sabah during a house sit in Melbourne

What It Offers for Sitters and Homeowners

Platform Features

Here are some of the platform features, but we will discuss these in more depth later in the post.

• Listings: Detailed home and sitter profiles.
• Reviews & Ratings: A feedback system for both homeowners and sitters.
• Membership Plans: Tiered plans offering features like insurance and enhanced verification.
• Mobile App: Manage your sits, profiles, and communication easily on the go.

How Do Trustedhousesitters Work? Plus Steps for Getting Started

Each potential housesitter sets up a profile. This profile is fully customizable, and you can add as much or as little information about yourself as you want.

This includes an about me section, pictures, videos, and references; this is our profile below;

On the other hand, the homeowner sets up their profile and posts up their house-sitting assignment. This would include all the necessary information potential sitters need to decide whether to apply. Homeowners will generally include information such as:

• House sit dates.
• House sit location.
• Details of all the animals. Including any medication and specific walking/ feeding schedules.
• Photos of the home and animals.
• Details of the area.
• Any special requests for the sit.

Once the homeowner has posted the house-sitting assignment, potential housesitters can apply. Applying is as simple as writing a message to the homeowner on their messaging platform.

From there, it is generally up to the homeowner and the sitter to monitor the progress. In our past experience, this usually involves several emails followed up by a Skype call or two if it is an out-of-town or international house sit.

If it is a local house-sit assignment, we would usually meet to continue discussing the details of the sit.

Creating Your House Sitter Profile

Setting up your profile on Trustedhousesitters is easy.

You get several sections to fill out selling yourself. In these sections, you get as many characters as you want to explain to potential homeowners why they should pick you as their sitters.

These sections included:

• About us.
• Why we want to house sit.
• Our experience.

You also have an area to fill out more personal details about yourself such as:

• Age.
• Occupation.
• If you are solo or travelling as a couple.
• Location preferences.
• If you have had any previous experience.
• Your availability.
• Your animal care experience.

The platform also has an easy-to-use photo uploader. This is based on the ‘drag and drop’ or file upload methods. Both are easy and straightforward to use. A nice feature that is not seen on all house-sitting platforms is the option to upload a video.

This is a great way of having the homeowner get a real feel for you before you meet up or chat over Skype.

This is one feature that we have been told by homeowners they use when looking at potential sitters before making initial contact with them.

Finding A House Sitting Assignment

The Trustedhousesitters search feature is laid out well and is easy to use. You get lots of different filters and options to play with to find your perfect sit.

You get three different layouts you can choose from for your search results. Map, grid and list.

The Internal Messenger / Email System

When it comes to the email/messenger feature of the platform, the only fault that I can find is sometimes when you go to ’show older messages’ in an email thread it doesn’t.

This is usually fixed by exiting and re-entering a couple of times. It can be a little frustrating.

The messenger has good features such as a time stamp when your message was read and the option to label conversations as ‘like’, ‘possible’, and ‘not suitable’ for quick access to your favourite potential sits.

You get an email notification and a notification on the platform when you get a message to your inbox.

Another good feature of the messaging system is that you can send a group message.This is something that I have not seen on any other platforms.

This is great if you would like to update previous homeowners of your planned travels and locations just in case they are going away around those dates and need a sitter in.

This makes life easier for both the homeowner and sitters by potentially eliminating the interview/ application process altogether!

Feedback and Reviews

Reviews are one of the most important things to a house sitter. They allow the homeowner to make a decision if they want you as their house sitter before they even talk to you.

This is great news for those who have done the hard yards and have a few sitting assignments under their belts.

However, this can be quite difficult for house sitters just starting out on the platform.

Your reviews are shown towards the top of your profile (above your about me section) and feature a picture of the reviewer, dates of that particular sit, the homeowner’s review and finally a star rating out of 5 for the following:

1. Organised.
2. Reliable.
3. Self-sufficient.
4. Tidy.
5. Pet care.

This is great if you have a few sits under your belt, your reviews can do some of the hard work for you and can save you talking yourself up to potential homeowners.

However, if you are new to the platform it does look very bare and can be a turn-off for some homeowners.

This is not necessarily a flaw of the Trustedhousesitters but of the whole house sitting idea.

It is based off reviews and trust – and without reviews, it can be extremely hard to land a house sit when sometimes 20+ people are applying for a sit.

Im not sure if there is anything that Trustedhousesitters could do to help new sitters land their first assignment but it could be something for them to think about going forward.

The review process is very important to house sitters.

Unfortunately for homeowners, it is not so important to review their sitters when they get back from their holiday.

It can be a little awkward and embarrassing to contact a homeowner to ask them if they can review you, but in some cases, it needs to be done.

On the Trustedhousesitters platform, you can send the homeowner a notification asking them to leave you a review.

Since I am not signed up as a homeowner I can’t say exactly how the review process works.

However, it would be really good if they would automatically send out an email XX days after each sit reminding them to review their sitters.

It would save on awkward conversations and feeling like you are nagging the homeowner for a review.

To make asking for a review less awkward spark up a conversation with the homeowner asking if everything is ok with their home and animals then slip in there if they could give you a review on Trustedhousesitters when they next get a chance.

Leaving Home Owner Feedback

As the house-sitter, you are also welcome to leave feedback about the homeowner.

Unfortunately, just like the review of you, this is not ‘blind’ feedback and the homeowner can see what you have written.

More often than not we will leave feedback of the homeowner/ home/ animals before they get around to leaving us a review.

This is both good and bad.

It is good because it does often reminds the homeowners that they need to leave a review about us.

But on the other hand, we like to leave 100% real feedback about the home, area and pets.

We do get a little concerned that if we don’t leave the homeowner 100% positive feedback they might write a review with that in mind and not give a 100% realistic review on us.

Possibly something for Trustedhousesitters to think about going forward?

Homeowner Welcome Guides

Once you have locked in a house sitting assignment the homeowner can make you a welcome guide.

This guide is not compulsory for the homeowner to do but as the sitter, you can request it.

The welcome guide is the house sitters bible. It makes the house sit extremely easy and provides you with an in-depth breakdown of the information about the home through a series of questions.



These questions are broken down into 6 different categories:

My Home

• Contact details.
• Home details.
• Security.
• Wifi, Phone, TV & Audio.
• Plants & Garden.
• Mail.
• Photos.
• My Pets.
• Photos.
• Feeding instructions.
• Health & condition.
• Personality.
• Likes / Dislikes

House Rules

• Toilet & Grooming.
• Anything else?

Transport

• Car.
• Public Transport.
• Car Hire.

Neighbourhood

• Shopping for food.
• Favourite restaurants & pubs.
• Favourite cafe.
• Nice walks.
• Local attractions.
• Anything else?

Emergency & Contacts

• Nominated people.
• A&E hospital.
• Dentist.
• Vet.
• Home repairs.
• Police.

In my eyes, a welcome guide should be a compulsory part of the homeowner’s profile on Trustedhousesitters as it really does help the sitter tremendously.

Often when talking with the homeowner they will forget things that would be outlined in the welcome guide.

Another bonus to the welcome guide is the feature that you can set yourself on sit reminders.

This is great for remembering important things such as animal medication, vet visits, trash days, or any other special requests the house sitting assignment may require.

Building Up Your Feedback and Reviews

Reviews are one of the most important things to a house sitter. They allow the homeowner to make a decision if they want you as their house sitter before they even talk to you.

This is great news for those who have done the hard yards and have a few sitting assignments under their belts.

However, this can be quite difficult for house sitters just starting out on the platform.

Your reviews are shown towards the top of your profile (above your about me section) and feature a picture of the reviewer, dates of that particular sit, the homeowner’s review and finally a star rating out of 5 for the following:

1. Organised.
2. Reliable.
3. Self-sufficient.
4. Tidy.
5. Pet care.

This is great if you have a few sits under your belt, your reviews can do some of the hard work for you and can save you talking yourself up to potential homeowners.

However, if you are new to the platform it does look very bare and can be a turn-off for some homeowners.

This is not necessarily a flaw of the Trustedhousesitters but of the whole house sitting idea.

It is based off reviews and trust – and without reviews, it can be extremely hard to land a house sit when sometimes 20+ people are applying for a sit.

Im not sure if there is anything that Trustedhousesitters could do to help new sitters land their first assignment but it could be something for them to think about going forward.

The review process is very important to house sitters.

Unfortunately for homeowners, it is not so important to review their sitters when they get back from their holiday.

It can be a little awkward and embarrassing to contact a homeowner to ask them if they can review you, but in some cases, it needs to be done.

On the Trustedhousesitters platform, you can send the homeowner a notification asking them to leave you a review.

Since I am not signed up as a homeowner I can’t say exactly how the review process works.

However, it would be really good if they would automatically send out an email XX days after each sit reminding them to review their sitters.

It would save on awkward conversations and feeling like you are nagging the homeowner for a review.

To make asking for a review less awkward spark up a conversation with the homeowner asking if everything is ok with their home and animals then slip in there if they could give you a review on Trustedhousesitters when they next get a chance.

Leaving Home Owner Feedback

As the house-sitter, you are also welcome to leave feedback about the homeowner.

Unfortunately, just like the review of you, this is not ‘blind’ feedback and the homeowner can see what you have written.

More often than not we will leave feedback of the homeowner/ home/ animals before they get around to leaving us a review.

This is both good and bad.

It is good because it does often reminds the homeowners that they need to leave a review about us.

But on the other hand, we like to leave 100% real feedback about the home, area and pets.

We do get a little concerned that if we don’t leave the homeowner 100% positive feedback they might write a review with that in mind and not give a 100% realistic review on us.

Possibly something for Trustedhousesitters to think about going forward?

Homeowner Welcome Guides

Once you have locked in a house sitting assignment the homeowner can make you a welcome guide.

This guide is not compulsory for the homeowner to do but as the sitter, you can request it.

The welcome guide is the house sitters bible. It makes the house sit extremely easy and provides you with an in-depth breakdown of the information about the home through a series of questions.



These questions are broken down into 6 different categories:

My Home

• Contact details.
• Home details.
• Security.
• Wifi, Phone, TV & Audio.
• Plants & Garden.
• Mail.
• Photos.
• My Pets.
• Photos.
• Feeding instructions.
• Health & condition.
• Personality.
• Likes / Dislikes

House Rules

• Toilet & Grooming.
• Anything else?

Transport

• Car.
• Public Transport.
• Car Hire.

Neighbourhood

• Shopping for food.
• Favourite restaurants & pubs.
• Favourite cafe.
• Nice walks.
• Local attractions.
• Anything else?

Emergency & Contacts

• Nominated people.
• A&E hospital.
• Dentist.
• Vet.
• Home repairs.
• Police.

In my eyes, a welcome guide should be a compulsory part of the homeowner’s profile on Trustedhousesitters as it really does help the sitter tremendously.

Often when talking with the homeowner they will forget things that would be outlined in the welcome guide.

Another bonus to the welcome guide is the feature that you can set yourself on sit reminders.

This is great for remembering important things such as animal medication, vet visits, trash days, or any other special requests the house sitting assignment may require.

Vetline and Advice

Membership Plans & Pricing

I’m not going to beat around the bush. Trusted Housesitters is the most expensive platform we have encountered. However, we have found it well worth the money, as most house sits are listed there, and you get covered by insurance.

Also, once you lock yourself into a house sit, your membership fee will be paid for itself. We don’t mind that membership fee because, to date, that small $149 per year has saved us over $100,000 in accommodation costs and all the other bills that come with housing.

It is also interesting to note Trusted Housesitters is one of the only platforms that doesn’t favor the homeowner regarding membership fees. Lots of sites seem to charge the house sitter for a membership fee and a much lower fee for homeowners (or no fee at all).

Pricing Overview

We have divided this section into two parts: one for housesitters and one for homeowners. We discuss the membership plans that allow you to do both. You can get a combined membership to book house sitters and try house sitting yourself.

Membership Plans for House Sitters

Is There a Free Trial?

When I updated this (January 2026), Trustedhousesitters didn’t have a free trial. However, I have found that the $149 fee is 1000% worth the investment, as you can barely get an Airbnb for one night for that price these days!

Me with the cats we cared for in Athens. How good is the view from the balcony!

Our Experience With Trustedhousesitters

With over 50 houses under our belts, including 25+ through TrustedHousesitters, we have a wealth of experience to share!

Our journey began in 2014 in London. Our friend had been house-sitting for a colleague, and we thought it was a brilliant idea.

After some research, we created a profile on TrustedHousesitters and started applying for house sits.

We submitted over 20 applications, knowing many listings had numerous contenders. Despite having no reviews yet, we received three responses. After several email exchanges and Skype calls with homeowners, we landed two assignments, starting our exciting house-sitting adventure.

Since then, we have cared for homes across multiple countries, each with its unique charm and experience:

• New Zealand: We enjoyed house-sitting in Jay’s hometown, reconnecting with family, attending weddings, and looking after adorable pets.
• Australia: From vibrant cities to serene countryside, we explored diverse landscapes, and each house sit offered us a chance to engage with local wildlife and culture.
• Italy: Our time in Italy allowed us to immerse ourselves in rich culinary traditions, care for various pets, and enjoy gelato and fresh pasta.
• Carribean: We cared for a cat on a catamaran in the stunning island of Grenada.
• France: While house-sitting near Bordeaux, we indulged in wine tastings and visited local markets while caring for seven friendly cats on a picturesque vineyard property.
• Greece: We experienced stunning coastal views while looking after a beautiful home just south of Athens, discovering local cuisine and culture, and eventually enjoying a relaxing getaway on Karpathos Island.
• Montenegro: During our month-long house sit in Herceg Novi, we fell in love with the stunning Adriatic coastline and vibrant local culture, all while caring for two charming cats.
• Malaysia: Our time here was a culinary adventure, with street food and vibrant markets to explore. We also enjoyed the hospitality of locals while looking after various pets.
• Thailand: Chiang Mai became our base for three months, during which time we established our online business, savored the city’s famous street food, and explored its rich culture.
• Ireland: Navigating Dublin’s rental market through house-sitting helped us discover the city’s hidden gems while enjoying the warmth of Irish hospitality.
• Turkey: Our dream of visiting Turkey came true with a last-minute house sit in Istanbul. We reveled in the local cuisine and historic sights, making unforgettable memories.

Below are some photos from our times in those locations

The cat we cared for in Montenegro checking the view

The boat we cared for in the Carribean

Britt and Ugo after a walk in the park in Rome, Italy

Jay walking the dogs on the beach in Dublin, Ireland

Outside where we housesat in Greece

The Trustedhousesitters App

As far as I know, when writing this Trustedhousesitters review, THS is the only house-sitting platform with a smartphone app.

The THS App is now available on both IOS and Android. Again, like the THS desktop version.

It is very professional-looking and easy to use, and you essentially get the same functionality as the website.

We are quite often on the move and do not always have access to our laptops. Some mobile platforms are very difficult to use and frustrate us, which is the last thing we need on the way to a meeting or to finalize the details of a meeting.

Watch this space for a more in-depth review of the Trustedhousesitters App, which is coming soon!

Things We Liked About Trusted Housesitters

Global Access to Housesits: I’ve had the fantastic opportunity to stay in beautiful homes worldwide, immersing myself in different cultures and neighborhoods while enjoying free accommodation.

Building Relationships: One of the most rewarding aspects has been forming lasting connections with homeowners and their pets. I cherish the memories we create together, often leading to future sits and friendships. We had a great house sit in Greece where we regularly chat with the homeowners and are looking forward to catching up again.

User-Friendly Platform: I love how easy it is to navigate TrustedHousesitters. The platform makes searching for and applying to housesitters really easy, saving me time and energy. I also like to set up alerts, so I am notified via email when an assignment comes up in my set parameters. For example, we might want to visit a certain city or country, and I will set up filters for that location during the dates we would like to go.

Great Community and Resources: The supportive community forum and helpful resources, like the welcome guide and vet hotline, have made my journey even better. I appreciate having these tools at my disposal as I navigate my housesitting adventures.

Things We Didn’t Like About Trusted Housesitters

Is The Popularity of A Problem? The popularity of Trusted Housesitters can be both a blessing and a curse. I will start with the negative. The more housesitters on a platform, the harder it is to be a successful applicant.

In the ten years we have been on the platform, we have noticed that applicants for house sits have skyrocketed. This differs from area to area and sit to sit, but overall, there is much more competition.

I don’t know if that is because house sitting’s popularity is on the rise, travelers are more money-savvy, or if it’s simply that Trusted Housesitters are becoming so popular because of their good name in the industry. You just have to adapt and make your profile and applications stand out more to homeowners.

On the flip side, we have also noticed far more house sits popping up in more locations worldwide. The growth of Trusted Housesitters is good in terms of more homeowners joining the platform and, thus, more locations being added to the list of potential house-sitting locations.

Trustworthiness of Hosts: Sometimes, it’s a bit of a gamble with hosts. Not every homeowner may live up to expectations, so I’ve learned always to schedule in-person or video calls so we can talk face-to-face. I also like to do a virtual home tour to know I would be comfortable in the environment. You need to be selective and communicate clearly to find the right fit.

Initial Challenges for New Sitters: Starting as a sitter without reviews can feel a bit intimidating. However, there are many ways you can build up references; they allow you to add links to your Airbnb and LinkedIn profiles. You can also request homeowners to review you who haven’t booked you through the platform.

Limited Options in Certain Regions: While I’ve discovered many unique destinations, I’ve also encountered areas with fewer housesitting opportunities. However, you can always try other methods of finding houses in these areas.

How to Avoid Bad House Sits

Set Up a Video Chat or in-person

As I mentioned above, I always set up an in-person or video chat before committing to a house sit. It’s a great way to feel things out in person and discover what the homeowner expects of you. If you’re a homeowner, you can ask about their experience and the time they have to care for your pets. I also like a quick home tour to ensure I will be comfortable staying there.

Read The Reviews

Some homeowners and housesitters can be nervous about leaving reviews if they haven’t had a positive experience. I like to check how many assignments they have completed compared to the number of reviews they have.

Always Give Yourself Time to Think it Over

So many people rush into house sits or pick house sitters. I always ask for at least 2-3 hours after the interview to talk it over with my partner and see if we both agree it’s a good fit. Some people pick up on different things. The homeowner may have mentioned in passing that the dog is reactive in public or with kids, and if you miss that and agree, it could be tough for you.

My Final Verdict

In my experience, TrustedHousesitters has been an incredible platform for the past 10 years, and I still use it on my travels today! It’s opened up amazing opportunities for me to travel while connecting with pets worldwide.

That said, TrustedHousesitters isn’t perfect. I’ve run into a few bumps along the way and had house sits that didn’t go as planned. Now, I’ve learned to avoid house sits that may come with issues by setting up in-person meetings or video calls before committing. I haven’t had any problems.

Getting started was a bit hard, especially when you don’t have any reviews yet. But building up a few solid reviews only takes a little time (especially as we learned that it’s easier to land sits during the holidays), and soon enough, the application process becomes much more manageable.

We look forward to continuing to use TrustedHousesitters on our travels and will continue sharing all our stories in this section.

Need Help Getting Started With House Sitting

Have we got you excited about house-sitting? We love sharing our experiences and teaching others how to become house-sitters and start their journeys. 

So, if you need help starting your house-sitting journey, see my resources here, and don’t hesitate to contact me and ask me any questions.

Author: Britt

I am Britt. I have been house-sitting and pet-sitting for the past seven years. I have cared for 25 dogs, 35 cats, one turtle, and one rabbit over 80+ houses in 15 countries.

The opportunity to experience different homes, cultures, and communities has been extraordinary.

I’ve connected with homeowners seeking reliable sitters through house-sitting platforms like Aussie House Sitters and Trusted House Sitters. This unique way of living has allowed me to save money on accommodation, explore new cultures, and meet new people.

Being a member of these platforms has broadened my horizons and opened doors to short- and long-term house-sitting jobs. I’ve found joy in providing excellent pet care and ensuring the home is well-maintained.

I get many questions about how to start as a housesitter, so please reach out if you have any questions! I want everyone to enjoy this incredible lifestyle as well!

You can read more about Jay and me here!

Or connect with me on Facebook or in our house-sitting community on Facebook.

• LinkedIn
• Facebook

More House Sitting Information

The post TrustedHousesitters Review: (10 Years of Using This Site) appeared first on The Travelling House Sitters Professional Housesitting Services.

Tell us a little bit about yourself—who you are, where you are from, and do you do it full-time or sporadically?

My name is Lisa Packard, and I live in Boulder, Colorado. I have been housesitting locally for the last seven years to supplement my income.

How many housesits have you had and where?

I have had at least one housesit a week for the last seven years – all local.

What was your favorite housesitting experience to date and why?

  I have several favorite customers – their homes always feel lovely and their animals are so sweet!

Why did you do house sitting? What is the primary motivation?

My husband became ill several years ago and could not work.  I love animals and saw an ad from someone in the next town looking for a house sitter.  The rest is history.

How did you find out about housesitting?

what started out as a necessity turned into my dream job.

Pros of House Sitting

 The pets, the fact that I can be choosy about what jobs I take, the money is fantastic, and my customers are the best!

Cons of House Sitting

 It does take time away from my family, the fact that pets pass away.

Have you ever had to care for unusual pets or take on unconventional responsibilities?

Sure – I have taken care of amphibians, chickens, and rabbits and asked to take cats for walks.

What’s been the biggest adventure so far?

No adventures but funny stories and great animals!

How do you decide on a destination?

I would like to start housesitting internationally

Was it hard for you to secure your first housesitting gig? How many applications did you have to send before you got accepted for your first assignment?

How many applications did you have to send before you got accepted for your first assignment? I was hired immediately, and now I have a ton of references and so many 5-star reviews locally.

Want to try House Sitting As Well?
There are thousands of opportunities to house sit around the world!
Learn how to become a house sitter with no experience

Have you had any funny housesitting experiences? 

 You name it, it has happened.

Where to next (when you can)

 I want to start housesitting internationally and want to know how I can get started. (From Britt, I have some resources here about getting started with house sitting internationally, so this will help both Lisa and anyone reading who would also like to get started.

Want to Read More House Sitting Stories?
We have interviewed over 60 housesitters, full-time, part-time, retirees, digital nomads, and house-sitting families.
See more house-sitting stories here.

Author: Britt

I am Britt. I have been house-sitting and pet-sitting for the past seven years. I have cared for 25 dogs, 35 cats, one turtle, and one rabbit over 80+ houses in 15 countries.

The opportunity to experience different homes, cultures, and communities has been extraordinary.

I’ve connected with homeowners seeking reliable sitters through house-sitting platforms like Aussie House Sitters and Trusted House Sitters. This unique way of living has allowed me to save money on accommodation, explore new cultures, and meet new people.

Being a member of these platforms has broadened my horizons and opened doors to short- and long-term house-sitting jobs. I’ve found joy in providing excellent pet care and ensuring the home is well-maintained.

I get many questions about how to start as a housesitter, so please reach out if you have any questions! I want everyone to enjoy this incredible lifestyle as well!

You can read more about Jay and me here!

Or connect with me on Facebook or in our house-sitting community on Facebook.

• LinkedIn
• Facebook

The post House Sitting in Colorado – House Sitting Stories With Lisa appeared first on The Travelling House Sitters Professional Housesitting Services.

Milan Malpensa Airport – MXP

Located in northwestern Italy, Milan Malpensa Airport (IATA code MXP) is a great choice.

There are 3 Milanese airports to choose from. However, this is the largest airport for international travelers in Italy.

Since it’s about 45 minutes from the city center of Milan, it’s also convenient if you’re going to other places. For instance, you may want to fly here if you’re going to Lake Como or Switzerland.

Bergamo Airport – BGY

One of the most popular airports in northern Italy is the Bergamo Airport (IATA code BGY) outside of Milan. This airport is closer to Bergamo than Milan.

If you want to visit Bergamo, this is the best airport for you. It’s about an hour from Milan. This makes it a bit of a drive, but worth it if you can find an affordable flight!

Milan Linate Airport – LIN

One of the smallest Italian airports is Milan Linate Airport (IATA code LIN). A lot of people like it because it’s so close to the heart of Milan. However, because of its small size, they don’t have a ton of flights. It’s better for people jetting in for work rather than international travelers.

Venice Marco Polo Airport – VCE

Venice Marco Polo Airport (IATA code VCE) is a great airport in northeastern Italy. It’s situated just a few miles outside Venice so it’s super easy to get to the city without renting a car. It’s also quite affordable if you take the bus!

While Venice has transportation by train, there are no train stations at the airport.

Naples International Airport – NAP

If you want to explore the Amalfi Coast in southern Italy, fly into Naples Airport (IATA code NAP). This airport has flights from several major airlines. If you have a preferred airline, chances are pretty good you’ll be able to catch a flight to Naples.

Leonardo da Vinci International Airport – FCO

If you’re visiting the capital city of Rome, you’ll have two airports to choose from. Also known as Rome Fiumicino, Leonardo da Vinci Airport is one of the busiest airports in Italy.

Located about half an hour from the city center, this busy airport has a lot to offer. It has great dining and shopping options. It’s one of the most popular airports in Italy for good reason.

Rome Ciampino Airport – CIA

Rome Ciampino Airport (IATA code CIA) is one of the oldest airports still in operation. It’s not as modern and sleek as other airports, but it is cool to visit!

This small airport only works with budget airlines. This is great if you want to save some money! However, you may want to splurge for a nicer airplane if you’ll be on it for hours.

Cagliari Elmas Airport – CAG

Sometimes called Mario Mameli Airport, Cagliari Airport (IATA code CAG) is in Sardinia. After arriving at the airport, you can hop on a train and be at the city center in 10 minutes.

Several airlines utilize this airport, making it easy to book a flight here.

Turin Airport – TRN

Turin-Caselle Airport or Sandro Pertini Airport (IATA code TRN) is a great airport. It’s perfect for international flights into northwestern Italy. This newer airport is about a 45-minute bus ride from the city center. However, the train will get you there in 20 minutes.

Catania Airport – CTA

Catania Fontanarossa Airport (IATA code CTA) is Sicily’s busiest airport. Most of its international flights come from other parts of Europe. This makes it perfect if you choose to get a connecting flight to a European country!

It’s located just 3 kilometers from the city center of Catania, making it very accessible.

Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport – BLQ

Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (IATA code BLQ) is a modest airport in Bologna. While it is nice, it’s also simple. This is great for travelers who sometimes get overwhelmed in airports.

It’s about 15 minutes from central Bologna, making it easy to get to the city from the airport.

Palermo Airport – PMO

Located in Sicily, Palermo Airport (IATA code PMO) serves over 6 million passengers a year. It stays pretty busy and is a great option if you’re traveling to Palermo.

They don’t have any direct flights from the US so you’d have to plan on having a layover.

Pisa Airport – PSA

Originally a military airport, Pisa International Airport (IATA code PSA) has commercial flights. However, you’d have to fly in from other countries in Europe. This is great if you were hoping to spend a couple of days in Europe instead of flying straight through.

You may also be able to save money by having a layover instead of booking a direct flight.

Bari Airport – BRI

Also called Karol Wojtyla, Bari Airport (IATA code BRI) is on the Adriatic Coast in southern Italy. It’s a busy urban area, however, it doesn’t see as many tourists as other cities in Italy.

Built in the 1930s, this airport has an interesting military history. Fortunately, they’ve updated it throughout the decades so it is still pretty nice. If you’re flying into one of Italy’s major cities, it’ll be easy to choose an airport. If you don’t mind connecting flights in Europe, you have even more options.

Look at your itinerary and budget to figure out which flight is perfect for you! This is the best way to choose an airport when traveling to Italy.

Author: Britt

I am Britt. I have been house-sitting and pet-sitting for the past seven years. I have cared for 25 dogs, 35 cats, one turtle, and one rabbit over 80+ houses in 15 countries.

The opportunity to experience different homes, cultures, and communities has been extraordinary.

I’ve connected with homeowners seeking reliable sitters through house-sitting platforms like Aussie House Sitters and Trusted House Sitters. This unique way of living has allowed me to save money on accommodation, explore new cultures, and meet new people.

Being a member of these platforms has broadened my horizons and opened doors to short- and long-term house-sitting jobs. I’ve found joy in providing excellent pet care and ensuring the home is well-maintained.

I get many questions about how to start as a housesitter, so please reach out if you have any questions! I want everyone to enjoy this incredible lifestyle as well!

You can read more about Jay and me here!

Or connect with me on Facebook or in our house-sitting community on Facebook.

• LinkedIn
• Facebook

The post What International Airports Are in Italy appeared first on The Travelling House Sitters Professional Housesitting Services.

Keep reading and so you can decide if house-sitting is the perfect side hustle for you!

What Is House Sitting?

House sitting is a job that requires the sitter to maintain a house when the homeowners are unable to. Many homeowners pay sitters to ensure their house stays in good shape. A lot of pet owners will hire someone to perform pet sitting, as well.

Professional house sitters perform general house maintenance. They water plants, get the mail, and mow the grass. Anything necessary to keep a house running in good shape can be a part of the sitter’s job description. This may include cleaning the pool or tending to the garden.

A lot of sitting jobs include the need for a pet sitter. Maybe you just need to care for the cats or walk the dogs. Perhaps you need to feed the pigs or groom the horses. While it’s rare to sit for more uncommon animals, the opportunity occasionally arises.

Is House Sitting Good For College Students?

House sitting is a great job for someone who has spare time and needs extra money. College students can usually make this job work with their schedules.

While house sitting can be a part-time job, it can also be a full-time job. This flexible side hustle idea allows you to make as much extra income as you’re able to!

How Hard Is House Sitting?

While house sitting isn’t as easy as it sounds at first, it’s not difficult. Some jobs will be harder than others. However, it’s usually fairly easy.

You have responsibilities so you can’t just lounge around. You may even have a schedule to follow. This makes it hard to do other things. However, it’s not much harder to house-sit than it is to care for your own home.

How Much Do House Sitters Make?

Pay for house sitting differs by location. In a smaller city, you may make $30-50 a night. In larger cities, you could make up to $100 a night.

Other factors that determine pay are the sitter’s experience and duties. A rookie house sitter will make less money than a veteran sitter. You can also charge someone with 5 dogs more money than you would someone with no pets.

Can You House Sit With A Busy Schedule?

House sitting is great for remote workers or online students. However, you can sit locally if you have a busy schedule. If you are in class all day long, you may not be able to take a job that requires you to let the dog out every 4 hours. But some jobs would still work for you!

If you spend a lot of time doing homework and studying, you could easily do that while house-sitting. Set up a study area in the house and get to work while cuddling with your furry friends!

How To Become A House Sitter

There are several online platforms where you can create a profile. This is a great way to connect you with potential clients. Some of these websites or apps have membership fees. This ensures a better experience than a lot of free housesitting sites.

House Sitters America and Trusted House Sitters have good house-sitting opportunities. Online marketplaces are the easiest way to find jobs, but you can also find local jobs through word of mouth.

After creating a profile, make sure you stand out. Apply for housesitting gigs and open a line of communication with your clients. The more approachable you are, the more likely clients will give you a good review!

College students who don’t mind extra responsibility should consider this side hustle. They can make it work with their schedules so they can earn money while earning a degree.

Author: Britt

I am Britt. I have been house-sitting and pet-sitting for the past seven years. I have cared for 25 dogs, 35 cats, one turtle, and one rabbit over 80+ houses in 15 countries.

The opportunity to experience different homes, cultures, and communities has been extraordinary.

I’ve connected with homeowners seeking reliable sitters through house-sitting platforms like Aussie House Sitters and Trusted House Sitters. This unique way of living has allowed me to save money on accommodation, explore new cultures, and meet new people.

Being a member of these platforms has broadened my horizons and opened doors to short- and long-term house-sitting jobs. I’ve found joy in providing excellent pet care and ensuring the home is well-maintained.

I get many questions about how to start as a housesitter, so please reach out if you have any questions! I want everyone to enjoy this incredible lifestyle as well!

You can read more about Jay and me here!

Or connect with me on Facebook or in our house-sitting community on Facebook.

• LinkedIn
• Facebook

The post House Sitting: A Side Hustle For Students appeared first on The Travelling House Sitters Professional Housesitting Services.

So do you want to know how to be a ghostwriter? Or not sure what they even do? Ghostwriters write content for others without being recognized as the author.

 So if you’re interested in becoming a ghostwriter and finding beginner-level ghostwriting jobs, then your in the right place.

Many people dream of finding a ghostwriting job, as it can be a rewarding way to make money from home.

Alex has recently launched Ghostwriting University, an online course that teaches every step of the ghostwriting process, from finding clients to completing a fully published book. He also offers a free mini course with beginner tips on how to start ghostwriting.

The interview addresses common questions, such as;

• The typical salary for ghostwriters
• whether a degree is necessary
• who can be a ghostwriter
• how to start a career in ghostwriting,
• the ethical aspects of ghostwriting.

This information will help you understand how to become a ghostwriter and explore a potential way to earn money from home.

Please give us a little background on yourself and how you became a ghostwriter.

I was never any good at traditional education because I didn’t feel like I belonged to it, didn’t fit into that “box.” It felt limiting to me. I barely graduated high school (I got good grades, but they took points off your grades past a certain amount of school days you missed, and I missed a lot).

I think my GPA was 1.9. No colleges wanted me, and vice versa. Instead, I moved out at 15, graduated at 18 and built a solar trike that I intended to drive across America to film a doc on social and environment change.

The trike’s hub motors failed, however, on a precipitous hill, and I crashed it. I didn’t have the money to repair it, so I hitched across America ending up penniless and homeless on the streets of LA. A lot of crazy stuff happened there, some traumatic events, and I kind of lost my mind. I then became a homeless vagabond writer traveling around the world for the next few years, trying to fix my mind and rediscover an identity that I had lost.

I did, ultimately, by writing a “memoir” at 21850 pages. Yikes. But the experience was incredibly cathartic for me, so I kept writing. A novel, two, four, several books of short stories… and I posted them online. Someone reached out saying they had seen my writing and they wanted to hire me to ghostwrite their memoir. I didn’t even really know much about the craft aside from the Roman Polanski film ‘The Ghostwriter,’ but I did it.

The client ended up being a sociopath who had written in his journals intentions of murdering his ex-wife, and when I outed him and reported it, there went my first client. I had to really hustle, and I ended up penning some bestsellers and building a lasting career.

Will you continue to ghost write? Or do you think your branding will allow you to on your own name?

Now that I’ve got my first book under my name traditionally published, and several film/tv deals from other true crime books under my name and under contract with publishers,

#I’m largely putting ghostwriting on the back burner (aside from my course) as I focus on this burgeoning career of becoming a true crime author. I will still work on one or two high profile, big budget ghostwriting gigs a year until the foreseeable future, but it won’t be nearly as much as I did in the past.

Are you working on anything interesting at the moment?

A book about a notorious American drug kingpin, with that drug kingpin, which is optioned by Mark Wahlberg’s company and turning into a mini series with a major streamer next year.

Its a book on the Long Island Serial Killers (plural on purpose), which also documents how I was there on the scene witnessing Rex Heuermann’s arrest; a book on the Smiley Face Killers with Kevin Gannon, who at the time of his retirement was the most highly decorated NYPD officer in history; and lastly, a fiction horror series with James Patterson’s own co-author, JD Barker.

What is a ghostwriter?

A ghostwriter is someone who, as I like to say, “can step into the shoes of another and resume their stride perfectly.” We are secret authors, the people who write 80% of the nonfiction books that you read on the market, and you never knew we were even there.

How much can a ghostwriter earn? How much should a beginner ghostwriter charge?

A little and a lot. I charged $8k per book at the very start of my career, and now I charge $250k – $500k+ depending on the project. It boils down to your efficacy and track record.

So it’s hard for me to say what someone just starting out should charge as it depends on their skillset and experience. Assuming it’s a good writer, at least $10k per book project, and tack on another $10k-$20k each time your writing nets you a distinct level of success.

Do you prefer to ghostwrite certain types of books?

Yes, true crime, memoir, and narrative nonfiction. Fiction is great fun but I prefer to write my own. I’ve worked in pretty much every genre (except for erotica and children’s books, strangely), and it helps make you a very well-rounded writer by doing so. It also means you have more work you can take on than other writers who may pigeonhole themselves into a set genre.

When I first met other (much older) colleagues in this business, they urged me to focus solely on one genre. I promptly ignored that and it has worked wonders for me.

Do you think ghostwriting ethical?

I think that’s a better question for the author than the ghost. The ghost has to learn everything they can to adopt the tone and voice of their subjects. I see ghostwriting as a beautiful art form going back hundreds of years (Shakespeare himself was likely Sir Francis Bacon, the autodidact genius and expert on the Victorian courts).

What I find unethical is when authors lie about hiring a ghost; when they try to pretend they didn’t have any help. I don’t lie about being a ghostwriter, and I don’t think authors should lie about hiring them.

Can anyone be a ghostwriter? What skills do ghostwriters need?

Big no. You need to be a great writer, first and foremost. You need to be a great listener. You need to have empathy and leave your ego at the door (this includes political and religious affiliations; I personally never work with someone if they tell me I need to be an A or a B, such as a Biden supporter or a Trump supporter).

Now that I’m in a good position and can say ‘No,’ I only work with people who are highly intelligent, objective, open-minded, and willing to admit they may be wrong on subjects. I wouldn’t necessarily say you should do that in the beginning as you’re trying to build a career, but you still must always follow your own morals.

Any reasons why someone shouldn’t be a ghostwriter?

If you’re not a writer, you’re a bad listener, and you have a huge ego.

Who hires ghostwriters? Do celebrities hire ghostwriters?

Thought leaders, public speakers, celebrities and rockstars, politicians, self-help gurus, cult leaders—you name it!

Do you need a degree to be a ghostwriter?

Absolutely not. This may be the only career in which not having a degree can actually help you, since you haven’t been brainwashed by educational institutions’ very particular methods on how you should write.

Does a ghostwriter own copyright?

Never, unless you’re in a collaboration agreement of some kind.

Do ghostwriters get paid upfront?

Partially, but never 100%. Some ghosts do 50% up front and the rest at the end. That’s too risky. I do 20% up front followed by equal monthly payments of what’s left until the contract is done.

Do ghostwriters get recognition?

Nope. Unless you’re a ‘co-author’ instead, in a collaboration agreement. But then technically you’re not a ghost. You can get behind the scenes recognition, asking that you be able to mention to agents, publishers and potential clients that you share that you worked on X.

How do I start a career in ghostwriting?

I wish I could answer this but it’s actually a very long answer. I cover it in my course.

What other tips do you have for someone who wants to become a ghostwriter?

Work hard, constantly improve your writing, read bestsellers in your genre and figure out what makes them work and harness it.

What can a person learn from your course? Can you tell us about some of the people who have successfully taken your resource?

Everything it takes to be a successful ghost. One woman got a $25k project just weeks after finishing the course, and she credited that to the things she learned. I wish I knew all the stuff I taught in my course ten years ago when I started. So this is basically a 10-year headstart to anybody who wants to become a ghostwriter.

Author: Britt

I am Britt. I have been house-sitting and pet-sitting for the past seven years. I have cared for 25 dogs, 35 cats, one turtle, and one rabbit over 80+ houses in 15 countries.

The opportunity to experience different homes, cultures, and communities has been extraordinary.

I’ve connected with homeowners seeking reliable sitters through house-sitting platforms like Aussie House Sitters and Trusted House Sitters. This unique way of living has allowed me to save money on accommodation, explore new cultures, and meet new people.

Being a member of these platforms has broadened my horizons and opened doors to short- and long-term house-sitting jobs. I’ve found joy in providing excellent pet care and ensuring the home is well-maintained.

I get many questions about how to start as a housesitter, so please reach out if you have any questions! I want everyone to enjoy this incredible lifestyle as well!

You can read more about Jay and me here!

Or connect with me on Facebook or in our house-sitting community on Facebook.

• LinkedIn
• Facebook

The post Becoming a Ghost Writer That’s Makes $250,000 – $500,00 Per Project – Alex Cody Foster appeared first on The Travelling House Sitters Professional Housesitting Services.

Reduce accommodation costs and lower your daily cost of travel. To find out how to save money on a trip to Switzerland, keep reading as we share seven tips!

1. Sleep for Cheap

Housesitting

Housesitting is a great way to save on accommodation in Europe. Not only will you sleep somewhere for free, but you’ll even get paid.

However, there are responsibilities that come with housesitting. You’ll be able to explore Switzerland as long as you’re also able to perform the duties expected of you.

Couchsurfing

Once you pay for a Couchsurfing membership, you can sleep on other people’s couches for free. This is one of the few free ways to sleep in Switzerland.

Agrotourismus

Use Agrotourismus to find Swiss holiday farms.

The cost is comparable to that of a hostel. However, it’s a cool experience to sleep on a farm. And breakfast is included!

Hostels

Swiss youth hostels are an extremely affordable form of accommodation. You’ll rarely find a fancy hostel, but you will be able to find clean hostels that are perfect for sleeping.

Holiday Homes

You can rent a holiday home in several places in Switzerland. Look on Airbnb, Booking.com, Interhome, or e-domizil. 

This can be a pricey option, but it’s great for families or groups of friends. It can be cheaper than buying 5 budget hotel rooms if you’re traveling in a pack!

Also, you’ll generally have access to a full kitchen which will make it easy to eat at home.

Camping

Some people would never dream of camping while on holiday. However, if you enjoy camping, you can save so much money.

2. Eat Affordably

Cook Your Meals

Save money on food by cooking at home. If you stay at a place with a full kitchen, this will be pretty easy!

If you’re not able to cook a full meal, consider microwaveable meals. Or you can make sandwiches and eat lots of raw produce.

If you like to snack, pick hearty snacks to munch on and fill you up!

Eat During Lunch Hours

Many Swiss restaurants offer discounts on their food during lunchtime. If you have a foodie soul who wants to try out new restaurants in Switzerland, eat off the lunch menu!

Shop at the Market

Aldi and Lidl are affordable supermarkets in Switzerland.

Farmer’s markets are also a great place to go shopping for local food. You can also try free samples at many of these markets!

In some Swiss cities, Ässbar is becoming popular. This is the practice of selling baked goods for dirt cheap before they expire.

You can find Ässbar in St. Gallen, Winterthur, Zurich, Bern, Fribourg, and Basel.

Drink for Free

Free tap water can be found at drinking fountains all over Switzerland. Bring your trusty reusable water bottle to refill it for free.

You’ll be hydrated throughout your stay!

3. Plan Ahead

Travel in the off Season

Avoid traveling during peak tourist season. Not only will you avoid crowds of tourists, but you’ll save tons of money.

Accommodation will be cheaper since it’s not in high demand. You may notice other prices dropping since most of the business will be done with locals.

Find Deals

By planning ahead, you can find good deals.

Which week has cheaper accommodation? When are flight tickets the cheapest?

If you keep an eye on attractions you’ll want to visit, you might even find a sale. If you can buy discounted tickets ahead of time, you’ll save extra money!

Save Your Money

If you know ahead of time that you’ll be traveling, you can start saving money.

By skipping your $5 coffee a few mornings now, you’ll have extra cash in Switzerland later. This is a great way to increase your travel budget.

4. Prepare Your Itinerary on a Budget

Avoid Tourist Spots

Tourist attractions are fun, but they charge a lot. It’s easy to blow your budget by visiting these places.

However, there are so many fun things you can do besides visit these hot spots.

Find Free Activities

Some museums have free entry and a lot have free entry on select dates. This is also true of many zoos and wildlife parks.

Swiss cities have “green oases” or city parks and gardens that locals and tourists love to visit. You’ll see so many plant species (and maybe some wildlife) while enjoying a free activity.

It can also be fun to just explore downtown areas and historical districts. If you think about going on a tour, do it independently instead.

This will save so much money!

A lot of factory tours offer free samples. This might not be a free activity, but it’s a free way to fill up on snacks, especially at Swiss chocolate factories.

And obviously, go for a hike. Visit a lake or a waterfall. Switzerland is known for its natural beauty so go explore it!

5. Free and Cheap Transport

Free Public Transport

In some cities, you can use public transport for free. In Bern, Lucern, Basel, and more, you can get free transport along with your accommodation.

If you stay in the Canton of Ticino, you can receive an all-inclusive ticket. This includes free transport and discounts on other transportation, like cable cars.

You can also receive discounts on local activities! Many cities are starting to offer similar perks so ask the concierge at your hotel!

Ride a Bike

A lot of cities offer free bike rentals. Zurich is especially popular for this. However, Bern, Geneva, and several other cities do this, too.

If you have your ID and a 20 CHF deposit, you can rent a bike for free. You’ll get your money back when you return it.

Some cities don’t offer free bike rentals, but you can still rent a bike. It may be a great way to save money!

6. Get a Swiss Travel Pass

A Swiss Travel Pass is a great way to spend money throughout your trip!

This pass includes unlimited panorama train tickets. You can also get unlimited travel by public transportation in over 90 cities and towns.

You can also get free or discounted access to mountain railways.

Plus it gets you free admission to over 500 museums!

There are a few different options to consider when making this purchase. That’s perfect for any type of traveler!

7. Get a City Tourism Card

Many cities offer city cards that will save you a bunch of money while you’re there. This is a good way to lower the cost of popular tourist destinations.

You can get discounted or free admission to many attractions and museums. Many of them also include free public transportation.

If you won’t be receiving a guest card from a hotel, this is worth looking into.

You can visit expensive countries without breaking the bank. Switzerland is a beautiful country that you can enjoy on a budget. 

After reading this, you can plan an affordable vacation to this European country!

Author: Britt

I am Britt. I have been house-sitting and pet-sitting for the past seven years. I have cared for 25 dogs, 35 cats, one turtle, and one rabbit over 80+ houses in 15 countries.

The opportunity to experience different homes, cultures, and communities has been extraordinary.

I’ve connected with homeowners seeking reliable sitters through house-sitting platforms like Aussie House Sitters and Trusted House Sitters. This unique way of living has allowed me to save money on accommodation, explore new cultures, and meet new people.

Being a member of these platforms has broadened my horizons and opened doors to short- and long-term house-sitting jobs. I’ve found joy in providing excellent pet care and ensuring the home is well-maintained.

I get many questions about how to start as a housesitter, so please reach out if you have any questions! I want everyone to enjoy this incredible lifestyle as well!

You can read more about Jay and me here!

Or connect with me on Facebook or in our house-sitting community on Facebook.

• LinkedIn
• Facebook

The post 7 Ways to Save Money on Accommodation in Switzerland appeared first on The Travelling House Sitters Professional Housesitting Services.

While every pet-sitting opportunity is different, there are some universal responsibilities. Keep reading to learn what responsibilities your potential clients will expect of you.

What Is A Pet Sitter?

A professional pet sitter will help care for pets when the pet owners need to leave their home. Maybe the pet owners work long hours or are going on vacation. Whatever the reason, they need some extra help providing pet care.

In these situation, owners may hire a sitter to help out with the pets.

What Does A Pet Sitter Do?

Pet sitters take care of pets and ensure they complete all the duties and care the homeowner normally would. To ensure you are covering all the bases when pet sitting I would suggest having a look at our pet sitter instructions document. This has dozens of questions which will ensure you have all the information to care the animals correctly. See the pet sitter instructions document.

Care For The Pet’s Physical Needs

Below are just some of the responsibilities as a pet sitter has. Note this isn’t an exhaustive list but some of the basic needs that need to be attended to.

• Sitters will provide fresh water and food for the pets.
• If the pet needs medication, the sitter will administer it.
• They often will take the dog out to use the restroom.
• For animals that don’t go outside for the restroom, the sitter will clean up after them. They may need to clean a litter box or a cage.
• Sitters may need to do an exercise routine with the pets. Different animals will need different types of exercise.
• Some animals will need to be groomed. 
• In an emergency, a pet sitter may need to bring the pet to the veterinarian’s office.

Care For The Pet’s Mental Needs

Sitters will use their knowledge of animal behavior to determine what the pets need.
Many animals need to be stimulated. Perhaps the sitter will play a game with them or take them for a walk.
Some animals will just need extra love and affection.

Communicate With The Owners

Sitters will also communicate with the owners. This is to ensure that the pets are receiving the care they need.

What Qualifications Does A Pet Sitter Need?

A pet sitter should be an animal lover who has experience with the daily care of animals. They should also be responsible and professional. Anyone providing pet-sitting services should have experience with animals or be willing to work.

If you have a good work ethic and attitude, you’re on the way to being a successful entrepreneur. If you understand how to take care of pets, you should consider becoming a pet sitter.

Experience with a wide range of animals is useful. However, if you only plan to work with dogs and cats, you don’t need experience with horses and lizards.

There are some trainings and certifications that you can participate in. This will show clients that you are trustworthy.

Do Pet Sitters Also Care For The House?

Some people will hire house sitters. House sitters will perform the duties of a pet sitter, but also care for the house. Maybe house sitters will water plants, stay with the pets overnight, or mow the grass.

If you’re interested in caring for more than pets, you may want to consider house-sitting, as well.

If you’re interested in becoming a pet sitter, you should consider it. It’s a fun way to make extra money! And you get to spend so much time with sweet pets!

Author: Britt

I am Britt. I have been house-sitting and pet-sitting for the past seven years. I have cared for 25 dogs, 35 cats, one turtle, and one rabbit over 80+ houses in 15 countries.

The opportunity to experience different homes, cultures, and communities has been extraordinary.

I’ve connected with homeowners seeking reliable sitters through house-sitting platforms like Aussie House Sitters and Trusted House Sitters. This unique way of living has allowed me to save money on accommodation, explore new cultures, and meet new people.

Being a member of these platforms has broadened my horizons and opened doors to short- and long-term house-sitting jobs. I’ve found joy in providing excellent pet care and ensuring the home is well-maintained.

I get many questions about how to start as a housesitter, so please reach out if you have any questions! I want everyone to enjoy this incredible lifestyle as well!

You can read more about Jay and me here!

Or connect with me on Facebook or in our house-sitting community on Facebook.

• LinkedIn
• Facebook

The post Pet Sitting Responsibilities appeared first on The Travelling House Sitters Professional Housesitting Services.

There are loads of ways you can find cheap accommodation across the EU. It takes a bit of organization and research but it can be done. From working in hostels to activities as cheap and fun as camping, there are many alternative options to staying at pricey hotels. 

Plenty of people do this every year, and you can be one of them. 

Work at Hostels

Working at a hostel is a lucrative option if you want to stay around the city areas. In most cases, a hostel will let you work and stay for free, and in most cases pay you a standard rate. This just depends on the hostel though. 

This is a good option if you already have your bartending license and have worked in a fast-paced environment—or at least can keep up! The only downside to this is that you’re stuck in one city for some time; however long you’ve agreed with your employer. 

House Sitting

House sitting is a popular and great way to travel slowly around Europe for free. There are endless amounts of opportunities on different websites offering up to three months of free accommodation.

There’s pretty much something for everyone on these sites, from watering plants to minding Dalmatians to minding a goat and a cat. Whatever you feel comfortable doing could end up staying in a beachside home in Malta for free.

Doing this sort of thing though takes tact and the ability to sell yourself to the person on the other end of that e-mail server. It takes the tenacity to say, “I am the right person to look after your pet”, which is what the person on the other end wants to hear.

If you’ve grown up with pets, or house-sitting before, or just feel that you can convince that person that you are the right person for the job, house-sitting is probably going to be the option for you. 

Here are a few websites you can have a look through:

Trusted Housesitters

Mind a home

Happy House Sitters

Nomador

Camping

In Europe, you can camp in most places because there are very few restrictions on camping in Europe. Always check the law for each country though, because some countries, like Italy, will fine you. 

Some of the off-the-beaten-track spots you can find yourself staying on across countries like Switzerland and Montenegro offer a special experience you wouldn’t get paying a pretty penny to stay at a hotel—of course, each serves their function; camping is mostly free.

Lithuania, Turkey, Finland, Armenia, Georgia, Belarus, and Moldova essentially have no restrictions on wild camping, so you could practically live in these places for free for months and no one would bat an eyelid—just be prepared.

Europe has a strong outdoors culture, so you’ll be able to find cheap and good quality camping equipment at places like Aldi or Lido. 

Some great camping spots I’ve listed below:

Tartaruga Camping, Zakynthos, Greece

D’Olde Kamp, Ansen, The Netherlands

Le Clos du Lac, Provence, France

Camping Mexico, Bregenz, Austria

Camping Camino de Santiago, Burgos, Spain

Woofing or Staying at Farms

Europe has a strong woofing culture where you can work on a farm and stay at a lodging for free. 

You won’t get paid that much, but you can stay from as little as two weeks to six months at some of these places. There are a variety of different websites that post ads wanting average people to work on a farm that you can scour through.

This makes a great immersive experience as well. These are just some sites that offer woofing experiences:

WWOOFing (World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms)

WorkAway

HelpX

Home Swaps

 A creative way to get yourself over to Europe is by doing a house swap. Essentially you agree to swap your home with someone over in Europe.

You wouldn’t normally exchange money in this instance, and you’d need a home you’re prepared to swap. 

Several websites facilitate this sort of exchange, some are free and others charge a premium, but just keep in mind that the accommodating is free. 

Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is a really niche accommodation option that’s only really suited for short-term stays. Generally, on these sorts of websites, even though the accommodation is free, the person that is allowing you to stay on their couch, or in their spare room for a couple of days only. 

Travel in the Shoulder-season

The shoulder seasons are spring and autumn—when accommodation isn’t going to be expensive for the skiers around winter time, and accommodation won’t be expensive for the beach-goers in Summer. 

Doing this is economical, because hotels, and flights, all drop down to reasonable prices. 

Avoiding the peak seasons can get you a really good deal. This takes planning! Book your flights nine months in advance. When visiting Europe, consider going in May or September instead of July and August when summer starts to crank up and other Europeans are going around traveling too. 

Stay in a Monastery

Monasteries, of all places, actually offer dorm rooms and cheap accommodation. There are some cheap and nice ones in Greece and Spain (and all over Europe really). You’ll find them sitting precariously on top of a view-whipped mountain so this will take a bit of research but they’re easy to come by (maybe not easy to get to). 

They can cost around $50 USD per night, but some only want a donation or might be free. 

Again, this is a different experience to add to your travels. 

Staying at Budget Chain Hotels

It’s possible to stay at budget hotels that can cost roughly $30 a night, which is as much as a cheap hostel can cost. The bonus to this is that you have your own room, unlike sharing with ten other people in a hostel. But this just depends on what you’re feeling and what’s local to you. 

The great thing about hotels is that you have the luxury of ordering food to your room and having breakfast at the hotel; Air BnBs won’t provide this for you (even though it’s in the name). Air BnBs aren’t all that cost-effective, because most places will want you to tidy up after yourself; you have to organize your own food; and most of them require a car to get to (if you’re staying somewhere unique). 

There are more benefits to paying that extra money for a hotel that will cover your cleaning, and breakfast every morning. But again—this just depends on what you value more, location, or not having to organize your own breakfast on holiday for a change. 

Asking Family Friends

We all know someone who knows someone who is staying in Berlin or has a house somewhere in Europe. This is a great option to get you started on your trip to Europe. Friends and family are good because they won’t charge you and will always tell you that you can stay for as long as you need. 

Of course, be sure to offer a donation, or offer to do the dishes, or clean: something to show your appreciation for them letting you stay. 

Author: Britt

I am Britt. I have been house-sitting and pet-sitting for the past seven years. I have cared for 25 dogs, 35 cats, one turtle, and one rabbit over 80+ houses in 15 countries.

The opportunity to experience different homes, cultures, and communities has been extraordinary.

I’ve connected with homeowners seeking reliable sitters through house-sitting platforms like Aussie House Sitters and Trusted House Sitters. This unique way of living has allowed me to save money on accommodation, explore new cultures, and meet new people.

Being a member of these platforms has broadened my horizons and opened doors to short- and long-term house-sitting jobs. I’ve found joy in providing excellent pet care and ensuring the home is well-maintained.

I get many questions about how to start as a housesitter, so please reach out if you have any questions! I want everyone to enjoy this incredible lifestyle as well!

You can read more about Jay and me here!

Or connect with me on Facebook or in our house-sitting community on Facebook.

• LinkedIn
• Facebook

The post How To Find Cheap Accommodation In Europe appeared first on The Travelling House Sitters Professional Housesitting Services.

Japan has some unique accommodation options that are worth knowing about before you fork out hundreds of dollars on hotels and the like. 

It’s worth diving into the culture while you’re there, and you’d be surprised what Japan has to offer in the realm of cheap accommodation. I’d recommend trying all of these while you’re there to fully immerse you in the experience but also because well, it’s worth saving as much as you can when you’re traveling. 

Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is a really niche accommodation option that’s only really suited for short-term stays and one of the pros of house sitting. Generally, on these sorts of websites, even though the accommodation is free, the person that is allowing you to stay on their couch, or in their spare room for a couple of days only.

This is a good option if you’re looking to hop from city to city through Japan or if you want to get your bearings for a short while before you head off again.

The whole sentiment behind Couchsurfing was to let travelers travel through cities for a few days at a time to help out travelers but also give people a fully immersive cultural experience.

This is a great option in Japan because it can give you a fully loaded experience living with a Japanese family, learning the language, eating the food, and living like a Japanese person would. 

House Sitting

House sitting is an exciting way to travel slowly around Japan for free. There are plenty of houses you can stay at all year round that suit everyone.

You can do pretty much anything, from watering plants to minding cats to feeding fish. Whatever you feel comfortable doing could wind you up in a beautiful Japanese home in Osaka! 

This does require the ability to sell yourself to the person you’re messaging though and if you know Japanese that helps too! The person on the other end of that message wants to hear that you are capable of minding their animal and that their beloved, precious pet will be in good hands if they let you (a stranger) stay at their house.

If you’ve grown up with pets or house-sat before, or just feel that you can do the job, house-sitting is probably going to be the option for you.

Here are a few websites you can have a look through:

• Trusted Housesitters
• Mind a home
• Happy House Sitters

Travel in the Shoulder-season of Off-Peak Seasons

The best time to go to Japan is in Winter when the crowds have died down and things tend to drop in price. This is Japan’s off-peak season, so if you like a snowy holiday (because you’re trying to save on accommodation and airfares), December to Mid-march is the best time to go. 

Doing this is economical, because hotels, and flights, all drop down to reasonable prices.

Book your Accommodation in Advance

Another thing to do is book your flights and accommodation months in advance.

This does take planning and organizing but half the reason why accommodation and airfares are so cheap when you book them in advance is that they’re not in demand as of yet—so companies can’t afford to charge high prices as of yet.

Capsule Hotels

Unique to Japan are capsule hotels or kapuseru hoteru pronounced in Japanese. In the West, they’re called pod hotels, but they were developed in Japan for short-term and affordable stays for people. They don’t come with much, but they come with everything you need for sleep. They’re like a luxurious airplane cabin. They’re functional and affordable and cost between $30 and $100. 

They can be found all over Japan, but mainly in the megacities. Some of these capsule rooms can be found in bathhouses. 

They are located near train stations and in the megacities so they’re easy to get to and are made accessible for travelers or people traveling on business. There are roughly 3000 of these complexes around the country. 

Manga Cafes or Manga Kissa

Manga cafes, as you can probably establish by the name, are cafes where you can spend time reading manga out of a library of the cafe’s collection. You can also use the internet in these cafes so they’re pretty much an Internet cafe. They’ve become popular accommodations over the years because some of them are open 24/7 and offer showers and free drink facilities for around $10 to USD 13 per night. 

There are women-only sections in these cafes as well. 

You’re charged by the amount of time you spend at the cafe. The longer you stay there the cheaper it is: 30 minutes is roughly $2 to $4 USD with additional charges if you stay over that time; 3 hours, $5 to $9 USD; and 5 to 8 hours, $10 to $13 USD. So, it makes sense that if you want to stay here overnight it’s best to rock up later.

24-Hours Baths or Sentos

Japan has a strong communal sauna and bathhouse culture. They are supposed to be tranquil spaces for people to relax and sometimes locals will stay at these spas if they’ve missed the last train home! People stay at these bathhouses overnight. The bath will normally provide things like soap, shampoo, and conditioner.

They sometimes come with capsules or sleeping cabins to sleep in. 

These bathhouses are open 24/7 and charge you around $35 to $250.

In Japan, tattoos are associated with organized crime, so most bathhouses don’t let you in if you have tattoos. Swimsuits are not allowed, you generally have to be in the nude, and you carry a towel with you while you’re walking around.

Ryokan

A ryokan is a Japanese-style inn that is scattered throughout the country. They offer dining as well. They are normally situated near hot springs (onsen) so some of them have a spa facility. 

The sleeping arrangements are normally done on the floor, with a thick futon, blanket, and pillow. This might sound strange to if you’ve never tried this before but it’s not extremely common to sleep on a futon on the floor in Japan and is worth trying while you’re in Japan to get a fully immersive Japanese experience.

Author: Britt

I am Britt. I have been house-sitting and pet-sitting for the past seven years. I have cared for 25 dogs, 35 cats, one turtle, and one rabbit over 80+ houses in 15 countries.

The opportunity to experience different homes, cultures, and communities has been extraordinary.

I’ve connected with homeowners seeking reliable sitters through house-sitting platforms like Aussie House Sitters and Trusted House Sitters. This unique way of living has allowed me to save money on accommodation, explore new cultures, and meet new people.

Being a member of these platforms has broadened my horizons and opened doors to short- and long-term house-sitting jobs. I’ve found joy in providing excellent pet care and ensuring the home is well-maintained.

I get many questions about how to start as a housesitter, so please reach out if you have any questions! I want everyone to enjoy this incredible lifestyle as well!

You can read more about Jay and me here!

Or connect with me on Facebook or in our house-sitting community on Facebook.

• LinkedIn
• Facebook

The post How To Find Cheap Accommodation In Japan appeared first on The Travelling House Sitters Professional Housesitting Services.

You can start by looking at which areas are cheaper than others. Brooklyn, Jersey City, Queens, and Newark are four areas located east and west of Lower Manhattan that offer significantly cheaper hotels.

However, there are even cheaper options than hotels, so if you’re a good organizer and love planning ahead these options below will be right up your alley.

Home Swaps

A creative and worthwhile way to get yourself over to New York is by house swapping. Loads of websites facilitate this sort of exchange. Some websites are free and others charge a premium, but just keep in mind that the accommodation is free. You don’t need to offer any money.

You can upload your property and see if you get any takers. This option is good if you own your home or an apartment that is suitable to swap.

House Sitting

House sitting is an affordable way to travel slowly around New York for free and a good alternative to renting or Airbnbs. There are plenty of job ads posted year-round to suit all different people.

You can do pretty much anything, from watering plants to minding cats to feeding fish or a couple of pups. Whatever you feel comfortable doing could end up staying at a quaint apartment in Brooklyn for free.

This does require the ability to sell yourself to the person you’re messaging though. The person on the other end of that message wants to hear that you are capable of minding their animal and that their beloved, precious pet will be in good hands if they let you (a stranger) stay at their house.

If you’ve grown up with pets or house-sitting before, or just feel that you can do the job, house-sitting is probably going to be the option for you.

Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is a really niche accommodation option that’s only really suited for short-term stays and when I say short-term I mean a few days at a time. The stay is free, and you’ll be staying on a couch or a small nook in the house, so it won’t be as comfortable as staying at an Airbnb where you have the whole house to yourself. But it is free.

The whole sentiment behind Couchsurfing was to let travelers travel through cities for a few days at a time as a helping hand in a cultural immersive experience. 

This is a great option for New York because you can meet some well-traveled and cultured people and stay at some extraordinary apartments in town.

This is a good option if you’re looking to cruise through New York, get your bearings for a few days, and make friends. You just need to make a profile on the website. 

Travel in the Shoulder-season of Off-Peak Seasons

The shoulder seasons in New York are April to June and September to early November. The weather is still good around this time, and the streets aren’t as crowded with other tourists. 

Traveling during off-peak seasons is economical, because hotels, and flights, all drop down to reasonable prices anywhere you go. 

This takes a bit of organization and planning though! Book your flights and accommodation months in advance. When visiting New York, consider going in Autumn or Spring when everyone else is still working through the year and hasn’t gone on their holidays yet. 

Woofing at Hostels and Working in Hospitality

Worldpackers offers a range of different work and stay experiences. Several ads on worldpackers.com advertise reception and hostel work with free meals and accommodation. 

Hostel Jobs in New York also offers a range of different jobs over the city where you can work at a hostel. 

For this, you need a working holiday visa though, so check what you’re county’s visas are. 

Staying at a Hostel

Hostels can be cheap options and can vary in price. Hostels are clean and safe and you can generally choose an all-female or all-male dorm.

The prices vary from $30 to $120 a night, as you can probably imagine, the more expensive dorms are more expensive locations, and if you want a private room that’s obviously going to be more expensive.

Buy a Travel Bundle

Buying your flights and accommodation together can help save money. Of course you are restricted in a lot of ways by doing this but if the package deal suits you, this is a really good way to save money on your travels and score some cheaper accommodation in New York. 

These deals will normally offer decent layovers with extras that you wouldn’t otherwise get if you were to book everything individually, so it can be worth it sometimes doing it this way. 

Going into a travel branch where you can sit down a chat with the staff might score you some extra deals that you might not be able to find online on your own. 

Author: Britt

I am Britt. I have been house-sitting and pet-sitting for the past seven years. I have cared for 25 dogs, 35 cats, one turtle, and one rabbit over 80+ houses in 15 countries.

The opportunity to experience different homes, cultures, and communities has been extraordinary.

I’ve connected with homeowners seeking reliable sitters through house-sitting platforms like Aussie House Sitters and Trusted House Sitters. This unique way of living has allowed me to save money on accommodation, explore new cultures, and meet new people.

Being a member of these platforms has broadened my horizons and opened doors to short- and long-term house-sitting jobs. I’ve found joy in providing excellent pet care and ensuring the home is well-maintained.

I get many questions about how to start as a housesitter, so please reach out if you have any questions! I want everyone to enjoy this incredible lifestyle as well!

You can read more about Jay and me here!

Or connect with me on Facebook or in our house-sitting community on Facebook.

• LinkedIn
• Facebook

The post Ways To Find Cheap Accommodation In New York City appeared first on The Travelling House Sitters Professional Housesitting Services.

Look no further. Here are a bunch of ways you can score free accommodation in a country that’s already fairly cheap when you compare its currency to the American standard. 

There are a number of alternatives you can look at to expensive hotels, even though they serve their purpose in some regard. (It’s always nice to splurge once in a while). 

Before going to Mexico, make sure (like anywhere you go) to learn a bit of Spanish. It can go a long way when trying to score yourself some free accommodation!

House Sitting

House sitting is an affordable way to travel slowly around Mexico for free. There are plenty of job ads posted year-round to suit all different people.

You can do pretty much anything, from watering plants to minding cats to feeding fish or a couple of pups. Whatever you feel comfortable doing could end up staying in a beachside home in Cancun for free.

This does require the ability to sell yourself to the person you’re messaging though.

The person on the other end of that message wants to hear that you are capable of minding their animal and that their beloved, precious pet will be in good hands if they let you (a stranger) stay at their house. 

If you’ve grown up with pets or house sat before, or just feel that you are able to do the job, house-sitting is probably going to be the option for you.

Here Are a Few Websites You Can Have a Look Through:

• Trusted Housesitters
• Mind a home
• Happy House Sitters
• Nomador

Volunteering

There are a handful of reliable and trustworthy websites that you can look through to find volunteering options in Mexico that will offer you free accommodation alongside your work.

These are mostly non-for-profit organizations looking for extra hands to help do humanitarian work. They will always offer cheap or free accommodation. 

Websites to look at:

• Goverseas.com
• Worldpackers.com
• Volunteerhq.org
• voluntouring.org

This is a great experience if you’re looking to immerse yourself in a true Mexican experience, and you’re generally doing something beneficial as well.

This sort of work is good for the heart and soul, so if you’re that way inclined and want to try volunteering, messaging the appropriate organizations is probably a good short-mid term. 

Things to do include:

• conservation projects for wildlife
• teaching English to primary school kids
• looking after young children
• setting up solar power in rural communities
• other humanitarian work.

Woofing and Farm Work

Working on farms is another option you can do in Mexico, if this is something you prefer. Jobs can last from two weeks to six months, and it normally involves farm work.

So if you don’t like this sort of lifestyle, this option probably isn’t for you, but if you don’t mind getting your hands dirty in this sort of arena, then you can get free accommodation and meals while working around six hours a day. 

This Makes a Great Immersive Experience as Well. These Are Just Some Sites That Offer Woofing Experiences:

• WWOOFing (World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms)
• WorkAway
• HelpX

Yachting

If you like the boat life or had any experience with boating or want to dip your toes in the water, (no pun intended), it’d be worth opting for yachting in Mexico.

Trips can last up to four months (or the whole season), and you get to live on the boat for free and eat for free—plus in most cases be paid generously.

It’s hard work working on a boat, so if you’ve had experience in this department, this is definitely an option for you. 

Camping

Campgrounds are not that expensive in Mexico and camping in the wilderness is free. Campsites can cost anywhere between $5 and $20 USD per night and the campgrounds have facilities, like showers and firewood.

You might have to pay a parking fee or a few other private chargers that the campgrounds charge.

I’m not recommending anyone camp in the wilderness without preparation; obviously, do this if you have the type of skill level, but it won’t cost you anything to wild camp in Mexico and no one should come and bother you.

You can even camp on the beach for free in Mexico and along the Baja coastline, there are facilities for campers.

With either of those options: camping wild or staying at a campground, respect the land, take your trash with you, and be courteous to other travelers.

Home Swaps

A creative way to get yourself over to Mexico is by house swapping. There are loads of websites that facilitate this sort of exchange.

Some websites are free and others charge a premium, but just keep in mind that the accommodation is free. You don’t need to offer any money.

You can upload your property and see if you get any takers. This option is good if you own your home or an apartment that is suitable to swap.

Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is really great accommodation option that’s only really suited for short-term stays. Generally, on these sorts of websites, even though the accommodation is free, the person that is allowing you to stay on their couch, or in their spare room for a couple of days only.

This is a good option if you’re looking to cruise through a city or town for a short while and head off again.

Travel in the Shoulder-Season of Off-Peak Seasons

The shoulder seasons are July and August and the off-peak seasons are May and June and September to November.

Doing this is economical, because hotels, and flights, all drop down to reasonable prices.

Avoiding the peak seasons can get you a really good deal. This takes a bit of organization and planning ahead!

Book your flights and accommodation months in advance. When visiting Mexico, consider going in May or September instead of July and August when summer starts to crank up and Americans are going on their holidays too.

Author: Britt

I am Britt. I have been house-sitting and pet-sitting for the past seven years. I have cared for 25 dogs, 35 cats, one turtle, and one rabbit over 80+ houses in 15 countries.

The opportunity to experience different homes, cultures, and communities has been extraordinary.

I’ve connected with homeowners seeking reliable sitters through house-sitting platforms like Aussie House Sitters and Trusted House Sitters. This unique way of living has allowed me to save money on accommodation, explore new cultures, and meet new people.

Being a member of these platforms has broadened my horizons and opened doors to short- and long-term house-sitting jobs. I’ve found joy in providing excellent pet care and ensuring the home is well-maintained.

I get many questions about how to start as a housesitter, so please reach out if you have any questions! I want everyone to enjoy this incredible lifestyle as well!

You can read more about Jay and me here!

Or connect with me on Facebook or in our house-sitting community on Facebook.

• LinkedIn
• Facebook

The post How to Get Free Accommodation in Mexico appeared first on The Travelling House Sitters Professional Housesitting Services.

It’s not impossible to score free accommodation while you’re over in Italy floating through the Venetian canals or the baroque cathedrals in Milan. In fact, you don’t have to fork out €120 a night to stay at some over-priced hotel.

There are other ways to spend your hard-earned cash and it doesn’t have to be on pricey accommodation. It’s an opportunity where you can stay with friendly locals, like a local!

It can be tricky though. Below I’ve outlined a couple of ways you can stay in Italy (or anywhere for that matter) for free.

House Sitting

House sitting has taken off over the last few years, with more and more people needing to be away for work and needing someone to mind their pet(s) while they’re away.

House sitting assignments in Italy can be very competitive. The key to your success in scoring a sit is to show the owner how capable and experienced you are in taking care of animals.

If you’ve had pets or minded a friend’s pet in the past; this sort of information comes in handy and it’s the sort of information the host ought to know.

AU Pairing/Demi Pairing

Au pairing is popular in Italy (as it is across the whole of Europe). An au pair is someone who lives with the family, takes care of the kids and does light house duties for the family.

An au pair works on a full-time basis and a demi pair is someone who works on a part-time basis.

It’s normal in Europe for a family to hire an English-speaking au pair, so the kids can learn English, and they’ll want you to speak English to the kids.

There are loads of au pairing sites that list unique opportunities so it’s quite easy to find something that would suit you. The jobs normally go from six months to a year.

The work varies from family to family, but an au pair works 25-30 hours a week. They might require you to cook dinner a few nights a week, do laundry, or help the kids out with their homework.

You get free accommodation, meals (obviously), and usually an allowance. The host will give you your own private room and free time.

So it’s a great way to experience the culture first-hand, learn the language, and save a bit of money for your travels without paying for accommodation.

It can be useful to have a driver’s license, first aid qualification, or an early years diploma but not every listing might require these.

This is a really safe option because the families are vetted by an agency. Likewise, every agency will screen you as well prior to meeting a family.

This option may also require a working visa!

Here Are Some AU Pairing Sites:

AU Pair World

Au Pair World is one of the biggest agencies in the au pair space on the internet. Signing up is free, and it doesn’t cost to find a family.

AU Pair Butrfly

Au Pair Butrfly is a very reputable French agency and is free to join. There are two options you can choose on this site. You can be a Certified Au Pair or a Regular Au Pair.

A Certified Au Pair goes through a screening process which requires you to sit through an interview and get verified by the site. This just adds a layer of verification to your profile and doesn’t necessarily take away from your chances of matching with a family.

Aupair.com

Aupair.com is a global au pair agency and has been around for around 20 years. It’s free to join but if you want to be matched with a family you need to sign onto the Premium setting and once you’ve done that you can freely message any family.

CouchSurfing

A free accommodation option is CouchSurfing. CouchSurfing is an online community where members offer up their spare rooms, air mattresses or couches to other travelers for short-term stays for free.

It’s a global site with the vision to encourage cultural exchange and to help travelers connect with other travelers. The site has meet-up options as well for events if you want to cruise around the city and meet people.

Couch surfing is a good short-term option. You can’t stay at one of these places for more than three to four days at a time.

The site wasn’t designed for that, so if you’re going to take this option be aware that it’s for very short-term stays only, and asking for a longer stay from your host will be seen as an odd request!

There are risks that come with free stays. There have been situations where travelers have been caught up in awkward living situations or their host has been unfavorable.

In any case, you can always vet the host by looking at the reviews and doing your due diligence.

Making an account and booking is free and it’s a fairly safe and reputable community.

The Hospitality Club

Similar to Couchsurfing, The Hospitality Club is a social networking site that offers travelers a cultural exchange for free.

It’s pretty popular in Italy as well. It’s mostly run by volunteers with a pure mission to assist travelers and make long-lasting connections.

Hosts don’t charge the lodgers for accommodation, and they build their reputation through reviews.

Italian Volunteer Organizations

There are plenty of Italian volunteering organizations that offer free accommodation alongside 25 hours of work a week.

The jobs differ depending on what the host needs, but it could be anything from gardening to handyman jobs, to organic farming.

Normally they will provide two meals a day as well, and the length of the jobs can vary from 2 days to three months.

This is an excellent way to experience Italian culture and see Italy’s countryside that you wouldn’t otherwise see going about your average touristy trip.

Each job differs but some easy websites to start are:

• workaway.com
• volunteerforever.com
• worldpackers.com
• Helpstay.com
• Freevolunteering.com

Friends and Family Networks

There have been way too many times on my travels when I’ve fretted about a place to stay only to have remembered about a friend of a friend who lives close to where I’m traveling.

Ask your Mum and Dad about any contacts in Italy.

Becoming friends with people from Italy can open so many doors. If you’ve ever met a traveler and become good friends, it becomes a given that you would invite them to your house and let them stay.

It’s a beautiful notion to maintain healthy relationships because you never know when you’ll find yourself in on the other side of the world in need of a generous pillow on which to rest your head.

House Swapping

Swapping your house with someone online can be a great option if you have a home that you can willingly swap. There are tonnes of active listings on house-swapping sites where neither party is expected to fork out any cash for the exchange.

This is a good option if you’re a little bit older and own your home, or you have a rented property that you’d be paying rent for regardless.

Swap like for like. If you have a one-bedroom apartment, you message someone else who has a one-bedroom apartment.

It never hurts to expand your search, you never know, there might be someone who has a family home, that actually wants to stay in a one-bedroom apartment in the city! Just be open to varying possibilities.

Woofing and Workaway

Sites like worldpacker.com and workaway.com have tonnes of active listings in Italy where you could be picking olives, and tomatoes, or working on an organic farm for 25 hours a week, but you get free accommodation and you get to meet other like-minded travelers.

It’s a great way to make long-lasting connections with fellow travelers and locals and it’s a fun environment to work in!

Most of the hosts are vetted by the sites, and there is lot of information on the listings as to what kind of work is going to be expected of you—so only apply for what brings joy!

Make sure you know exactly where you’re going when you apply for the trip. There’s nothing worse than applying for a job and realizing later that you need to get a €120 Uber out to the farm.

Some more reputable farms advertise themselves all year round so the farmer might even organise a lift from a certain area and collect a few people at once. Just ask.

And keep your options open! There are loads of opportunities out there, it doesn’t hurt to message a few people and get chatting.

Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is good option if you’re looking to hop from city to city through Italian or if you wanting to get your bearings for a short while before you head off again.

It’s really niche accommodation option that’s great for short-term stays: a few days at a time. It’s free and generally, you’re sleeping on a couch or something of that nature.

The whole sentiment behind Couchsurfing was to let travelers travel through cities for a few days at a time to help out travelers but also give people a fully immersive cultural experience.

This is a great option for Italy because you can fully immerse yourself in the Italian lifestyle for a few days!

Agriturismo

Agricultural tourism is popular in Italy, even with the locals, and it’s a great way to see the Italian countryside.

These are farm mansions camouflaged in the country surrounded by pastures and mountains. There are some really gorgeous farm stays in Tuscany and throughout the inland.

This isn’t the cheapest, but it’s a must try while you’re in Italy and if you go in off-peak season you can normally get a really good deal.

Work on a Farm

Similar to woofing, you get to work on a farm and the host will offer you free accommodation for five or six hours of work a day. Olive picking farms, tomato canning, solar farming, and overall property management are all options available in Italy.

Workaway.com or workpacker.com are both websites that have many viable options for Italian jobs.

Camp

There are some camp grounds that you can pay between $10 to $20 a night and you get all the amenities like showers and fire pits.There are also free camp spots in italy.

Wild camping is pretty much illegal in Italy except in Tuscany, they have a term called “temporary night bivouac” where you can set up a tent only for the night, generally from 20:00 to 8:00 in the morning.

Book a Relocation Car

You can book a relocation motorhome for a $1 a day and pay a bond security deposit. The company gives you 3 to 5 days to get from one depot to the other, which usually means one city to another.

You need to have your driver’s license for this and the security deposit which can normally be about $1000.

But you can choose a motorhome, which includes the kitchen and bed, so for three to five days you get super cheap accommodation, and you can take your time travelling along the way.

Travel in the Shoulder-Season of Off-Peak Seasons

The best time to go to Italy is in Winter, November through to February, when the crowds have died down and things tend to drop in price. The shoulder seasons in Italy are April, and May; and the first couple of weeks of June; September; and October.

It’s economical to do this because hotels, and flights but also a good idea to look for cheaper alternatives to hostels like house swapping, all drop down to reasonable prices and even though you’re not going to have that Renaissance-painting summer glow, you get far cheaper accommodation.

Book Your Accommodation in Advance

Another thing to do is book your flights and accommodation months in advance.

This does take planning ahead and organizing but half the reason why accommodation and airfares are so cheap when you book them in advance is that they’re not in demand as of yet—so companies can’t really afford to charge high prices as of yet.

Become an AU Pair

Europe, especially Italy, has a massive au pair culture. Au pairing is a great option if you’re a girl under 30 and a wonderful alternative to staying in a hostel.

You live in a family home and mind children. Duties can include light house duties, speaking to the kids in English, taking the kids to school, or cooking dinner a few nights a week.

You get paid an allowance and you don’t pay any rent, you get a private room to yourself and you always get some downtime.

You might need a working holiday visa to do this through an agency, and it helps if you have your driver’s license.

There are loads of au pairing agencies that take on new au pairs all the time. The agencies screen each family and nanny before pairing them.

Au pairing is probably the safest option—you get free accommodation, get to experience an authentic Italian culture and get paid a little allowance so you can travel afterward.

Author: Britt

I am Britt. I have been house-sitting and pet-sitting for the past seven years. I have cared for 25 dogs, 35 cats, one turtle, and one rabbit over 80+ houses in 15 countries.

The opportunity to experience different homes, cultures, and communities has been extraordinary.

I’ve connected with homeowners seeking reliable sitters through house-sitting platforms like Aussie House Sitters and Trusted House Sitters. This unique way of living has allowed me to save money on accommodation, explore new cultures, and meet new people.

Being a member of these platforms has broadened my horizons and opened doors to short- and long-term house-sitting jobs. I’ve found joy in providing excellent pet care and ensuring the home is well-maintained.

I get many questions about how to start as a housesitter, so please reach out if you have any questions! I want everyone to enjoy this incredible lifestyle as well!

You can read more about Jay and me here!

Or connect with me on Facebook or in our house-sitting community on Facebook.

• LinkedIn
• Facebook

The post How to Find Cheap Accommodation in Italy appeared first on The Travelling House Sitters Professional Housesitting Services.

There are loads of cheaper accommodation options you can take on for a small exchange of your time. These take a bit of organizing but are well worth the fun (and the savings).

House Sitting

House sitting is an affordable way to travel slowly around Hawaii for free. There are plenty of job ads posted year-round to suit all different people.

You can do pretty much anything, from watering plants to minding cats to feeding fish or a couple of pups. Whatever you feel comfortable doing could end up staying at a quaint apartment in Maui for free.

This does require the ability to communicate well though. The person on the other end of that message wants to hear that their beloved pet is going to be in safe hands.

If you’ve grown up with pets or house sat before, or just feel that you are able to do the job, house-sitting is probably going to be the option for you.

Here Are a Few Websites You Can Have a Look Through:

• Trusted Housesitters
• Mind a home
• Happy House Sitters

Couchsurfing

The whole idea behind Couchsurfing was to help like-minded travelers who are passing through a town or city and just need a couple of days to get their bearings. Hawaii has some nice options scattered throughout the island.

Couchsurfing is really awesome accommodation option that’s only really suited for short-term stays and when I say short-term I mean a few days.

The stay is free, and you’ll be staying on a couch or a small nook in the house and you get to meet people and learn a bit of the culture while you’re staying there. 

Camping

While camping is a fun experience, and slightly cheaper and more economical than staying at a hotel, you can’t camp just anywhere in Hawaii. There are designated camping grounds at state and country parks and you need a permit. 

The cost of permits is $32 for a 3-day site and $52 for a 5-day site and you need to be at least 18 years old to get one. You’re only allowed two tents and three vehicles per permit.

I’d recommend reading the Hawaiian government website for more information about camping. And you can purchase a permit here.

Hawaii is a beautiful country with a lot of beachside and mountainous landscape views to take in, so I do recommend camping. Some great spots in Kauai are Waimea Canyon, Hanalei Bay and Ke’e Beach; and in Maui, Haleakala National Park.

Instead of Airbnb I’d recommend Hicamp. There are tonnes of unique camping places on this website.

They can cost between $30 – $50 a night but come with all the amenities, like showers and a place to cook, so it’s a little more comfortable than just camping in the wild and even though it’s not dirt cheap, at least you get all the bits and pieces to be comfortable!

Travel in the Shoulder-Season of Off-Peak Seasons

The best time to go to Hawaii when the weather is generally pretty good, tourism is cheap, and the crowds have dissolved, is the shoulder seasons; April and May; and September and October. Of course, it won’t be summerly hot, but it will be cheaper!

During Spring and Fall, you’re going to get the cheapest accommodation, and airfares for that matter. Definitely avoid going around December or the holiday season. 

Doing this is economical, because hotels, and flights, all drop down to reasonable prices.

Book Your Accommodation in Advance

Another thing to do is book your flights and accommodation months in advance.

This involves a bit of planning ahead and organizing but half the reason why accommodation and airfares are so cheap when you book them in advance is that they’re not in demand as of yet—so companies can’t really afford to charge high prices.

Volunteer in Hawaii

In Hawaii, the state established a volunteering program where applicants can volunteer and receive a night free at a hotel. It’s called the Malama program and it’s still available in 2023.

Volunteering activities include wildlife and rainforest conservation, cleaning up beaches, reforestation, and agricultural work. There are loads of things you can choose from. 

Workaway is a website that facilitates voluntourism exchanges. You can pay $50 and get a year’s worth of free accommodation for doing volunteer work. 

 Workpackers.com is the same. 

Work Exchange in Hawaii

There are plenty of work exchange activities that you can do in Hawaii where you’re given a room and meals in return for helping out. Doing work exchange keeps you busy as a traveler and is a great way to immerse yourself in authentic Hawaiian culture. 

Most of these stays require you to stay for a minimum amount of time, so there is commitment involved in doing these sorts of stays.

HelpStay

Help Stay is a great website if you’re looking to do some casual help in exchange for food and a room.

Help Stay do charge a yearly fee though. It’s 42 Euros for a one-year membership, so it’s a good deal if you’re definitely planning a long stint away in Hawaii where you’d probably be paying at least a few thousand in hotels. 

Light House Duties 

These jobs can include helping at a small inn or helping an elder person around the house. In return, you’re given either full board, half board, and meals.

This sort of work is more casual and you will be living with a family or someone, but a great experience if you’re looking for cheap accommodation.

Work at Bee Farm

In Haleakala, Maui there is a Bee Sanctuary that is looking for volunteers to help set up their bee farm. The accommodation is an off-grid camp with an outdoor kitchen and private showers.

It’s a 3-week minimum stay and an expected 25 hours of work a week from participants, usually 5 hours a day over 5 days.

Some of the jobs at this farm include:

• Herb & Flower Garden – beautification for visitors, creates new sources for bees
• Gift Shop – selling products and interacting with the public
• Road stand – shaved ice and food for locals and tourists
• Online Promotion – helping with social media, the website, and the online store
• Food Gardens – caring for the vegetable beds
• Beekeeping – helping with the honeybees and harvesting honey
• Learning how to make products – make products that we sell such as lotion bars, candles, lip balms, jewelry, and any other crafts that we can think of to contribute to our road stand
• Construction – Using re-purposed shipping pallets to build structures, building beehives
• Painting – artistic painting for beautification and making signs

Organic and Vegan Farming

In North Kohula, Big Island a non-profit vegan organization hosts educational farming experiences for anyone who wants to help. They offer free accommodation and require 30 hours per week of work. They accept volunteers from April to December.

This is a community-based, self-sustaining lifestyle where you learn to grow and cook vegan food. 

Author: Britt

I am Britt. I have been house-sitting and pet-sitting for the past seven years. I have cared for 25 dogs, 35 cats, one turtle, and one rabbit over 80+ houses in 15 countries.

The opportunity to experience different homes, cultures, and communities has been extraordinary.

I’ve connected with homeowners seeking reliable sitters through house-sitting platforms like Aussie House Sitters and Trusted House Sitters. This unique way of living has allowed me to save money on accommodation, explore new cultures, and meet new people.

Being a member of these platforms has broadened my horizons and opened doors to short- and long-term house-sitting jobs. I’ve found joy in providing excellent pet care and ensuring the home is well-maintained.

I get many questions about how to start as a housesitter, so please reach out if you have any questions! I want everyone to enjoy this incredible lifestyle as well!

You can read more about Jay and me here!

Or connect with me on Facebook or in our house-sitting community on Facebook.

• LinkedIn
• Facebook

The post How to Find Cheap Accommodation in Hawaii appeared first on The Travelling House Sitters Professional Housesitting Services.

I have looked after animals and homes in New Zealand, Australia, Italy, France, Greece, Montenegro, Malaysia, Thailand, Ireland, The UK, and a cat on a catamaran in the Caribbean!

The House Sitting Passion: My journey began with a deep passion for travel. I had already explored various corners of the globe independently before discovering this unique way of life.

I was drawn to the idea of not just seeing new places but truly immersing myself in them by house sitting. The prospect of caring for different homes and the pets that came with them was both thrilling and deeply satisfying.

Discovering a Passion for Travel: My love for adventure and exploration was the spark that ignited my remarkable journey. Before embarking on my house sitting odyssey, I had already explored various countries.

But there was always that missing piece—the feeling of being truly at home, of forming deep connections not just with people but with animals too.

The Birth of the Traveling House Sitter: What sets my journey apart from conventional travelers is my deep-rooted love for food, wine, markets, animals, and immersing myself in diverse cultures. In 2015, I took a bold step by booking a one-way ticket to London, kickstarting my journey as a house sitter.

Over the next two years, I not only explored 25 different countries across Europe and Africa but also developed an insatiable passion for culinary delights and travel while living and working in London.

The Missing Companionship: While my travels were awe-inspiring, I began to feel something was missing—the companionship of animals. Growing up with dogs, cats, fish, and birds had instilled in me a deep love for creatures big and small.

Balancing a nomadic lifestyle with pet ownership seemed challenging until I stumbled upon the concept of house sitting through a friend’s recommendation.

The House Sitting Adventure Continues: My initial house-sitting experience, just down the road from my London flat, was a resounding success. This newfound passion prompted me to explore more house-sitting opportunities, and soon I found myself house sitting my way around Dublin while working full-time. The positive experiences in Ireland solidified my resolve to take this unique path even further.

The Path to Freedom: To fully embrace the house-sitting lifestyle, I realized the importance of upskilling myself to work online. This shift in my career provided me with the freedom to house-sit anywhere in the world without any strings attached.

In the span of six years, my journey as a house sitter has been nothing short of extraordinary. Through my adventures, I’ve not only explored the globe but also discovered the profound joy of connecting with animals and the warmth of diverse cultures.

Author: Britt

I am Britt. I have been house-sitting and pet-sitting for the past seven years. I have cared for 25 dogs, 35 cats, one turtle, and one rabbit over 80+ houses in 15 countries.

The opportunity to experience different homes, cultures, and communities has been extraordinary.

I’ve connected with homeowners seeking reliable sitters through house-sitting platforms like Aussie House Sitters and Trusted House Sitters. This unique way of living has allowed me to save money on accommodation, explore new cultures, and meet new people.

Being a member of these platforms has broadened my horizons and opened doors to short- and long-term house-sitting jobs. I’ve found joy in providing excellent pet care and ensuring the home is well-maintained.

I get many questions about how to start as a housesitter, so please reach out if you have any questions! I want everyone to enjoy this incredible lifestyle as well!

You can read more about Jay and me here!

Or connect with me on Facebook or in our house-sitting community on Facebook.

• LinkedIn
• Facebook

The post My Six Years of House Sitting Experiences appeared first on The Travelling House Sitters Professional Housesitting Services.

Back in 2014, the original owner of Proofread Anywhere (Caitlin) managed to earn just over $43,000 as a freelance proofreader, all while travelling and living life as she pleased.

Proofreading offers the opportunity to have flexible job or side hustle. All you require to start your journey as a proofreader is a laptop or tablet, an internet connection, and an eye for identifying errors in content.

The demand for proofreaders is exceptionally high, and the beauty of it is that you can do it from the comfort of your home or while traveling. The most common type of proofreading work is for blog posts, print articles, academic papers, website copy, advertising materials, and more.

In this interview with Reyne, you’ll learn more about how to get started, how much money you can earn and what sort of qualifications you need (if any).

One of the perks that freelance proofreaders is the flexibility of the work. You can conveniently fit this side hustle around your regular working hours or use it as a full time job. It’s also an ideal way for stay-at-home parents to supplement their income.

So, if you’re eager to discover how to become a proofreader from the comfort of your home you’ll enjoy our interview today with the Renye.

How Did You Get Started as A Proofreader?

I heard about Proofread Anywhere from a Pinterest ad and I was immediately interested because I was always a bookish kid and I used to work as an ESL teacher in Taiwan. I wanted to be able to make money while traveling and proofreading seemed like the perfect fit for me! 

What Does a Proofreader Do?

A proofreader is the person who reads through a document, after the editing process is finished, to ensure that all grammatical, formatting, and wording issues are fixed before final publication. While some proofreaders do offer editing services, proofreading does not usually involve editing. 

Essentially, proofreaders read a document, mark any errors, and then return the document for corrections. 

What You Need to Become a Proofreader

Many people mistakenly believe that a degree in English or any undergraduate program is a prerequisite for pursuing a career as a professional proofreader. Fortunately, this is not the case.

Furthermore, there’s no official certification specifically for proofreading, making it possible to become a proofreader from the comfort of your home without the burden of an expensive formal education.

However, certain specific qualities can greatly enhance your prospects as a proofreader, including:

Eye for Detail: To perfect a written piece, you must first identify all the errors. That’s why being meticulous and detail-oriented is absolutely essential for effective proofreading.

Proficience in English: This one is a no-brainer, but it’s an absolute requirement. If you’re wondering how to enter the world of proofreading without any prior experience, the most critical prerequisite is outstanding English skills. The good news is that you can always enhance your English proficiency through courses and practice.

Ability to Manage Your Time: Since you’ll be working independently, the responsibility for managing your schedule and meeting deadlines falls squarely on your shoulders. Being well-organized and possessing strong time management skills is crucial.

Understanding Style Guides: A big portion of freelance proofreading jobs comes from students, so being well-versed in one or more style guides is essential. Some of the most commonly used style guides include APA, MLA, and Chicago. If you are not entirely familiar with any of these style guides (or need a refresher), there are excellent resources available to help you.

Post-Secondary Education: Yes, I did mention earlier that an undergraduate degree is not obligatory to become a professional proofreader. However, having a post-secondary qualification can be advantageous, especially if you aspire to specialize in fields like medical proofreading.

 Is Proofreading a Good Career or Side Hustle?

Proofreading is a great career for people who don’t want to, or cannot, work in traditional offices, but want to make a full-time income while travelling or working from home. If you love reading, grammar, or true crime, proofreading can be a great career for you! 

Proofreaders income all depends on how often they want to work, so you can put in full-time hours and make a full-time income, or just use it to supplement your income by working part-time. 

Can Anyone Learn How To Become a Proofreader and Make Money?

Anyone can learn how to become a proofreader, but not everyone can make it in the proofreading industry. Just like all freelance jobs, proofreaders need to be able to keep a high standard of work, communicate with clients effectively, and stay on top of deadlines. 

Working from home can also be challenging and isolating, so proofreaders need to be able to manage their time and their work without letting it consume their lives. 

How Much Money Can a Proofreader Make?

Ill break down exactly how much proofreaders make depending on their niche and their hourly/word rates. Full-time proofreaders make an average salary of around $55,000 in the United States. However, if you are a beginner, you’ll need to charge less. If you work in a highly profitable niche like transcript proofreading, you’ll make much more. 

How Quickly Can a Person Start Making Money as A Proofreader

Wondering how long does it take to become a proofreader? Taking a proofreading course online can be as fast or as slow as you like. For example, our proofreading courses contain over 10 modules, each, and we recommend that students take their time to really understand the concepts before moving on to the next module. 

Once you are trained, some graduates of ours have reported getting their first client within days or weeks. The more you market yourself and network as a proofreader, the faster you can get clients and start getting paid. 

I would say that it takes at least a few months of training before you can start looking for clients. 

How Do I Train to Be a Proofreader? 

I’m a bit biased because I took the Proofread Anywhere course and then got hired with the company, but I believe that the best way to train is to take an online course. 

Anyone can study up on grammar rules and formatting, but knowing how to work within the proofreading industry can be an entirely different ball game.

We have courses in general proofreading and transcript proofreading that prepare our students for their careers, but also teach how to set up their businesses and websites, how to market yourself, and how to find clients. 

What Qualifications Do You Need to Be a Proofreader? A Proofreader Certification?

So do you need a proofreader certification? Technically, there is no universally accepted certificate for proofreading and there are no requirements to market yourself as a proofreader. 

We do offer certificates on completion of each of our courses, but you need to be able to pass the final exam to become certified. 

Being certified can be a huge leg up when it comes to finding clients and proving that you are qualified to be a proofreader. 

Can Anyone Be a Proofreader?

Anyone who has the determination, work ethic, and soft skills to work with clients can become a proofreader, but simply taking a course or training does not ensure success. Success will always be determined by the work you put in. 

What’s the Difference Between Your General Proofreading and Transcript Proofreading Courses?

The primary difference between the courses is that transcript proofreading is specifically for working with court transcripts. Therefore, transcript proofreading requires an in-depth knowledge of legal terminology and practices, along with training in how to proofread spoken-word documents. 

General proofreading encompasses proofreading novels, courses, Youtube video scripts, academic papers, and any other written work that you can imagine (aside from medical documents and legal documents). 

How Much Does It Cost to Become a Proofreader and How Much on A Monthly Basis to Maintain It?

The cost of proofreading courses can range from $400–1,000 which can usually be made back in a month if you work as a proofreader full-time. There aren’t many other costs aside from buying an iPad or laptop to work on, internet access, and a co-working space membership if you don’t want to work from home. 

If you set up a website to market yourself as a proofreader, you’ll need to pay for hosting and a domain name. 

Can You Tell Me About the Proofreading Course You Offer? Why Should Someone Take It?

We currently offer two proofreading courses: General Proofreading Theory & Practice, and Transcript Proofreading Theory & Practice. 

General Proofreading includes 14 modules that cover everything from grammar rules to marketing and setting up your freelance website. 

Transcript Proofreading includes 13 modules with real transcripts and exams that will prepare students for what transcripts will look like and which errors will appear most often. 

With each course, students will also gain access to our exclusive proofreader Facebook groups where they can ask questions, share experiences, and, after graduation, get job recommendations from fellow graduates. 

Anyone who wants a truly comprehensive and time-tested course about proofreading should come to Proofread Anywhere. We offered the first online transcript proofreading course and we are still the leader in online proofreading courses. All of the members on our team have taken one or both of the proofreading courses, so we know exactly what students experience and we really believe in the courses. 

Lastly, are there any other tips that you have for someone who wants to learn how to become a freelance proofreader?

I would suggest reading a few blog posts or watching our video workshop to see if proofreading is something that would work for you as a career. I fully believe that learning new skills is an investment in your future, but it’s important to analyze your abilities and schedule to see if this career would fit.

Many PA graduates started the course when they were in full-time office jobs and were able to quit after a few months to start proofreading full-time so we know that it can work! 

If you want to hear success stories from our graduates, you can see our student reviews or our student blog spotlight. 

Author: Britt

I am Britt. I have been house-sitting and pet-sitting for the past seven years. I have cared for 25 dogs, 35 cats, one turtle, and one rabbit over 80+ houses in 15 countries.

The opportunity to experience different homes, cultures, and communities has been extraordinary.

I’ve connected with homeowners seeking reliable sitters through house-sitting platforms like Aussie House Sitters and Trusted House Sitters. This unique way of living has allowed me to save money on accommodation, explore new cultures, and meet new people.

Being a member of these platforms has broadened my horizons and opened doors to short- and long-term house-sitting jobs. I’ve found joy in providing excellent pet care and ensuring the home is well-maintained.

I get many questions about how to start as a housesitter, so please reach out if you have any questions! I want everyone to enjoy this incredible lifestyle as well!

You can read more about Jay and me here!

Or connect with me on Facebook or in our house-sitting community on Facebook.

• LinkedIn
• Facebook

The post How To Become A Proofreader (Now You Can Work From Anywhere) appeared first on The Travelling House Sitters Professional Housesitting Services.

Tell us a little bit about yourself – who are you, where are you from, and do you do it full-time or sporadically?

We are an Australian couple working as digital nomads, specializing in house-sitting.

How many housesits have you had and where?

We’ve completed approximately 20 house sits in various locations, including South America, the United States, and Australia.

What was your favorite housesitting experience to date and why?

Our favorite house-sitting experience was a four-month assignment caring for two cats in Buenos Aires, particularly in Palermo. One of the cats was exceptionally intelligent and mischievous, capable of opening doors.

Palermo is one of Buenos Aires’ best neighborhoods, vibrant and lively, and we thoroughly enjoyed exploring its cafes, restaurants, dessert shops, and ice cream parlors.

Why did you do house sitting? What is the primary motivation?

Our journey into house-sitting began during the COVID-19 pandemic when we were stuck in a small border town in Bolivia. I discovered the therapeutic benefits of spending time with dogs and cats. It became a priority for me to be around pets, fulfilling a childhood dream.

A friend in the US who worked as a pet sitter suggested house-sitting as a way to travel and work/study from home simultaneously.

How did you find out about housesitting?

A friend of ours in the US, who knew about my passion for pets, introduced us to the concept of house-sitting. She mentioned that many homeowners prefer couples with our background.

After researching further, I found websites and groups dedicated to house sitting, which proved immensely helpful.

Pros of House Sitting

• There are so many pros!
• We get to care for and play with other people’s beloved pets.
• We can continue our digital nomad lifestyle, traveling the world.
• We get to interact with various breeds of pets, fulfilling a personal pet bucket list.
• It often feels like a vacation when staying in others’ homes.
• We experience life as locals.
• It provides excellent company for evenings of Netflix and studying.
• It’s a therapeutic experience, as pets love us unconditionally.
• We’ve made many friends through house-sitting.
• House sitting significantly reduces our travel expenses.

Cons of House Sitting

• We must be extra cautious with furniture and appliances, especially light-colored ones.
• Sometimes, we’re reluctant to cook because homeowners’ kitchens look brand new, and we fear scratching their cookware.
• Larger houses may require daily cleaning.
• There are numerous responsibilities towards both the house and pets.
• We must hide food from food-driven cats and larger dogs.
• We’ve encountered lost or damaged items by the pets we’ve cared for, although nothing too valuable.

Have you ever had to care for unusual pets or take on unconventional responsibilities?

Currently, we care for two incredibly unique pets—gigantic stick insects resembling a cross between scorpions and king prawns. It’s a fascinating experience!

What’s been the biggest adventure so far?

Our most memorable adventure was our very first house-sitting booking on a platform in Downtown Los Angeles. We were just a block from Skid Row and the infamous Cecil Hotel. We initially didn’t realize that parts of downtown LA could be quite dangerous. However, we had a fantastic time staying in a luxury penthouse, and everything went smoothly.

How do you decide on a destination?

Currently, we focus on domestic house-sitting in Australia after being abroad for nearly four years.

Our destination selection involves considering cities of interest, securing the longest house sit within a 5 to 10-hour driving distance, assessing the weather for the month, and establishing a connection with the homeowners and their pets.

How much luggage do you travel with?

We carry two carry-on suitcases and two to three additional bags for international travel.

For domestic house-sitting in Australia, we add appliances like an electric pressure cooker and coffee machine, along with a few more clothes bags.

Was it hard for you to secure your first housesitting gig? How many applications did you have to send before you got accepted for your first assignment?

I was incredibly fortunate with our first house sit. The first person I contacted through a Facebook group welcomed us with open arms and was exceptionally kind.

She even invited us to her beautiful house in Argentina for a delicious dinner and introduced us to her English-speaking friends. This first experience gave us the confidence to continue house sitting. Argentinians are truly amazing!

Want to try House Sitting As Well?
There are thousands of opportunities to house sit around the world!
Learn how to become a house sitter with no experience

Have you had any funny housesitting experiences? 

Yes, we’ve had a few funny moments during house sitting. One cat once urinated on my clothes and suitcase, and we’ve lost a few pairs of slippers due to a puppy’s obsession.

Tips for Others Wanting to Get Started?

Trust that the world is generally safe. Adopt an abundance mindset; you’re offering your services and love to pets in exchange for accommodations.

Respond quickly to listings, have a template ready, and tailor it to address the homeowner’s specific requirements.

Trust your instincts; if you don’t feel a connection with the homeowner, their pets, or their house, it’s okay to decline politely.

Obtain a pet first aid certificate and a police check.

Invest in learning about pet behavior through online courses like Udemy.

Consider volunteering at rescue centers, such as the RSPCA.

Where to next (when you can)

Our travel plans are flexible, and we’re waiting for flight tickets to become more affordable. Once they do, we’ll explore countries offering Australians the longest visa stays. However, we intend to stay primarily in Australia for the next few years.

Need Help Getting Started With House Sitting

Have we got you excited about house-sitting? We love sharing our house-sitting experiences and teaching others how to become house-sitters and start their journeys. 

So, if you need help starting your house-sitting journey, see my resources here, and don’t hesitate to contact me and ask me any questions.

Want to Read More House Sitting Stories?
We have interviewed over 60 house sitters. Full time house sitters, part time, retirees, digital nomads, house sitting families, we have interviewed them all.
See more house sitting stories here

Author: Britt

I am Britt. I have been house-sitting and pet-sitting for the past seven years. I have cared for 25 dogs, 35 cats, one turtle, and one rabbit over 80+ houses in 15 countries.

The opportunity to experience different homes, cultures, and communities has been extraordinary.

I’ve connected with homeowners seeking reliable sitters through house-sitting platforms like Aussie House Sitters and Trusted House Sitters. This unique way of living has allowed me to save money on accommodation, explore new cultures, and meet new people.

Being a member of these platforms has broadened my horizons and opened doors to short- and long-term house-sitting jobs. I’ve found joy in providing excellent pet care and ensuring the home is well-maintained.

I get many questions about how to start as a housesitter, so please reach out if you have any questions! I want everyone to enjoy this incredible lifestyle as well!

You can read more about Jay and me here!

Or connect with me on Facebook or in our house-sitting community on Facebook.

• LinkedIn
• Facebook

The post House Sitting in Argentina, Bolivia and Australia – House Sitting Stories With Crystal appeared first on The Travelling House Sitters Professional Housesitting Services.

If you’re not someone who wants to be piled into a room full of soul-searching twenty-something-year-olds that would prefer to have their alcohol on an I.V drip then a hostel is probably not the option for you. 

There’s so much of Australia’s nature to see, the Yarra Valley in Victoria, the Kimberleys over in Western Australia, the Daintree Forest up in Queensland – the list does go on.

I’ve put together a list of FREE and cheap places you can stay that will not only save you money (duh) but also let you see so much more of Australia’s fun side, that you probably wouldn’t otherwise get to see.

House Sitting

This is a great free option, with house sitting you can stay at a person’s house for free, you care for their home and animals (if they have them).

Some of these places can be way out in the sticks, with beautiful mountain or beachside views. Sometimes they’re in country regions, but if you’re a traveler, it’s a great way to see these parts of Australia that you wouldn’t otherwise have a chance to see – for free. You can see all the different websites to find house sits in Australia here but just make sure the site you pick covers you for insurance.

Other times you can be in the heart of Sydney’s CBD, staying at a luxurious apartment complex, with access to an apartment gym, sauna, and pool. All you have to do is organize your ride there and feed your pet, or in some cases, water their plants!

Camping and Caravan Parks

Australia is best known for its outback camping experiences. There’s nothing better than pulling up at a caravan park near the Snowy River in Victoria and putting your feet up for a couple of days to enjoy the mountain views. Some free apps to find caravan parks are Campermate, which also includes hikes and a bunch of other cool features for all of Australia, NSW National Parks, Mad Paws, and Hipcamp.

Caravan parks will cost around $60 a night and the owners and rangers tend to leave you alone. If you’re camping, campsites are always free. All you need is your tent, but if you don’t have one and you’re just getting around in a normal car, book a cabin!

The great thing about Australia is most of the park and beach facilities are free. You can shower for free at the beach, or cook up a BBQ for free at the park. It’s illegal to live in your car at the beach or park though, so don’t be surprised if you’ve ‘accidentally’ stayed the night and a copper has come knocking on your caravan door to tell you to move along. 

Homestays

 A homestay is good if you’re an international student and don’t mind sharing a home with a family while you study. It’s the best way to learn the language of the country you’re in and understand its cultural quirks! 

The homestays are only ever an hour away from your university and the hosts have usually been doing it for a long time, so they know what they’re doing, and would have been vetted by an agency first so you’re normally in safe hands.

Generally, you can find these through your university or a specific agency, but homestays aren’t cheap. With meals, you’d still be looking at roughly $350 a week (the price varies greatly) and if you’re under eighteen you need your parents to sign everything off.

If you’ve got the cash and want a cozy and cushy experience, a homestay is a secure and safe option while you study. 

CouchSurfing

A free and very social option is CouchSurfing. CouchSurfing is an online community where members offer up their spare rooms, air mattress, or couches to other travelers for short-term stays for free.

Generally, you won’t stay at one of these places for more than three to four days at a time. The site wasn’t designed for that, so if you’re going to take this option but be aware that it’s for very short-term stays only, and asking for a longer stay from your host might be seen as an odd request! 

The idea is to promote cultural exchange and to bridge connections for travelers. The site has meet-up options as well.

In any case, always do a bit of research and look at the reviews. It’s free so it doesn’t hurt to vet the host’s address on Google to make sure it’s where it says it is and make sure the photos are real, and that the house obviously looks decent and clean, but otherwise, it’s a pretty safe and reputable community.

Wwoofing

 WWOOF Australia is an organic farming exchange that connects travelers and backpackers with farmers or employers who offer free accommodation in exchange for four-six hours of work a day and you can work from two days to three months. The hosts are pretty reputable on wwoof.com.au and www.helpX.net.

Be an Au Pair/Demi Pair

An au pair is a full-time nanny, and demi pair is a part-time nanny. As an au pair, you get free accommodation plus an allowance. This requires experience in babysitting or a Working With Children’s Check. 

Your work schedule is based on the host’s schedule so you might have to be up at 7 am to get the kids ready for school, make lunches and dinner, do the laundry, or help the kids with their homework – but this varies from family to family. 

The host should give you your private room and plenty of free time. If you have a driver’s license it’s only helpful. There are plenty of au pair websites and every agency will screen you first before pairing you with a family to make sure you’re a good fit.

Friends and Family Networks

There have been way too many times on my travels when I’ve fretted about a place to stay only to have remembered about a friend of a friend who lives close to where I’m traveling.

Ask your Mum and Dad or Uncle about any contacts they have before getting on the plane and send this person a message letting them know you’re coming. You’ll be surprised to know how hospitable some people are.

I’ve always done this and have saved so much on accommodation. I leave them a $50 donation, cook them dinner, or buy them a gift before I leave. While you stay with them, offer to walk the dog, or mind the kids. After all, showing gratitude and being courteous is only the right thing to do and it keeps that family connection healthy!

Hostels

Now, let’s not rule hostels out completely. Sometimes, that’s all we’ve got access to, and some places offer free BBQs on a Thursday.

The further they are out of the city, the cheaper they get and if you’re looking for a social couple of days or a week, or you want to be in the city with free wifi, hostels can be the place to meet people, get your bearings and plan your next sojourn. Who knows, you might end up joining some new friends on their trip to the Blue Mountains! 

A shared room, which can have anywhere between two to fifteen beds, can be as low as $30-$40 depending on the season, but generally, if you want a private room, they’re about $60 – $100 a night.

Nomads, Space Hotel, Selina, and The Ritz are just some of the fun hostels worth staying at in Melbourne.

Author: Britt

I am Britt. I have been house-sitting and pet-sitting for the past seven years. I have cared for 25 dogs, 35 cats, one turtle, and one rabbit over 80+ houses in 15 countries.

The opportunity to experience different homes, cultures, and communities has been extraordinary.

I’ve connected with homeowners seeking reliable sitters through house-sitting platforms like Aussie House Sitters and Trusted House Sitters. This unique way of living has allowed me to save money on accommodation, explore new cultures, and meet new people.

Being a member of these platforms has broadened my horizons and opened doors to short- and long-term house-sitting jobs. I’ve found joy in providing excellent pet care and ensuring the home is well-maintained.

I get many questions about how to start as a housesitter, so please reach out if you have any questions! I want everyone to enjoy this incredible lifestyle as well!

You can read more about Jay and me here!

Or connect with me on Facebook or in our house-sitting community on Facebook.

• LinkedIn
• Facebook

The post How to Find Cheap or Free Accommodation in Australia appeared first on The Travelling House Sitters Professional Housesitting Services.

It could take years to see everything that this gorgeous country has to offer. Outside of the major cities, there are also provincial parks and national parks to visit as well!

So how can you save money on accommodation? Keep reading to learn our top tips!

Visit In The Off Season

If you avoid peak travel season, you will find more affordable hotels. This is because there is less demand for hotel rooms! However, Canada can have extreme winter weather. Keep this in mind when planning your vacation.

You may want to visit in the spring or fall to avoid the winter weather and the tourists!

Try House Sitting

House sitting is a popular way to decrease your spending when travelling. You take care of someone’s house and pets while they travel. . If you plan, you may be able to plan a long trip throughout Canada and sit for several houses.

Trusted House Sitters and House Sitters Canada are all popular Canadian house-sitting sites. Sign up and create a profile to begin your house-sitting journey.

This also allows you to meet some neighbors and get recommendations. They may send you to the entertainment district, but they could also tell you about hidden gems.

Stay Outside The City

Canadian cities may have cheap hotels, but they’re cheap for a reason. If you can stay outside the city, you will save money on hotels. In more rural areas with fewer tourists, the average price of a hotel room will decrease.

Since so many people visit and live by Niagara Falls and Quebec City, those places will be pricier. The average price of food will increase along with the price of the hotels. Expensive cities are fun to visit, but they’re still expensive cities.

Even the average prices of hostels and campgrounds may be a bit more expensive. Staying outside the city will save you a lot of money across the board! This is a good reason to explore more rural areas and smaller cities.

Go Camping

Canada has a lot of national parks and provincial parks with campgrounds. Even in the more urban areas, you can find plenty of options. Primitive campsites are more affordable than sites with electric and running water. However, if you have an RV, you can still stay at campgrounds without breaking the budget.

Many campgrounds will even have swimming pools. This is great if you want to enjoy sitting by the outdoor pool during the heat of the day. Camping requires more effort and supplies than staying in other places. However, nature enthusiasts will enjoy the outdoors and a cheaper nightly price.

Sleep In Hostels

Hostels are an affordable way to stay somewhere. Starting at $25 a night, you can sleep in a hostel. It is cheap because you’re sharing a room with several other people, usually strangers. This can be off-putting for many, but it’s a great way to lower the cost of travel.

The YMCA and YWCA are other places you can stay. They offer hotel accommodations in Canada. This is another more affordable option than regular hotels.

Try An Exchange Program

Several exchange programs allow people to travel for free and cheap.

You can try a home exchange site. This allows you to let other people stay in your home so that you can stay in another home while traveling.

It’s like renting a house but the rental price is your own house for the week!

Home Exchange and IHEN are two home exchange websites in Canada.

You could do a farm stay. This is an experience where you would work on a farm as payment for staying on the farm.

Alberta Country Vacation Association and Ontario Farm & Country Accommodations are popular farm stay organizations.

WWOOF and other organizations allow people to stay somewhere in exchange for volunteering. Workaway and HelpX are similar volunteer programs.

Use Points Systems

Check to see if your credit card has travel rewards. This is a great way to save money on accommodation! If you use your credit card to book travel experiences, you may be able to save a few dollars here and there.

If you use a booking site like Expedia or hotels.com, then you can use rewards through that platform, as well. If you exclusively use the same booking site, they will occasionally give you a free night or other perks. This is also true for many hotel companies if you skip the third-party app.

Get Connected With Different Places

If you know where you want to go, get connected with the businesses in that city. Follow them on social media or sign up for their email lists. This way you will be informed of any deals!

You can learn insider tips on how to save money. You can also make purchases whenever they have sales.

Be Flexible With Your Travels

If you can change your travel dates or switch your locations, then you can save money. Cheap hotels may be more available in a city other than the one you plan to visit.

The average price of travel could decrease depending on the week you travel. If you’re flexible about travel dates, then you can save some money by choosing the best dates.

Delete Cookies From Your Internet History

Booking sites will often keep track of your cookies. They’ll know if you are serious about taking a trip. If you seem to be serious, they know they can increase the prices.

If you delete your cookies, they won’t know how serious are. This means their prices will potentially be lower. Some people say this is a myth. But it doesn’t hurt to try!

Travel With A Friend

When you travel with a friend, you can share the cost of accommodation, you also get to share the memories and form a stronger bond. This also opens up the possiblies of renting a car rather than paying for public transport.

Author: Britt

I am Britt. I have been house-sitting and pet-sitting for the past seven years. I have cared for 25 dogs, 35 cats, one turtle, and one rabbit over 80+ houses in 15 countries.

The opportunity to experience different homes, cultures, and communities has been extraordinary.

I’ve connected with homeowners seeking reliable sitters through house-sitting platforms like Aussie House Sitters and Trusted House Sitters. This unique way of living has allowed me to save money on accommodation, explore new cultures, and meet new people.

Being a member of these platforms has broadened my horizons and opened doors to short- and long-term house-sitting jobs. I’ve found joy in providing excellent pet care and ensuring the home is well-maintained.

I get many questions about how to start as a housesitter, so please reach out if you have any questions! I want everyone to enjoy this incredible lifestyle as well!

You can read more about Jay and me here!

Or connect with me on Facebook or in our house-sitting community on Facebook.

• LinkedIn
• Facebook

The post How to Live Rent Free in Canada appeared first on The Travelling House Sitters Professional Housesitting Services.

So how often should you update your profile? What types of changes should you make?

This article will explore everything you need to know about updating your profile! After reading this, you’ll have the peace of mind that your profile is at its best.

How Often Should You Update Your House Sitter Profile?

You should update your profile if you have gained relevant skills, experience or certifications or completed a house sit you would like your potential clients to know about.

There are ways to write your profile to make it evergreen. Instead of “I’ve had 12 successful house sits,” try “I’ve had over 10 house sits and they’ve all been successful!” Then you don’t need to update your profile after every single gig.

When Should You Update Your House Sitter Profile?

Other important changes include the services you offer. Maybe you weren’t a pet sitter when you first started house sitting, but now you will provide pet care. Update your house-sitting profile to reflect this.

Perhaps you just took a course about garden care. Or maybe you finally had your first house sit that included farm animals and your feeling confident caring for them now.

Include this relevant experience so homeowners know you are a qualified pet sitter. They will want to know about your experience taking care of animals.

If you haven’t updated your profile in a few months, you should look over it. Maybe you forgot to add something new. Maybe you can improve it by editing a few things.

Why Should You Update Your House Sitter Profile?

You should update your house-sitting profile so that potential clients will be attracted to you. When house owners are looking at house sit profiles, they want to see your skills match their requirements.

You want to make sure that your profile is the best that it can be. And that might mean that the profile you whipped up the day you set up your account isn’t good enough. You grow and change and your profile should reflect that.

Also, the platforms change. Maybe they added some features that you could use. When you amp up your profile, everybody will notice!

Also, police clearances go out of date. Get a new police check when necessary to ensure there isn’t a gap in your house-sitting opportunities.

What Changes Should You Make To Your House Sitter Profile?

Make sure your online profile is professional, with any relevant information and previous experience. Use a friendly tone and be sure to convey your trustworthiness. Include a short video so they can have a more personal experience with you.

You should also update your pictures occasionally. Choose pictures that show your personality. They should also convey a sense of responsibility.

It is also important to share some of your best reviews. Positive reviews from previous owners carry a lot of weight. Some homeowners will be more interested in working with you if they see a glowing reference!

One of the most important things about your profile is the headline. This is especially true for Trusted House Sitters. Make sure that your headline will catch the attention of potential clients. You want it to be attractive, professional, and fun.

How Do You Update Your House Sitter Profile?

Each house-sitting platform will be different. But most of them allow you to easily update your profile when you go to the profile settings. I have recorded a video below for editing your profile on Trusted House Sitters, this the house sitting platform I like to use, so I am regularly updating my profile/

You don’t need to obsess over your profile, but you should update it occasionally. If you haven’t edited it in a while, go ahead and look at it to see if there’s room for improvement.

If you’ve enjoyed your completed house sits, you’ve probably also grown as a person. With more experience, skills, and knowledge, so you should update it to reflect this.

Just remember everybody starts as a beginner and anyone can achieve this dream house-sitting lifestyle.

Author: Britt

I am Britt. I have been house-sitting and pet-sitting for the past seven years. I have cared for 25 dogs, 35 cats, one turtle, and one rabbit over 80+ houses in 15 countries.

The opportunity to experience different homes, cultures, and communities has been extraordinary.

I’ve connected with homeowners seeking reliable sitters through house-sitting platforms like Aussie House Sitters and Trusted House Sitters. This unique way of living has allowed me to save money on accommodation, explore new cultures, and meet new people.

Being a member of these platforms has broadened my horizons and opened doors to short- and long-term house-sitting jobs. I’ve found joy in providing excellent pet care and ensuring the home is well-maintained.

I get many questions about how to start as a housesitter, so please reach out if you have any questions! I want everyone to enjoy this incredible lifestyle as well!

You can read more about Jay and me here!

Or connect with me on Facebook or in our house-sitting community on Facebook.

• LinkedIn
• Facebook

The post How to Update Your House Sit Profile appeared first on The Travelling House Sitters Professional Housesitting Services.

Look no further as we’ve put together a list of the best and most experienced senior digital nomadic bloggers that will walk you through everything you need to know before you leap into the second chapter of your life!

From nomadic living advice, cross-country sagas, and endless inspiration. Unveil the road less traveled, no matter your age.

Life Part 2 And Beyond 

Formerly known as Life Part 2, Life Part 2 and Beyond is a blog started by Jonathan Look in 2011 after he retired early by selling everything he owned and started traveling the world. 

Jonathan shared his insights and advice on everything from finding work as a digital nomad to staying healthy and fit with his followers while on the road. 

Sadly, Jonathan passed away in 2021 at his Malta residence. Since then, his wife has taken over the blog and continues to write about their shared love of travel and adventure.

Life Part 2 and Beyond aims to prove that motivated and curious baby boomers can travel the world despite what naysayers might claim. 

See more about Life Part 2 And Beyond here. 

The Roaming Boomers Blog 

The Roaming Boomers Blog offers seniors all the help and information they need about living their best lives by traveling the world. 

Run by husband and wife duo Dave and Carol Porter, who have been digital nomads since 2008, they have plenty of first-hand experience to share with their readers.

Apart from sharing useful tips and advice including everything from where to go to how to make money while you travel, they also have a travel agency. This agency was started when their website’s readers constantly started seeking help with their travel planning.

See more about The Roaming Boomers Blog here. 

My Itchy Travel Feet 

My Itchy Travel Feet was started by Donna L. Hull and Alan Hull in 2008 who are part of the baby boomer generation and have plenty of experiences traveling the world. 

This blog isn’t ordinary as it mainly caters to baby boomers who love adventure travel. It offers readers a broad list of “themed trips”, in addition to tips on where to go and what to see and do. 

See more about My Itchy Travel Feet here.

Travel Past 50 

Travel Past 50 is an inspirational blog for people aged 50 and above, who are curious and inspired to explore multiple types of destinations. This includes cultural hotspots, famous landmarks, art galleries, and more.

This blog was started by husband and wife Tom and Kris, who are former newspaper and magazine publishers. They sold everything from their publication to their home and most of their possessions to follow their passion for traveling the globe. 

See more about Travel Past 50 here.

A Hole In My Shoe

A Hole In My Shoe is a travel blog started by Steve and Lynn from Perth, Western Australia who started traveling at 50 when most people think about savings and retirement.

They share tips on slow travel, working online, and ways to finance your travels. They also write about their own experiences as digital nomads and offer readers a glimpse into the many different places they’ve been.

In a nutshell, this blog is about motivating seniors that it’s never too late to get out in the world and start exploring and living their best lives.

See more about A Hole In My Shoe here.

Hole In the Donut Cultural Travel 

Hole In the Donut Cultural Travel was started by Barbara Weibel after she decided to take up travel writing and photography full-time after working steadily at various jobs without finding much satisfaction.

Her blog is about her cultural experiences as she travels the world solo – something that can be especially intimidating for seniors.

This blog demonstrates that having amazing adventures regardless of age is possible. 

See more about Hole In the Donut Cultural Travel here.

Vagrants Of The World Travel

Vagrants Of The World Travel was born as a travel resource for future full-time travelers when Kate & Mark decided to leave their home country of Australia in 2014 with just a few belongings and no real itinerary. 

Since then, it has turned into a website that provides travel tips and destination guides from experienced travelers all over the world.

From safe travel tips to city guides, popular destinations, and more, this blog has everything one needs to know about being a digital nomad after retirement.

See more about  Vagrants Of The World Travel here.

Senior Nomads 

A simple suggestion from their daughter turned into an epic, adventurous, around-the-world, and still-continuing journey for Michael and Debbie Campbell.

To save on some cash, this intrepid couple stays on Airbnb and provides useful information about choosing the best and the most affordable accommodations. Furthermore, they give their followers a glimpse into every place they visit in their fun and informative blog.

See more about Senior Nomads here. 

Albom Adventures 

Albom Adventures is a travel blog started by the highly educated couple – Rhonda and Jeff Albom. For the last 18 years, they have been living it up by visiting 63 countries on six continents. 

Rhonda has 3 different degrees from reputed colleges, while Jeff is a rocket scientist from MIT. Together, they combine their expertise and talents to provide readers with an interesting blog about their travels and the different cultures they’ve experienced.

See more about Albom Adventures here.

Bottom Line 

Embarking on your journey as a grey nomad and leaving your comfortable lifestyle behind can be stressful and overwhelming at first. 

That’s why it’s important to read and interact with senior digital nomad blogs and forums whenever you can, especially because they have a wealth of experience and knowledge to share. 

Author: Britt

I am Britt. I have been house-sitting and pet-sitting for the past seven years. I have cared for 25 dogs, 35 cats, one turtle, and one rabbit over 80+ houses in 15 countries.

The opportunity to experience different homes, cultures, and communities has been extraordinary.

I’ve connected with homeowners seeking reliable sitters through house-sitting platforms like Aussie House Sitters and Trusted House Sitters. This unique way of living has allowed me to save money on accommodation, explore new cultures, and meet new people.

Being a member of these platforms has broadened my horizons and opened doors to short- and long-term house-sitting jobs. I’ve found joy in providing excellent pet care and ensuring the home is well-maintained.

I get many questions about how to start as a housesitter, so please reach out if you have any questions! I want everyone to enjoy this incredible lifestyle as well!

You can read more about Jay and me here!

Or connect with me on Facebook or in our house-sitting community on Facebook.

• LinkedIn
• Facebook

The post Top Grey Nomad Bloggers to Follow appeared first on The Travelling House Sitters Professional Housesitting Services.

The only thing is that accommodation can get pricey. Whether you are staying for a short time or a long time, there are ways to reduce the cost of accommodation.

If you’d love to find a way to stay in Paris for free, keep reading. You’ll learn the exact ways to get free accommodation in Paris.

Work Exchange

If you have a skill, you can use it in Paris or experience the charm of the French countryside just beyond the city.

Some locals offer free accommodation in exchange for your help. Opportunities range from gardening and construction projects to caring for pets or assisting with family needs.

There’s also a high demand for English speakers who are willing to help with language practice. It’s a great way to connect with locals while covering your stay. Several websites make it easy to find these opportunities. We’ll explore some of the most popular ones for work exchanges in Paris.

House Sitting

With house sitting, you will not only get a free vacation but also get to experience Paris like a local. We have had many house sits where the homeowners were overjoyed to let us know where their favorite markets, bakeries, cafes, and bars are.

However, house-sitting involves some work. You will have some responsibilities, including pet care, plant care, or general upkeep of the home. You just need to discuss all these expectations with the homeowners and only agree to the house-sitting if you think you can fulfill all these.

Nomador and Trusted House Sitters are popular house-sitting websites to use in Paris.

Workaway

Workaway offers many opportunities to share a skill in exchange for accommodation. There are even a few paid positions. There are also many service projects.

However, most of the positions are for language exchanges or cultural exchanges. For instance, if a family wants their kids to practice some of their language skills, they may look for someone through Workaway to have conversations with their children.

Worldpackers

Worldpackers is a website that connects travelers with volunteer opportunities. You can filter in where you want to stay and look for opportunities that sound good to you.

Picking an opportunity is similar to applying for a job. But instead of a paycheck and benefits, they give you a place to stay. You might stay in a hostel, a home, a farm, or more through this website.

helpStay

helpStay is a website where you can find projects you can do in exchange for free accommodation. There are a variety of projects that need several different skill sets.

You could help renovate, volunteer with animals, or work at a service desk. There is something for everyone!

NGO

While an NGO isn’t a website, it is short for a non-governmental organization. If you’re passionate about any NGOs, you can see if they need volunteers in Paris.

Maybe you want to help with education, public health, or building something. Find an NGO that you support and ask about volunteering for them. They may be willing to let you stay in someone’s home if you will help them with a project.

Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is an app that matches travelers with locals. Travelers will stay at a local’s home for absolutely free. Although paying for your stay is prohibited, it is customary to give them something. You could bring a souvenir from your home country or cook a popular meal in your country.

You will also make a new friend when you use the Couchsurfing app. They can tell you about Paris and ensure you discover the local gems. While the Eiffel Tower is lovely, visiting lesser-known locations is also great.

Home Exchange

There are several apps and websites for home exchanges in Paris.  These sites connect travelers who will let someone stay in their house so they can stay in someone else’s.

You can search online for the program that sounds best to you. One popular home-swapping website in Paris is Home Base Holidays. You can even contact the homeowners directly if you use a site like Craigslist Paris or FUSAC.

Tips to Stay in Paris on a Budget

When in Paris, there are more expenses than just accommodation. If you’re on a budget, you may also need to save money in other areas. We’ll share a few insider tips to save money on food, transportation, and activities in Paris.

Food in Paris

The easiest way to save money on food is to cook at home, but it’s also essential to enjoy French food at the rooftop bars and restaurants in the city center. But getting most of your food at the supermarket is a great way to save money in Paris.

This is especially true if you need a cup of coffee at breakfast. Buy some excellent coffee and a French press, and you can skip the coffee shop most mornings and watch your bank account grow!

Transportation

Public transportation is your best option—it’s affordable and covers most areas. Walking is also convenient for exploring popular parts of town, like the city center.

You’ll probably also need to buy some flight tickets. You’ll want to watch flight deals if you’re flying in and out of Charles de Gaulle Airport. You can use points systems through your favorite booking site, airline, or credit card.

Activities

Many museums, gardens, and cemeteries in Paris are free to visit. However, consider buying a Paris Museum Pass to enter well-known museums. While it costs more upfront, it can save you money over time, especially if you plan to visit multiple attractions. The same applies to the Paris Pass.

Before visiting specific places, check their websites for discount days or special deals.

You can also join free walking tours, which cover many iconic landmarks at no cost. Spending money at places like the Eiffel Tower or Arc de Triomphe is only necessary if you’re interested in souvenirs.

While a Paris trip may be glamorous, European travel doesn’t need to be expensive. With these insider tips, you can easily stay in Paris for free.

Need Help Getting Started With House Sitting?

Have we got you excited about house-sitting? We love sharing our experiences and teaching others how to become house-sitters and start their journeys. 

So, if you need help starting your house-sitting journey, see my resources here, and don’t hesitate to contact me and ask me any questions.

Author: Britt

I am Britt. I have been house-sitting and pet-sitting for the past seven years. I have cared for 25 dogs, 35 cats, one turtle, and one rabbit over 80+ houses in 15 countries.

The opportunity to experience different homes, cultures, and communities has been extraordinary.

I’ve connected with homeowners seeking reliable sitters through house-sitting platforms like Aussie House Sitters and Trusted House Sitters. This unique way of living has allowed me to save money on accommodation, explore new cultures, and meet new people.

Being a member of these platforms has broadened my horizons and opened doors to short- and long-term house-sitting jobs. I’ve found joy in providing excellent pet care and ensuring the home is well-maintained.

I get many questions about how to start as a housesitter, so please reach out if you have any questions! I want everyone to enjoy this incredible lifestyle as well!

You can read more about Jay and me here!

Or connect with me on Facebook or in our house-sitting community on Facebook.

• LinkedIn
• Facebook

The post How to Live and Travel in Paris for Free appeared first on The Travelling House Sitters Professional Housesitting Services.

They are managing to book our their calendar according to places they want to go and family they want to visit. We learn how they have built this incredible life which allows them to house sit full time. Make sure you read to the end where they tell us where they are headed next (I am veeeeery jealous about this location)

Tell us a little bit about yourself – who are you, where are you from, for, do you do it full-time or sporadically

Hi there! We are Christine and John.  John is from New Zealand, and Christine is originally from Norway. We were married in Norway 27 years ago, and quickly had our two sons, now 26 and 24.

We moved around the world our whole married life, chasing John’s energy engineering jobs. About 8 years ago, when the boys were nearly grown, we decided to build a home in New Zealand. Then COVID happened, and we didn’t leave our (gorgeous) beach in New Zealand for 2 years. And when you CAN’T go anywhere, it’s amazing how much you WANT to.

We were watching a lot of A New Life in the Sun (UK Channel 4 programme), and we saw a couple who mentioned in passing that they had been using a housesitting site for a few years. We looked at each other and said: is that a thing???

Long story short, we sold our newly built house and bravely hit the road!

So we have now been housesitting full-time since we sold our house in March 2022.

How many housesits have you had and where?

At 17 months into this adventure, we have completed 42 housesits. A lot of those have been short little stays, obviously.

We went to England first, because we saw that there were always lots and lots of sits available there. And we knew that we could stay in the UK for 6 months as visitors while we figured out the whole idea of international housesitting.

So we have spent a lot of the last 16 months in and out of the UK. But we’ve also had great sits in France (2 at this point). And we’ve sat quite a bit in the United States. We both have US passports (long story there!), so we are able to stay and housesit in the USA without visa worries.

Why did you do house sitting? What is the primary motivation?

We LOVE to travel, and we don’t really want to have a home at the moment. I know that sounds weird, but we actually find ourselves really loving the way we can move around, be comfortable, and still have the company of animals. I guess our main motivation is to travel, but to still feel ‘home comforts’ and the joy of animals.

What was your favorite housesitting experience to date and why?

Honestly, we have a few. But the Provence one always stands out. We had two great dogs in a lovely quiet but active village. It was just a magical setting with great pet parents, great pets, a fabulously comfortable house, and we LOVED the food and lifestyle.

That being said, we also REALLY loved a sit in Hampshire with just about the cutest Jack Russell you could ever imagine. There was also a pool involved ….

How did you find out about housesitting?

I spoke briefly about this above. We were watching the All 4 (UK channel) show “A New Life in the Sun”. An American couple were on the show renovating an ancient house in Italy.

They said they had been “housesitting for the last few years” and had decided to settle down at the next place they did not want to leave. We looked at each other and raised our eyebrows.

That is a THING? We did a few google searches and instantly decided this was ideal for us!

Pros of House Sitting

There are so many pros. So many more than we anticipated when we thought it looked good already! Being able to live in a real home with real creature comforts like kitchens, nice beds, and outside space while still seeing the world.

It’s amazing to be as relaxed as you are at “home” while exploring new parts of the world. When you stay in hotels or bed and breakfast, you never REALLY relax, like you do in a home. We get up in the morning, make tea or coffee in our robes, eat breakfast in pyjamas, chillax in the couch binge watching tv shows, etc. But we still see new things every day

. It’s an incredibly relaxing way to see what the world has to offer. We get to cook our own meals, which is so economical! We get great insider knowledge of local areas. AND we get cat and dog cuddles!

Cons of House Sitting

There are of course housesits that aren’t as nice as you thought they would be. And then you’re stuck in them. You can’t leave a housesit like you would a bad hotel.

You have committed to looking after animals, so you can’t really get up and leave just because the bedding is pretty crap. Also, you DO have responsibilities. You have to consider the welfare of the animals you look after before committing to anything else. The cons can be minimized over time, as you get more experience.

What’s been the biggest adventure so far?

This is a tough one to answer. We really loved our time in the South of France earlier this year, but I’m not sure it qualifies as an adventure. It was pleasantly slow, beautiful, and sort of exciting too.

It opened our eyes to such a different slower pace of life. Another favourite was a housesit in the very north of Scotland. We spent the summer solstice up there in 2022, and it was magical.

The weather was amazing, the light was never ending, and we saw puffins galore! We also really loved our month in Maryland last September. We were so close to Washington D.C., Annapolis, and the beaches of the Chesapeake Bay. It was a great month!

How do you decide on a destination?

We try to minimize travel costs if we can. So, so far, we have been planning the big flights, then have tried to pick places we wanted to go to within reach of those big ticket flights.

Up until now, this has meant that we have picked places we wanted to go to in the US and Europe. We picked Christmas in France, because why not? We went to Colorado, because it meant we could visit our youngest son there.

We have picked next Christmas in Brisbane, because it is very close to John’s family and our oldest son and his partner in Auckland. We’re hoping we can work something out to see them from there.

But we also have picked places just because we’ve never been there. Like Broadstairs in Kent, for example. We’ve never seen that part of the UK; let’s check it out!

How much luggage do you travel with?

We have one suitcase each – recently equipped with packing cubes – one roll on carryon between the two of us, John’s laptop case, and my tote handbag.

We have a luggage weigher, and make sure we stay within the 23kg weight limit for checked baggage. When we are driving around the UK, not needing to check baggage, we also have two big reusable shopping bags that take our spices, laundry tablets, etc.

Recently, we were also gifted a picnic hamper! Sadly, it will need to be regifted when we fly next!

Did you ever have any unusual pets to take care of or responsibilities that were out of the norm?

We are currently at  sit where there are 3 ducks. One of them is an adorable Indian Runner duck who lost half his bill recently.

We have to hand feed him many times a day, because he doesn’t have his bill to be able to pick food up with himself. It’s pretty cute!

Was it hard for you to secure your first housesitting gig? How many applications did you have to send before you got accepted for your first assignment?

I really don’t think it was that hard. I think we had three video interviews before we landed our first sit.

The world was just opening up after the pandemic, and I think, possibly, the people we were applying to were just happy that someone was willing to do travel so they could get where they wanted to go!

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Have you had any funny housesitting experiences? 

I honestly can’t think of any funny ones. We have had a reasonably scary one though. We were housesitting for a gorgeous cat named Ripley in a terrace house in Plumstead East London.

He had a cat flap with a “key” in his collar that let only HIM in through the flap. We were supposed to lock the flap at night to make sure he didn’t stay out all night. This was especially important because Ripley’s brother, Riley, had been lost to traffic when they were both young.

When Ripley didn’t come home by night fall (so i could close the flap), we were so worried. We called and called and called, but Ripley did not come home. Finally, we went to bed, thinking we’d do a house to house if he didn’t turn up during the night.

At 3 AM, we were woken up by a very loud and piercing “yip yip yip” sound. We both woke up wondering what the noise was! We looked out the front bedroom window and saw a pack of FOUR foxes racing down the street, checking rubbish bins, and generally looking like prime cat hunters! Panic! Luckily, they ran on down the street.

We got no more sleep that night, so worried about Ripley! We especially felt the weight of responsibility because of the loss of their beloved Riley.

When it got light, we resumed our calling for Ripley. And, VERY faintly, we heard a meow. Somewhere from behind the 6 foot fence in the back garden, there was definitely a meow answering our calls!

After failed attempts to identify the house that owned the connecting garden, John risked life and limb to climb the six foot fence. And there, on the other side, he found a shed, where poor Ripley had been shut inside. John rescued the little man, and he returned home to copious cuddles and treats!

We never told the owners – figured they would have been sick with worry given Riley’s demise. But ever since then, we have asked owners who want their cats home at night to give us a printable pet sitting instructions for what to do if the cat does not come home at night!

Tips for Others Wanting to Get Started?

Make sure you want to look after animals. It may be called housesitting, but it’s really a pet care service. Also, don’t be afraid to ask questions when applying for a sit. It is really a sitter’s market out there, so you should not be afraid to make sure the home is somewhere you really want to spend time.

Also, Don’t think you have to put up with being treated like an employee. The exchange is mutually beneficial, and you should not feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude just to have somewhere to stay. Y

ou are providing the pet owner with a freedom that would cost them WAY more than the membership fee. Don’t underestimate your worth.

Where to next (when you can)

Super excited to be going to the Abruzzo region in Italy in August. A region we have never been to. I’ve been doing some Italian lessons online (Pimsleur and Rosetta stone).

We’ll be 20 minutes from the beach! And I loooooove cooking Italian, so I’m hoping to learn some more. Then, later in the year, we are heading back to the Southern hemisphere to housesit in Queensland while the family there heads to England to visit family for the holidays.

We are so excited to be near John’s family and our oldest son and his partner. We are crossing fingers that they’ll all hop skip and jump over the Tasman Sea to Brisbane so we can have a fabulous holiday season!

You can follow Christine and Johns adventures here or on their Instagram Tails and Stays.

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Author: Britt

I am Britt. I have been house-sitting and pet-sitting for the past seven years. I have cared for 25 dogs, 35 cats, one turtle, and one rabbit over 80+ houses in 15 countries.

The opportunity to experience different homes, cultures, and communities has been extraordinary.

I’ve connected with homeowners seeking reliable sitters through house-sitting platforms like Aussie House Sitters and Trusted House Sitters. This unique way of living has allowed me to save money on accommodation, explore new cultures, and meet new people.

Being a member of these platforms has broadened my horizons and opened doors to short- and long-term house-sitting jobs. I’ve found joy in providing excellent pet care and ensuring the home is well-maintained.

I get many questions about how to start as a housesitter, so please reach out if you have any questions! I want everyone to enjoy this incredible lifestyle as well!

You can read more about Jay and me here!

Or connect with me on Facebook or in our house-sitting community on Facebook.

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The post Worldwide House Sitters – House Sitting Stories With Christine and John appeared first on The Travelling House Sitters Professional Housesitting Services.

She house sits sporadically and has a home base in Florida with her own cats. We learn how she has built this incredible life which allows her to travel 6 months out of the year.

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

I’m a single 70-year-old woman living in central Florida. I retired from my second career three years ago. My first was a twenty-year career in the U.S. Army, where I worked in nursing and was stationed in Washington D.C. and Hawaii.

I always knew I wanted to travel in retirement, and in the two years before I finished up I started researching ways to do it affordably. I discovered Workaway, TrustedHousesitters, and HomeExchange and joined all three.

When I retired, though, my parents were both still living and not in great health — 87 and 90, and just two miles from me.

One month after my mum passed, I was in Mexico staying at a cat sanctuary I’d found through Workaway. That turned out to be the only gig I’ve done on that platform, but I’ve been back three times now — a month each visit. I love it.

I’m a sporadic house sitter. I own my home in Florida and have thought hard about going fully nomadic, especially now that I’m spending about six months of the year traveling. I’ve decided against it for a couple of reasons.

First, I have two cats — Felix and Bella, both around 10. Cats make lousy nomads. But also, I genuinely love my home and like coming back to roost after a trip. As a 70-year-old, I figure I’ve got about ten more good travel years in me, and I want somewhere to land when that time comes.

Why did you get into house sitting?

It lets me travel more affordably, and it’s slow travel rather than the rushed tourist experience. I like staying in a home, grocery shopping, taking days to do absolutely nothing. I enjoy caring for the pets and I provide excellent service to the homeowners in return.

What surprised me most is the connections I’ve made — with both the homeowners and sitters who’ve come to care for my own cats. I’ve already got repeat sits booked in the UK and France.

What was your favorite housesitting experience to date and why?

That’s like asking which of my children or pets is my favorite.  I’ve enjoyed them all, for very different reasons.  I think one of the best things about house-sitting is the variety. 

How did you find out about housesitting?

Just by researching it online.  This was four to five years ago now and I don’t remember the details.

How many house sits have you had, and where?

So far, I’ve had eight housesits, six on THS which is my favorite site to find house sitting assignments and then I have had two by word of mouth.  I’ve watched dogs in my home town, Panama and France, and I’ve watched cats in Kentucky, Washington DC, France and three different locations in England. 

Cons of House Sitting

I haven’t encountered any negative experiences so far, but, that’s always a possibility.  One thing I realize is that I’ve got to have a plan B.  And, enough resources to be able to get accommodations in the event of the unexpected happening.

What’s been the biggest adventure so far?

This past spring I was on the road for three months straight. I had three sits across the UK — Manchester, Marlow and London, each 10 to 14 days. Then I flew to Geneva to care for two little Havanese dogs in Ornex, just over the French border, before flying back to catch a cruise from Southampton through the Norwegian Fjords. After that, back to Ornex for another four days before spending a month in Italy — Bologna, the Dolomites, Tuscany and Cinque Terre.

A few memorable moments: at one sit, a cat went missing the evening I arrived (while the owners were still there). She strolled back in six days later, none the worse for wear. Near the end of the trip I came off an e-bike and ended up on the ground — a week later my entire right lower leg was badly bruised. I was very glad that happened near the end of the trip rather than the start.

How do you decide on a destination?

It usually starts with a listing that catches my eye. The Ornex sit began because I loved the way the homeowner described her home and dogs — we just connected. Once I’ve locked in one sit, I look for others nearby in the same travel window. I prefer cats but I’m open to small dogs. I like to plan at least two to three months at a time.

How much luggage do you travel with?

Too much. Even when I start well I end up buying things and needing to get an extra suitcase. It’s something I’m working on.

Do you take on unusual pets?

I’m selective. I’m not comfortable with large dogs and wouldn’t take on more than two or three small ones. I’d never apply for a sit involving horses, donkeys or sheep. Chickens I’d consider. Parrots — maybe. A houseful of cats? Absolutely.

Was it hard for you to secure your first housesitting gig? How many applications did you have to send before you got accepted for your first assignment?

Not too bad. My first was a small dog in my own town for just a few days — a perfect low-stakes way to start building feedback. I’d also already been on Trusted House Sitters as a homeowner for two years before I started sitting myself, which I think helped my profile.

I still get rejected fairly often, usually without explanation. You just have to roll with it.

Tips for Others Wanting to get started?

Be flexible and don’t take things personally.  There’s a lot of rejection in this and you just need to be able to roll with it.  When you apply, READ the profile. 

Make sure this is a good fit for you, let the homeowner know that you understand what’s important to them, and, why you’re the right person for the job.  Start off local, or with last minute sits. 

Ready to Start Your House Sitting Journey?

Cathy’s story is proof that you don’t have to go fully nomadic to make house sitting work for you. Whether you’re after a few trips a year or a life on the road, we’d love to help you get there. Browse our getting started resources or reach out with any questions — we’re happy to help.

Author: Britt

I am Britt. I have been house-sitting and pet-sitting for the past seven years. I have cared for 25 dogs, 35 cats, one turtle, and one rabbit over 80+ houses in 15 countries.

The opportunity to experience different homes, cultures, and communities has been extraordinary.

I’ve connected with homeowners seeking reliable sitters through house-sitting platforms like Aussie House Sitters and Trusted House Sitters. This unique way of living has allowed me to save money on accommodation, explore new cultures, and meet new people.

Being a member of these platforms has broadened my horizons and opened doors to short- and long-term house-sitting jobs. I’ve found joy in providing excellent pet care and ensuring the home is well-maintained.

I get many questions about how to start as a housesitter, so please reach out if you have any questions! I want everyone to enjoy this incredible lifestyle as well!

You can read more about Jay and me here!

Or connect with me on Facebook or in our house-sitting community on Facebook.

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• Facebook

The post The Sporadic House Sitter – House Sitting Stories With Cathy Leeflang appeared first on The Travelling House Sitters Professional Housesitting Services.

Can you trust the house sitters and homeowners you connect with through this app?

Keep reading as we discuss if you can trust the potential house sitters and homeowners you find on this platform.

Is Trusted House Sitters a Good Website?

Trusted House Sitters is a great house sitting site for both homeowners and house sitters. Trusted House Sitters vets all their sitters with police checks. They provide insurance to homeowners.

They also have a great platform that makes it easy to read reviews about the sitters. Trusted House Sitters has great reviews as a platform and is loved by many. That’s why it’s one of the biggest house-sitting platforms in the world!

Thousands of people have used this website several times with only great experiences.

Pros of Trusted House Sitters

Trusted House Sitters is easy to use. Sitters and owners both can just set up a complete profile and get started! Make sure your profile is full of relevant skills! Include any previous house-sitting experience. An attractive profile will encourage others to connect with you. If you have the app downloaded, it’s even more user-friendly.

This website even has a 24/7 veterinary hotline. This means that if anything goes wrong with a pet, you can get immediate vet advice!

The customer service is also super helpful

You can hire an unlimited amount of sitters throughout the year. You can provide pet care for as many clients as you wish.

Since it’s such a big community, it is really easy to find sitters at affordable costs. You could probably even find someone at the last minute if an emergency came up.

They have a tiered membership plans, so you can decide the features you want to access to. This makes it affordable for both homeowners and house sitters.

House sitters can set up alerts, so that they are notified when a sit comes up in their specified location. You can also use the filters to search for house sits in your desired location as well as dates, animals and even if the home has WIFI.

If your a house sitter and looking to get started, we have some tips on getting your first house sit with ease here.

Cons of Trusted House Sitters

The annual membership fee for Trusted House Sitters can be a bit pricey. However, it is well worth it. The membership starts at $129 a year. That’s only about $10 a month. If you hire house sitters just a couple of times, this isn’t an expensive membership fee.

There is an extra cost for better membership options, however additional cost covers extra benefits such as lounge access and house sit cancellation insurance.

Also, homeowners are not required to pass background checks. While sitters have less to worry about, it can be unnerving to stay in a stranger’s home. This is especially true when you don’t know their history.

Can You Trust House Sitters?

You can generally trust house sitters. Most people are inherently trustworthy. However, it may be difficult to trust a stranger enough to give them full access to your home.

Fortunately, many house-sitting platforms require their sitters to complete police background checks. This is a great way to know that they haven’t committed any crimes. A lot of these house-sitting websites also provide insurance. This will make it easy to deal with any lost or damaged property.

Another perk of house-sitting sites is that you can read honest reviews about sitters.

If a house sitter has plenty of good reviews, you know they’re probably trustworthy. If a sitter doesn’t have great reviews, you may want to consider hiring someone else.

Since they vet all sitters and provide insurance, it’s a pretty safe bet. Hiring a sitter through this platform will provide you with peace of mind when you travel.

This peace of mind is great whether you hire a long-term house sitter or just need someone for a couple of nights.

Author: Britt

I am Britt. I have been house-sitting and pet-sitting for the past seven years. I have cared for 25 dogs, 35 cats, one turtle, and one rabbit over 80+ houses in 15 countries.

The opportunity to experience different homes, cultures, and communities has been extraordinary.

I’ve connected with homeowners seeking reliable sitters through house-sitting platforms like Aussie House Sitters and Trusted House Sitters. This unique way of living has allowed me to save money on accommodation, explore new cultures, and meet new people.

Being a member of these platforms has broadened my horizons and opened doors to short- and long-term house-sitting jobs. I’ve found joy in providing excellent pet care and ensuring the home is well-maintained.

I get many questions about how to start as a housesitter, so please reach out if you have any questions! I want everyone to enjoy this incredible lifestyle as well!

You can read more about Jay and me here!

Or connect with me on Facebook or in our house-sitting community on Facebook.

• LinkedIn
• Facebook

The post Pros and Cons of Trusted House Sitters appeared first on The Travelling House Sitters Professional Housesitting Services.

It is no surprise that the price of accommodation in Canada varies widely due to the vast size of the country.

However, don’t halt your travel plans just yet because we’ve put together a list of how to snag the best prices for accommodations on your next trip there!

Staying With Locals 

Staying with locals does not only guarantee you cheap accommodation but also teaches you something about the country and its people’s culture and way of life. 

Locals open up their homes to you in various cities and offer you a place to stay in their homes. This can sometimes be a bed, a couch, or maybe even just a corner in a room. 

A few websites that can offer you these services are Airbnb, Homestay, and Couch Surfing. 

You may be skeptical about the safety of using these sites. However, checking the verification levels that all the sites have and reading the reviews left by other travelers can be a great way to overcome this problem.

These sites are not only for solo travelers as many hosts take couples and families as well.

House Sitting 

House Sitting may be the best option for you if you are planning to stay in Canada for at least a couple of weeks. 

You can find various house-sitting opportunities on websites such as Mind My House, Trusted Housesitter, House Carers, and Luxury House Sitting. Although these sites may request a sign-up fee, they will grant you access to the entire database of available houses. 

In exchange for watching and maintaining someone’s home while they are away, you will get a free place to stay. You may also need to take care of their pets. 

You may also find house-sitting assignments on local websites and in the local newspaper, and on Facebook groups.

Hostels and Student Accommodations 

Canada has around sixty Hostelling International (HI) hostels and 140 non-affiliated hostels. These can range from small, typical dormitory-type hostels to summer student accommodations and budget guesthouses with private rooms. 

Quality does vary considerably, but most of the hostels should be of a reasonably high standard. Dorm beds usually cost $20–25 for HI members, with basic private rooms starting at $35. 

An alternatives to hostels is to stay in student accommodation in Canada’s university cities during the summer vacation. These accommodations are adequate and functional, and will also grant you access to the campus’s sports facilities. 

The only downside is that most places are a good distance from city centres. Nevertheless, prices for single and double rooms start at around $35. 

House Swap

Home swap programs have been growing in popularity over recent years, especially among older travelers who already own a home.

This method allows you to save on accommodation costs by exchanging your home with somebody from another country for the duration of your trip. 

You can check out the websites Home Exchange and IHEN to look for and interact with potential people you may exchange your house with. 

Cabin Rentals 

Cabin rentals are a great option if you aren’t traveling solo and can split the costs, as they can be a great alternative to other accommodation choices. Furthermore, most cabins have cooking facilities, so you can save on eating out. 

You are sure to find plenty of cabins to rent in Canada, lots of them at wilderness resorts. Local newspapers and websites like Kijiji, Airbnb, and Wimdu are also good sources to check out.

Farm Vacations 

This is the option for you if you are interested in experiencing farm life in Canada. 

The concept behind a farm vacation is that you spend a night as a guest on a working farm.

This may involve several organized outdoor activities such as feeding animals, planting and harvesting crops, helping with construction, general farm chores, or cooking. It also allows you to practice English and learn new skills. 

Most farms are located some distance from the nearest town with facilities ranging from basic camping to rustic cabins to luxury rooms, depending on the farm.

Although prices vary depending on where you are and the facilities included, you can expect to get good country food.

WWOOF 

WWOOF is an exchangeprogram, in return for volunteer work.

WWOOF hosts offer food, accommodation, and opportunities to learn about organic lifestyles. This option may be the one for you if you are passionate about experiencing new lifestyles and acquiring new skills.

You can find WWOOF programs on the following sites, with a membership fee to use them: 

– Wwoof 

– Workaway

– Helpx 

Camping 

Camping can be a great way to cut costs on accommodation as few countries offer as much scope for camping as Canada.

Most urban areas have a campground, and most national parks and provincial parks have government-run campsites. 

Furthermore, you can camp more or less where you please in most wilderness areas and in the vast domain of Canada’s federally-owned Crown Lands. 

Just keep in mind that campgrounds can become as busy as all other types of accommodation in cities, during July and August. This is particularly the case near mountain, lake, or river resorts. 

Hence, always aim to arrive early in the morning or book ahead. You should also remember to check that your chosen campsite is open as many only open seasonally, usually from May to October.

Bottom Line 

Looking for the best rates for accommodations during your trip to Canada can be a daunting experience, given the soaring prices of hotels and Airbnb’s. 

However, by looking for the best deals and exploring other options such as staying with locals, house sitting and home exchange, you are sure to snag an amazing deal for accommodation during your trip to Canada. 

Author: Britt

I am Britt. I have been house-sitting and pet-sitting for the past seven years. I have cared for 25 dogs, 35 cats, one turtle, and one rabbit over 80+ houses in 15 countries.

The opportunity to experience different homes, cultures, and communities has been extraordinary.

I’ve connected with homeowners seeking reliable sitters through house-sitting platforms like Aussie House Sitters and Trusted House Sitters. This unique way of living has allowed me to save money on accommodation, explore new cultures, and meet new people.

Being a member of these platforms has broadened my horizons and opened doors to short- and long-term house-sitting jobs. I’ve found joy in providing excellent pet care and ensuring the home is well-maintained.

I get many questions about how to start as a housesitter, so please reach out if you have any questions! I want everyone to enjoy this incredible lifestyle as well!

You can read more about Jay and me here!

Or connect with me on Facebook or in our house-sitting community on Facebook.

• LinkedIn
• Facebook

The post How to Find Cheap Accommodation in Canada appeared first on The Travelling House Sitters Professional Housesitting Services.

We surveyed over 125,000 active homeowners and house sitters to uncover the real numbers behind this growing trend. Whether you’re considering your first sit, wondering what homeowners prioritize, or trying to understand typical arrangements, these insights give you the insider perspective you need.

We’ve organized the findings into two key sections: what homeowners look for when choosing sitters, and what house sitters experience in the field. From average sit lengths to common deal-breakers, these statistics will help you navigate house-sitting with confidence—whether you’re hosting or sitting.

44% Of Homeowners Find Sitters Through Online Platforms

We received a few different answers when we asked homeowners how they find new house sitters.

44% of the homeowners said they find new house sitters on house-sitting websites.

Then, 19% of people said they use word of mouth to find new sitters, and another 19% said they use groups.

About 12% of homeowners find sitters in groups, and about 6% find potential house sitters through local advertising.

51% Of Homeowners Will Only Hire Sitters With References

We asked homeowners if they think references are necessary, and over half agreed that references are mandatory.

The second most popular answer was, “I like to give beginners a chance with 38%.

Then people said no, making up 11% of the votes. Then 11% said they don’t mind if you have references or don’t.

We received some interesting comments from homeowners; we have listed some below.

Many people need to know they can trust a pet sitter because they love their pets. Pet sitters must understand pets’ conditions and be able to provide proper pet care.

Many people thought it was essential to give newbies a chance. A few people couldn’t imagine letting beginners watch their homes and pets. However, every sitter starts as a beginner.

Some people hired newbies with excellent results. Others will never hire someone without references again. Fortunately, sitters can provide character references until they are more experienced.

40% of Homeowners Find It Challenging to Find the Right Pet Sitter

There were a few challenges when hiring sitters. Most pet parents struggled to find a sitter with the right skills for their animals, with over 40% of the votes.

In the second place, 30% of voters struggled to find the right sitter for their house. It can be tough to trust someone with your home.

20% found it challenging to find someone who can maintain the garden. They also worried about the sitter’s ability to recycle properly. Since our world increasingly values sustainability, more homeowners will follow these practices.

10% said it was hard to find a sitter in their area. This is especially true for those who live rurally or in small towns.

Homeowners Worry About A Variety Of Things While Traveling

When pet owners go on vacation, they worry about their pets’ health and happiness. Owners of livestock often have even more concerns. It’s hard to trust a stranger with pet sitting.

Some stress about house and travel insurance. Others just hope they return to a well-maintained home. House owners who have gardens and yards worry about that. Can the sitter properly maintain their property?

Some travelers can embrace the vacation. Their biggest worries are finding wine and ensuring they don’t spend too much on luxury!

46% of House Owners Hired A Sitter Twice in 2023

We asked homeowners how many times they hired a sitter in 2023.

46.2% of the homeowners had hired pet sitters twice in 2022, but 23.1% had yet to hire a house sitter.

15% of homeowners had hired a house sitter once or three times.

As house-sitting becomes more popular, there will be more opportunities each year.

43% of House Sitters Sit Part-Time

We asked house sitters if they sit part-time, full-time, or only on vacation.

The majority of house sitters, 43 % house-sit part-time

The second most popular answer was for a vacation, which comprised 32% of the vote. They will house-sit for a week here and there.

Around 23% of house sitters sit full-time.

44% of House Sitters Find House Sits on House Sitting Sites

We asked housesitters how they find new house-sitting opportunities. House-sitting sites were the most popular option, with 44%.

About 24% of respondents agreed they find sits through word of mouth.

The most popular option was within this community of 130,000 homeowners and house sitters; it received 20.6% of the vote. Then, 9.5% of respondents used other groups.

3% still used traditional marketing, such as flyers and mailings.

46% of House Sitters House Sit Abroad

When we asked how many people do international house sits.

That was nearly 54% of the respondents plan to start sitting internationally.

Then, 46% of the respondents said they do sit internationally.

68% of House Sitters Have Started Sitting Since COVID

We asked house sitters if they had taken a break during COVID and returned to house sitting.

36% of respondents had already started house-sitting again after COVID

28.6% of respondents have not started house-sitting again since COVID-19, and 32% didn’t even start house-sitting until after COVID-19.

Since more people are working remotely, more people can house-sit. It’s a great way to make extra money while traveling without giving up your day job!

37% of Sitters Plan To Sit 1-3 Times in 2024

We asked house sitters how many house sits they plan to do in 2024.

37% of voters plan to do 1-3 house sits.

25% of voters plan to do 4-6 house sits.

17% of voters plan to do 7-10 house sits.

8.5% of voters plan to do 11-15 house sits.

5.75% plans to do 26-30 sits

5.75% plans to do over 31 house sits.

1.5% aren’t if they’re ready yet this year.

That means 98.5% of house sitters plan to do at least one sit this year.

38% of House Sitters Struggle to Find New House Sits

We asked house sitters about their biggest challenges.

The top challenge is finding new sits. 38%, agree that finding new sits is a challenge.

Communication can help house owners and sitters find a good match. Open communication makes it easier to determine whether to work together.

Second place was a tie. 23% thought that moving around was a challenge. 23% felt that it was hard to leave pets.

6% of voters have found it hard to find house-sitting assignments without pets. We have found that these assignments are more common in places where people have second homes.

4% found it difficult to find house-sit opportunities where they could bring their dogs with them, and 4% found it hard to deal with pet illness.

86% of House Sitters Loved House Sitting In Europe Most

We also asked about their favorite geographic location for house sitting.

41.4% of the respondents voted for Europe.

Second place was a tie between North America and Greece. They each received nearly 14% of the vote.

Third place was also a tie between Ireland and the UK. They each received 10% of the vote.

Two people voted for Asia, making up 7% of the vote.

If you pay attention, you’ll notice that many of these answers were from different parts of Europe. House owners in Europe should be able to find housesitters pretty easily!

House sitters may want to find opportunities to sit in less popular places. Because of less competition, these places will be easier to find opportunities in. While many sitters go to Western Europe, not as many go to the Middle East or South Africa.

Fortunately, you’ll be able to find a good opportunity in most places as house sitting becomes more popular.

House sitting may be a rapidly growing industry, but it’s still evolving with plenty of potential. As more people explore this arrangement’s benefits, homeowners and sitters have questions about what lies ahead. For those starting, understanding what homeowners look for in a reliable sitter can be essential.

Likewise, homeowners are often curious about the individuals entrusted with their homes and pets. One thing is sure—the world of house-sitting is only getting more popular, bringing new opportunities and experiences for everyone involved!

Need Help Getting Started With House Sitting

Have we got you excited about house-sitting? We love sharing our experiences and teaching others how to become house-sitters and start their journeys. 

So, if you need help starting your house-sitting journey, see my resources here, and don’t hesitate to contact me and ask me any questions.

Author: Britt

I am Britt. I have been house-sitting and pet-sitting for the past seven years. I have cared for 25 dogs, 35 cats, one turtle, and one rabbit over 80+ houses in 15 countries.

The opportunity to experience different homes, cultures, and communities has been extraordinary.

I’ve connected with homeowners seeking reliable sitters through house-sitting platforms like Aussie House Sitters and Trusted House Sitters. This unique way of living has allowed me to save money on accommodation, explore new cultures, and meet new people.

Being a member of these platforms has broadened my horizons and opened doors to short- and long-term house-sitting jobs. I’ve found joy in providing excellent pet care and ensuring the home is well-maintained.

I get many questions about how to start as a housesitter, so please reach out if you have any questions! I want everyone to enjoy this incredible lifestyle as well!

You can read more about Jay and me here!

Or connect with me on Facebook or in our house-sitting community on Facebook.

• LinkedIn
• Facebook

The post 2026 House Sitting Statistics – House Sitting Data Trend + Insights Into House Sitting appeared first on The Travelling House Sitters Professional Housesitting Services.

Maybe you have a lot of plants that need watering or a sweet furry friend that needs pet care.

Whatever your reasoning, it can be nerve-wracking to let a stranger into your home. This is especially true when you’re not even there!

Can you trust house sitters? How can you ensure a successful house sit? 

Keep reading to learn all about whether or not you can entrust a stranger with caring for your home and pets.

Can You Trust House Sitters?

House sitters are generally trustworthy. It is in their best interest to meet your expectations.

If they don’t meet the homeowner’s expectations, they will receive a bad review. And then they won’t be able to grow their house-sitting business.

Occasionally, you’ll come across a sitter that you might not trust with your home and pets. However, there are ways to determine their trustworthiness before you even hire them.

We’ll talk about house sitting etiquette as well as green flags and red flags later in this article.

Is It Safe To Hire A House Sitter?

It is safe to hire house sitters. This is especially true when you find them through word of mouth or online platforms.

If you hire a house sitter that a friend has hired before, you know they’re pretty good. Check with their previous sitters to find a match. This is the best way to get helpful character references.

Even if your friends don’t know one, you can find potential house sitters in community forums. If enough people can vouch for them, then you know they’re a safe bet.

When using an online platform, you know the sitters have completed background checks. You can also read honest reviews to know if they are good at their jobs.

Online house-sitting platforms, like Trusted House Sitters, also offer customer service. This helps to ensure a great experience. House Sitters America is another trusted website. 

Some of the popular sites also offer vet advice and have pet care hotlines. This means that your pet sitter will be able to provide professional care even in an emergency.

You have to pay an annual membership fee for many of these services. We think it is well worth the money. Some membership options are quite affordable although some have an expensive membership fee.

While there’s always a risk, it is quite easy to safely hire the perfect sitter.

What Should I Know About Hiring A House Sitter?

When hiring a sitter, it is important to discuss your expectations. If they know their responsibilities, you will be on the same page. This will ensure a positive experience.

You should also know how to determine if you can trust the sitter. For instance, look at their external references and experience. You might find that sound house sitters charge, here you can see how much is reasonable to pay a pet sitter.

Their house sitter profiles will also give you an idea about them. You might even find the perfect house sitter!

If they have mostly positive reviews, they’re probably a good choice. If someone doesn’t have a lot of reviews, that means they’re not that experienced.

This isn’t a bad thing, but it can be hard to trust someone new to the platform. Fortunately, you know they’ve passed a background check depending on the platform’s policy.

You will also have the opportunity to chat with potential sitters. This will allow you to discuss your preferences. It will also give you a chance to see if you trust them before letting them into your home.

How Can I Tell If A House Sitter Is Trustworthy?

The easiest way to determine a house sitter’s trustworthiness is by reading reviews.

You can read their reviews online or ask people who have hired them in the past. If you have local friends who have hired sitters in the past, you can see if their sitter will work for you.

Some sitters will travel to popular destinations to house sit. But some will sit locally. If you hire a local sitter, you can probably meet them ahead of time. If you hire someone from abroad, you may get to meet them via video call.

If you notice negative reviews or a lack of reviews, you may want to stay away.

If you use an online platform, you will probably receive dozens of applications. Fortunately, most of them have passed police background checks. It is still helpful to look at their profiles.

How Can I Prepare For A House Sitter?

Even if you trust the house sitter, there are some things you can do to protect yourself. These are precautions you should take even if you do trust the sitter. 

For instance, lock up any valuables or move them to a different place. Most sitters won’t steal from you, but won’t even be tempted if they never see anything valuable.

If you have something breakable, maybe put it somewhere safe. Accidents happen and this is a great way to prevent them.

Make sure your Wi-Fi passwords and security alarm codes don’t match any of your other accounts.

Leave anything they need in easily accessible places. You also should leave detailed instructions for your pet sitter, that way they will be prepared for anything that happens.

Is It Safe To Become A House Sitter?

While it’s mostly safe to hire house sitters and be a sitter, there are always risks.

House sitters can also investigate potential employees. You may find some red flags that would prevent you from taking a job.

You can use platforms that require background checks on homeowners. You can also use word-of-mouth to find trustworthy employers.

It’s also beneficial to research the area to see what precautions you should take. For instance, you may need to know how to be safe during certain types of weather.

Some places may have higher crime rates. Others may have wild animals. Just being aware of the area will help keep you safe.

Once you understand the situation, you can submit your job application!

Just like with everything, there are some risks within the house-sitting world. Homeowners and sitters should both take precautions.

However, there are risks no matter what choice you make. So taking precautions will allow you to enjoy a safe and happy experience.

Author: Britt

I am Britt. I have been house-sitting and pet-sitting for the past seven years. I have cared for 25 dogs, 35 cats, one turtle, and one rabbit over 80+ houses in 15 countries.

The opportunity to experience different homes, cultures, and communities has been extraordinary.

I’ve connected with homeowners seeking reliable sitters through house-sitting platforms like Aussie House Sitters and Trusted House Sitters. This unique way of living has allowed me to save money on accommodation, explore new cultures, and meet new people.

Being a member of these platforms has broadened my horizons and opened doors to short- and long-term house-sitting jobs. I’ve found joy in providing excellent pet care and ensuring the home is well-maintained.

I get many questions about how to start as a housesitter, so please reach out if you have any questions! I want everyone to enjoy this incredible lifestyle as well!

You can read more about Jay and me here!

Or connect with me on Facebook or in our house-sitting community on Facebook.

• LinkedIn
• Facebook

The post Can I Trust House Sitters appeared first on The Travelling House Sitters Professional Housesitting Services.

Look no further as we’ve put together the top digital nomadic bloggers that will tell you about everything you need to know before you take the leap into starting your own nomadic journey. 

Nomadic Matt

Run by Matt, the New York Times best-selling author of How to Travel the World on $50 a Day, makes sure this blog is the most successful and popular travel blog on the planet. 

Not only does Nomadic Matt provide his followers with useful tips and advice on traveling the world on a budget, but has also successfully inspired countless dreamers to get off their couches and onto a flight.

Matt’s website and travel content have been featured in every major media site you can possibly think of, from Lonely Planet to The Huffington Post. 

After quitting his cubicle job and pursuing full-time travel back in 2006, Matt has years of experience to learn from and seeks to help everyone travel better for less.

See more about Nomadic Matt here. 

The Lifestyle Hunter 

This blog offers you information on all the topics you need to know about before embarking on a digital nomad lifestyle that specifically works for you. 

The Lifestyle Hunter covers many different topics such as volunteering, studying abroad, and traveling with the aid of scholarships.

Run by former strategy consultant Pilar Noriega, she includes lots of unique and exciting opportunities around the world in her articles and seeks to help aspiring travelers discover a lifestyle they love.

See more about The Lifestyle Hunter here. 

Alajode 

This blog focuses on all the best ideas to travel sustainably and responsibly while paying attention to the health of our planet. Being eco-friendly is extremely relevant for most digital nomads, but is a lesser talked about topic amongst the community. 

Alajode is run by Jodie, a British digital nomad and successful blogger that left her perfect life in London to explore the world. 

Not only does she share her best travel equipment but also helpful, minimalist and sustainable travel tips that can be beneficial to all travelers. 

See more about Alajode here. .

The Broke Backpacker 

This blog’s main goal is to help travel enthusiasts learn how to start their own businesses, ditch their desk jobs and easily make a living as a digital nomad.

The Broke Backpacker was started by Will Hatton, who loves adventure travel and believes that there is no greater teacher than touring the world.  

He started traveling at the age of eighteen and did whatever he could to scrounge up money at the start. 

Now he makes five figures a month through his online ventures and is one of the top travel bloggers in the world.

This blog is sure to inspire you to embrace the independent nomadic lifestyle. 

See more about The Broke Backpacker here.

Adventure in You

This blog will teach you how to profit from doing what you love, and how to effectively make a living as a digital nomad.

Adventure In You is run by Tom and Anna, who’s life changed when they finally started seeing progress from the travel blog they created together.

They have been on the road for four years as digital nomads, creating useful articles about their personal travel tips, and detailed guidebooks. 

Aside from useful tips on how to make a living, they even have an exciting course called “Travel University” to prepare you for the digital nomad experience.

See more about Adventure In You here.

Never Ending Voyage 

This blog focuses on slow travel and off-the-beaten-path experiences around the world that is sure to bring depth to your trip.

Never Ending Voyage will tell you everything about creating a mindful blueprint for a life well-traveled.

Their authors, Simon and Erin, sold everything they owned in 2010 and began traveling the world consistently. 

They fund their travels by creating travel apps, guidebooks, and resources, and monetizing their blog to help you get on the road and travel mindfully.

See more about Never Ending Voyage here. 

Barbaralicious 

Barbara, more popularly known as “Barbaralicious” has one of the best digital nomad blogs out there. 

She has released many new blog posts while being on the road, traveling, and working in many countries so far.

Additionally, she has written some books about her experience as a digital nomad, as well as travel guides to many digital nomad cities.

Barbaralicious is your blog if you’re looking for digital nomad tips from a solo female traveler and some informative travel guides. 

See more about Barbaralicious here.

The Blonde Abroad 

The Blonde Abroad offers women with everything they need to know about solo and female travel.

Named as one of the top travel blogs in the world by Forbes, her blog is every woman’s go-to website for traveling the world solo.

After she quit her corporate job six years ago, she has been experiencing the world one adventure after another. 

Additionally, she hosts multiple all-female tours each year in different gorgeous locales, so hop on over to her site and sign up! 

See more about The Blonde Abroad here. 

Too Many Adapters

Too Many Adapters dedicates their time and content to reviewing technology for travelers.

Everybody knows that technology is essential for digital nomads, and electronics are probably the most important part of any digital nomad packing list.

Not only may it be a crucial part of generating income, but also helps one stay connected to family and friends. 

Their blog contains reviews on all electronics from drones, SIM cards, phones, and so much more.

Check out this blog to get advice on which tech is best for your traveling needs. 

See more on Too Many Adapters here. 

My Funky Travel 

This blog offers readers multiple guides that will help add activities to their itinerary that they’ll really enjoy.

With a focus on backpacking, this blog ensures that you’ll have a blast planning your routes for the spring and summer months in your destination of choice if you love the great outdoors. 

Additionally, you are sure to get tons of help with backpacker’s insurance as well as inside information on the varied costs associated with going on extensive treks in different countries.

See more about My Funky Travel here. 

Freaking Nomads 

This blog offers its followers a wealth of information on topics such as productivity, remote work, personal finance, digital nomad visas, and the best destinations for digital nomads. 

Freaking Nomads is a go-to source for digital nomads, freelancers, and remote workers looking for practical advice and inspiration on how to make the most of their nomad lifestyles.

Additionally, they also feature profiles of digital nomads on their social media, to highlight their stories and to inspire digital nomads all over the world.

This is a must-follow blog for anyone interested in the digital nomad lifestyle, whether you’re just starting out or are a seasoned digital nomad. 

See more about Freaking Nomads here. 

Diving into a nomadic lifestyle and leaving your comfortable, mundane lifestyle can be extremely overwhelming and stressful at first.

That’s why it’s important to read and interact with digital nomad blogs and forums whenever you can, especially if you are passionate about travel.

Be sure to check out the blogs mentioned above to ease your nerves and know what to expect before embracing the nomadic life. 

Author: Britt

I am Britt. I have been house-sitting and pet-sitting for the past seven years. I have cared for 25 dogs, 35 cats, one turtle, and one rabbit over 80+ houses in 15 countries.

The opportunity to experience different homes, cultures, and communities has been extraordinary.

I’ve connected with homeowners seeking reliable sitters through house-sitting platforms like Aussie House Sitters and Trusted House Sitters. This unique way of living has allowed me to save money on accommodation, explore new cultures, and meet new people.

Being a member of these platforms has broadened my horizons and opened doors to short- and long-term house-sitting jobs. I’ve found joy in providing excellent pet care and ensuring the home is well-maintained.

I get many questions about how to start as a housesitter, so please reach out if you have any questions! I want everyone to enjoy this incredible lifestyle as well!

You can read more about Jay and me here!

Or connect with me on Facebook or in our house-sitting community on Facebook.

• LinkedIn
• Facebook

The post Top Digital Nomadic Bloggers appeared first on The Travelling House Sitters Professional Housesitting Services.

Organizing a house sit can feel nerve-wracking, especially if it’s your first time. However, a good platform can take the stress out of the process and help you feel confident from the start.

We’ve compiled a list of key qualities to look for when choosing a house-sitting website. These will help you make a clear and informed choice before signing up!

What Makes a Good House Sitting Site? Key Factors to Consider Before Signing Up

Here are the specific criteria we’re using to assess the quality of a house-sitting site:

• User-friendly design and navigation
• Helpful tools and mobile app functionality
• Responsive customer support
• Emergency hotline access
• Size and activity of the platform community
• Covered locations and regional availability
• Insurance coverage or guarantees
• Background check requirements
• Availability and quality of house sitters
• Transparent membership fees
• Listing quality and verification features