Are you a globetrotter looking for short-term housing options during your travels? Look no further! In this article, we will guide you on how to easily find suitable accommodation while exploring different destinations. Whether you’re a digital nomad, a weekend traveler, or simply seeking a new adventure, we’ve got you covered. Say goodbye to the hassle of searching for last-minute accommodations and hello to stress-free travel planning! Let’s dive right in and discover the best ways to find short-term housing while globe-trotting.
Utilize Online Platforms
Search on Airbnb
When looking for short-term housing options while globe-trotting, one of the first online platforms you should consider is Airbnb. Airbnb allows you to search for unique accommodations all around the world, ranging from private apartments to shared rooms or even entire houses. With millions of listings available, you can easily find a place that suits your preferences and budget. You can also read reviews from previous guests to get a better idea of the quality and suitability of the accommodations.
Check out HomeAway
HomeAway is another excellent online platform to utilize when searching for short-term housing. Similar to Airbnb, HomeAway offers a wide range of options, including vacation rentals, apartments, and villas in various destinations. Whether you prefer the convenience of an apartment or the luxury of a villa, HomeAway has options to suit every traveler’s needs. The platform also provides detailed descriptions and photos of each property, allowing you to make an informed decision before booking.
Explore VRBO
VRBO, which stands for Vacation Rentals By Owner, is another popular online platform for finding short-term housing. With VRBO, you can browse through a vast selection of privately owned vacation homes, cabins, and condos. This platform is particularly beneficial for individuals or families looking for larger, more spacious accommodations. By exploring VRBO’s listings, you can often find unique properties with amenities such as private pools, hot tubs, or stunning views, adding an extra touch of comfort and luxury to your stay.
Try Booking.com
While Booking.com is primarily known for its hotel bookings, it also offers a wide range of short-term housing options. Whether you’re looking for an apartment, a guesthouse, or a holiday home, Booking.com has you covered. The platform allows you to search by location, filtering the results based on your specific requirements. Additionally, Booking.com often provides discounted rates or special promotions, ensuring that you find the best deal for your short-term housing needs.
Consider Co-Living Spaces
Look into WeLive
If you’re open to the idea of living in a community-oriented environment, WeLive is an excellent option to consider. WeLive offers fully furnished apartments with shared common areas, making it easy to connect with like-minded individuals during your stay. With various locations available, WeLive provides the opportunity to experience a sense of community while globe-trotting. Amenities such as coworking spaces, fitness centers, and regular social events enhance the overall co-living experience.
Check out Ollie
Ollie is another co-living space provider that offers short-term housing options for travelers. Ollie’s apartments are designed to provide a hassle-free living experience, complete with modern furnishings and all necessary amenities. In addition to comfortable accommodations, Ollie offers a range of services, including housekeeping and regular social activities, to enhance your stay. By choosing Ollie, you can enjoy the benefits of a hotel-like experience while still having the opportunity to connect with fellow travelers and locals.
Explore Roam
Roam takes the concept of co-living to a global level by providing short-term stays in multiple cities around the world. With Roam, you can join a diverse community of digital nomads and professionals who travel while working remotely. Roam’s locations are carefully selected to combine comfort, functionality, and a unique sense of adventure. By choosing Roam, you not only have access to comfortable accommodations but also gain the opportunity to foster connections and collaborations with others in the Roam community.
Try House Sitting
Join a house sitting website
House sitting can be a great option for travelers looking for free or low-cost short-term housing. By joining a house sitting website, you can connect with homeowners who are seeking responsible individuals to take care of their homes and pets while they’re away. Websites such as TrustedHousesitters, HouseCarers, and Nomador provide platforms that allow you to browse house sitting opportunities worldwide. This arrangement not only provides you with a place to stay but also gives you the chance to live like a local and experience the community you’re visiting.
Create an appealing profile
When applying for house sitting opportunities, having an appealing profile is crucial. Homeowners want to feel confident that their homes and beloved pets are in safe hands. Therefore, it’s essential to present yourself as a reliable and trustworthy individual. Include relevant experience, such as previous house sitting assignments or pet care responsibilities, in your profile. Be sure to highlight any specific skills or qualifications that may strengthen your application. Additionally, including references or testimonials from previous hosts can greatly enhance your chances of securing a house sitting assignment.
Apply to house sitting opportunities
Once you’ve created a compelling profile, it’s time to start applying for house sitting opportunities. Browse the listings on house sitting websites and carefully read through the homeowner’s requirements and expectations. Tailor your application to each specific opportunity, demonstrating your suitability and genuine interest in the assignment. Keep in mind that house sitting opportunities can be competitive, so it’s essential to apply promptly and make your application stand out. By successfully securing a house sitting assignment, you can enjoy a unique, cost-effective, and authentic housing experience while globe-trotting.
Connect with Locals
Join travel forums and groups
To enhance your travel experience and find short-term housing recommendations, join travel forums and groups. Websites like Lonely Planet’s Thorn Tree Forum, TripAdvisor’s Travel Forum, or Reddit’s travel subreddits provide platforms where you can connect with fellow travelers and locals. By engaging in conversations and asking for advice from experienced travelers or locals, you can gather valuable insights and recommendations for short-term housing options in your desired destinations. These platforms also present an opportunity to create connections and potentially find travel companions or roommates.
Utilize social media networks
Social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram can be excellent resources for finding short-term housing while globe-trotting. Joining travel-related groups or following relevant hashtags can provide you with a wealth of information and recommendations from fellow globetrotters. Many destinations also have dedicated social media groups or pages where locals share housing options or recommendations, making it easier for you to connect with individuals who know the area well. Make use of these online networks to tap into the knowledge and experiences of others for a more personalized housing search.
Tap into local connections
If you have existing connections or acquaintances in the destinations you plan to visit, reach out to them for assistance in finding short-term housing. Locals often have valuable insights and advice on the best neighborhoods, rental prices, and reputable landlords. Your friends, family members, or colleagues may know someone who can offer a temporary place to stay or provide guidance in finding suitable accommodations. By tapping into local connections, you not only gain valuable housing recommendations but also potentially create enriching experiences by connecting with locals who can offer insights into the local culture and lifestyle.
Use Rental Agencies
Contact local rental agencies
Rental agencies can be a reliable resource when searching for short-term housing options in your desired destinations. Research local rental agencies that specialize in short-term rentals and contact them to inquire about availability and pricing. Rental agencies often have a variety of properties available, ranging from apartments to houses, and they can provide you with professional assistance and guidance throughout the rental process. By booking through a reputable rental agency, you can have peace of mind knowing that your housing needs are being handled by experts in the field.
Utilize relocation agents
Relocation agents are professionals who specialize in helping individuals find suitable accommodations when moving to a new city or country. While they typically assist with long-term relocations, they can also provide valuable insights and assistance in finding short-term housing. Reach out to relocation agents in your desired destinations and inquire about their services for shorter stays. These agents have extensive knowledge of the local housing market and can offer personalized recommendations based on your budget and requirements.
Look for temporary housing services
Temporary housing services, such as furnished apartments or serviced apartments, can be an excellent option for travelers seeking short-term accommodations. These services offer fully furnished apartments with flexible lease terms, making them ideal for globetrotters. Research temporary housing providers in your desired destinations and explore their offerings. Temporary housing services often come with added benefits such as housekeeping, concierge services, and access to amenities, providing you with a hassle-free and comfortable living experience during your travels.
Consider Extended Stay Hotels
Research extended stay hotel chains
Extended stay hotels are designed specifically for travelers who require accommodations for more extended periods. These hotels offer apartment-style suites that come with a kitchenette or a full kitchen, allowing you to cook your meals and save on dining expenses. Research reputable extended stay hotel chains in your desired destinations, such as Residence Inn by Marriott, Homewood Suites by Hilton, or Staybridge Suites, and explore their offerings. Extended stay hotels often provide additional amenities like fitness facilities, laundry services, and complimentary breakfast, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay.
Compare prices and amenities
When considering extended stay hotels, it’s essential to compare prices and amenities offered by different establishments. Take into account the length of your stay and your budget when making comparisons. Pay attention to the services and facilities offered by each hotel, ensuring they align with your preferences and needs. Reading reviews from previous guests can also provide valuable insights into the quality and overall experience of staying at a particular extended stay hotel. By comparing prices and amenities, you can find the best value for your money while enjoying the conveniences of an extended stay hotel.
Take advantage of discounts or loyalty programs
Many extended stay hotel chains offer discounts or loyalty programs that can help you save money on your short-term housing. These programs often provide perks such as discounted room rates, complimentary upgrades, or exclusive rewards. Before making a reservation, check if the extended stay hotel chain you are considering has any ongoing promotions or loyalty programs. By taking advantage of these offers, you can maximize your savings and potentially enjoy additional benefits during your stay. It’s always worth exploring these options to make the most of your budget and enhance your overall travel experience.
Check with Universities or Colleges
Explore on-campus housing options
Universities and colleges often offer on-campus housing options for short-term stays, especially during periods such as summer breaks or when hosting conferences or events. These accommodations are typically available in dormitories or student apartments. Contact the housing office of universities or colleges in your desired destinations to inquire about the availability, rates, and eligibility for short-term on-campus housing. On-campus housing can provide a unique experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in campus life and connect with students from around the world.
Look for short-term rentals through student housing offices
In addition to on-campus housing options, universities and colleges often maintain listings for short-term rentals through their housing offices. These rentals may be apartments or houses that are owned or managed by the institution. Student housing offices can provide you with information on available rentals, lease terms, and pricing. By renting through a student housing office, you can have peace of mind knowing that the rental is reliable and typically meets certain standards set by the institution.
Try Homestays or Room Rentals
Look into Couchsurfing
If you’re open to the idea of staying with locals and immersing yourself in the local culture, Couchsurfing is a platform worth exploring. Couchsurfing allows travelers to connect with hosts who offer a spare couch, bed, or room for free. It’s important to note that Couchsurfing is not solely about finding free accommodation; it’s also about cultural exchange and building connections. When using Couchsurfing, it’s crucial to read through hosts’ profiles, reviews from previous guests, and engage in open communication to ensure compatibility and safety.
Join communities like Homestay.com
Homestay.com is a platform that connects travelers with local hosts who offer private rooms for rent. By joining Homestay.com, you can find affordable short-term accommodation options while having the opportunity to engage with your hosts and learn about the local culture. Homestay.com allows you to read host profiles, reviews, and communicate directly with potential hosts to discuss your needs and ensure a comfortable stay. This platform offers a more personalized and intimate experience compared to traditional accommodations.
Explore listings on Roomi
Roomi is a platform that specializes in room rentals, catering to individuals seeking short-term housing options. Whether you’re looking for a shared room, a private room in a shared apartment, or a solo apartment, Roomi has a range of listings available. By exploring Roomi’s listings, you can find affordable options in various neighborhoods and cities around the world. Roomi also provides features like background checks and verification, helping to ensure a safe and secure housing experience.
Utilize Short-Term Rental Platforms
Search on FlipKey
FlipKey, a subsidiary of TripAdvisor, is a platform that offers a vast selection of vacation rentals and short-term housing options. With FlipKey, you can find unique properties such as beachfront cottages, mountain cabins, or centrally located apartments. The platform allows you to search by destination, filtering the results based on your desired dates, amenities, and budget. By utilizing FlipKey, you can discover hidden gems and beautiful accommodations that may not be available through traditional hotel booking platforms.
Check out OneFineStay
OneFineStay is a luxury short-term rental platform that offers carefully curated accommodations in cities around the world. With OneFineStay, you can choose from a selection of high-end apartments, townhouses, or villas, each meticulously inspected and maintained. The platform ensures a hotel-like experience by providing professional cleaning, 24/7 concierge service, and tailored amenities. By choosing OneFineStay, you can indulge in luxurious accommodations while enjoying the comforts of home.
Explore SabbaticalHomes
SabbaticalHomes is a platform dedicated to connecting academics, writers, and professionals with short-term housing options. This platform specializes in home exchanges, house and apartment rentals, and house sitting opportunities. SabbaticalHomes offers listings in various locations worldwide, allowing you to find housing options tailored to your professional or academic needs. By exploring SabbaticalHomes, you can find unique accommodations that cater to the specific requirements of working or studying while traveling.
Consider Hostels
Research hostel options in your destination
Hostels have long been a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers, but they can also be a viable option for finding short-term housing while globe-trotting. Researching hostel options in your desired destination can provide you with affordable and centrally located accommodations. While many hostels offer dormitory-style rooms, some also provide private rooms or long-term stay options. Reading reviews and researching the amenities and services offered by different hostels can help you find one that aligns with your needs and preferences.
Look for private rooms or long-term stay options
If the idea of staying in a dormitory-style room doesn’t appeal to you, consider looking for hostels that offer private rooms or long-term stay options. Many hostels have private rooms available, ranging from basic to more luxurious accommodations. Staying in a private room within a hostel allows you to enjoy the social atmosphere and facilities of a hostel while also having the privacy and comfort of your own space. Some hostels also offer discounted rates for long-term stays, making them an affordable choice for extended periods of travel.
Check reviews and ratings
When considering hostels as a short-term housing option, it’s essential to check reviews and ratings from previous guests. Websites like Hostelworld or Booking.com provide reliable platforms for reading reviews and gathering insights from fellow travelers. By checking the experiences and opinions of others, you can make an informed decision and choose hostels that have positive reputations. Reviews can provide valuable information on factors such as cleanliness, safety, location, and staff friendliness, helping you find a hostel that meets your expectations and requirements.
Finding short-term housing while globe-trotting is an essential aspect of planning your travel adventures. Whether you prefer the comforts of a private apartment, the communal experience of co-living, or the affordability of hostels, the options outlined in this article provide a comprehensive range of choices to suit every traveler’s needs and preferences. Utilize online platforms, connect with locals, and consider different accommodation types to find the perfect short-term housing for your globe-trotting journey. Happy travels!