Can you imagine traveling through Europe, Australia, or the United States, staying in authentic mansions without paying a single cent for accommodation? Although it sounds like a fantasy, two nomadic families have made it their lifestyle thanks to an increasingly popular practice: petsitting , or caring for pets and homes in exchange for free accommodation. In a world where rental and hotel prices continue to rise, this alternative is presented as an ingenious and affordable solution for those who dream of traveling without spending a fortune.
What is petsitting and how does it work?
Petsitting and its variant, housesitting , are practices in which travelers stay for free in private homes in exchange for taking care of the owners’ homes, plants , or pets while they’re away. It’s an exchange of trust: you take care of someone’s most valuable asset—their home and animals—and in return, you live like a local in a home that often surpasses any hotel in terms of comfort and location.
According to platforms like TrustedHousesitters , one of the most internationally recognized, this dynamic has grown exponentially in countries like Australia, the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, and much of Europe. In cities where accommodations can cost over $100 USD per night, accessing these spaces for free is an unparalleled opportunity.
Benefits of petsitting while traveling
- Free accommodation in incredible houses
- From oceanfront mansions to chalets in the Alps, many hosts offer spectacular homes. It’s common to find three-story homes with gardens, pools, and every imaginable luxury.
- Connect with your pets without compromising your nomadic lifestyle
- If you travel frequently and can’t have your own pet, petsitting allows you to have contact with dogs or cats without the long-term responsibility.
- Significant savings
- By eliminating accommodation costs, travelers can allocate their budget to experiences, food, transportation, or even savings. In countries like Australia, where rent is very expensive, this is a huge advantage.
- Greater comfort than a camper or a tent
- For those who live the van life , staying in a home for a while allows them to enjoy basic amenities like long showers, a fully equipped kitchen, or simply more space.
- Live like a local
- By integrating into a residential neighborhood, you can experience a country authentically, away from the tourist trail.
Steps to get started in the world of petsitting
- Create an attractive profile
- Include photos with animals, a detailed bio, your previous experience (even if it’s not formal), and an honest description of your motivations. Think of your profile as a resume for homeowners.
- Choose the right platform
- The most recommended are:
- TrustedHousesitters – Ideal for global opportunities.
- AussieHouseSitters : specialized in Australia.
- MindMyHouse, HouseCarers, entre otras.
- Some platforms have filters for families, singles, or seniors, which helps you find the perfect match.
- The most recommended are:
- Start with short experiences and accumulate reviews
- While it may be difficult at first to get your first opportunity, once you get one and receive a positive review, many more doors open.
- Apply with personalized messages
- Instead of copying and pasting the same message, tailor your request to each home and family. Mention pets by name if possible and show that you’ve read the ad thoroughly.
- Get ready to take good care of yourself
- Even though it’s free, the commitment is real. You’ll have to feed the pets, walk them, clean, water the plants, and keep the house tidy. It’s a responsibility, not just a vacation.
- Have a good internet connection
- Having an eSIM like Saily ‘s allows you to easily connect in any country, which is vital for communicating with hosts and managing housesitting apps .
- Respect the regulations of the place
- In many countries, such as Australia, dog leashes and picking up after dogs are mandatory. Being a responsible pet sitter includes following these rules.
Additional tips for success in this lifestyle
- Don’t underestimate your experience with animals : Even if you’ve never done formal petsitting , you can mention if you’ve cared for friends or family members’ pets.
- Travel during the off-season : homes are more available, and there’s less competition for the most desirable locations.
- Be flexible with your destinations : you’ll often find opportunities in places you weren’t even planning, and they may end up surprising you!
- Take advantage of the opportunity to work online : If you have a remote job, many hosts appreciate having you at home for several hours a day.
You don’t need to be a millionaire to stay in a mansion. You don’t need 30 vacation days a year or even a dollar bill. All you need is willpower, responsibility, and a little strategy to make your way in this fascinating world of housesitting .
Start exploring this travel alternative today. Open your profile on platforms like TrustedHousesitters, upload your best pet photos, take care of your presentation, and get ready for a life full of adventures, savings, and unique experiences. Are you ready to try it?
