10 Best Workaway Alternatives for Volunteering and Work Exchange

When I quit my job in February 2024 to travel full-time, I didn’t have much money—but I wanted to see the world long-term and connect with people beyond the usual tourist trail. That’s when I discovered Workaway: a platform where you can volunteer a few hours a day in exchange for free accommodation, meals, and cultural experiences.

My first Workaway experience took me to a yurt village in remote Alaska. I spent my days housekeeping from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., and in return, I stayed for free, had my meals covered, and even scored glacier cruises for just $20—when they normally cost $200! Glamorous? Not always. Life-changing? Absolutely.

But while Workaway is a fantastic gateway into long-term budget travel, it’s not the only option—and depending on your travel style, goals, and budget, it might not even be the best one.

If you’re a broke traveler, a first-time volunteer, or simply someone looking to slow down and experience the world more meaningfully, you’re in the right place.

In this post, I’ll walk you through 13 of the best Workaway alternatives—from free websites to yoga retreats, organic farms, house-sitting gigs, and fully organized volunteer programs—so you can find the one that fits your adventure.

Let’s find the right work exchange for you.

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What Is Workaway? Pros, Cons, and Why You Might Want an Alternative

Workaway is one of the most popular volunteering and work exchange platforms. It connects travelers with hosts around the world who offer free accommodation—and sometimes meals—in exchange for a few hours of help each day. Tasks vary widely and can include housekeeping, farm work, child care, language exchange, or helping out at hostels or homestays.

I’ve personally completed three Workaway experiences so far. My first one was in a remote yurt village in Alaska, where I did housekeeping and explored glaciers in my free time. After that, I worked at a farm-ranch in Arizona, helping with gardening, cleaning, and taking care of horses and dogs. My most recent one was in Athens, Greece, where I stayed with a local family and helped with child care, language exchange, and housework. Each experience was incredibly different—but each one taught me something about how to navigate this style of travel.

✅ What I Like About Workaway

• Huge host database: Workaway has one of the largest selections of hosts across the globe. Whenever I couldn’t find a listing on Worldpackers, I almost always found one on Workaway.
• Diverse experiences: From eco-projects to city stays, from farms to families—there’s a wide range of options to suit different interests.
• Budget-friendly: At around $49/year, the membership is affordable, especially if you plan to use it for more than one exchange. You can get an extra month through this link.

⚠️ Where It Falls Short

• Filtered reviews: Unlike Worldpackers, Workaway filters out negative reviews, and you’ll need to contact the volunteer directly to get more details—if they’re even active. This makes it hard to spot red flags before you arrive.
• Limited safety net: There’s no insurance or built-in support system if your experience goes south. Platforms like Worldpackers offer a backup stay or reimbursement. Workaway does not. You need to have a backup plan if something happens.
• No Pre-Screening Questions: You’ll need to message each host individually with a personalized application, and there’s no system of pre-screened questions like Worldpackers uses.
• Not beginner-friendly: It’s more of a host listing platform than a guided experience. If you’re a first-time volunteer, expect to navigate communication, boundaries, and expectations mostly on your own.

I’d say Workaway is great for more experienced or independent travelers—especially those who are staying long-term, heading to remote places, or looking for cultural immersion. If you’re okay doing the research, messaging, and vetting yourself, it can be incredibly rewarding. I still use Workaway.

That said, if you’re a first-time volunteer, solo female traveler, or someone who prefers a bit more structure and security, you might want to look into platforms like Worldpackers first.

In the next section, I’ll introduce you to sites like Workaway that might better suit your needs—whether you’re looking for something safer, more niche, or easier to navigate. Here’s an overview:

Popular Workaway Alternatives

1. Worldpackers (€49/year or €39/year with this link)

Worldpackers is one of the most beginner-friendly and supportive work exchange platforms available. It connects travelers with hosts—mostly hostels, eco-lodges, NGOs, and small businesses—in over 140 countries. You volunteer a few hours a day (usually 20–25 hours per week) in exchange for a free stay and, in some cases, meals, tours, or other perks.

I’ve completed five Worldpackers experiences so far, and it remains my go-to platform—especially when I want something more structured and reliable. I’ve helped hosts with social media, guided hikes, housekeeping, and even website development. What I appreciate most is that many hosts give clear work hours, scheduled days off, and a more professional setup. However, I find there’s often less cultural immersion and community connection compared to other platforms.

Even though I haven’t needed to use the insurance or backup stay feature myself, it’s reassuring to know it’s there. If a host cancels last minute or something doesn’t go as planned, Worldpackers steps in. That peace of mind is worth a lot—especially if you’re traveling solo.

✅ Worldpackers is best for:

• First-time volunteers
• Solo travelers looking to meet people and join social activities
• Anyone who wants a structured schedule with time to explore

⚠️ Things to know about Worldpackers:

• Fewer hosts in some regions, especially outside South America
• Less variety compared to Workaway—most listings are hostel-based
• Higher Working Hours Limit: 32 hours/week
• Annual fee is around $49/year, but you can get $10 off with my code: HAPPINESSONTHEWAY

2. HelpX (Free or €20 for two years)

HelpX (short for “Help Exchange”) is one of the original platforms in the work exchange world. It was launched in 2001 by a backpacker from England who spent several years traveling extensively throughout Australia and New Zealand by working at various locations in exchange for accommodation—and sometimes meals.

More than 20 years later, HelpX still connects travelers with hosts offering free accommodation in exchange for a few hours of help per day—usually on farms, homesteads, small inns, and family-run projects. The network emphasizes cultural exchange and was once known for having the highest number of users and one of the most diverse ranges of experiences.

I looked into HelpX when I was starting out, but I found it a bit clunky—especially for beginners. The interface felt outdated, with listings that often lacked photos or detailed descriptions. It was hard to know what to expect from each host, and navigating the platform felt both overwhelming and underwhelming—like digging through a dusty file cabinet with no search filter.

That said, I’ve heard many positive reviews from other volunteers, so I plan to give it a try next year.

✅ HelpX is best for:

• Travelers headed to Australia, New Zealand, or rural parts of Europe
• Budget travelers who want a low-cost membership
• More experienced volunteers who knows how to filter opportunities and ask the right questions.

⚠️ Things to know about HelpX:

• The free membership lets you browse hosts, but you’ll need the Premier membership (€20 for two years) to contact them and access full reviews
• There’s no calendar feature, so you won’t know if a host is already full or if it’s even available—this can lead to wasted time messaging unavailable listings
• There’s also no safety support, verification system, or insurance, so you’re entirely responsible for communication and vetting
• The platform is harder to navigate, especially compared to newer options like Worldpackers or Workaway
• Still, it can be a hidden gem for long-term travelers open to simple living and cultural immersion

3. WWOOF (Paid – $17 to $50/year, depending on the country)

WWOOF—short for World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms—is one of the oldest and most respected work exchange platforms in the world. Founded in 1971, it’s a pioneer in connecting travelers with organic farms and sustainable communities.

WWOOF focuses on cultural exchange through farming and rural living. In exchange for a few hours of help with gardening, animal care, composting, or farm maintenance, volunteers receive free accommodation and meals—often in beautiful, off-the-grid locations.

I once read a story from a volunteer who WWOOFed for a year in Italy back in 2017. They stayed with around ten different hosts and had only one slightly negative experience. The rest were deeply meaningful.

Their favorite hosts welcomed them like family, included them in daily life, and even brought them along on holidays. In return, the volunteer gave more than the usual five hours of help—not because they had to, but because they genuinely felt like part of the family. For them, WWOOFing wasn’t just about free room and board—it was a true cultural exchange that led to lasting friendships and one of the happiest years of their life.

✅ WWOOF is best for:

• Travelers interested in organic farming, permaculture, or off-grid living
• People who want to unplug, slow down, and experience rural culture
• Those seeking deeper connection and a sense of community

⚠️ Things to know about WWOOF:

• Membership costs range from $17 to $50/year, depending on the country
• WWOOF operates through independent national organizations, so you’ll need a separate membership for each country you want to volunteer in
• Some platforms are dated and lack modern features, making it harder to filter or browse hosts
• There’s no calendar, so you won’t know if a host is available unless you message them
• You don’t have to love farming to WWOOF—but if you’re not into physical work or getting muddy, you might be better off with Worldpackers, Workaway, or HelpX
• Thanks to its long history, WWOOF often has listings in remote areas where other platforms haven’t reached yet

4. HelpStay (Paid – €42.99/year)

HelpStay is a smaller, curated work exchange platform that offers opportunities in over 100 countries, with a focus on cultural exchange and community impact. While it’s not as widely used as Workaway or Worldpackers, it provides a mix of projects—ranging from hostels and farms to permaculture centers and NGOs.

In January 2025, HelpStay acquired HippoHelp, a former map-based work exchange platform known for its incredibly intuitive design. One standout feature from HippoHelp was its interactive map: you could click on a host marker and view details on the same screen, without opening a new tab. It made browsing hosts in a specific area quick and easy—perfect if having 1,000 tabs open drives you crazy.

I haven’t used HelpStay myself, so I’m not sure if they’ve fully integrated this feature, but if you try to view a host on HippoHelp now, it redirects to HelpStay.

✅ HelpStay is best for:

• Travelers looking for less crowded, curated listings
• Those interested in intentional or mission-driven experiences
• People who value simpler browsing and focused opportunities

⚠️ Things to know about HelpStay:

• Membership costs €42.99 per year
• The platform only offers around 1,500 stays, which makes it more expensive compared to platforms with larger host databases
• Some listings may redirect from the old HippoHelp site
• There’s no mobile app and no insurance or safety net, so clear communication with hosts is key
• A good fit for independent travelers who are comfortable reaching out and managing expectations directly

Free Websites Like Workaway

5. Volunteer Base (Free)

Volunteer Base is a completely free-to-use work exchange site that operates more like a simple host directory than a full-fledged platform. There’s no membership fee, and you can view host details and contact them directly without needing to sign up.

It’s a minimalist platform with fewer filters and features than Workaway or Worldpackers, but it’s straightforward and easy to use if you know what you’re looking for. The listings are submitted by hosts around the world and include everything from farms and homestays to hostels and community projects.

That said, it’s important to be cautious—there’s no verification, review system, or support, so you’ll need to do your own vetting. It’s best for more experienced travelers who know how to ask the right questions and trust their instincts.

✅ Volunteer Base is best for:

• Budget travelers who want to avoid membership fees
• Experienced volunteers comfortable arranging details on their own
• Travelers who prefer a DIY approach to finding hosts

⚠️ Things to know about Volunteer Base:

• Completely free—no sign-up or subscription required
• No reviews, calendar or support features
• Great for independent travelers, but not recommended for first-timers
• Hosts vary widely in quality and responsiveness

6. Grassroots Volunteering (Free – Resource Directory)

Grassroots Volunteering (GV) is a free, non-commercial resource that connects travelers with ethical, community-based volunteer opportunities and social enterprises worldwide. Founded in 2011 by Shannon O’Donnell—National Geographic’s 2013 Traveler of the Year and author of The Volunteer Traveler’s Handbook—GV was created to help travelers engage meaningfully with the communities they visit.

Unlike traditional volunteer platforms, GV doesn’t act as a middleman or charge placement fees. Instead, it offers a curated directory of independent NGOs and social enterprises, allowing travelers to connect directly with organizations that align with their values. This approach empowers travelers to make informed decisions and ensures that their contributions have a positive impact.

✅ Grassroots Volunteering is best for:

• Travelers seeking ethical, low-cost, or free volunteer opportunities.
• Individuals interested in supporting local communities and social enterprises.
• Those who prefer to research and connect directly with organizations without intermediaries

⚠️ Things to know about Grassroots Volunteering:

• GV is a directory, not a booking platform; travelers must initiate contact with organizations themselves.
• The site emphasizes ethical volunteering, encouraging users to consider the impact of their contributions.
• While GV provides a wealth of resources, it requires self-directed research and initiative.

7. TrustedHousesitters (Paid – from $129/year)

TrustedHousesitters offers a unique kind of work exchange—there’s no farming, childcare, or hostel shifts involved. Instead, you care for homes and pets while the owners are away. In return, you get a free place to stay, often in beautiful locations that would normally be out of reach for most travelers.

It’s ideal for slow travelers, couples, or digital nomads who love animals and crave cozy, home-like experiences. Many house sits involve caring for dogs or cats, but some listings also include farm animals, gardens, or larger properties that require more hands-on help.

While I haven’t personally used the platform, I’ve read dozens of firsthand reviews from both sitters and hosts—and the experiences can vary widely. Some people absolutely love it, calling it their favorite travel hack. Others warn that you need to be prepared, flexible, and selective to avoid poor fits.

✅ TrustedHousesitters is best for:

• Pet lovers who want peaceful stays and cuddly companions
• Travelers who enjoy home comforts and want to save on accommodation
• Digital nomads and couples looking for longer, quieter stays

⚠️ Things to know about TrustedHousesitters:

• Membership starts at $129/year, with premium options offering insurance, vet access, and alerts
• It can be very difficult to get your first housesit with no reviews—some users report 20+ rejections before landing their first stay
• Apply to less popular sits, local stays, or ones that match your niche experience (e.g., caring for farm animals)
• Many applications receive no response at all—this is normal
• A house sit with glowing reviews can still turn out to be a bad experience
• Be cautious of listings with no photos, missing reviews, or hosts unwilling to video chat—these are red flags shared by experienced sitters
• If a homeowner cancels last minute, TrustedHousesitters does not offer compensation—unless you avail the premium option
• Most sitters say the experience is a mixed bag: some stays are incredible and totally worth it, others might leave you disappointed or stressed
• On the upside, many travelers say the platform saved them thousands in accommodation costs, and gave them access to beautiful homes with stocked kitchens, books, and the joy of furry companionship

8. YogaTrade (Paid – $36/year)

YogaTrade is a niche platform that connects yoga teachers, wellness professionals, and conscious travelers with teaching and volunteer opportunities at retreats, eco-villages, yoga schools, and wellness centers around the world. With over 80+ new jobs and opportunities posted weekly across 150+ countries, it’s a great space to find roles that align travel with healing, service, and growth.

While I haven’t used YogaTrade myself (I plan to next year!), I’ve read stories from teachers who found placements in places like Indonesia and Hawaii through the platform. Many describe it as more than a job board—it’s a global community of mindful travelers weaving together yoga, sustainability, culture, and creativity. These exchanges often function as a barter system, where an instructor’s services are traded for accommodation and amenities. For example, a teacher might lead two morning classes a day in exchange for a free stay at a resort that could normally cost $1,000 a night.

✅ Yogatrade is best for:

• Certified yoga teachers or wellness practitioners
• Travelers interested in retreat life, holistic healing spaces, or spiritual travel
• People who want to combine yoga, community, and cultural immersion

⚠️ Things to know about Yogatrade:

• Membership costs $48/year
• Most teaching roles require a YTT certification, but some support roles (e.g. kitchen help, social media) do not
• It’s a small, curated platform with a focus on aligned, purpose-driven exchange
• Great for those building a global yoga path or seeking more meaningful travel opportunities

9. AuPair.com (Free – host families pay for messaging)

AuPair.com is one of the most well-known platforms for becoming an au pair—a form of cultural exchange where you live with a host family, care for their children, and receive free accommodation, meals, and often a monthly stipend. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in local culture, learn a new language, and experience everyday life from a unique, inside perspective.

While I haven’t personally worked as an au pair, I’ve read stories from travelers who’ve used AuPair.com successfully multiple times. Many say it’s a safe and reliable platform—as long as you take the time to do your research. A common tip is to only respond to families with profile photos or those willing to send private pictures that match up during a video call.

One of the best parts? It’s free to use as an au pair—host families pay for the Premium Membership, so you can message them without paying anything.

✅ AuPair.com is best for:

• Travelers aged 17–30 looking for long-term cultural immersion
• People who enjoy working with children and want to live abroad affordably
• Anyone interested in language learning, family life, or slower, meaningful travel

⚠️ Things to know about AuPair.com:

• Most au pairs receive free housing, meals, and a small stipend
• Many countries require you to be unmarried and child-free to qualify for an au pair visa
• Programs typically last 12 months, with placements common in Europe, North America, and Australia

10. Global Work & Travel (Starts at $645)

Global Work & Travel is one of the most premium, hands-off options in the work exchange world. It offers full travel packages that include job placements, visa guidance, accommodation support, airport pickup, and in some cases, insurance and tours. It’s especially popular with gap year travelers, first-timers, and anyone looking for a structured, guided experience.

Unlike platforms like Workaway or Worldpackers, where you arrange things directly with hosts, Global Work & Travel acts more like a travel agency for work and volunteer programs abroad. You browse their programs, pay up front, and then a coordinator supports you throughout the process.

One traveler summed it up like this: If you have the savings, just go for it—it’s expensive, but the experience, the connections, and the help you get once you’re abroad are worth it. They recommended booking your own flights and insurance, but still felt the support and opportunities made the cost worthwhile.

✅ Global Work & Travel is best for:

• First-time travelers who want step-by-step guidance
• Those needing visa help or guaranteed job placements
• People who value structure and security over budget travel

⚠️ Things to know about Global Work & Travel:

• Packages are very expensive—typically $645–$5,000+, depending on destination
• You often pay before securing a placement, so it’s important to read the fine print
• While many have great experiences, others felt the support was not consistent
• It’s more of a curated travel agency than a peer-to-peer cultural exchange
• You can often find similar opportunities independently for a fraction of the cost

Ready to start your work exchange journey?

Work exchange changed the way I travel—and it might just change your life too. Whether you’re dreaming of teaching yoga in Bali, hugging horses in Arizona, or hiking glaciers in Alaska, there’s a platform out there waiting for you.

Start small. Pick one. Reach out to a host. You don’t have to have it all figured out—just enough courage to say yes to the first step. Learn more with my work exhange tips & my one year volunteering story or get $10 off with my favorite Wokaway alternative to begin today.