My Worldpackers Review After One Year of Volunteering
In 2024, I quit my job to travel full-time. With some savings and investments, I knew I could make it work for a year, but I needed to travel smart and cheaply to travel longer (which I absolutely did).
That’s when I discovered volunteering. In exchange for a few hours of work a day, you can get free accommodation, and sometimes even food or local tours. It felt like a travel hack.
So, I spent a year volunteering across Europe, the USA, and Southeast Asia, mostly using Worldpackers. I stayed with eight hosts for short three-day stints to full month-long stays, doing everything from reception work to helping on farms.
If you’re a first-time volunteer wondering whether Worldpackers is really worth it, this post is for you. Unlike reviews based on a single trip, this is built on a full year of real-life experience.
In this Worldpackers review, you’ll learn how to spot the best hosts, what red flags to watch for, and which volunteering jobs are actually fun — and which ones to skip.
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What is Worldpackers? (And How It Works)
Worldpackers is a membership-based platform that connects travelers with hosts around the world — including hostels, farms, eco-villages, and homestays. In exchange for 1–5 hours of volunteer work per day, you receive free accommodation, and often extras like meals, local tours, or even language classes.
To use Worldpackers, you’ll need a yearly membership. It costs $49 USD, but with my $10 discount link, you can join for just $39. That gives you:
- Unlimited applications
- 24/7 support
- Worldpackers Insurance/WP Safeguard (covers host cancellations)
- Host Response Guarantee (a refund if no you messaged five hosts and no one responded in 30 days
Most people use it to save money on accommodation. But I kept using it because it helped me stay longer, dive deeper, and really connect with the culture.
Over the past year, I’ve done everything from:
- Managing social media at hostels in Colorado and Jordan
- Reception work in Turkey
- Housekeeping near the Grand Canyon and in rural Alaska
- Animal care on a ranch in Arizona
Every role came with its own rhythm, surprises, and memories. And no — you don’t need a hospitality background. I got accepted by my first host within 3 days!
Why I Chose Worldpackers Over Other Platforms
When I decided to try volunteering abroad, I spent days researching Worldpackers reviews, Reddit threads, blog posts—anything I could find.
I compared all the leading platforms, and in the end, I tried both of the biggest volunteering platforms — Worldpackers and Workaway — before settling on the one that worked best for long-term travel.
Here’s why Worldpackers won me over — and why it’s still my top choice. First, the platform is just easier to use. Everything feels more intuitive, organized, and beginner-friendly — from finding hosts to messaging and reading reviews.
I also appreciated that negative reviews are visible, unlike on Workaway, where they are hidden. That transparency made a big difference in my choice of hosts.
But what really sealed the deal for me? Worldpackers offers built-in insurance — if you message at least five host and you did not receive a reply with 30 days of your initial plan, you’ll be refunded or if your host cancels last minute they’ll cover your stay.
The application process was smooth, too. Most hosts replied within a day, and I was accepted by my first Worldpackers host in just three days — much faster than I expected for a total beginner.
I still use Workaway occasionally—mostly when Worldpackers doesn’t have hosts in a specific region—but I always start my search with Worldpackers. It just feels more aligned with how I travel and what I value.
Types of Volunteer Work on Worldpackers (With Real Examples)
Worldpackers offers various volunteer opportunities, but most fall into three main categories. Each type offers a unique way to explore new places, contribute meaningfully, and travel for almost free.
1. Work Exchange
The most common way to use Worldpackers is to trade your skills for accommodation—and sometimes meals, tours, or local perks. This is ideal if you want to travel slowly, connect with locals, and stay on budget.
What It Was Like: This is the type of volunteering I’ve done most often with Worldpackers. I worked at hostels in Alaska, Turkey, and near the Grand Canyon, doing everything from reception to housekeeping.
Having a clear schedule made it easy to plan day trips, do activities with other volunteers (or guests), and fully explore the area — just like I would on a regular trip, but without paying for accommodation.
2. Social Impact Projects
Most people think of this when they hear “volunteering” — supporting NGOs, non-profit schools, or community organizations. These projects are a perfect fit if you want a more meaningful experience with direct impact.
What It Was Like: Before joining Worldpackers, I volunteered in the Philippines and Hong Kong through local NGOs. I don’t remember many tourist sights, but I’ll never forget when a little girl hugged me after I gave her new shoes, or the kids called me “teacher.” Those memories shaped who I am today.
3. Eco Projects & Permaculture
This volunteering category is perfect for travelers who love being in nature and are passionate about sustainability. You can expect to help with gardening, composting, or building eco-friendly structures.
What It Was Like: I once volunteered on a sustainable farm in Cambodia, where I planted basil and later turned it into pesto — and to this day, pesto is my favorite food because of that experience. These roles are often in remote areas, so transportation can be challenging if you don’t have a car.
Specific Types of Volunteering in Worldpackers
Aside from the main categories, Worldpackers also lets you filter by your skills, interests, and lifestyle. Here are a few other roles I’ve tried — or ones I’d love to — with real insight into what each one is like.
1. Hostel, Guesthouse & Camping
Reception, housekeeping, bartending, or organizing events.
What It Was Like: Hostels are my go-to with Worldpackers. I loved the structure and flexibility of this type of work exchange. I could explore during my off-hours, get to know other volunteers/guests, and still feel like I was on a “normal” trip without the hotel bill.
2. Homestays
Live with a host family and help with daily tasks.
What It Was Like: Honestly, these are hit or miss. Some families feel like home — others just don’t match your vibe. It can be harder to plan your time, especially if the schedule isn’t clear.
Ask about your tasks and schedule before confirming your stay. If you feel the agreement isn’t being followed, don’t hesitate to bring it up with your host.
3. Farm & Animal Work
Planting, harvesting, or caring for animals.
What It Was Like: I volunteered on a ranch in Arizona where I fed, walked, and cleaned up after dogs, horses, and mules. It was a lot of work — but surprisingly calming, too. Imagine living on a quiet, relaxing ranch for free!
I also learned how to ride both horses and mules. Farming and animal work are perfect if you love animals and don’t mind getting your hands dirty. Don’t forget to bring clothes that can get dirty, too!
4. Content Creation
Help with photography, video, or social media.
What It Was Like: This is my favorite! It doesn’t feel like extra work because I already do it for this blog. I volunteered at a hostel in Colorado and a Bedouin camp in Jordan. I liked that I could work on my own schedule as long as I completed my tasks. It gave me both freedom and creative fulfillment.
5. Holistic Centers & Monasteries
Support yoga studios, meditation centers, or religious communities.
What It Was Like: I haven’t done this yet, but I’m actively looking since I’m a certified yoga and meditation teacher. I’ve searched the U.S. and Europe, but many roles require a work visa. I’ll update this post once I land one!
6. Child, Elderly, or Pet Care
Help with caregiving, teaching, or just offering companionship.
What It Was Like: I miss my dog Nala while traveling, so caring for pets abroad helped ease that. I also genuinely love kids — these roles feel like hanging out with nieces and nephews, not “work.”
7. Digital Skills
Web design, SEO, or online marketing for local businesses.
What It Was Like: These roles typically require a portfolio or prior experience. If you have the skills, it’s a great way to offer value while working on your own schedule. Look for hosts or projects you’re genuinely passionate about — that way, it won’t feel like work at all.
Extra Filters to Help You Choose the Right Opportunity
Beyond destination, type of work, and availability, Worldpackers lets you refine your search using these helpful filters:
- Length of Stay. You can stay for a few days to several months. Most hosts require a minimum of 14 days. I’ve also messaged some to ask if I could stay for less time but complete the same amount of work; some were okay with it. It’s not guaranteed, but it’s worth asking if you can only stay for fewer days.
- Work Hours – The typical schedule is 4–5 hours a day with 1–2 days off. Some roles are only 1–2 hours per day with no days off. Just know that fewer hours usually mean fewer perks — like no included meals.
- Solo or Couples/ Friends – You can sign up for a solo or couples/friends plan with Worldpackers. Hosts also list whether they accept solo, couples, or both.
🤩 Fun fact: most farm hosts actually prefer couples because they get four hands for one room! If you’re looking for a getaway with your partner or friends and are willing to do some work, this can be your vacation for free.
- Benefits—These include meals, private rooms, laundry, and even discounts at local restaurants and bars.
Six of the eight volunteer gigs I’ve done this year included meals. Set your expectations, though—I’ve stayed with one host who brought us to Costco every week and let us choose anything we wanted (yes, including fresh fruit, ice cream, chips, and chocolate!). And I cried while staying with one host because we were eating pancakes for breakfast for a month—true story.
I still can’t believe all the things I’ve done for free — or at a discount — thanks to Worldpackers. I’ve flown in a helicopter over a glacier in Alaska, ridden a hot air balloon in Cappadocia, slept under the stars in Jordan, and so much more. Locals — especially those working at hostels and hotels — often have special deals on activities, or at the very least, can tell you how to get the local rate. - Style—You can choose from city, beach, nature, spiritual, family-style, and more. This really matters. Imagine being a city person and living in the forest without internet for a month—or the reverse.
You’ll be volunteering, but you’re still traveling. Make sure it suits your vibe so you won’t resent volunteering and just wish you had paid for your accommodation. - Skills Needed – Be honest about what you can do and want to learn. Some hosts require experience, while others are happy to teach. Don’t overpromise. Volunteering should be a fair and honest exchange that benefits both you and your host.
- Top Hosts, Higher Chance of Approval and Needs Help Immediately – I always apply to top hosts — even as a beginner.
Competition is high, but they’re top hosts for a reason: they’re generous, organized, and often offer great perks. However, make sure that you have a strong application. One host told me he receives nearly 100 applications per week!
You can also filter for hosts who need help urgently or have a high approval rate. These are often newer hosts or those in immediate need — and they’re more likely to accept beginners.
🤩 Pro Tip: Before applying, ask yourself: What matters most in a volunteering experience?
- Is it the location because it’s on your bucket list?
- Is it the work hours because you’re also freelancing or studying?
- Is it the type of work because you’re on a gap year or in a life transition?
Once you know what’s most that are important, you can filter for experiences that align with your goals. No volunteer experience is perfect (or at least I haven’t found one yet!), but if you start with clear priorities, you’ll be one step closer to something you’ll truly enjoy and remember.
Worldpackers Review: My Experience Using Worldpackers for a Year
When I won a flight to Los Angeles through a random Wheel of Fortune-style game at the airport, I had no idea it would start a full year of volunteering across three continents.
From glacier hikes in Alaska to sleeping under the stars in the Jordanian desert, Worldpackers made it possible for me to live and travel in ways I couldn’t have imagined.
In total, I volunteered with eight hosts across the USA, Turkey, Jordan, and Greece, staying anywhere from three days to a whole month. I worked in hostels, farms, and homestays, doing everything from social media and housekeeping to gardening and child care.
Here’s a closer look at each of those experiences — the highlights, the hard parts, and what I learned.
Alaska, USA: Pancakes, Toilets, and Glacier Dreams
(3 weeks – Housekeeping)
The Good: The location was straight out of a dream—ice hiking, helicopter rides, glacier cruises, and daily hikes. It was everything I could ever ask for on my Alaska trip, with the bonus of two amazing co-volunteers with whom I hiked every day!
The Not-So-Great: A weirdly controlling manager made things tense, and food was limited (mostly pancakes, ham, eggs, and apples, with occasional great dinners).
Would I Recommend It? Yes! It was absolutely worth every bed and toilet I cleaned. Just come with a strong personality and initiative to plan your own adventures.
Colorado, USA: Epic Hikes, a Snorer, and a Smelly Roommate
(4 weeks – Social Media)
The Good: Incredible hikes, a host who trusted me completely, a flexible schedule, and an easy time making adventure buddies. I even submitted two 14ers!
The Not-So-Great: A snoring roommate and a travel dispute with a co-volunteer sometimes made it challenging.
Would I Recommend It? Absolutely. It felt more like working on a creative project with friends than volunteering. Perfect if you love hiking and community vibes.
Arizona, USA: Unlimited Costco and My First Meltdown
(4 weeks – Housekeeping, Gardening & Animal Care)
The Good: FOOD. Weekly Costco trips, four fridges, and unlimited snacks made it feel like staying with your overfeeding grandma.
The Not-So-Great: The location is tricky without a car. My worst co-volunteer experience also happened here — a heated workload dispute almost had me leaving early.
Would I Recommend It? Yes, especially for couples or car owners. It’s great if you want to relax, learn to ride horses, and eat like royalty.
Grand Canyon, USA: Housekeeping with a View
(2 weeks – Housekeeping)
The Good: Only 25 minutes from the Grand Canyon — and we went four times just by asking guests for a ride! Chill schedule and access to a kitchen.
The Not-So-Great: No food or extra perks, so you must be resourceful.
Would I Recommend It? Yes, especially for hikers. Just be proactive and open—guests are happy to include you in their trips.
Cappadocia, Turkey: Balloon Rides, Warm Meals, and a Seriously Steep Hike to Bed
(2 weeks – Reception)
The Good: Free meals (three warm meals a day!), central location, and the sweetest hosts. I even got a deal on a hot air balloon ride!
The Not-So-Great: The 45—minute commute—from the hotel to the accommodation on a steep hill — sometimes made timing difficult.
Would I Recommend It? Absolutely. It’s one of my favorite Worldpackers gigs, and it’s ideal if you want to explore Cappadocia affordably.
Wadi Rum, Jordan: Desert Views, Free Jeep Tours, and a Living Room Bed
(9 days – Tour Setup)
The Good: Living in the desert where Star Wars and Dune were filmed. Jeep tours, daily hikes, cultural immersion, and sleeping under the stars.
The Not-So-Great: I had to sleep in a family living room (no private space), which made it hard to rest with people coming and going.
Would I Recommend It? YES. Just clarify accommodations and tasks beforehand. The cultural experience alone is worth it.
Amman, Jordan: A Quick Social Media Gig
(3 days – Content Creation)
The Good: Right in downtown Amman. Flexible short-term gig with simple tasks (just two reels).
The Not-So-Great: No meals or perks — just a 20% discount at the restaurant and cafe. I don’t think it’s good for long-term work exchange unless you’re a digital nomad and you only want a free stay.
Would I Recommend It? Yes, for short stays. It’s one of the top-rated hostels in the city and great for a quick cultural stopover.
Athens, Greece: A Beautiful Apartment with a Confusing Schedule
(9 days – Housekeeping, Childcare & Language Exchange)
The Good: Private room, beautiful house, easy work, and a walkable location in central Athens.
The Not-So-Great: There was no fixed schedule. I had to ask about tasks daily, and the host’s expectations weren’t always clear.
Would I Recommend It? Yes — but only if you’re proactive in communicating expectations.
What I Learned After a Year of Volunteering
No two experiences were the same — and not all were perfect — but every single one taught me something.
1. Choosing the Right Host
Start by asking yourself: What matters most to me — location, food, schedule, perks, type of work? There’s no “perfect” host for everyone, but there is a right fit for you. Know what you need before you start applying.
2. The Importance of Communication
Overcommunicate. Ask about tasks, schedules, meals, accommodations, WiFi, transportation — everything. Don’t hesitate to check in during your stay if something feels off. Most hosts appreciate honesty and want you to have a good experience.
3. What Makes a Great (or Bad) Experience
It’s not just the host — it’s the location, the vibe, the other volunteers, and your own mindset. Sometimes things don’t go to plan, and that’s okay. Flexibility and curiosity go a long way.
4. What I’d Tell My Past Self
Treat volunteering like travel with work. Don’t glamorize it — you’re trading time and energy for a cultural experience and a free stay. Be prepared to contribute meaningfully, but also prioritize your own well-being and enjoyment.
Where Can You Volunteer with Worldpackers?
One of the things I love most about Worldpackers is how global it is. The platform offers opportunities in over 140 countries — and that number keeps growing. Whether you want to live in the jungle, a beach town, a bustling city, or a quiet mountain village, chances are there’s a host waiting for you.
While I’ve already shared where I personally volunteered (across Europe, the U.S., and Southeast Asia), it’s worth noting that Worldpackers is especially popular in a few key regions:
Regional Hotspots
South America – Worldpackers began in Brazil, so it’s no surprise this region is packed with options. You’ll find everything from eco-lodges in the Amazon to surf hostels in Florianópolis.
Southeast Asia – Since the platform is popular among hostel owners, you’ll find lots of opportunities in island hostels in Thailand, yoga retreats in Bali, and community projects in Vietnam.
Europe – There are tons of hosts across Portugal, Spain, Italy, and France. With a Schengen visa, you can easily visit several countries while volunteering.
Central America – From eco-villages in Costa Rica to beachfront hostels in Guatemala, this region is ideal for both first-timers and long-term travelers.
I’ve also found unexpected places I never thought I’d find on Worldpackers, but now on my dream list:
🦙 Cusco, Peru – Volunteer with local communities while exploring the Andes and visiting Incan ruins — including Machu Picchu.
❄️ Reykjavík, Iceland – Help in guesthouses or join sustainability projects while experiencing Iceland’s surreal landscapes and northern lights.
🌋 Arusha, Tanzania – Get involved in education or community programs while exploring Mount Kilimanjaro and nearby national parks.tion or animal care projects with a view of Mount Kilimanjaro.
The Pros and Cons of Worldpackers
The Pros: What I Love About Worldpackers
The Cons: Things That Aren’t Talked About Enough
Is Worldpackers Safe?
I traveled solo through the U.S., Europe, and Southeast Asia using Worldpackers — and not once did I feel unsafe. That said, I always did my research, messaged hosts in advance, and trusted my gut.
Worldpackers also offers several built-in safety features that gave me peace of mind:
- Verified reviews from past travelers
- Worldpackers Insurance in case a host cancels or something goes wrong
- Host Response Guarantee – If you apply to 5+ hosts and don’t hear back within 30 days, you can request a full refund.
- 24/7 support through the app
Still, safety is a two-way street. Be proactive. Ask detailed questions. Check recent reviews. And always have a backup plan — especially if you’re headed somewhere remote or where transportation options are limited. You can read more here in my full guide to staying safe while volunteering with Worldpackers.
Is Worldpackers Legit?
100% yes.
Every host I applied to was real, responsive, and delivered on what was promised. The platform worked exactly as described: a safe, structured way to exchange a few hours of work for free accommodation, often with meals or other local perks included.
Worldpackers Cost: Is Worldpackers Worth It?
A Worldpackers solo membership costs $49 USD per year (or $59 USD for couples/friends applying together). With my link, you get $10 off — so you can join for just $39.
What’s included:
The truth? I used Worldpackers in three countries over 12 months and easily saved thousands of dollars on accommodation and meals. That’s the price of a weekend trip for some people — and it gave me a year of life-changing experiences.
If you stay just one night in an expensive country like the USA, Switzerland, or Japan — or three to four nights in more affordable countries like Thailand, Vietnam, or Indonesia — your one-year Worldpackers subscription has already paid for itself.
Was it worth it for a full year?
Absolutely. I used Worldpackers across three continents, met amazing people, and stretched my travel budget in ways I never thought possible.
Would I renew? Would I use it again?
Definitely. It’s now a core part of how I travel.
Ready to try Worldpackers?
Use my link or code HAPPINESSONTHEWAY to get $10 off your Worldpackers membership — plus extra 3 months if you sign up by May 31! You’ll unlock full access to all hosts, free travel courses, and 24/7 support — all for less than the price of one hotel night.
