Couchsurfing is one of the most affordable ways to find accommodation during your travels, but staying with total strangers can feel scary in the beginning. If you’re new to using this platform, here are some useful safety tips that you should keep in mind.
Profile Check
The first step for finding a host that suits you is to carefully read that profile and references to get a better vibe of who they are and how comfortable you would feel staying with them.
Honest Conversation
It’s very important to have good communication with your host via Couchsurfing before going to stay with them. The more you talk, the more you learn about them and about their home, and the information they share will help you determine if they’re a good fit.
Female Hosts
If you’re a solo female traveler and don’t feel comfortable staying with male hosts, filter your search so it only shows female locals who are willing to host you.
Backup Plan
No matter how much time you take to learn everything there is to know about your host, sometimes things just don’t work out and it’s good to have an alternative place to stay.
Trust Your Gut
Last but not least, you should trust your instincts when picking your host. They can trick you from time to time, but if you feel uncomfortable and unsure when texting with your potential host, it’s time to move on.