Couchsurfing has long been a popular choice for travellers interested in cultural exchange and low-cost accommodation. But after the introduction of paywalls and growing concerns about safety, many have started looking into alternative platforms.
1. Couchers.org
A free, community-run platform aiming to bring back the original spirit of Couchsurfing. It has a modern interface and active forums. Since it’s still in beta, some features are incomplete, and support mostly depends on volunteers.
2. BeWelcome
An open-source, non-profit network managed entirely by volunteers. BeWelcome promotes democratic decision-making and supports multiple languages. It’s free to use, though some users mention the lack of customer support and a missing block function. Still, the volunteer work behind it is impressive, making it a solid alternative to Couchsurfing.
3. Trustroots
Built with alternative travellers in mind – hitchhikers, buskers, nomads, and voluntourists passing through cities. Trustroots runs on open-source software and encourages community connections through interest-based “circles.” The platform sees more activity in Europe, while the user base is still growing elsewhere.
4. Warm Showers
A hospitality exchange mainly used by bike travellers, but hikers and other adventurers can also benefit. Warm Showers works on a gift economy: hosts share their homes with cyclists without asking for money. As of 2025, the community includes hundreds of thousands of members – a strong achievement for a non-profit!
5. Servas International
One of the oldest hospitality networks, founded in 1949 to encourage peace through meaningful travel. Signing up involves an interview and a membership fee, which can be a barrier for some. Still, the network includes hosts from around the world who are part of a well-established, trusted community.
🔍Which platform suits you best?
- Budget travellers: Couchers, BeWelcome and Trustroots are free to use and don’t require membership fees.
- Cultural exchange fans: Servas focuses on structured experiences and personal connections.
- Bike travellers: Warm Showers was created for cyclists and remains one of the best spaces for them to connect and rest.
Each network has its own atmosphere and goals. Think about how you like to travel and what kind of connections you’re looking for before picking one.
