3 Ways to Travel the World for Free, or Nearly So

If it seems like the cost of traveling the globe is getting further out of reach, you are not alone. The Hotel Price Index reported that the average hotel room rate was nearly $228 per night in New York in 2007, and for anyone taking an extended vacation those nights of hotel stays can add up to far exceed the cost of airfare, dining and souvenirs. It almost makes having a "staycation" seem like the only option.

Over the last decade though, millions of people have searched and found ways to scratch their travel itch without breaking the bank. Here is a quick list of ways you can see the world without spending all of your pocket change.

CouchSurfing

CouchSurfing.org disagrees with the sentiment that seeing the world is too expensive, and close to 2.5 million CouchSurfers have begun riding the free travel wave. Launched in 2003 by Casey Fenton with the help of co-founders, the CouchSurfing travel program continues to grow in popularity as people all over the world search for new ways to explore the world around them.

CouchSurfing isn't far off from what it sounds like. Users connect via the CouchSurfing.org site and get to know one another through online groups and real-world events the world over. When they are ready to travel, they search the site for people in their destination city with couches available for crashing, and once the two users connect, voila - the traveler suddenly has a free place to rest their head for the night.

Global Freeloaders

Similar to CouchSurfing, Global Freeloaders was created by travel enthusiast, Adam Staines as a way for travelers looking for free accommodations to connect with hosts willing to provide a free place to stay. With over 80,000 registered users in 215 countries, Global Freeloaders is a great resource for those looking to travel the world on a budget.

Don't let the name "Freeloaders" taint your view of what the organization is all about though; users wanting to travel are also required to host other travelers, making sure that the experience comes around full circle for all members.

Sabbatical Homes

If you're looking for a longer stay and want roomier accommodations, be sure to check out Sabbatical Homes. Homes are left behind by academics and professionals while they travel and work on special projects out of town and you can sign up to house-sit for free or for a low fee.

Started a decade ago, the Sabbatical Homes project has helped match over 45,000 homeowners and lodgers and their success continues to grow. Lodgers are required to take care of houseplants, pets and other house-sitting tasks during their stay, so this opportunity is not for travelers who don't feel up to a bit of responsibility.

If you would like to learn more about CouchSurfing, Global Freeloaders or Sabbatical Homes, click the links below. Each site is overflowing with information, travel tips, history of the organizations and their vision so be sure to take your time checking out their many resources.

CouchSurfing.org

GlobalFreeloaders.com

Sabbaticalhomes.com

If you know of any other free travel resources, please feel free to share their information in the comments list below.