CouchSurfing.Com Helps Beat the Cost of Travel

In a society where Pain at the Pump stories and gas consumption overload takes precedence over all else in the media, travelers are looking for unique ways to beat the rising costs of a much-needed vacation. CouchSurfing.comanswers the call with a community of couch surfers and couch hosts around the world. You can even find a free couch in Antarctica. According to the CouchSurfing.com website, they strive to create a network of travelers to bridge cultural differences and opportunity for new experiences.

But is it really safe to crash on a complete stranger's couch? It depends on how you utilize the system and participate within their circle of trust. Each user is linked to other users he or she knows in the couch crashing community complete with feedback. The website's system is appropriately called "vouching" and there are also verification systems to complete. Potential couch seekers can also read reviews from registered users of varying couch hosts and decide whom to make contact with. Although the community is free to join and couches are also offered for free, guests are generally expected to chip in for a meal or offer to buy a drink or cup of coffee as a thank you. But for those who want to stick a toe into the couch surfing community without committing to crash or host can arrange to meet for drinks or show crashers around their area.

Safety Tips
To keep yourself safe while couch surfing, only make contact with verified users. This means their identity and addresses have been verified through the CouchSurfing.com system. It's also a good idea to start out with well-respected members who have hosted crashers at least ten times and have outstanding feedback from fellow members. Solo travelers should consider crashing with same-sex members to avoid any unnecessary tension or conflict. Or, bring along a trusted friend and arrange for a couch surf together.

Before You Go
But before your first crash, keep the lines of communication open with your host and explain any expectations, concerns, and needs upfront. Spend a week or so getting to know each other by email or have a telephone conversation to put a voice with a face. Remember to trust your gut and back-out if you're sensing anything odd or are uncomfortable with the situation. And remember to be a good guest and leave positive feedback when warranted and offer an appropriate thank-you through a meal or small gift.

For more information about couch surfing, visit www.couchsurfing.com.