When I decided to go abroad for three months this summer, people told me I was adventurous. When I said my budget was $5,000, people said I was nuts. When I said I was CouchSurfing, they said they’d pray. 

However, I have found that you get out of an experience exactly how much you put into it; and if you are willing to take the time to search for the hidden gems, CouchSurfing can be a real blessing.

I have spent most of my time in Europe on couches. The vast majority were those of family, friends, and friends of friends. But when I came across a city where I knew no one, I went the CouchSurfing route.               

Now there are a few things you need to know about CouchSurfing. First and foremost, you are quite literally on a couch. Do not expect something fancy. Do not expect to be pleasantly surprised by a spare bedroom (or really any sort of room). The couches we slept on where some times pull out, which was a dream, and we almost always got at least a blanket and a pillow. However, the rooms are frequently a living space, so don’t expect to be able to spread out. You are there to sleep and sleep alone! 

Also, remember that you are in someone’s home. You need to be prepared to follow their rules and keep the area clean.   

Always, always, always read the reviews. And be sure that you are staying with someone that has a lot of them. It may be appealing, or easier, to stay with someone who is new to the site, but it really is not worth it. Even someone with a limit number of reviews is not a good call. Remember that you are staying with a rando.

Although I met a few people that were CouchSurfing on their own, I really wouldn’t recommend it. You don’t know whom you’re staying with, or who else may be there, and there is something to be said about safety in numbers.             

Don’t expect the Ritz. We stayed at several apartments that were downright filthy, but again, it is free and you have a couch, so weigh the pros and cons.   

Try not to be needy. While most of the people we stayed with were really excited to show us around and cook traditional meals for us, not everyone will be like that, and you have to remember that their real lives are going on while you are on vacation.                

You should also probably bring a few things: primarily shower stuff, a towel, and sheets. You don’t know how often they have CouchSurfers, or how frequently they change the sheets, so it is always better to be safe than sorry (as we quickly realized).               

Overall, I had an absolutely great experience with CouchSurfing, and I would highly recommend it to any other travelers. As long as you follow the above-mentioned advice you will be completely fine, and have a great, free stay! Be sure to leave a little treat for your host as you go, and all will be well!