How to Travel for Free in the United States While Giving Back

A Guide to Volunteer Opportunities for Free Travel

Backpacking the United States is a rite of passage – a rewarding experience where you’ll meet people from around the world.  But if cost is what’s keeping you from your stateside adventure, know that opportunities for free travel abound for those willing to pay back their hosts with some good old fashioned sweat equity.  When you have the opportunity to give back to the local community, the experience gets even better.

1. WWOOF (World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms

Did you know that the United States has 1696 organic host farms where you can stay for free in exchange for four to six hours of labor per day?  

The WWOOFing program is a network of organic farmers who provide meals, accommodations, and a rewarding educational experience for those willing to contribute some hard work.  It’s one of the best ways to travel around the United States for free.  Learn about organic and sustainable living while receiving valuable local travel information from your hosts.  To register for this program, visit wwoofusa.org.

2. Appalachia Trail Crew

If you’re interested in travelling to the Eastern United States, you can join the more than 2 million people per year that hike on the Appalachian Trail.  This trail passes through 14 states, and if you’re willing to volunteer to maintain the trail, you can earn your accommodations in one of them.  This volunteer opportunity requires heavy physical labor, but the crews report that the experience is very gratifying.

3. Malama Hawaii

For those willing to volunteer with projects like tree planting, beach cleanups, or even helping maintain the Battleship Missouri Memorial, there may be an opportunity to stay in Hawaii for free.  The program is Malama, which is a partnership between local non-profits and tourism partners.  You book a Hawaii package, and participate in the hotel’s designated volunteer activity in exchange for a free night.  For more information, visit the Go Hawaii website.

4. Worldpackers

Another excellent website for finding inclusive accommodations in exchange for volunteer work is Worldpackers.  This website connects you with dozens of hostels, all willing to exchange free accommodation for working in a hostel.  Best of all, registration is free.

5. Workaway

As an alternative to WWOOFing, try Workaway. This website connects you with hosts who provide room and board in exchange for your labor. You can choose whether to look at hostel accommodations, or if you would prefer a farm. The hours vary however generally you are required to work between 4 and 6 hours per day. If Workaway sounds like a good fit, check out the variety of hosts available.