How to Host on Couchsurfing

Step-by-Step Guide

1. 1

   Step 1: Have a spot in mind to put an extra guest or two.

   It's called "couchsurfing" because you do not need a dedicated spare bedroom to host.
   
   A couch will do.
   
   So will a floor mat or air mattress and a spot in the living room.
   
   Some couchsurfers even choose to travel with camping gear, and may willingly pitch a tent in the back yard.
2. 2

   Step 2: Visit the Couchsurfing site and click on the "Host a traveler" option in the top left corner of the menu.

   , , You can also choose that you just want to hang out, or that you're currently traveling. , If you don't find anyone, make your search parameter wider, or choose a larger town. , Upload a picture, and say a little about yourself.
   
   It will help everyone concerned if they know what to expect. , Depending on how popular your area is for visitors, you may get requests right away, or it may take many months. ,, Good communication can make everything much easier both on you and your couchsurfers.
   
   Help your couchsurfers coordinate how they are getting there, how long they will be staying, and when it is best to arrive so that you will be around to show them in.
   
   Give your location and directions when you are confident that you will be hosting a particular couchsurfer. (Many couchsurfers will make several requests for a particular area, in case not all choices are available.) Exchange phone numbers.
   
   A call or text can set things straight if someone's lost or running late.
   
   Give any special instructions, for example if you need them to call from outside a gate, enter through a side door, or avoid letting out an animal. , The Couchsurfing website will also send a reminder a day or two before the person arrives. , Be home (or at your agreed upon meeting point) when you say you will.
   
   Your couchsurfer is probably traveling, so try to make their trip easier, not harder.
   
   Try to be patient and keep in touch, however, if they don't arrive right on time.
   
   Rides get stuck in traffic.
   
   Flights get delayed. , Point out where they will be sleeping, along with which bathroom they should use.
   
   Offer a shower, towel, and any pillows, sheets, or blankets you want them to use.
   
   Remember that your couchsurfer may be tired from traveling or from jet lag. , It's not required, but it's a great way to get to know both your guest and your own area.
   
   You may be the best resource your couchsurfer has for understanding area transportation, recommending good nearby restaurants, or identifying the best (and worst) places to visit while they're in town.
   
   Tell your couchsurfer about the culture in your area, especially if they are from far away.
   
   Go with your couchsurfer on tour visits, if you both are interested.
   
   Take the opportunity to play tour guide, or to see the sights in your own area if you haven't lately.
3. 3

   Step 3: Click where it says "Can you host?"

4. 4

   Step 4: Select "Yes" from the various options.

5. 5

   Step 5: Select dates and times you can host

6. 6

   Step 6: and click "Search" to find people to host.

7. 7

   Step 7: Create a profile.

8. 8

   Step 8: Let people come to you.

9. 9

   Step 9: Alternatively

10. 10

    Step 10: respond to the automated email you receive from the couchsurfing website

11. 11

    Step 11: listing couchsurfers requesting hosts in your area.

12. 12

    Step 12: Respond to requests or replies

13. 13

    Step 13: when you get them.

14. 14

    Step 14: Put your visitor's arrival in your calendar if you need an extra reminder.

15. 15

    Step 15: Meet your couchsurfer.

16. 16

    Step 16: Show your couchsurfer in.

17. 17

    Step 17: Tell your couchsurfer about the area.

Detailed Guide

About the Author