Housesitting: The Basics

Jess and Tom at a housesit

House and pet sitting has become an increasingly popular way for travellers and homeowners alike to benefit from mutual trust and convenience. Platforms such as Trusted Housesitters, Nomador, and MindMyHouse connect homeowners who need someone reliable to look after their property and pets, with sitters seeking free accommodation in exchange for care. This arrangement allows sitters to enjoy a home away from home without the expense of traditional accommodation, while homeowners gain peace of mind knowing their pets and properties are in safe hands.

What is House and Pet Sitting?

Essentially, house and pet sitting involves staying in someone’s home for a set period, typically while the owner is away, and taking responsibility for their pets and property maintenance duties such as collecting mail or watering plants. To get started, prospective sitters usually create a profile on one or more housesitting websites, highlighting their experience with animals, availability, and references. Homeowners then review applications, select a trusted sitter, and agree on the terms of service. Communication prior to the sit, along with clear instructions for pet care and house responsibilities, is key to a successful arrangement.

How Much Does Housesitting Cost?

The costs of house and pet sitting vary depending on the platform and membership level. Trusted Housesitters, for example, requires an annual subscription fee for sitters, often offering better access to listings and verification features, which enhances trust for both parties. Some other sites may charge lower fees but with fewer benefits or less vetting. Importantly, the sitter typically does not pay to stay in the home itself, which makes house and pet sitting an economical option compared to traditional lodging or pet boarding facilities.

The popularity of house and pet sitting has surged in recent years as more people seek flexible, affordable travel options and as pet ownership continues to rise globally. This growth reflects a broader trend towards sharing economy models that build community and trust between strangers. Thanks to positive reviews and social media, house and pet sitting now boasts a large and active global community, enabling individuals to travel extensively or simply enjoy stays in different locations while providing essential care to pets and homes. With careful planning and clear communication, house and pet sitting offers a rewarding experience for both sitters and homeowners, blending travel, responsibility, and companionship.

We have been housesitting full time for three years, renting out our house in the UK for the entire period. This means we don’t pay rent or utility bills ourselves, freeing us from the usual financial burdens. By working remotely and housesitting, we are able to travel extensively without the constraints of a fixed location.

Benefits of Housesitting Include:

• Significant savings on rent and bills

• Flexibility to choose locations and duration of stays

• Opportunity to live like a local in different communities

• Reduced living expenses while maintaining a comfortable lifestyle

• Access to comfortable homes and sometimes pets for companionship

• Ability to balance work and travel effectively with remote working opportunities

• Freedom from long-term leases or property maintenance responsibilities

This combination allows us to sustain our travels sustainably and enjoy a high quality of life wherever we go.

Housesitting offers a unique opportunity to experience new places while providing peace of mind to homeowners. It can be a cost-effective way to travel, with accommodation often free in exchange for looking after a property. Additionally, housesitters may also care for pets, ensuring they receive familiar companionship and attention.

How Housesitting Works

Typically, homeowners post their requirements on dedicated websites, describing their home, pets, and any duties expected. Prospective housesitters apply, often offering references or background information. Once an arrangement is agreed upon, the housesitter stays at the property for a specified period, maintaining the home and caring for any animals.

Flexibility and Variety

Housesitting assignments vary widely, from urban flats to rural cottages. This diversity allows individuals to choose opportunities matching their lifestyle preferences and needs, whether that’s short-term stays during holidays or longer arrangements during extended travel.

Who Can Benefit from Housesitting?

Housesitting suits a broad range of people. Solo travellers looking for an affordable way to explore, couples seeking new experiences, remote workers wanting a change of scenery, and retirees desiring low-cost living options can all benefit. It also offers pet lovers the chance to care for animals without permanent commitment.

Conclusion: Housesitting for Everyone

Regardless of your circumstances, housesitting can be adapted to suit different needs and lifestyles. It provides flexibility, reduces travel costs, and creates a sense of home in unfamiliar places. With careful planning and open communication, housesitting may be a practical and rewarding option for anyone eager to combine travel with responsibility.

Sign up here with code HHH25 to get 25% off Trusted Housesitters membership!