Worldpackers is a different type of travel site that aims to help backpackers market their skills to hostel owners around the world. Instead of simply showing you the best rates, the site connects you to hostels in need of your talents. "Skills" include everything from tending bar to community work and teaching. In exchange for your work, the hostels offer free room and occasionally some food and cash.
Anyone who has ever stayed in a hostel has likely wondered about the expat staff working there. Worldpackers gives you the chance to be that staff, all from the comfort of your couch at home. While the hostels won't pay for your flight or get your visa, you do have the chance to work and engage in a cultural exchange wherever you stay. Saving money on room and potentially board is nice as well.
Why This Trend Is Growing
- Skill-focused Travel
- More travel platforms will emerge connecting travelers with businesses in need of their unique skill sets.
- Experience-based Travel
- Travelers will increasingly seek out experiences that allow them to connect with locals and immerse themselves in the culture.
- Blurring of Work and Travel
- More travelers will look for opportunities to work remotely or exchange services for lodging while on the go.
Industries Being Reshaped
- Hospitality
- Hostels and other types of lodging will create programs that allow travelers to exchange their skills for free or discounted stays.
- Travel
- Travel agencies will begin to expand their offerings to include skill-focused travel options that appeal to the millennial and gen-z markets.
- Tourism
- Cities and countries will build programs to attract travelers who are interested in cultural exchange and experience-based travel.
