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Workaway volunteering review: Why it’s a good option
Workaway volunteering is a trusted platform for work exchanges. This workaway volunteering review shares the full experience.
Can you imagine traveling the world while learning new skills and connecting with local communities? That is the idea behind Workaway, a platform that connects travelers with hosts in more than 170 countries, and in this honest workaway volunteering review we share what the experience is really like.
In this article, we take a closer look at how trustworthy Workaway really is, based on real user reviews from Trustpilot, Reddit, and specialized travel blogs. Drawing on volunteers’ firsthand experiences, we break down the main advantages, the common drawbacks, and what you should know before signing up.
Whether you are looking for a short term experience or a longer stay, we will walk you through everything you need to know to decide if Workaway is the right choice for your next international volunteering adventure.
What is Workaway volunteering?
Workaway started with a simple but powerful idea of connecting travelers who want to help out through light volunteering and cultural exchange with hosts who provide accommodation in return.
David Milward, the founder of Workaway, was inspired by a trip to Hawaii to create a more genuine way for travelers to give and receive help, beyond the usual tourist experience. In 2002, he launched a simple website with little technical knowledge but plenty of determination. Over time, the platform grew steadily, spreading mainly through word of mouth rather than heavy marketing.
That’s how Workaway grew into a well-known global network of travelers, connecting with local families, projects, and communities in over 170 countries.
The idea behind Workaway is straightforward: volunteers contribute a few hours of help each day to a host, which could be a family, farm, NGO, or local project, and in return they get a place to stay and often meals. The specific tasks and hours are arranged directly between the volunteer and the host.
So what exactly does Workaway do? It serves as a platform connecting hosts and volunteers. Let’s take a closer look to understand how it works and how reliable it really is.
What does Workaway offer?
If you’re thinking about having a different kind of experience, Workaway opens the door to thousands of opportunities in over 170 countries.
Workaway connects travelers who want more than just sightseeing with hosts who need extra hands for their projects. This could mean helping a family with their kids, assisting at a hostel, working on an organic farm, supporting a rural school, or lending a hand to an NGO in underserved communities.
Every volunteer placement is different, but they all share the same spirit: exchange, learning, and collaboration.
Types of volunteering
At Workaway volunteering, you will find almost everything:
- Community projects, NGOs, and development initiatives.
- Host families or stays in family homes for cultural exchange (for example, to learn a new language).
- School camps, teaching, childcare, and educational support.
- House sitting or pet sitting.
- Farms (farm stays), agriculture, rural life, sustainable projects.
- Boats, sailing, or tourist hostels that accept volunteers for various tasks.
The search is fully customizable, allowing you to filter by country, type of work, length of stay, or whether meals are included. This way, you can always find an opportunity that matches your interests, skills, and available time.
What does the exchange include?
A typical Workaway arrangement involves helping out around four to five hours a day in exchange for accommodation and often meals. However, the exact amount of work and what you get in return is set by each host, so it’s important to carefully read the project description and reviews from other volunteers before committing.
In addition to lodging and meals, Workaway connects you with a worldwide community, offering verified profiles, a review system, email support, and the chance to reach hosts across the globe. Volunteers often appreciate the added safety of cross-references and optional ID checks, which help create trust between hosts and travelers.
A fun fact many people don’t know is that Workaway plants a tree for every new volunteer who joins, reflecting its dedication to sustainable travel and giving back to the planet.
Workaway volunteer memberships, prices, and features
To join projects, you just need to set up a profile and purchase an annual membership. Instead of paying for each volunteer opportunity, a single yearly fee lets you connect with any host on the platform.
The prices are as follows:
- Solo Traveler Membership: $59 per year.
- Solo Traveler PLUS+ Membership: $79 per year.
With a membership, you can connect with thousands of hosts, message them, receive responses, and arrange your stays as you like. According to Workaway, 99.7% of users who send five or more requests get a reply within their first month.
Keep in mind that personal expenses like visas, travel, and health insurance are always the volunteer’s responsibility. Workaway doesn’t act as an employer or handle the work itself; its role is to connect people, provide support, and maintain a safe network for cultural exchange.
In short, Workaway goes beyond simply offering a place to stay in exchange for work. It’s a worldwide community where cultural immersion, skill-sharing, and mutual support combine to create unforgettable experiences. If you’re looking to step out of your routine, meet people from across the globe, and get involved in meaningful projects, this platform can be a great place to start.
Important: If you are a frequent traveler and want to stay connected without worrying about expensive roaming or looking for a new SIM at every destination, Holafly’s subscription plans are for you. With a single eSIM, enjoy internet in more than 160 countries for a fixed price and no surprises on your bill. Travel without limits and connect easily and securely! 🚀🌍
What are the advantages and disadvantages of volunteering with Workaway?
Doing a Workaway volunteer experience can offer a world of opportunities, from learning new skills and discovering different cultures to building friendships and expanding your horizons. It’s also worth seeing what previous volunteers found most rewarding.
Here is a summary of the best aspects mentioned in the reviews, so you can decide if it matches what you are looking for.
| Key advantage | Details and evidence |
| Authentic cultural immersion | Many volunteers say that thanks to Workaway, they were able to live “like locals,” staying with families and participating in their daily lives. One Trustpilot review says: “I’ve met some great people… the platform has been incredibly enriching.” |
| Savings on accommodation/food | One of the biggest motivations is the possibility of doing an exchange where accommodation and food are included, thus reducing travel costs. |
| Wide variety of projects and destinations | According to its website, Workaway has over half a million reviews of exchanges, indicating a wide range of options. |
| Verified community and support | The platform offers profiles with references, a feedback system, and optional verification, which generates greater trust. |
| Personal development and new skills | Several reviews mention that beyond helping others, they learned languages, gained practical experience, and expanded their network of contacts. |
| Flexibility in duration and type of exchange | You can find volunteer opportunities lasting from a few weeks to several months, in rural or urban settings, on farms, in hostels, etc., allowing you to adapt to different profiles. |
That said, while Workaway provides unique experiences, there are some things to keep in mind before diving in. Many users agree that the platform works well as a way to connect with hosts, but the overall experience often depends on the host and your own expectations.
To give you a complete picture, below is a summary of the disadvantages frequently mentioned by travelers with experience in the system.
| Disadvantage | Details and real testimonials |
| It depends entirely on the host | Not all hosts deliver on their promises. Some volunteers on Reddit point out that “the experience can vary greatly depending on the location” and that it is advisable to “read all the reviews and talk to the host beforehand to avoid surprises.” |
| There is no direct legal mediation | Workaway does not act as an employer or guarantor. If a conflict arises, the platform can only offer support or suspend the host, but it does not intervene legally. For this reason, many recommend making it clear that the agreement is informal and based on mutual trust. |
| Lack of control over schedules and tasks | Some reviews on Trustpilot warn that certain hosts ask for more hours than agreed upon or tasks outside of what was agreed upon: “It was great, but I ended up working eight hours instead of four,” says one user. |
| Annual fee with no guarantee of immediate acceptance | Although membership costs between $59 and $79 per year, this does not guarantee that you will find a volunteer position quickly. In some popular destinations, there are more volunteers than available positions. |
| Possible problems with visas or regulations | In some countries, volunteering can fall into a legal gray area if you don’t have the proper visa. Traveler forums often advise checking local regulations in advance to avoid any immigration issues. |
| Uneven experiences between regions | Some countries have hundreds of active hosts, while others have very few. It is also mentioned that rural areas may have limitations in terms of language, connectivity, or basic conditions. |
Overall, Workaway is still one of the most widely used and trusted volunteering platforms, but your experience largely depends on the hosts you work with. That is why it is important to do your homework, check out each host, read volunteer reviews, reach out to others who have participated, and approach it with realistic expectations.
How to volunteer with Workaway?
Volunteering with Workaway can be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life, but it takes some planning and preparation. Here, we walk you through the process step by step, from your initial search to returning home.
1. Think about the type of experience you want to have
Before creating your account, it’s important to have a clear idea of the kind of experience you want. Are you looking to learn a skill, improve a language, or simply travel in a more meaningful way? It also helps to decide on the country or region, the time of year, and how long you can commit.
Planning these details from the start will make it easier to filter opportunities on the platform and pick projects that truly match your interests and lifestyle.
2. Create an attractive profile
Your Workaway profile is your introduction to potential hosts. The more complete and genuine it is, the better your chances of getting positive responses. Add a clear, natural photo, share who you are, explain why you want to volunteer, and describe the types of tasks you are interested in.
If you have experience with other projects, mention it, even if it wasn’t formal. It’s also a good idea to list your skills, languages, available dates, and any other relevant details, like dietary preferences or if you’re traveling as a couple. Finally, verifying your identity can help build trust and make your profile more visible on the platform.
3. Search for and select hosts
Once your profile is ready, it’s time to start exploring. On the Workaway website, you can filter hosts by country, type of work, length of stay, or whether meals are included. Take the time to read each listing carefully, as it outlines daily work hours, accommodation details, and the kind of volunteer the host is looking for.
A key tip is to pay close attention to reviews from past volunteers. They give a realistic sense of the environment, the tasks, and what the overall experience with that host is like.
4. Contact the hosts
When you find an opportunity that interests you, send a personalized message. Avoid using generic templates, as hosts appreciate seeing that you’ve taken the time to read their profile. Explain why you want to work with them, what you can contribute, and your available dates.
If the host responds well, try setting up a video call. It’s a great way to get to know each other, clear up any questions, and agree on the exchange details like daily hours, tasks, lodging, meals, and length of stay. This step helps make sure both sides feel comfortable before you travel.
5. Finalize the agreement and prepare for the trip
Once the host confirms your placement, make sure to have everything in writing within the Workaway chat. Include your arrival date, daily working hours, and what you’ll receive in return. This is the best way to prevent any misunderstandings.
Next comes the trip preparation. Check if you need a visa for your destination, review entry requirements, and arrange travel or health insurance. It’s also wise to have some extra money for personal expenses, transportation, or outings.
6. Enjoy the experience
When you arrive, try to stay open-minded and respectful. Every home or project has its own routines and customs, so the first few days are crucial for observing and adjusting. Stick to agreed schedules, get involved, and don’t hesitate to lend a hand beyond your assigned tasks when the opportunity arises.
Volunteering is more than just the work. It is about learning, growing, and connecting. Make the most of your free time to explore the area, meet locals, and dive into the culture.
7. Deal with unforeseen circumstances respectfully
If things don’t go as expected, such as changes in the host’s conditions or an uncomfortable environment, try addressing it directly first. Most issues can be resolved through clear communication. If the problem continues, you can reach out to Workaway support, which can provide assistance and, in serious cases, mediate or suspend the host.
We always recommend having a backup accommodation plan in case you need to leave early.
8. End your volunteer work with gratitude
Before you leave, be sure to thank your hosts and leave everything as it should be. If you had a positive experience, consider leaving a review or recommending the project. It’s also a great opportunity to stay in touch with your hosts and fellow volunteers, many of whom can become lifelong friends.
9. After returning home
Write an honest review on the platform. Sharing your experience helps future volunteers as well as dedicated hosts. If you learned new skills or discovered something about yourself, take note of it since these lessons can be useful for your next exchange.
Finally, update your profile with your new experience. Each volunteering opportunity you complete strengthens your profile and helps hosts choose you with more confidence in the future.
In short, volunteering with Workaway is straightforward, but it takes planning and clear communication. The clearer you are about your expectations and the more open you are with your hosts, the better your experience will be.
What do Workaway volunteer reviews say?
In general, people who have joined a Workaway volunteer program share positive experiences, though these can differ based on the host and the country. On Trustpilot, most users rate the platform four or five stars.
For example, Lola, a traveler from Spain, says, “Workaway has been one of the best ways I have ever traveled. I learned languages, met amazing people, and experienced life like a local.”
Many volunteers say that Workaway lives up to its promise, offering a place to stay, meals, and a true cultural experience in exchange for a few hours of work each day. That said, they also point out some aspects that could be improved.
On Reddit, the user @TravelNomad_85 points out that “the quality of the volunteering experience depends entirely on the host; some may ask for extra hours or change the conditions along the way.”
Some users mention that Workaway provides a vast range of projects, with more than 50,000 options across 170 countries, making it easier to find something that fits your interests. At the same time, popular destinations can attract more volunteers, increasing competition.
When it comes to languages, English is the most in demand. Sophie R., a volunteer from France who shared her review on Trustpilot, says, “My English improved a lot thanks to Workaway. I spent three months at a hostel in Portugal, and the experience exceeded my expectations.”
Still, not all feedback is positive. Some users point out that negative reviews are not always posted, and that certain hosts can “disappear” without responding.
On a Reddit thread, @MayaAroundTheWorld wrote, “I love the opportunities Workaway offers, but over half of the hosts never reply. They should have better oversight on that.”
All in all, Workaway remains one of the most popular platforms for travelers looking to mix work with adventure. It succeeds in connecting people and fostering cultural exchanges, though the overall experience largely depends on clear communication, honesty, and choosing the right host.
What alternatives to Workaway are there?
While Workaway is one of the most popular volunteering platforms worldwide, it is not the only option. There are other similar platforms that connect travelers with hosts, though they differ in the type of support offered, the kinds of projects available, and their membership models.
1. Worldpackers
Worldpackers is likely Workaway’s main competitor. It started in Brazil and has quickly expanded across Latin America, Europe, and Asia. Like Workaway, it connects volunteers with hosts who provide accommodation and often meals in exchange for help on projects. Its main advantage, however, is the added focus on traveler safety and support.
The platform features a dual verification system for both hosts and volunteers, backup insurance that covers accommodation costs in case of cancellations or issues with the host, and a 24/7 support team available. It also boasts a modern, user-friendly design and a highly rated mobile app.
As for cost, Worldpackers offers several membership plans starting at around $59 per year, and even the option to pay by category, such as only social volunteering projects or just hostel experiences.
While Workaway focuses more on autonomy and individual responsibility, Worldpackers prioritizes safety, monitoring, and trust.
2. HelpX
HelpX, short for Help Exchange, was launched even before Workaway in 2001 and keeps a more traditional approach. Its community is smaller but steady, often attracting experienced travelers or those seeking rural and family-oriented experiences, particularly in Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and Europe.
Unlike Workaway, HelpX has a simpler setup and is less focused on cultural travel, placing more emphasis on exchanging work for accommodation. Hosts range from farms and private homes to small businesses and rural hostels.
One advantage of HelpX is its lower membership fee, around $23 for two years, making it an affordable choice for those planning multiple long-term volunteering experiences.
However, its interface is simpler, the number of projects is smaller, and support is limited. For this reason, HelpX is often best suited for independent travelers who have prior experience and don’t need much guidance.
How can you access the internet while volunteering?
When traveling abroad, a stable internet connection gives you the freedom to move around easily. Whether it’s checking transportation, sharing your experiences online, or contacting new hosts, a Holafly eSIM keeps you connected without having to rely on hotel WiFi or local SIM cards that can be unreliable.
All you need to do is choose the country or region where you’ll be volunteering and pick a plan that matches the length of your stay. This way, you’ll arrive with active internet, ready to enjoy your experience without interruptions.
Another great option is Holafly Plans, which provides a global eSIM that works in over 160 countries with a single subscription. This makes it easy to do multiple volunteer projects in different places without having to buy a new SIM each time you cross a border.
Frequently asked questions about Workaway volunteering
No. You need an annual membership to contact hosts. An individual account costs $59, while the PLUS membership is $79 and includes extra benefits. With either plan, you can apply to all active opportunities for a full year without paying for each volunteer project separately.
It depends on the host and the project. Common tasks include helping on organic farms, assisting in hostels or schools, teaching languages, caring for children or pets, and taking part in community or art projects. Typically, you work around four to five hours a day, leaving plenty of time to explore.
It depends on the country you are visiting. Workaway does not handle visas or work permits, so each volunteer needs to check the requirements for their destination. In some countries, volunteering is allowed on a tourist visa, while in others a specific visa is required. It’s important to confirm this information with the official consulates before traveling.
Yes. Each host sets a minimum and maximum stay, ranging from a week to several months. This means you can choose the length based on your availability and the project’s requirements. Some volunteers even link multiple stays in different countries throughout the year.
The best tool is Workaway’s verified review system. Always read feedback from other volunteers and check whether the host’s identity has been confirmed. It’s also a good idea to have a video call before confirming your stay to get to know the host and clarify expectations.
Basic English is usually enough to get by in most countries. That said, many hosts really value volunteers who want to learn the local language and are often happy to teach or practice it with you while you’re there.
If a serious issue or breach occurs, you can reach out to Workaway’s support team, which provides email assistance and can step in to assess the situation. In extreme cases, the platform may suspend the host’s profile. Even so, it’s wise to have a backup accommodation plan just in case.
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