What is couch surfing?
Couch surfing is a concept where some members (called hosts) post on the platform, stating they are open to hosting other members (called surfers) who are visiting their city.
It’s like having a friend in another city and going to visit them, but you meet the friend for the first time once you get there!
A quick history of couch surfing
Early 2000s
2010s
2020
Today
Early 2000s
The online couch surfing movement is born: stay with locals, share culture.
How safe is Couch surfing?
While all travel and interaction with strangers carries some risk, couch surfing is a lot safer than many people initially imagine.
Our community is built on trust between members, established through references following stays. Our active moderation team takes every report seriously and diligently counters bad actors who do not abide by our Community Guidelines.
Additionally, the Couchers platform includes tools such as various forms of verification (like Strong Verification with a biometric passport) that add an additional level of safety. It’s important to always have an alternative plan ready in case things don’t go as expected, and to trust your instincts!
What can I do on Couchers.org?
- Host a traveler visiting your city
- Surf with a local while traveling
- Attend events with locals and travelers
- Find like‑minded people in your city and meet up
- Join or start discussions in your local community
Why people love couch surfing
- For travelers: deeper, more human experiences beyond tourist trails
- For hosts: meet people from around the world and share your city
- For everyone: community, culture, and connection — not transactions
TIP
New here? Attend a local event to get a feel for the community — low commitment, high connection.
How does Couchers.org compare?
| Couchers.org | Hostel | Hotel | |
|---|---|---|---|
| People‑first nonprofit | |||
| Stay with locals | |||
| Encouraged to spend time with host | |||
| Professionally managed stay | |||
| Meetups & local communities | |||
| Cultural exchange focus | |||
| Non‑transactional community model | |||
| Cost to stay | Free to stay | $ | $$–$$$ |
| No investor pressure |