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Thu, 09 Jul 2026

Thu, 09 Jul 2026 We saved £6,000 on holidays by swapping homes with strangers

The BBC looks at the growing trend of people swapping homes to cut holiday costs.
Home exchange platforms like Home Link and HomeExchange vet their members and invite them to review one another. However, hosts are advised to check that their home and contents insurance provides the cover they need before hosting guests. Petra Novak, a 34-year-old who uses the home swap site Kindred, has saved some £18,000-£20,000 through home exchanges. To prepare for guests, it is recommended to make the listing clear, with plenty of information and appealing photos, keep in contact before and during the exchange, declutter and make space in wardrobes, drawers, and cupboards, leave a comprehensive guide for guests, share local recommendations, and lock away items of value.