How swapping homes with strangers saved one family thousands on holidays

The concept of swapping homes with strangers for holidays is gaining traction as a cost-effective travel solution, with families like the Vanderpumps reporting significant savings. Henry Vanderpump, 42, his wife Elliw, 39, and their two children have embraced this travel method, having completed two home exchange holidays and planning a third.

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We used to have one holiday a summer, now we have two [because of the savings we make from home exchanges]. And the kids love the idea of living in someone else's house while that person is living in theirs.

Through a membership site called Home Link, the Vanderpumps have stayed in other families' homes in Hamburg and Copenhagen while their own five-bedroom house in Cheshire was occupied by their hosts. They estimate saving around £2,500 on accommodation per trip, plus an additional £700 on transport by also swapping cars. These savings have enabled them to take two holidays a summer instead of one.

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We lived like a German family

Beyond the financial benefits, the Vanderpumps highlight the unique experiential aspect of home swapping. They describe living "like a German family" during their stay in Hamburg, exploring local lakes and experiencing a "very Scandinavian house" in Copenhagen, complete with electric bikes provided by their hosts. This approach allows for deeper immersion into local culture and access to off-the-beaten-path destinations.

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all on one level and had no clutter

While the savings and authentic experiences are appealing, the idea of strangers staying in one's home can be a deterrent for some. Preparations and tidying are often necessary before guests arrive. Additionally, flexibility with travel dates is often required, as last-minute bookings are not always feasible. May Burrough, another home swapper, utilizes a points system on a different platform, HomeExchange, by hosting guests in her London flat while she travels, allowing her to book trips at other times.

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Last minute bookings won't always work