They say there’s no such thing as a free lunch, but if you know where to look, there certainly is such a thing as free holiday accommodation. Don’t believe me? Then check out these five ways to bed down for nada. Not only will you save cash, but you’ll bank some brilliant memories, too.

Don’t splash the cash

The ingenious idea of Bostonian Casey Fenton, Couch Surfer is dedicated to “Creating a Better World, One Couch At A Time”. How do they do this? Simple, by sharing their homes with over a million members in virtually every country on earth. Now surfers have the opportunity to meet people from all over the world, either as hosts or guests. Not only is it free, but they also get the chance to discover new countries guided by the people who know best what’s kicking and what’s not. The people who live there.

Help yourself to free board

The brainchild of London secretary Sue Coppard, WWOOF helps people get a taste of country life. If you don’t mind getting your hands dirty, WWOOF offers free lodging in exchange for a day’s work on the farm. Stays are available from one week to many years. By working and sweating together, hosts and workers forge bonds of camaraderie that last a lifetime. Plus, you help grow the burgeoning organic food movement. There are now WWOOF organizations in over 50 countries. And the philosophy is spreading.

Feel free to swap

House swapping began in the 1950’s when the masses first started to have homes to swap. With the Internet making it easier than ever, some estimates indicate that 15-20% of travelers now exchange digs. By joining in, you not only save cash but also get a far better insight into local culture. If none of your friends happen to live in wonderful exotic places, don’t worry: there are plenty of websites to help get you started.

You’re home free

For those who have no house to swap, there’s another exciting option: housesitting. Caretaker.org is a website full of property caretaking and house sitting jobs around the world. You’ll find a huge range of options, including “estates, mansions, farms, ranches, resort homes, retreat centers, camps, hunting and fishing lodges, vacation homes, private islands, and any other kind of property imaginable.” No wonder more than ten thousand people have signed up.

Don’t throw money down the drain

Living for free is a no brainer when it comes to holiday saving, but unfortunately most hotels demand cash. Not, however, Dasparkhotel in Ottensheim in Austria. Each of the “rooms” is a recycled concrete sewage pipe, and in direct contrast to the bare minimalism of the exterior, the inside is surprisingly colourful and comfy. Plus, there’s a restaurant and a communal bathroom nearby. The owners operate a “pay what you want” system, with guests paying nothing or whatever they can afford. So, regardless of whether you enjoy sleeping in the pipe room, one thing is for sure. It’ll never be a drain on your finances.