When budgets are tight, holidays are one of the first things to go. But there are plenty of ways to still have some fun and enjoy a well-earned holiday, provided one knows where to look. Check out these inspirational ideas.

Swap Houses and Enjoy Waterfront Living in the USA

What appears a pokey cottage to its resident may be regarded as quaint to a visitor from overseas. Families and couples often use each others’ cars and will look after pets too. People swap everything from city apartments in London to waterfront mansions with their own speed boat in the USA. There is a fee to sign up to an exchange service which introduces people looking to swap to each other. From then on, it’s down to each individual. Check out homeexchange.com, ihen.com and seniorshomeexchange.com.

House Sitters Get Free Accommodation

Tthatched cottages, chateaux, windmills and 17th century farmhouses are just some of the amazing properties that companies like mindmyhouse.com are looking to place house sitters in. In exchange for pet-sitting duties, housekeeping, plant watering, and burglar watch, house sitters get free accommodation and the chance to stay in some amazing properties all over the world for free.