Let me share how you can become a house sitter in Vietnam. I recently spent six weeks house sitting in Ho Chi Minh City and loved every moment. It was so enjoyable that I’ve already planned to return.
Since I left the UK two years ago, I’ve been traveling the world as a digital nomad. House sitting has been my strategy to keep accommodation costs low and enrich my travel experiences. It’s a fantastic way to dive into a culture and truly understand a place and its people.
I’ve gathered over thirty 5-star reviews from house sitting all around the globe and I’d love to share my tips and experiences with you. So, if you’re wondering, “How do I become a house sitter in Vietnam?” you’re in the right place.
A house sitter looks after someone’s home for a certain period, typically while the owners are away on vacation. It’s a win-win situation: the property stays safe and secure, and the sitter gets free accommodation in a cozy, local setting.
I began building my house sitting profile over five years ago and now have an extensive list of countries and cities I’ve stayed in. To me, house sitting feels more like living in a place rather than just passing through. I’ve made wonderful friends and have open invites for return visits to many homes I’ve cared for.
House sits can vary from a single night to several months. My longest stay was 2.5 months in Durham, North Carolina, looking after a lovely property. House sitting often includes taking care of pets, watering plants, mowing the lawn, collecting mail, and handling the trash. All these tasks are laid out upfront, so you know exactly what to expect.
If you’re interested in house sitting in Vietnam, there are a few basics to consider first. There’s a level of commitment and responsibility involved. So, before diving into the details, consider the following:
1. Profile: A well-detailed and verified profile on a reputable house sitting website is crucial. Present yourself honestly and professionally.
2. Visa: Understand Vietnam’s visa requirements based on your nationality. Make sure visa issues won’t interfere with your plans.
3. Research: Vietnam has distinct wet and dry seasons. Research the location and weather before committing to a house sit. Don’t hesitate to ask the host questions.
4. Responsibility: House sitting comes with responsibilities. Free accommodation doesn’t mean a free vacation. Regular tasks, especially with pets, are part of the deal.
Securing house sitting jobs requires more than just sending an email. Competition has increased significantly.
So, how do you become a house sitter in Vietnam? Here’s a simple 5-step process to get you started:
There are numerous websites where you can start your house sitting journey. My personal favorite is Trusted Housesitters. Though it’s the most expensive, it offers excellent services. However, there are cheaper alternatives with trial periods and annual fees as low as $29. Having profiles on multiple platforms can increase your chances of securing house sits.
Once you choose a house sitting site, build a profile. This is your introduction to potential hosts. Include photos, videos, testimonials, and references. Complete all verification steps to build trust. Keep your profile updated with recent experiences to show you’re active and committed.
When I started, I initially applied for long sits in places like San Diego but didn’t get any responses. I then shifted my focus to nearby locations and gradually built my reviews. This approach paid off, and I eventually secured a six-week stay on a ranch in Tucson, Arizona. Good reviews are essential, so start with short, local sits to build your credibility.
Always aim to over-deliver on hosts’ expectations. Clear communication about boundaries and updates, especially with pet sits, is crucial. Discuss these details beforehand and follow the host’s wishes.
The Asian market for house sitting is still developing, with fewer listings than in places like the US or UK. But don’t lose hope. As house sitting continues to grow, more opportunities will arise. Many websites notify you when a sit matching your criteria is posted, so act quickly. Personalized applications are more successful than generic ones.
Here are some top house sitting websites you can explore:
1. Trusted Housesitters: My preferred site, offering unlimited sits for $129/year. Premium options with additional benefits are available.
2. Mind My House: Affordable at $29/year with a good number of international listings.
3. Nomador: Rising in popularity, with membership options starting at $99/year.
4. House Carers: Another reliable option, though I haven’t used it personally. It offers annual membership for $50/year.
5. Workaway: Known for volunteer placements but also lists house sitting opportunities for a $50/year fee.
House sitting typically doesn’t involve financial exchange but offers free accommodation, which can significantly reduce travel costs.
Here’s a quick FAQ on house sitting in Vietnam:
– Do you need qualifications? No, but traits like responsibility, reliability, and trustworthiness are key. Sign up on a reputable site and create a strong profile.
– How to start without experience? Begin with local sits to gain reviews and experience before applying for international sits.
– Is there demand in Vietnam? Yes, but fewer listings than in other regions. However, the market is expanding.
– Pros and cons? Weather and cultural differences can be challenges, but the positives—delicious food, friendly locals, amazing landscapes—far outweigh the negatives.
House sitting has been a game-changer for me, opening doors to visit countries I never imagined. Vietnam stands out with its vibrant cities, serene beaches, and scenic countryside. I highly recommend house sitting to anyone. I hope this guide helps you embark on some incredible house sitting adventures in Vietnam and beyond.