If you’ve ever wondered about how to volunteer in Mexico for free accommodation you will find all of the resources you will need to get started in this guide.
Currently, one of the most sought-after destinations for backpacking is Mexico.
Although the cost of living is cheaper there than in many other parts of the world, travel costs quickly add up, especially if you want to stay awhile.
Moreover, accommodation prices are rapidly increasing in highly desirable travel hotspots like Tulum to meet the demand.
So, if you’re keen to travel to Mexico but don’t want to spend a fortune, volunteering may be the answer. Volunteering while traveling is a smart way to keep costs low, extend your travel, and immerse yourself in the local community.
In addition, you’ll meet like-minded people and get involved in fantastic projects in exchange for giving a small portion of your time. You can find many fantastic opportunities that allow you to volunteer in Mexico for free.
You don’t have to wait until you are in the country to secure them either. Instead, you can search for and apply for Mexico volunteer opportunities online, securing your place before even booking your flight.
How To Volunteer In Mexico
Nowadays, a popular way to find volunteer opportunities is through online platforms. But as you will see from a quick Google search, many options exist.
Thus, knowing which one to choose can be a challenge. To help you arrange a successful and stress-free trip, here are the best online platforms and alternative ways to volunteer in Mexico.
Join Worldpackers
Worldpackers is one of the top volunteering platforms with a community of 1,5 million travelers and hosts. They offer volunteer opportunities in over 100 countries and have over 200 listings for volunteer opportunities in Mexico.
These range from hostel work exchanges to homestays to permaculture projects and options can be found all over the country, including Quintana Roo and Mexico City.
Read our review about Worldpackers to learn more.
Join Workaway
Another well-established work exchange platform is Workaway. This platform features volunteer opportunities that allow travelers to give back to the communities they visit and make their trips more meaningful.
They offer similar options to Worldpackers and have dedicated 24-hour support. However, they do not include as many perks in their membership as Worldpackers, such as insurance.
Post in Facebook Groups
Another great way to volunteer In Mexico for free is to join relevant Facebook groups that regularly publish volunteer opportunities.
For example, check out “Volunteer Abroad For Free,” which has regular listings seeking volunteers, and you can also post yourself.
PSSST. Want to get FREE accommodation in exchange for work?
If you're traveling on a budget or want to save and extend your trip, this could be exactly what you’re looking for. Worldpackers is a platform that connects travelers like you with hosts. It’s just like volunteer work –exchange your skills for free accommodation. SAVE $10 using my discount code. Learn more about how it works here.You can also try Mexico travel groups like “Backpacking Mexico” or “MEXICO 🇲🇽 Travel Community.”
Research And Email Places You Are Interested In
Of course, there is always the ‘old-school’ option of finding placements by contacting places directly.
If you know what type of volunteering you are interested in, you can search for those companies in Mexico and check out their websites.
Some companies may advertise on their website if they accept volunteers, but you can send them an email if not.
How To Find Volunteer Opportunities In Mexico
The safest and most secure way to find where to volunteer in Mexico for free is to use a dedicated online platform. Worldpackers verify all hosts beforehand and create formal agreements so you can rest assured the person advertising is legit.
You can also check the reviews of hosts that past volunteers have left, and if you have any problems, you can contact the Worldpackers support team 7 days a week.
Finding placements on Worldpackers Mexico is quick and easy, here’s how:
Browse Your Options On Worldpackers
Before you can apply for any Mexico volunteer placement, you must sign up to become a member. Worldpackers membership costs $49 per year and gives you access to unlimited solo trips in 12 months.
If you use the code ABROKENBACKPACK, you’ll get a $10 discount, so your membership will only cost $39.
The membership comes with Worldpackers insurance, which includes reimbursement for up to 3 nights’ accommodation should you have to leave your exchange early for whatever reason.
Moreover, you’ll also have the potential to earn money through the WP programs.
If you’re traveling with a friend or partner, you can save money by signing up for the Couples/Friends plan at $59 per year.
This allows you to connect your accounts and apply together for opportunities that accept couples or friends. Note that the code ABROKENBACKPACK works for this plan too.
You could upgrade to the premium “Pack” plan for $99 a year, with additional extras like extended insurance and WP academy access for planning and budgeting tools.
Apply On A Volunteer Position On Worldpackers
Once you’ve signed up, you can search for your first Worldpackers Mexico exchange. The advanced search function makes it easy to find what you are looking for.
You can narrow the listings down to a specific city or region, choose the type of project you are interested in, and enter your available dates. There are many other ways to ensure you find the placement most suitable for you.
You can search for opportunities based on your skills or the purpose of your trip. For example, if you want to connect with locals or practice your Spanish, you can find options that meet these purposes.
Worldpackers Mexico has a wide range of volunteer opportunities, including unique ones. Here are some options:
- Suppose you want to help make the country better for the younger generations. In that case, you can help out in a local school by creating their marketing and social media campaign.
- You can teach yoga at a hostel in Cancun if you’re into wellness.
- You volunteer at a permaculture center in the Mexican forest to learn permaculture techniques and bioconstruction.
Final Thoughts On Volunteering In Mexico
Volunteering while traveling in Mexico allows you to stay in places for free, keeping costs low.
However, that’s just one of the benefits, as work exchanges give travelers the opportunity to meet and work with the locals and make a difference in the community.
So, if you believe travel is more than just seeing the sights and crossing off your Mexico bucket list, you will indeed find volunteering a rewarding experience.
Traveling to Mexico soon? Read one of the following guides:
