The Best Home Exchange Platforms

Home exchange: once a niche concept, now a popular way to travel.

As a home exchange platform ourselves, we at Keybento know the ins and outs of what makes a great home exchange experience. You might be wondering why we haven’t included ourselves in this list—simply put, we believe in giving you a full, unbiased view of all the best options available.

Platforms like BeHomm, Kindred, and HomeExchange are making travel simple, sustainable, and accessible. But with each offering something a bit different, how do you figure out which one’s the best fit for you?

Now, let’s break it down so you can find your perfect match.

HomeExchange.com: The Oldest

HomeExchange boasts a network that spans over 187 countries. If you’re on the hunt for options, HomeExchange’s size is a major plus. It welcomes all types of homes and travellers, letting you choose between direct swaps or non-reciprocal exchanges.

With so many homes available, HomeExchange is perfect for anyone who wants options. Whether you’re headed to a bustling city or a quiet countryside retreat, you’re likely to find a home that feels just right.

A little heads up: Because it’s such a big platform, it can lack that curated feel you might find elsewhere. You’ll need to roll up your sleeves and spend some time (up to 6 weeks) searching for the right exchange, as, given the number of users, the quality and hospitality can vary quite a bit from host to host.

Overall, HomeExchange is great for those who value flexibility and variety. If you’re more into having options than making personal connections or enjoying unique experiences, this platform might just be your new best friend.

Explore your bucket-list destinations for a fraction of the cost with home exchanging

BeHomm: for Creatives and Design Lovers

If you have a design home, BeHomm might be the platform for you. Their platform is all about creating a community for creatives and design lovers.

It’s less about compromise and more about finding beautifully designed homes that still feel cosy and lived-in. Think high-end interiors, charming neighbourhoods, and hosts who care about the details.

Something to consider: The focus on design homes means it might be a bit harder to find homes that are specifically kid-friendly, with enough room for your little ones to run around without worrying about breaking things (expensive things).

But if you have a design home, love comfort, and attention to detail, BeHomm offers that sweet spot of luxury without losing the local experience you get from a home swap.

Think Pinterest-perfect living rooms

Kindred: Young Travellers First

Kindred is geared towards young travellers looking for something a little different, rather than families with young kids. Plus, they operate mainly in the US.

You can join through a referral or apply directly, which keeps the community feeling personal and connected. It’s almost like staying with a friend of a friend!

Something to think about: If you’re applying directly, you may have to wait a little longer before you can start swapping. Without a referral code, Kindred prioritise homes based on where they’re seeing the most demand. And like BeHomm, Kindred’s community leans more towards young travellers seeking unique experiences rather than families with young kids.

Nevertheless, Kindred is solid choice, especially for young, frequent travellers or creatives looking to switch things up without breaking the bank.

Swap homes and refresh your workspace

So, Which Home Exchange Platform is Right for You?

With so many options, it can be tricky knowing what’s best for you.

To make things simple, here’s a quick recap to help you decide:

• BeHomm: Ideal for travellers seeking an up-market, boutique experience without sacrificing the authenticity of a local stay. If you have a design home and want to feel inspired, check out BeHomm.

• Kindred: Great for young travellers who prefer swapping homes within their network or with people connected through friends. It’s trust-based, friendly, and keeps things personal.

• HomeExchange: A global platform that offers a variety of choice. If you’re after flexibility and the ability to travel to virtually any destination—and you’re okay with putting in some effort to find the right spot—HomeExchange could be your ticket.

Ultimately, the best platform for you depends on what you value most.

Still unsure of how it all works? Read our latest blog post to learn more about home exchanging and alternative accommodation.