Touring With Warmshowers – Getting started
Everything you need to plan your tour and connect with confidence
You might be asking yourself, how do I plan my cycle tour with Warmshowers? find hosts, and take your first steps into the Warmshowers community. All that and more here.
Your first ride starts here
Learn how to search for hosts, send requests, and share feedback through the Warmshowers website or mobile app.
How do I find a host?
It’s easy to start connecting with hosts in your destination area.
Use the interactive map to search by location — city, country, or region — and browse profiles to find a good fit.
Discover your route
Search for hosts in more than 160 countries using the interactive map or search bar.
Explore nearby hosts
Zoom in on clustered areas to see individual hosts nearby.
Refine your search
Filter by location or availability to narrow your results.
Review and connect
Check each host’s profile for preferences or notes — and keep your own details up to date.
Get started today and join thousands of hosts around the world who make Warmshowers possible.
Guest Etiquette
Confirm, communicate and keep the journey on track
Once a host confirms your stay, use in-app messaging to finalise the details, arrival time, directions, and what to expect. The built-in chat keeps all communication in one place, making it easy to stay organised and connected while you’re on the road.
A few tips from experienced members:
Message a few days in advance
hosts often plan around your arrival.
Be clear and polite
respect that you’re being welcomed into someone’s home.
Thank your host and follow up with feedback after your stay.
reciprocal hospitality
Kindness keeps the wheels turning
Every stay on Warmshowers is built on trust and gratitude. Be thoughtful, clean up after yourself, and always leave a review. It helps strengthen the community for the next cyclist.
- Arrive on time, or keep your host informed of delays.
- Respect space, time, and privacy.
- Offer small gestures of thanks. A story, a meal, or a helping hand.
- No need to offer money, kindness is the currency.
- Leave feedback after every stay.
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You might be wondering…
How do I find a host that suits my needs?
After you have created your Warmshowers account, you can search by host name (if you know who you’re looking for) or by location — country, town, province, etc. — and then go to the selected host’s profile to request a stay. Take time to read each profile carefully: it shares details about what they offer, their availability, and any special requests or preferences. If the map shows clusters, zoom in; the drop-down search menu will also let you see hosts in that area. Once you’ve found someone who aligns with your route and expectations, use the contact button on their profile to send a message.
Where is Warmshowers available?
Warmshowers is a global community with hosts in more than 160 countries — from big cities to remote villages. Availability varies by region, but you’ll find opportunities across many countries and routes. Search the map to see where your next adventure could take you.
Can I use Warmshowers if I’m not traveling by bicycle?
Warmshowers is an organisation of touring cyclists and community members who provide hosting — accommodation and use of amenities — to touring cyclists. Hosts will expect that you are cycle-touring, so it is not appropriate to use the Warmshowers hosting community when you’re travelling by other means.
How long do guests usually stay?
Most stays are short — typically one night, sometimes two. Hosts are offering space within their daily lives, so shorter visits tend to work best unless something else is agreed in advance.
What if my plans change?
Plans on the road can shift. If they do, let your host know as early as possible. Clear communication helps avoid inconvenience and keeps the experience positive for everyone.
What do cyclists typically need when they stay?
Most touring cyclists need only the basics: a place to sleep, a shower, access to water, and somewhere safe to put their bike. Many hosts offer more, but expectations are simple and flexible.
How safe is Warmshowers?
Warmshowers is built on trust, communication, and community accountability. Profiles, references, and reviews help you make informed decisions, and most interactions are positive, respectful, and mutually supportive. Personal Safety Statement
What if I have a great experience, can I leave feedback?
Yes — and in fact, it’s expected. If you’ve been hosted (or have hosted a cyclist yourself), you should leave feedback on the user’s profile to share your experience. Feedback is a vital part of informing future hosts and guests of the experiences others have had with an individual, and it should always be factually accurate and honest. It also helps keep the network transparent and reliable.
Everything you need, wherever you ride
Warmshowers keeps you connected on the go — search for hosts, send messages, and read reviews, all from your bike.
