Hosts, thanks for your feedback regarding Host Preferences that were released a few months ago. We’ve just released some updates to make sure your Host Preferences are enforced across the Couchsurfing website and apps.
Surfers, next time you send a Couch Request, you’ll notice a few changes. The calendar has been refreshed, and shows when the host you are requesting is unavailable.
In addition, if you do not meet the host’s preferences (for example: your group is too big), you’ll be shown a warning to let you know before you send the Couch Request.
You’ll no longer be able to send a Couch Request if your host is already booked on the dates you are requesting. In addition, take note that you’ll only be able to send last-minute requests to hosts that have indicated that they can accommodate last minute requests.
What does this mean?
By only sending requests to hosts that are available, you’ll be able to find a host for your next Couchsurfing adventure faster! Be sure to use the date picker at the top of the Host Search page to save more time, and only view hosts that are available to host during the dates of your trip.
I’m having trouble finding a host. What should I do?
1. Read every profile (including references and the My Home section) before you send a Couch Request.
Hosts are more likely to accept members that demonstrate that they have read their profile in it’s entirety – it shows you actually want to meet them! It’s also an important safety step – reading their profile and references will help you know what to expect before you arrive. If something about a host’s profile or references makes you feel uncomfortable, don’t send the Couch Request. Read more about Safety.
2. Fill out your own profile.
Hosts want to know who they are inviting into their home. Help them feel more at ease by thoroughly completing your profile, so your hosts can get a better picture of who you are before accepting your request. Be sure to add pictures that clearly display who you are.
3. Create a Public Trip.
Let hosts know you’re coming by creating a Public Trip. When you do, you’ll be displayed as an Upcoming Traveler, and hosts in that area can offer to host you.
Hi, how do i get this onto my imac? Thanks
Brilliant idea. Many Thanks . Happy Surfing .
Also, if it would show you when you’re double confirming guests on conflicting dates coz I have made that mistake a couple of times and I end up with more guests at the same time. There is a good podcast for couchsurfing where people share their stories and experiences in this community. http://www.greyjabesi.com/thepodcast/
Hi Travel Forever,
This will actually prevent surfers from being able to request you on conflicting dates, so this should help with that 🙂
This looks great!!!! Thank you very much for listening AND improving =)
If I can take up to 4 surfers and I already have a booking for only one, for a particular period, I do not want to stop people making requests. Does your latest update do this ? Please advise
Hi Peter, if you’ve indicated that you can accommodate multiple parties, members can still send you requests! They’ll see that you’ve already accepted another surfer for those dates, but that you can still accommodate another surfer.
It would also be a good idea if that when a person has a host after a request has been confirmed that their profile taken of the list so that potential hosts do make an offer to host .If a person then requires a host for another time then they can re-post their request.Just another point is that when you look up who are hosts in a city/town many names come up who are actually not a host but have been a cs guest .This should be changed so that only hosts name are listed .