A woman who travels the globe for free by working as a ‘house sitter’ has lifted the lid on the highs and lows of the abnormal job.
Alanna Parrish, 33, originally from the California Bay Area, spent years working in real estate and property management – earning a six-figure salary.
However, she always longed for more and ultimately left her high-paying job behind in 2022 to set out on an adventure.
Initially, she planned a six-month trip but once she left home, she never came back.
She ultimately sold her apartment to travel full-time. But instead of staying in hotels or Airbnbs, Parrish lives in strangers’ homes while they’re away.
For a fee, she takes care of their pets and plants while ensuring their home is ‘secure,’ so that the person can enjoy their vacation at ease.
Through the endeavor she has been able to visit 17 different cities across the world, not only scoring free accommodation but also making money thanks to the gig.
‘I began house sitting for friends and acquaintances, especially people with pets, and realized how in-demand reliable sitters are,’ she explained during a recent chat with the Daily Mail.
Alanna Parrish, 33, originally from the California Bay Area, ditched her six-figure salary job to work as a full-time house sitter and travel the world for free
For a fee, she stays in strangers’ homes and takes care of their pets and plants while ensuring their home is ‘secure,’ so that the person can enjoy their vacation at ease
‘From there, I joined house-sitting platforms and started getting referrals.
‘Once I realized how many people are looking for house sitters and pet sitter on a consistent basis, I knew there was a huge market for this.
‘Homeowners are constantly traveling for extended periods of time or even last minute tips, not only in US cities but international cities as well.’
Parrish explained that her ‘responsibilities’ include ‘pet care, plant care, mail collection, keeping the home secure and maintaining routines so the house feels lived-in.
‘Rates vary depending on location and responsibilities and often are rather an exchange of service for living expenses,’ she added.
The time she spends at each home ranges from two days to one month, but the average is one week.
And while getting to travel the world for free has its perks, she admitted that moving around constantly and living out of a suitcase is not always easy.
‘It can be tiring at times, especially with packing and logistics, but the freedom outweighs the inconvenience,’ she said.
Through the endeavor she has been able to visit 17 different cities across the globe, not only scoring free accommodation but also making money thanks to the gig
‘Occasionally I miss the idea of a permanent home, but I don’t miss the financial stress or feeling tied down.
‘At first, [living out of a suitcase] was challenging, but now it feels liberating. I’ve become much more intentional about what I own, and I honestly don’t miss having more stuff.’
Other downsides include ‘less predictability and routine, constant planning and occasional loneliness.’
‘You have to be very organized. You’re also constantly adapting to new environments, which isn’t for everyone,’ Parrish explained.
She didn’t disclose how much exactly she earns but said she gets enough to cover ‘essentials.’
And eliminating the cost of rent has been extremely beneficial.
While getting to travel the world for free has its perks, she admitted that moving around constantly and living out of a suitcase is not always easy
‘I’ve saved a significant amount by eliminating rent and many fixed expenses. I do not struggle to get by,’ she said.
In addition to the financial perks, she said she has immense ‘freedom’ since she’s not tied down by a regular 9 to 5 job.
‘I get to experience new neighborhoods like a local, spend time with animals and design my days around my life instead of work,’ she gushed.
‘I’ve met some incredible people and have stayed in some very cool homes! It’s also helped me slow down and be more present.’
Her advice to others who want to follow in her footsteps and start house sitting too? Don’t jump into the lifestyle immediately.
‘Start small. Try it part-time first, build reviews and trust and don’t romanticize it without understanding the logistics,’ she suggested.
‘But if you’re adaptable, responsible, and value freedom over routine, it can be an incredibly rewarding way to live.’
