Travel checklist:
preparing for a home swap
Communication: communication is key to a successful swap and so, when planning a swap, make sure to stay in regular communication with your exchange partners. Set up a home exchange agreement where you can note down everything you have agreed.
Insurance: before agreeing a home swap, contact your home and content insurance providers to confirm cover during the exchange dates.
Welcome pack: create a folder of useful information for your guests. Include: local attractions, nearby transport details, information about your home, useful phone numbers such as taxi firms as well as emergency contact details (e.g. a friend's/neighbour's number, an emergency plumber, etc).
Clean & declutter: make sure your home is clean and welcoming for your guests and, once you've completed your swap, that you leave their home as clean (or better) than when you arrived.
Important note: ensure that you have working smoke alarms installed and, if your home uses gas, a working carbon monoxide alarm.
Leave a gift: it is a really nice touch to leave a small welcome gift for your guests as well as something to thank them for the use of their home.
