Housing is becoming more expensive, and for many young people this is becoming a challenge. One British couple has found an unusual solution. For three years now, they have been rent-free and travelling the world.
Hannah Cleaver, 25, and her husband Jack have been caring for pets in different countries – and thanks to this not only avoid housing costs, but also save about a thousand pounds every month.
In that time they have travelled to the US, Singapore, Australia, Thailand and Japan.
Their travels often provide unexpected experiences.
In Seattle, for example, they witnessed a husky literally “sing” with joy when his owner returned home.
And once Hannah accidentally labelled on an immigration form that she was a criminal. This left the couple stranded in Hawaii for a fortnight.
From a temporary solution to a lifestyle
At first, they were just looking for a way to avoid paying expensive rent in Cardiff after graduating from the University of South Wales.
But what was planned as a temporary move became a way of life.
“Free accommodation, no bills and yet we look after the animals – it’s a fair trade for us,” says Hannah.
“It’s like we’re making little friends all over the world.”
Author photo, Hannah Cleaver
After graduation, the couple found permanent employment, but housing in the Welsh capital proved beyond their means.
“The flats we looked at cost around £900 a month – and that’s without bills,” Hannah says. – For students, that’s just not realistic unless you’re working non-stop.”
The solution came unexpectedly – from a short video on TikTok. At first, the idea seemed strange and even risky: living in the homes of complete strangers.
But Jack’s job in marketing allowed them to work remotely, so in the summer they decided to give it a go, starting with Cardiff and Swansea.
They were then ‘commissioned’ for three months – that’s when they realised it could be more than a temporary job.
Author photo, Hannah Cleaver
After raising some money, the couple travelled abroad for a year and went on to care for animals in countries in Asia, North America and Australia.
And everywhere they lived in the owners’ homes, caring for their animals.
Living among locals, not tourists
Travelling taught them about local customs. For example, in Japan, they had to carry a bottle of water with them to clean up after their dog after a walk.
“The owner taught us basic Japanese phrases for walking the dogs,” Jack recalls.
“Often we explained ourselves with gestures, but the people were friendly.”
Author photo, Hannah Cleaver
Because their activities were considered volunteer work, they didn’t have to pay extra for a visa in many countries.
“When you walk someone else’s dog every day, you really start to understand local life,” Hannah says.
“You’re not just a tourist – you live there.”
The pros and cons of such freedom
Although they don’t get paid to care for the animals, the lack of housing and utility costs makes this lifestyle worthwhile.
Hannah even went back to university to do a masters in film studies – and the free accommodation has significantly reduced the financial burden.
One of the pet owners, Robert Alexander from Cardiff, has trusted them with his cat called Oreo on more than one occasion. She turned 15 this month and Hannah and Jack have even prepared a present for her.
“Rents have gone up noticeably now, especially in Cardiff,” says Robert.
“It’s hard for students. If I can make someone’s life easier by providing accommodation – I’m only too happy to help.”
The couple plan their trips months in advance, so there are hardly any breaks between ‘bookings’.
However, this way of life has its disadvantages. Chief among them is the lack of stability.
“We don’t always know where we’ll be next month,” Hannah admits.
“It wouldn’t work for some people. But we love that sense of adventure.”
Author photo, Hannah Cleaver
The couple plan to care for the animals until Hannah completes her degree and they raise money for a down payment on a house.
In the meantime, they appreciate the bond they manage to make with the animals and help their owners not to worry about their favourites.
“Some people have invited us over six or seven times now,” Jack says. – It’s really nice, the animals recognise us.”
He recalls one of the highlights with a smile: “In Seattle, one husky literally” sang “with joy when his owner came back. It was both funny and touching.