An innovative start-up launched by a young mother is quickly gaining traction in the travel community. Juurnee, the brainchild of Rachel Crampton, connects travellers who need support during a flight—such as families with small children or elderly passengers—with people who are happy to lend a hand in exchange for payment.
The idea was born out of Rachel’s own experience. After attending her brother’s wedding in the UK, she needed to return to Australia but found herself facing a daunting solo journey with three young children. With her husband unable to accompany them, she turned to social media, offering to pay someone to travel with her and help manage the kids.
The story was picked up by the Daily Mail, and Rachel was soon overwhelmed with responses from people eager to assist. After carefully sifting through the many applications, she found the perfect companion—a young Australian woman—who made the long-haul journey back to Sydney much more manageable.
Back home in Australia, Rachel realised she was onto something bigger. With so many people interested in providing or receiving travel assistance, Juurnee was born.
How Juurnee Works
The process is simple and effective:
1. Posting a Juurnee: Anyone in need of a travel companion (Juurnee Seeker) can post a trip on the Juurnee platform. They specify the route, date, flight details, and the amount they’re willing to pay for assistance.
2. Finding a Companion: People who are keen to get paid to travel (Juurnee Companions) can register on the platform and receive notifications when relevant journeys are posted.
3. Making a Match: Juurnee Seekers can review potential companions and even conduct interviews via video to ensure a good fit.
4. Securing the Trip: Once a match is made, the companion books their own flights, and the agreed payment is held securely by Juurnee until the trip is successfully completed.
Popular Routes
Currently, the most sought-after journeys are between Sydney and London, in both directions. The platform is particularly appealing for families, elderly passengers, or anyone who finds air travel challenging and could benefit from some extra help.
For more information visit Juurnee.