While the host has much more on their plate, there are some things that the guest should keep in mind, too.
The last thing you want is to offend someone who went out of their way to receive you in their home.
Here are nine rules to make sure you leave a great impression on your host and to always be welcome back!
1. Be Punctual And Keep Them Updated
It’s extremely important to be punctual when coming to someone’s home, especially if you’re going to stay for a few days.
You can’t know what the host has on their plate that day and if they can be ready to receive you any earlier. We’re all busy and have to be mindful of each other’s time.
On the other hand, you don’t want to waste their time by being too late, either.
2. Don’t Forget to Bring a Gift
When you stay at someone’s home as a guest, it’s not just their time and space they’re sharing with you.
It’s also their food, drink, and energy. It’s customary to express gratitude with an appropriate gift.
It doesn’t have to be much. Fruit, chocolate candy, or a bottle of wine can do the trick.
3. Respect House Rules
Depending on where we come from and our upbringing, we may follow different house rules.
What’s considered polite in one part of the world is very rude in another. You can ask or observe what your host does and do the same.
For instance, if they remove their shoes indoors, you should as well.
4. Make as Little Mess as Possible
You’re not there to clean, of course, but you should make sure not to make unnecessary mess.
Leave the bathroom tidy after use, and make sure to at least make the bed before you leave.
5. Respect Your Host’s Privacy
Some homes include multiple bathrooms and some don’t.
Either way, it’s important to leave your host’s bathroom tidy and to not touch their personal things without asking.
Also, don’t occupy the place. Keep in mind that the others need it, too.
6. Respect Meal Times
Since you’ve come to stay as a guest, it’s only reasonable to dine with the rest of the household.
Your host will likely let you know about the meal times and you should try to respect them.
7. Ask Before Helping With Chores
There is a certain amount of pressure to run in and help your host take care of the chores. And although that’s kind, you should ask first.
Some people prefer to do things a certain way or by themselves. Either way, it’s polite to offer.
8. Express Gratitude
Before you leave, make sure to thank your host and let them know you’ve had a great time.
We all like to hear words of affirmation.
Also, when you make it back to your place, reach out to let them know you got home safe and thank them once more.
9. Don’t Overstay Your Welcome
Depending on your relationship and the host’s schedule, the polite stay should last between two and seven days.
If you’re staying with your relatives, they likely won’t have an issue with you being there for a week. They’d probably be more relaxed and allow you to help around more.
When staying with friends, two to three days is considered to be polite. Unless the host insists, no guest should stay longer than that.