How to Be a Good House Guest

We’ve been struggling to plan a real “family vacation” this summer. We don’t feel ready to head to a city just yet, as much as I am missing NYC. We don’t want to take any kind of “public transportation” like trains or planes. We’re looking for something more private than a hotel stay, and we’re trying to figure out how to hit the road as a family. In other words, we’re looking to rent a home in an area that has attractions and is within driving distance of our area. But we have quickly realized that so is everyone else on the planet! So we were really lucky to have had the opportunity to stay up on Mt. Monadnock with my uncle at the beginning of the month. And that short trip had me thinking about how to be polite and grateful to the host of a homestay. Here is how to be a good house guest whether you’re staying with friends, or at an AirBnB or Vrbo rental. 

Bring a Gift

I love to shop, but right now I am so over stuff. When I am staying with friends, instead of wrapping up another jar candle, I love bringing something like a cake or cookies, or even a coffee cake for breakfast. Obviously at a vacation rental you can skip this, unless you have signed up for an experience and you’re going to be spending time with your host.

Offer to Cook or Pay at Dinner

When you’re staying with friends and if you are planning on eating in, offer to bring supplies and cook dinner for your host. (Don’t forget to clean up afterwards!) For an outing, pick up the check for the party. It’s just a small way to say thank you.   

Follow the Host’s Lead

If you are going to be spending some time together, follow your host’s lead on activities. But don’t be afraid to initiate some time apart or even suggest something that you can do together during your stay.

Bring Snacks

Even before we had Arielle, I always brought snacks with me. That way I have something for the road, but also in between meals in case I get peckish. I’ll also tuck a few tea bags in my purse for breakfast or a before bed ritual. 

Clean Up After Yourself

Not only should you do this at the end of your stay, I try and pick up throughout my time away. Especially now that we come with all the extra toys, sippy cups and books, I like to keep everything together as much as possible so that when we are getting ready to leave, I have a better idea of where everything is and can be more efficient with my packing. Also, check in with your host about what they’d like you to do about the sheets and towels. 

It’s so nice that we’re getting to a point where we can once again spend time with family and friends, or just away from home. Where do you have your next trip planned for?