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- Business insider asked etiquette experts about how to be a good guest in someone's home.
- The pros said tidying up the kitchen and your sleeping space are non-negotiables.
- Cooking, buying groceries, and giving a gift to your host are kind gestures of gratitude.
Whether you're visiting for a night or planning an extended holiday stay, someone else's home is not the place to disregard manners.
That's why Business Insider asked two etiquette experts for their best advice on being a great houseguest. Here's what they said.
Make sure the host is aware of your schedule.
Pamela Eyring, owner of The Protocol School of Washington, told BI that being a great guest in someone's home starts with clear communication.
"Be clear and prompt about your arrival time and quickly communicate an updated schedule if you are running late," Eyring told BI.
Your host is likely preparing for your arrival — cleaning, cooking, or adjusting their schedule. Keeping them informed on when they can expect you helps prevent stress and shows you value their hospitality.
Show gratitude by bringing a gift for your host.
Additionally, Eyring said it's always a nice gesture to bring a gift for your host.
If you're not sure what they like, she suggests choosing something that appeals to all, like flowers, sweets, or a meal.
Be mindful of the tone you set for the visit.
It's no secret that travel doesn't always go as planned. But according to business etiquette expert and leadership consultant Sheree Bryant Sekou, bringing a negative attitude and energy to your host's home can impact the duration of your stay.
"How you start a trip can affect how it ends, so to the best of your ability, shake off any bad vibes so you can be a fully present, enjoyable, and happy guest," she told BI.
Come prepared with your own toiletries and anything else you need to feel comfortable.
When staying in someone else's home, Sekou said it's polite to come prepared with your own toiletries, personal hygiene products, and anything else you need to feel comfortable during your stay. This way, the host doesn't feel like they have to provide everything for you.
For example, if you're particular about your sleep setup, Eyring suggests bringing your own pillow. If you're a light sleeper, bringing earplugs can be a good idea.
Overall, planning for your own comfort shows thoughtfulness and helps ensure a smoother stay.
Offer to help with cooking or pay for groceries.
When staying in someone's home, Sekou recommends helping out in the kitchen in a way that best suits your host, whether that's cooking a meal or buying groceries.
"Buying groceries lets your host know you appreciate their hospitality and are respectful of their budget," she said.
Always make your bed in the morning.
Whether you're sleeping on the sofa or in a bedroom, it's respectful to clean up the space after you wake every morning.
"Always make your bed when staying in someone else's home. That includes arranging pillows as you've seen them before," Sekou told BI.
If your sleeping arrangement is fancy, Sekou suggests taking a photo when you arrive so you can try to match it each day.
At the end of your stay, check that you grabbed all your belongings.
According to Sekou, part of being a considerate guest is packing efficiently and ensuring you take all your belongings with you when you leave.
"If you've left something behind, it puts the onus on the host to get it back to you, especially if it's something valuable," Sekou told BI.
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