Don't Make These Mistakes When Visiting Someone's Home


How to survive your visit and leave on good terms with your host
For some people, holiday travel entails more than just driving or flying to their destination: it also includes overnight stays with family or friends. It's crucial to remember that you're a visitor in someone's house, whether it's to save money or spend more time with loved ones—or a mix of the two.

Even if your host welcomed you to stay (or insisted) and stated it was "no trouble at all," realize that accommodating you takes time and energy (and maybe money), and the least you can do is not act like a jerk or make things more difficult for them. Here are several faults and habits to avoid when staying in someone's house overnight.

Arriving unexpectedly

This should go without saying—and it applies to any sort of visit to someone's house, at any time of year—but don't show up at their door unexpectedly, and/or think you may remain with them without first asking.

There are numerous reasons not to do this out of respect for your (possible) host, but if that isn't enough, consider the chance that they may not be home, have other arrangements, and will be unable to put you up.

Assuming it is permissible to bring your pet (s)

Even if someone offers you to stay in their house, don't assume that the invitation includes your pet(s). If you were expecting to bring a furry buddy, ask your host beforehand, and don't be surprised if they say no.

Being impolite to your host(s) or other guests

Again, this is a no-brainer, but be kind and respectful to your host(s), their family, and any other people who may be staying with them (even if you don't like them). It honestly is the least you can do.

Ignoring house rules

Did your host ask you to leave your outdoor shoes at the door and wear slippers inside? Perhaps they asked that you keep noise to a minimal after 9 p.m.? Unless you have a compelling reason, which you should discuss with your host, you must abide by their house rules. If they didn't mention anything when you originally came, start the topic yourself.

Pretending to be a hotel guest

This falls under the heading of not being rude, but it deserves its own section because it is sadly rather prevalent. You cannot expect the service or amenities of a hotel when staying in the house of a friend or family.

Because your host is doing you a favor by allowing you to stay in their house for free, don't expect — or act as though you're entitled to — someone to make your bed or clean up after you, meals prepared for you, or the run of the place. Also, this isn't the Catskills resort from Dirty Dancing: your host isn't required to keep you entertained or plan a calendar of events.

Insulting or criticizing your host and/or their residence

Do you dislike the interior decor of your host? Is the mattress in the guest room too soft or not soft enough for you? Do you think the toiletries in the bathroom might be better organized? You have the right to an opinion, but in this case, keep it to yourself.

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