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House Guest Etiquette: 10 Simple Ways to Be a Good House Guest & Be Invited Back by Tracey Hempenstall

September 01, 2026

House Guest Etiquette: 10 Simple Ways to Be a Good House Guest & Be Invited Back

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As summer winds down, so has the constant flow of visitors to our Cape Cod home. Some guests come with a grocery store in their backseat, stockpiles of toys for the kids and some great wine for the adults. Then there are the others who mistakenly think our home is a hotel, with my husband and I as their servants.

Here are a few tips on how to be a guest that’s invited back for another vacation or for the holidays:

Three days is the sweet spot for visits. If you want to spend more time then rent an Airbnb.

Stop at the grocery store before you arrive and pick up treats for yourselves and your hosts.

Bring something for the kids. Souvenirs from your hometown are always guaranteed to get a smile, but a cookie works, too.

Bring a bottle of your favorite wine, beer, etc. Keep in mind it’s like a donation, so you can’t drink it all.

Help out, whether it’s with cooking or cleaning or both.

Make breakfast or buy donuts (diets be damned!) at least one morning.

Accidents happen, so if something breaks just let your hosts know.

A gift certificate to your hosts’ favorite restaurant or a bouquet of flowers is a nice touch as you leave.

Say thank you. Manners matter.

Enjoy the laughter and love of those you are with.

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