How to Prepare to Be a Houseguest

Making a list and checking it twice takes on new meaning when you're preparing to be a guest. Do you have everything you'll need, plus that gift?

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Cosmetic Bags
• Luggage Sets
• Nice Men's Bathrobes
• Nice Women's Bathrobes
• Travel Kits
• Bath Towels

1. Give some thought to your prospective locale: beach house, chalet, tent, townhouse?
2. Gather everything you may need, from antifreeze for the SUV to zebra repellent. It's not a good idea to expect to borrow anything - not toothpaste, not bathing suits and not that fabulously expensive camera.
3. Check out your luggage from a critical stranger's perspective. Make sure it closes correctly, holds all your goods and meets room restrictions.
4. Make a list of everything you bring so it will all come home with you.
5. Do a little research about your hosts. If they're early risers, maybe you need an alarm clock. If they love to hike, bring your boots; consider a pack of cards for the poker lovers.
6. Bring a gift. Wine glasses and wine, books, coasters, an ice bucket - whatever can be transported and whatever will surely be appreciated.
7. Note that the gift may reflect the length of stay. A month in Italy might call for a hand-knitted throw rug instead of a box of stationery, which is fine for a weekend visit.
8. Put into place solid child care, pet care, elderly care and so forth. Have reserve plans in mind just in case.
9. Stop your newspaper, mail and whatever else might make your house look vulnerable in your absence.

Tips & Warnings

• Bring along enough clothing, in a range of categories, so that you can easily and comfortably go along with your hosts' varied plans. For example, think about dressier clothes, snow outfits, extra socks, etc.
• If you have a special skill - you're a photographer, watercolorist, musician or juggler - consider bringing your tools and sharing your talents.
• Plan to be flexible about schedules and routines.
• If you have any food allergies, tell your host in advance.
• Don't ask to bring your children or your pets when you're going to be someone's houseguest. Assume they're not invited unless you're told otherwise.