Traditional Gifts From a House Guest

A bottle of wine is a common gift for a host.

It is tradition for house guests to bring the host and/or hostess a gift. What you bring and how much you choose to spend is a personal choice, but you should bring a gift to your host even if you are staying with family or close friends. A gift shows appreciation for the generosity of the host in opening his or her home.

Edible Gifts

Food and beverages are acceptable gifts from house guests. Wine, a box of chocolates or a gift basket of muffins are all good gifts for a house guest to give to his host. Another option is to make a gift basket of assorted coffees and teas, if your host likes these beverages.

Seasonal Items

If you are visiting someone's home around a holiday, consider purchasing a gift for your host that revolves around the time of year. For example, a Christmas decoration or tree ornament in December, or an Easter basket in the spring.

Home Decor

Scented candles are an easy gift to choose for your host. You can also get a set of hand towels for the kitchen or bathroom, if you already know the color scheme, or consider purchasing a plant for the host's home or yard.

Personal Items

For people you know well, there are lots of other options for gifts. A framed photo or a book by an author the host enjoys are good options. You can also bring a favorite movie on DVD and the fixings for movie night, like microwave popcorn and your host's favorite candy.

References

• NJ.com: Houseguests Guide to Gifts for the Host
• Forbes.com: Houseguest Gifts