Tips for Being a Gracious Airbnb Guest

Companies like Airbnb have made traveling a much more exciting and accessible experience for people all over the globe. Of course, it turns out a lot of those people aren’t exactly great houseguests. If you plan on using someone else’s home as your base during your travels, here are some basic rules for being a good guest.

Clean Up

This should seem obvious, but clean up after yourself. If you make a mess, ask your host where the mop is and wipe it up. Don’t leave dirt lying around and definitely don’t leave behind a clogged toilet. That’s just common decency.

Talk to Your Host

If someone is letting you stay in their home, regardless of whether it’s a business transaction, it’s common courtesy to get to know them. You don’t have to become best friends, of course, but at least make an effort to have a few conversations with them during your stay.

Leave a Gift
This might seem odd to some folks, but gift giving is a ritual across all cultures. Remember, your host is inconveniencing themselves and trusting you to take good care of their home. It’ll make them feel appreciated if you leave behind a simple gift like, say, a bottle of wine as a thank you.

Don’t Bring Guests

The room or house is being rented to you, not your friends. Clear any guests with the owner before throwing a party. It’s probably best if you don’t bring strangers around at all.