8 Things You Should Always Bring as a Guest (No One Will Tell You This)

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8 Things You Should Always Bring as a Guest (No One Will Tell You This) originally appeared on Parade.
Whether you're headed to someone's home for dinner or an overnight stay, maintaining proper etiquette is key. "When someone offers to host you in their home, whether it is for a meal or a stay, you should be so inclined to bring a token of your esteem and affection," says Jodi Smith, an etiquette consultant and owner of Mannersmith Etiquette Consulting. In addition to Smith, Parade chatted with Myka Meier, etiquette expert and founder of Beaumont Etiquette, Jenny Dreizen, etiquette expert and co-founder of Fresh Starts Registry, and Diane Gottsman, national etiquette expert and founder of The Protocol School of Texas, to learn more about what you should always bring as a guest to demonstrate good manners. Read on for a list of things you should always bring the next time you're visiting another person's home (or gathering). Related: An Etiquette Expert Is Begging People To Stop This 'Rude' Habit During Small Talk
You should have a clean pair of socks on or nearby when visiting someone's home, especially if they have a no-shoes policy. 'Bringing clean socks or indoor shoes is both polite and considerate,' explains Meier. Not only does bringing or wearing a pair of clean socks show that you respect and will abide by the host's rules, but it also shows that you want to to actively do your part to ensure you are not creating any unwanted (and often avoidable) messes. Related: Is It Rude To Ask Guests To Remove Their Shoes in Your Home? An Etiquette Expert Weighs In
A handwritten note can go a long way to show your gratitude and appreciation for your host. 'Even a short, heartfelt note says you value the invitation and the host's hospitality,' says Meier. 'It's a personal touch that's always appreciated." You can write it on a piece of paper (or card) containing their favorite color or decorations you know they'd enjoy for a thoughtful finishing touch. Related:
Dreizen emphasizes the importance of bringing chargers for any devices you will have with you during your stay. "Firstly, we don't want to assume your host has the right cables you need," she says. 'They also might not be prepared to share, or might not have extra to spare.' The last thing you want to do is make your host feel as though you're imposing on them during your visit. Related:
While you may have heard of bringing flowers to a date, etiquette experts encourage bringing flowers to your host. 'A simple bouquet in a vase or an arrangement is a beautiful way to brighten the host's space and saves them the trouble of arranging them during the event," says Meier. While it's the thought that counts when it comes to the flowers you decide to bring, she notes that it is best practice to present the flowers in a vase or an arrangement made by a florist for the best possible presentation. Related:
Showing your appreciation for any kids (or pets) in the home can be just as important as showing that to your host. '[You can bring a] book for the children of the house or an approved treat for the pets of the house,' says Dreizen. 'It's good to make friends when you enter others' homes–especially with the children and pets!'
While your host might insist that you sit back and relax during your visit, Smith notes that you should bring a helpful attitude with you from the moment you arrive at the door to the moment you depart. A helpful attitude can mean offering to help with the dishes, cleaning or making a meal (if appropriate).Related: An Etiquette Expert Is Begging You to Never, Ever Show Up to a Party at This Time
If your host drinks (and is of age), bringing a bottle of their favorite wine or champagne can help create a celebratory atmosphere. However, you want to ensure that it is appropriate to bring for your visit. 'If you bring a bottle of red but the host is serving something that clashes with that, it can make the host feel awkward,' explains Meier. 'If the host asks you to bring wine, ask if they prefer white, red or even rosé."Related: An Etiquette Expert Is Begging People To Stop This Common Dinnertime Habit
When it comes to gifts for your host, "anything with their personalized initials is a plus,' explains Gottsman. Although she recommends monogrammed napkins or tea towels, you can get creative with the customized items to tailor your gift to something they will like and find useful. Although you may have to expend some extra energy to turn this gift idea into a reality, your host will appreciate it. Related: 5 Things Classy People Never, Ever Reveal About Themselves in Public, According to an Etiquette Expert
Smith notes there are some circumstances within which it is okay to arrive empty-handed, such as if you're on a tight budget, experienced travel delays or have already sent something in advance. That said, 'during your stay or immediately following, you should gift something to your hosts along with a heartfelt thank you note,' adds Smith. Remember, your gift doesn't have to break the bank. Work with your budget to ensure your host receives something from you (even if it's something as small as a refrigerator magnet) along with a 'thank you' note. They will appreciate the gesture—trust us.
Up Next:Myka Meier, etiquette expert and founder of Beaumont Etiquette
Jenny Dreizen, etiquette expert and co-founder of Fresh Starts Registry
Jodi Smith, etiquette consultant and owner of Mannersmith Etiquette Consulting
Diane Gottsman, national etiquette expert and the founder of The Protocol School of Texas
8 Things You Should Always Bring as a Guest (No One Will Tell You This) first appeared on Parade on Jul 7, 2025
This story was originally reported by Parade on Jul 7, 2025, where it first appeared.