Should I leave a gift for my hosts (or guests)?

[Melissa.HomeExchange]

Another question that often comes up from people starting with house swapping: should I leave a small gift for my hosts, or my guests?

House swapping is like lending your house to friends of friends

It’s often said, but in house swapping, there’s no set rule. However, it’s important to forget everything you know about renting between individuals. Indeed, swapping your house is a bit like lending your home to friends of friends: you’ve had some discussions about the details beforehand, they’re no longer complete strangers by the time of the exchange, and a relationship of trust has naturally been established. So, you want them to feel at home and feel welcome: you’ve prepared the beds, left a little welcome note on the table, and maybe even a small house guide ☀️ Download our Home Guide template

Sometimes, you also leave them a little welcome basket, a drink, or a pre-made meal if they arrive late – why not?

What about a thank-you gift?

When staying in someones home as a guest, most members often leave a small thank-you gift at the end of their stay. Some will maybe bring a small gift from their region, while others prefer to find a little souvenir whilst they are on holiday, such as a plant, chocolates, or flowers. Of course, these little gifts should remain spontaneous and are in no way mandatory. But it’s so much more pleasant to return to your home the way you left it, and to find a little surprise as a bonus!

Note that homemade gifts are equally appreciated: a nice drawing, a lovely thank-you letter, a handmade craft – let your creativity shine!

Some member testimonials

“I’ve practiced both AirBnB and HE, both as a host and a guest, and I can clearly distinguish the two. I always leave a gift for my guests when I host. And I do the same when I’m a guest. I don’t do this with AirBnB, neither as a host nor as a traveller.” – Stéphane

“I always do it. It’s a sign of attention and gratitude. A small basket of local products. That’s the HomeExchange spirit.” – Pénélope

“I always leave something with my hosts as well as for my guests, and so far, I’ve always had lovely surprises upon my return.” – Sophie

“I’ve been a member of HE for 1.5 years, and we always leave something whether we’re guests or hosts. I think this practice is really nice.” – Emeline

“For me, the gift is finding the house in good condition, a thank-you note, and a good review.” – Gisèle

“I always arrive with a gift for my hosts, and I always leave local products for my guests.” – Elsa

[BitchinBeachHouse]

Yes! Or no, you do you

[Melissa.HomeExchange]

Welcome to the Forum! Yes it’s really up to the individual…but everyone loves a gift

[Geinvedy]

I like to leave something small but personal. Once I brought a local picture frame with a postcard of our town inside—it was easy to pack and felt thoughtful without being too much. My last guests left a little jar of local honey and a note, which made my day. On HomeExchange, those small touches seem to go a long way.