Hosting a dinner party is one thing. But a houseful of guests over a long weekend is quite another. With the season of guest rooms and pull-out couches upon us, we felt that we could all do with a little refresher course when it comes to extended visits. Though you may have known your holiday roomie for decades, a little etiquette is always in order. To ensure that you’re both looking forward to next year already, we’ve put together some handy tips for holiday hosts and their grateful guests.

Your guests will be spending a lot of time in your spare room, so make sure it’s comfortable and homey. Fresh sheets, a cozy quilt, and plenty of pillows will help melt away any travel stress. Clear out space in the closet, and stock the nightstand with the essentials (a water pitcher and alarm clock) and little extras (a note with your wi-fi password, candle, and fresh flowers).

As for the bathroom, set out an abundance of clean towels and mini toiletries to cover anything your guests may have forgotten. Stock up on essentials like toilet paper and hygiene products, as guests might feel awkward asking for more. Want to win host of the year? A week before your guests arrive, spend a night in their room to see if the bed could use another pillow or if a sleep mask is needed for the bright morning sun.

Traveling can be hectic, which means treating your guests to a warm welcome will be much appreciated. If they’re arriving by plane, train, or bus, offer to pick them up from the terminal or arrange transportation to your home. If they’re driving, ensure they have a convenient place to park. To make settling in all the more festive, cue up your favorite holiday album and have something warm to sip on.

Guests may feel awkward asking every time they need something. When they arrive, show them around the kitchen so they feel comfortable making a snack and helping themselves. Leave coffee and tea supplies in clear view, as well as fresh fruit or muffins for the morning. If your guests are staying for longer than a weekend, a quick laundry room might be helpful.

Hosting is hard work. You’re always “on,” meaning it’s easy to forget that your guests are actually taking time off—from work, from deadlines, from their daily lives. While it’s great to plan festive activities and uphold any holiday traditions you have, allow some time for your guests (and yourself) to relax without each other’s company. It’s helpful to have a rough schedule of events to ensure everyone is on the same page with plans and that some mutually agreed-upon time alone is built in. If this is your guests’ first time in town, give them a city map and suggest a few shopping, dining, and entertainment ideas so that they’ll feel comfortable exploring a new space if you’re unable to tag along.

You know the rule: never show up empty-handed. While hosting gifts should be thoughtful, they don’t need to be elaborate. Consider something relaxing, like a candle or cozy throw. When in doubt? Personal touches like monograms or hometown treats go a long way. Just avoid buying a gift card for your hostess—you don’t want to put a price tag on your stay in the guest room. If you’re staying in a household with children, consider bringing a little something for them, too! Lend a Hand Given the time of year, it’s likely you’ll share a homecooked meal during your stay. Lend a helping hand where you can, and offer to do some prep work like chopping greens, setting the table, or running out for last-minute groceries. When the meal is over, help clear the dishes and load the dishwasher before you relax in the living room. If there isn’t something planned, offer to take your host out to dinner. Better yet? Cook a meal for her from start to finish.